HB 18.68-2004

Provides a basis for conformity assessment bodies and accreditation bodies to have confidence in the work of similar bodies in other countries. It applies to the development, issuance and operation of arrangements for recognition and acceptance of product, services and systems results. It does not apply to special governmental requirements. Identical with and reproduced from ISO/IEC Guide 68:2002.

This Guide provides an introduction to the development, issuance and operation of arrangements for the recognition and acceptance of results produced by bodies undertaking similar conformity assessment and related activities. The activities to which this guidance is intended to apply are those related to the conduct ofunregulated marketplace transactions extending across borders from one country to another. Whileagreements among governments pertaining to transactions of regulated goods and services can take into account the agreements addressed by this Guide, the guidance provided here is introductory and general in nature and does not specifically address any special requirements that governmental agreements might generate.Some countries may be concerned about having the necessary human and institutional resources withrespect to conformity assessment infrastructures which would permit them to participate in sucharrangements. Guidance on the acquisition and development of the resources required is beyond the scope of this Guide.

First published as HB 18.68-2004.