Certification Process & Requirements

Confidentiality

1. Confidentiality: All information provided in the application process will remain confidential. NHA has measures in place to protect confidential information and ensure that its employees and contractors maintain confidentiality.

Non-discrimination

1. Non-discriminatory: NHA’s Halal certification services are available to all applicants without prejudice or discrimination based on factors such as size, type of business, financial position, or political background. However, NHA can decline an application for certification if there are fundamental or demonstrated reasons, such as illegal activities or repeated non-compliance.

Client Application

1. Certification Agreement: Applicants must abide by the Certification Agreement and NHA’s terms and conditions to obtain and retain certification. An authorised representative should be appointed as the main contact with NHA.
2. Completeness Check: Applications are checked for eligibility and completeness. Upon agreeing to the fee quotation, the Certification Agreement is finalised, and the client is informed of the proposed audit date and requirements.

Halal Audit Process

1. Audit Process: Initial certification audits are conducted in at least two stages. The first stage involves a review of the client’s organisation and management system, including a site visit and an entry meeting. The objectives of the audit include confirming compliance with certification requirements, evaluating Halal integrity, and providing feedback for improvement.
2. Surveillance and Short Notice Audits: Surveillance audits are conducted periodically. Surprise visits may also be conducted at NHA’s discretion. Short notice audits can be conducted to investigate complaints or follow up on suspended clients.
3. Competence of Personnel: NHA ensures that personnel conducting audits are competent and possess the necessary skills.
4. Evidence Collection and Laboratory Testing: NHA may collect relevant samples or materials for investigation. Laboratory testing may be used to identify cross-contamination and confirm Halal compliance.

Halal Certification

1. Issue of Halal Certificate: After completing the audit and after the client gas addressed any non-conformances, NHA awards a Halal Certificate to the client. The certificate is valid for a specified period and requires ongoing compliance. Certified clients will be subject to surveillance audits.
2. Extending Certification: Clients can apply to extend certification to cover additional products, processes, services, or sites. NHA reviews the nature of the extension and determines the necessary audits.
3. Publication: Clients can publish their Halal certification and use NHA’s Halal logo on approved products. However, they must avoid misleading claims and confusion with uncertified products.
4. Suspension/Termination: Halal certification may be suspended or terminated due to various reasons, including non-compliance, improper use of the certificate or logo, or at a client’s request. During suspension or after termination, the client must cease using the NHA halal certificate and logo.
5. Right of Appeal: Clients have the right to appeal the suspension, reduction in scope, or termination of certification by submitting a written appeal within a specified timeframe.

Use of NHA Halal Certification Logo 

1. Control of Use: NHA controls the use of its Halal certificates and logo by clients. Misuse or incorrect references may result in corrective action, suspension, withdrawal of certification, or legal action.

General Items

1. Fees and Charges: NHA charges fees for certification services and may request reimbursement of expenses related to certification.
2. Alterations/Changes: Certified clients must inform NHA in writing of any changes that may affect their ability to meet certification requirements. NHA reserves the right to make changes to certification requirements and will provide prior notice whenever possible.
3. Recommendations, Suggestions, and Complaints: Certified clients can provide feedback and recommendations for improvement. Complaints should be made in writing and will be evaluated by NHA. Complaints regarding a certified client’s activities may be referred to the client for investigation and response.