APPLICATION
for
Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
by the
FORENSIC SPECIALTIES
ACCREDITATION BOARD, Inc.
Submitted By
(Name of Certification Body)
(Organization Acronym, if any)
(Date of Application)
Application
Rev. 3/15/2015
© Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
FORENSIC SPECIALTIES ACCREDITATION BOARD, Inc.
410 North 21st Street, Colorado Springs 80904
Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
INTRODUCTION
The Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board (FSAB) was established to advance the reliability
and validity of forensic evidence in the administration of justice through the accreditation of
qualified organizations that certify individual forensic specialists. It was established with a grant
from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and support from the American Academy of Forensic
Sciences (AAFS).
The FSAB has designed a program to review and evaluate the operating procedures and
standards of applicant forensic certification bodies to ensure that they meet or exceed a
minimum set of standards created by the FSAB, the FSAB Accreditation Standards. These
standards, based on existing national and international standards for accrediting certification
bodies, were made specific to the unique and diverse nature of forensic specialty organizations.
It is through the response to this application that the FSAB determines whether the applicant
meets those standards and therefore merits FSAB accreditation or reaccreditation. The review
of the application will be done by an Application Review Committee (ARC) created for this
purpose by the FSAB. As the application is processed, it is the ARC that will serve as liaison
between the applicant (also referred to herein as the “certification body”) and the FSAB.
Once accredited and as long as it is accredited, each board pays an annual fee to the FSAB.
For a board with up to 1000 certificants, this fee is $500 plus $3 for each certificant. For a board
with more than 1000 certificants but no more than 2500, the fee is $3500 plus $2 for each
certificant in excess of 1000. For a board with more than 2500 certificants, the fee is $6500 plus
$1 for each certificant in excess of 2500.
INSTRUCTIONS
Please complete the application form in full and attach documentation as requested. It is
recommended that the completed application be submitted in 3-ring binder format, using the
following tab sections for the application and supporting documentation.
Tab 1:
Application
Tab 2:
Articles of Incorporation or other organic document of applicant
Tab 3:
Constitution / By Laws (only the sections containing supporting data)
Tab 4:
Policies and Procedures Manual (only the sections containing supporting
data)
Tab 5:
Code of Ethics
Tab 6:
Code of Professional Responsibility
Tab 7:
Test data/study guide materials
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
Tab 8:
Exemplar of certificate issued to applicant’s certificants
Tab 9:
Continuing education component of the recertification program
Tab 10:
Copies of all publicly available material describing the organization and its
certification program (e.g. booklets, brochures)
Tab 11:
Directory of applicant’s certificants, including their certificate numbers
Tab 12:
Exhibits
The application is divided into subject headings paralleling the FSAB Standards beginning with
4 Certification Body and continuing through to 10 Changes in Certification Program.
Furthermore, the questions on the form are numbered in a manner that approximately tracks the
subsections of the FSAB Accreditation Standards. This is primarily for the benefit of the
Application Review Committee (ARC), but will also provide the applicant with a reference to
further information about a specific requirement.
Although the first response to a question will sometimes require a yes/no answer, it will nearly
always be necessary to add material to support this answer, with a ”no” answer generally
requiring as much justification as a ”yes.”
To expedite the processing of the application, the applicant should provide as much detailed
information as practicable. This can best be done by using the shaded area following each
question to identify and refer to supporting material under one of the Tabs. The specific location
of supporting material should be set out using the Reference line. The material attached may
include such items as a sample certificate, a brochure, etc.
The more information the ARC receives and the more clearly the responses in the application
are stated, the smaller the chance the processing of the application will be delayed, since the
ARC will require information it considers missing to be supplied and that language it perceives
as confusing to be clarified. If such requests are made, it is in the interest of the applicant to
respond as soon as possible so as not to lose the opportunity for a positive decision by the next
meeting of the FSAB (held in February each year).
If an organization sponsors more than one certification body, a separate application with its own
documentation must be submitted for each such body.
The ARC and the FSAB board members having access to the submitted documents are
obligated under FSAB mandate to treat all information not disclosed in public documents as
confidential.
Please send one notebook with original documents and four others with copies of all material
and a nonrefundable application fee of $2000 for initial applications or $500 for applications for
reaccreditation to:
Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
410 North 21st Street, Suite 203
Colorado Springs, CO 80904-2798
Information about the form format: To type information in the shaded boxes on the cover and
following pages, place the cursor in the box and begin typing. The box will expand so that the
Application
Rev. 3/15/2015
©Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
answer can be any length desired, the text wrapping automatically. The shading will not appear
on the printed pages. At the YES / NO check boxes simply locate the cursor in the appropriate
box and “click.” An “X” will appear in the box. Then tab to the next shaded area. When the
application is complete, it should be saved to the hard drive before printing.
DEFINITIONS
Certification body - an independent organization with authority to bestow certification on an
individual.
Certification program - a program designed to certify individuals who meet or exceed the criteria
set for that level of knowledge and competence. A single certification body may have multiple
certification programs differing in either specialty or level of competence.
