Elias Rafoul, SCC VP, takes on a key role in shaping international conformity assessment

In a strategic move aimed at strengthening global assurance, Elias Rafoul, Vice-President of Accreditation Services at the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), has been appointed Vice-Chair of the ISO committee for conformity assessment (CASCO) for the term 2024-2025. This appointment not only reflects SCC's dedication to enhancing conformity assessment practices but also underscores the vital role of ISO CASCO in setting and surpassing global conformity standards.

ISO, as a standards development organization, plays a crucial role in defining the rules of global commerce, ensuring that products and services align with international expectations. These standards not only streamline processes but also alleviate uncertainty associated with international trade.

Yet, for standards to truly serve their purpose, it is essential to ensure their correct and consistent application. This is where conformity assessment comes into play – instilling confidence, whether in the public or private sector, that requirements have been met.

In the dynamic landscape of global trade, ISO CASCO emerges as a driving force, fostering transparency and efficiency. Confidence in standards is pivotal for commerce to thrive, and ISO CASCO actively collaborates with international organizations such as the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) to ensure a seamless exchange of goods and services.

Building trust and confidence in international trade involves a two-way process facilitated by accreditation. Elias Rafoul's role in SCC exemplifies the importance of accreditation, which is the independent, third-party evaluation of a conformity assessment body against recognized standards.

Accreditation ensures impartiality and competence, allowing the formal demonstration of the conformity assessment body's ability to carry out specific tasks. With organizations like ILAC and IAF, international recognition becomes possible, eliminating the need for redundant testing and certification processes in each importing country.

About Elias Rafoul: a global advocate for accreditation and conformity assessment

With over two decades of distinguished experience in senior executive roles spanning industry and the Canadian government, Elias Rafoul is the Vice-President of Accreditation Services at SCC. Beyond his role at SCC, Elias actively engages with prominent organizations such as IAF and ILAC, representing Canada internationally. Recently appointed as Vice-Chair of the newly formed North American Accreditation Forum (NAAF), Elias continues to be a driving force in shaping accreditation and conformity assessment at various levels.