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GSTC Publishes Revised GSTC Accreditation Manual for Hotel/Accommodation and Tour Operator Certification
Key changes in the GSTC Accreditation Manual are summarized below:
Accreditation Manual Structure:
The structure of the accreditation manual has been revised to include general certification process requirements in the main document. Scope-specific requirements are detailed in the relevant annexes based on the certification scope.
Normative References:
Normative references have been updated to ensure alignment with the latest standards and practices.
Simulation of Conformity Assessment:
A new clause has been added outlining the simulation of conformity assessments for Certification Bodies (CBs) that have not yet conducted audits for actual clients.
Risk Assessment:
The risk assessment methodology has been revised to clarify and expand on relevant risk factors.
Non-conformities:
Requirements related to the resolution of non-conformities have been revised.
Auditor Qualifications:
Additional qualifications for auditors have been defined.
Technical Review and Certification Decisions:
Updates have been implemented to the technical review process and certification decision-making procedures to facilitate operations.
Certification Requirements and Sampling Procedures:
Changes have been made to certification requirements, including the addition of specific sampling procedures for multi-site, group, and Tour Operator (TO) certifications.
Assessment Tools and Certification Non-conformity:
Clarity has been provided regarding requirements for assessment tools.
Certification of Multi-site Organizations:
Certification requirements for multi-site organizations have been updated to mandate the auditing of all sites over the three-year certification cycle.
The revised Accreditation Manual v4.0 came into effect on November 1, 2024, with a one-year transition period. During this time, the new manual will be gradually integrated into the planned assessment process.
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