Grandfathering - the awarding of certification status to an individual who has not passed testing
as described in the FSAB Accreditation Standards, section 5.1.4.
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
APPLICATION
Applicant Demographics
1.
Name of Applicant Organization
2.
Street address
Mailing address, if different
3.
Phone
Fax
E-mail
Internet address
Primary contact person
Position within organization
Address (if different)
4.
List current officers of the organization.
President
Vice-Pres.
Secretary
Treasurer
Board Members (list below):
5.
In what year was the organization incorporated or otherwise formed?
6.
What is the forensic-specialty-certifying program offered by the certification?
7.
List the names of the committee or board that reports to the governing body with respect
to the certification program, and briefly describe the function of each.
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Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.
Certification Body
4.1
General Provisions Relating to Certification Protocol
4.1.1
Describe how the certification body’s mechanisms for evaluating the knowledge, skills
and abilities of its applicants for certification are reliable*, valid*, and non-discriminatory.
* From Definitions found in FSAB Standards for Accrediting Forensic Specialty Certification Boards
3.20 reliability (examinations): Degree to which an examination provides a consistent measure of competency.
3.23 validity (examinations): Degree to which an examination measures those competencies it is designated to measure.
Reference: Tab:
4.1.2
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
If successful completion of an approved training course is a requirement for certification,
how does the certification body ensure that recognition/approval of training courses does
not compromise the impartiality with which an applicant is evaluated?
Reference: Tab:
4.1.4
Section
Identify any and all professional organizations in which the certification body requires
membership as a condition of granting certification to an applicant.
Reference: Tab:
4.1.3
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Are the criteria used to evaluate candidates for certification limited to those published by
the certification body?
Yes
4.1.4a.
No
Comments
How does an individual obtain knowledge of these criteria?
Reference: Tab:
4.1.4b.
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the certification body ensure that these criteria are updated periodically in
line with changes in the discipline?
Comments
4.2
Organization
4.2.1
Please identify and describe the legal entity constituted by the certification body or the
legal entity of which the certification body is part.
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Include under Tab 2 a copy of the certification body’s defining document such as
incorporation papers.
4.2.2
Please state the measures by which the independence and impartiality of the
certification body is ensured such that all decisions relating to certification are the
responsibility of the certification body’s governing board and are not subject to undue
influence or approval by another body.
Reference: Tab:
4.2.3
4.2.4a
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Please describe the procedures by which the certification body adds members to its
board.
Reference: Tab:
4.2.4b
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Explain how these procedures prevent existing board members from selecting a
majority of their successors on the board.
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Please identify and provide templates of the certification body’s documentation defining
the committee(s) or individual(s) responsible for each component of the certification
program offered.
Reference: Tab:
4.2.6
Section
By what means is the certification body structured so as to give confidence to outside
parties as to its competence, impartiality and integrity?
Reference: Tab:
4.2.5
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What is the basis for the certification body’s confidence that it has sufficient financial and
human resources to fulfill its certifying mission?
How is the organization funded?
Reference: Tab:
Application
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Section
[or]
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Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
4.2.6a
4.2.7
Identify all organizations providing funding to the certification body and state the
means by which the certification body ensures that these organizations have no
influence on the certification function.
How does the certification body ensure that any training or related activities it conducts
do not compromise the confidentiality, objectivity, or impartiality of its certification
program?
Reference: Tab:
4.2.8
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the certification body maintain documents and records in a secure manner?
Reference: Tab:
4.2.9
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Please set out the certification body’s policies and procedures for the resolution of
complaints, appeals, and disputes.
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What is the basis of the certification body’s belief that it maintains a management
system appropriate for the number of applicants and certificants?
4.2.10
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What policies and procedures are in place that distinguish the certification body’s
certifying role from all other activities the certification body engages in?
4.2.11
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.3
Subcontracting
4.3.1
If a subcontractor is used for any purpose, how does the certification body ensure that
that subcontractor has no vested interest in, or other conflict with, the task being
performed?
4.3.1a
Please provide the written agreement between the certification body and any
subcontractor used or expected to be used.
Reference: Tab:
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Section
[or]
© Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
4.3.2
Specify how in particular the certification body ensures that in hiring a subcontractor, it
does not permit a breach of confidentiality, or the outsourcing of any certification
decision or any part thereof.
Reference: Tab:
4.3.3
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
If a subcontractor is used, how does the certification body ensure that the subcontractor
performs the work in a manner consistent with FSAB Accreditation Standards?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.4
Policies and Procedures of the Certification Body
4.4.1
Please provide the certification body’s policies and procedures covering the
administration of its certification program.
Comments
Note: if the organization has a policy and procedures manual containing provisions not
related to its certification program, do not provide those provisions.
4.4.2
Please state the means by which the certification body seeks to make its certification
policies and procedures fair, objective, non-discriminatory, and in compliance with all
applicable federal, state and local laws.
