1.1This guide provides guidance to organizations that need to utilize persons to perform assessments/audits (assessing bodies) of other organizations (assessed bodies) for purposes of recognition, accreditation or other type of approval to perform a function.

1.2An assessing body should consider the contents of this guide and apply it according to its unique situation. The elements of this guide should be applicable to the selection, assignment, and monitoring of assessors, auditors, and technical experts whether they are contract or permanent staff members.