Accreditation

There are four sequential steps to the full CIAPS programme, but a construction company is under no obligation to complete all four. These steps are registration, listing, accreditation and endorsement.  Each of the steps is described below along with the services CIAPS provides to support the company through the process.

Status Steps Services
Registered The company registers with CIAPS and completes their profile on-line, meanwhile CIAPS undertakes independent financial and Health & Safety checks.  Registered companies have use of the members' area of the web site and have access to technical support whilst completing their profile on-line.
Listed Upon completion and a satisfactory outcome of the checks, the company is awarded the 'Listed' status. The company may then prepare for, an independent inspection by a UKAS-approved certification body to achieve the 'accredited' status CIAPS have advisors available who will visit the company to assist it get getting ready for its inspection by the certification body. 
Accredited Following indepoendent inspection and provided any non-conformances shown up in the inspection have been addressed, the company is issued with a certificate of compliance with the CIAPS 'Accredited' standard. Once accredited, companies' compliance with the standard is re-checked annually. Companies should revew/update the information in their company profile at least once a year. The certification body will assist the company in identifying and correcting any non-conformances.

Training courses to assist companies are also available through CIAPS training partners. Regular courses are offered and discounts for block bookings are available. Support for companies in obtaining training grants can also be provided where appropriate.
Endorsed To move on to the ‘endorsedt’ standard, the appropriate company personnel must undertake supply chain management training and the company must participate in a recognised continuous improvement programme. Upon confirmation the company is awarded the 'Endorsed' status.

Further recognition is given to 'Endorsed' companies that have special expertise in professional management and/or technical competence. Various high level skills awards and achievements can be submitted to CIAPS. Once verified, completion/participation will raise the company's CIAPS credit score from 80 (the entry level for endorsed status) to a current maximum of 220.

This CIAPS credits system enhances the profile of companies with construction clients by transparently demonstrating the company’s continuing commitment to adopting best practice and upgrading their core competences.

 In some cases further assistance by training is available within CIAPS. Currently, CIAPS recognises national and ISO standards in environmental management, lean improvement, sustainability, advanced health and safety, training and equity, advanced QA systems, specialist technical competency and advanced business management skills. .