FSC does not issue certificates itself. The certification process is carried out by independent organizations called certification bodies. Before being able to certify according to FSC standards, certification bodies have to gain FSC accreditation. To do this, certifiers have to comply with an extensive set of rules.

FSC is the only global forest management certification system with an integrated accreditation program that systematically controls its certification bodies.

Compliance with these rules and procedures is verified by Accreditation Services International (ASI) – the company managing the FSC accreditation program – through office audits and the witnessing of one trial audit in the field prior to gaining FSC accreditation. One such requirement is that all FSC accredited certification bodies have to be in compliance with relevant international ISO standard (ISO/IEC Guide 65: 1996 (E)).

Every year, ASI controls the continued implementation of FSC rules and procedures through at least office and field audits for each FSC accredited certification body.

To view public summaries of ASI surveillance audits and the latest list of FSC accredited certification bodies, visit the ASI website. 

Accreditation Services International (ASI) website

Accreditation Services International (ASI) Annual Activity Report 2008 (pdf)