Reference: Tab:
4.4.3
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the certification body define the methods and mechanisms to be used to
evaluate the knowledge, skill and ability of candidates for certification?
Reference: Tab:
4.4.4
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the policies and procedures manual provide for inquiries regarding the
certification status of an individual?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.5
Management System and Method of Review
4.5.1
Please identify those provisions of the policies and procedures describing the
certification body’s management system, including at least the following elements of that
management system:
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
The certification body’s policy statement regarding its management.
4.5.1.1
Reference: Tab:
4.5.1.2
4.5.1.3
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
The specific policies and procedures for conducting periodic audits of the certification
program.
Reference: Tab:
4.5.1.4
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
The policies and procedures for the issuance and revocation of certificates or related
documents.
Reference: Tab:
4.5.1.5
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
The policies and procedures for examining and certifying applicants.
Reference: Tab:
4.5.1.6
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
The policies and procedures for processing appeals, complaints, inquiries, disputes
or information alleging adverse behavior or activities.
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the certification body conduct an annual review or audit of its records to ensure
that they are complete and up to date?
Yes
No
If not, why not?
Reference: Tab:
4.5.3
Section
A description of the organizational structure of the certification body, including all its
positions and committees, and a brief description of the function and responsibilities
of each.
Reference: Tab:
4.5.2
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
If the management system is the responsibility of a designated individual who reports to
the highest level of management of the certification body, what are the title and
responsibilities of that individual?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.6
Scope of Program and Available Documentation
4.6.1
Please provide the document by which the certification body defines the scope of each
certification program, and state where it is available on the public portion of the
certification body’s Web site, identifying in particular where on this Web site are found
the following:
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Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.1
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
The criteria used for the evaluation of any required trainers.
Reference: Tab:
Application
Exhibit
The criteria used for the evaluation of any required courses.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.7c
[or]
The criteria used for the evaluation of any required training programs.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.7b
Section
The standards and rules for suspending or revoking certification.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.7a
Page
The standards and rules for maintaining certification.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.6c
Exhibit
The standards and rules for granting certification.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.6b
[or]
A description of the procedures used to evaluate the knowledge, skills and abilities of
the applicant.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.6a
Section
The level of education, training and experience required of applicants.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.5
Page
A study guide permitting applicants for certification to prepare for the certification
body’s written examination.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.4
Exhibit
An outline of the areas covered by the certification evaluation, including the
knowledge, skills and abilities required of applicants.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.3b
[or]
The purpose of the certification program.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.3a
Section
A description of the organizational structure and legal status of the organization.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.2
Page
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Section
[or]
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Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
4.6.1.8a
The actual form by which one applies for certification and an outline of the
application process.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.8b
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
[or]
Exhibit
A directory of the certification body’s certificants.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.13
Page
A description of restrictions or limitations on the use of the certification body’s marks,
and in particular on the manner in which a certificant is permitted to refer to the
certifications granted.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.12
Exhibit
The full description of the recertification procedure for certificants, including the
minimum standards required and any alternate pathways for recertification (e.g.
examination in lieu of sufficient continuing education requirements).
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.11
[or]
Any exceptions that may be made to the standards usually applied to certification of
an individual and the rationale for those exceptions (e.g. waiver for a degree
requirement based on the experience and education of applicant).
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.10
Section
A statement that the applicant will have to agree to comply with the conditions for
receiving and maintaining certification.
Reference: Tab:
4.6.1.9
Page
Page
Section
An outline of all substantive changes to the standards used to credential evaluate,
test, and certify applicants.
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Note: If the standards have undergone substantive changes, a description of the changes
and the date they became effective must be listed. For program changes that occurred
several years ago for which detailed records may not be available, it is acceptable to list a
chronology of changes with approximate dates.
4.6.2a
Are all policies and procedures and all program documents describing the certification
standards of the certifying body from February 28, 2008, forward archived indefinitely?
Yes
No
Reference: Tab:
4.6.2b
Application
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the archiving of these documents include the date each became effective and
date each was superseded or dropped?
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
Yes
No
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.7
Records of the Certification Body, including Examination Records
4.7.1
Explain how the certification body’s record system is appropriate to its particular
circumstances, and how it demonstrates that the certification requirements have been
effectively fulfilled by all certificants, particularly with respect to application forms,
evaluation reports, and other documents relating to granting, maintaining, renewing,
suspending and withdrawing certification.
Reference: Tab:
4.7.2
[or]
Exhibit
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Explain how the length of time that the records are kept is sufficient to demonstrate
continued confidence in the confidentiality of the records for at least one full certification
cycle, or as otherwise required by recognition arrangements, contractual, legal or other
obligations.
Reference: Tab:
4.7.4
Section
Describe the method by which the certification body’s records are identified, managed,
and disposed of so as to ensure the integrity of the process and the confidentiality of the
information.
Reference: Tab:
4.7.3
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the certification body maintain the following records: date of the examination, the
target forensic specialty, performance characteristics and examination outcome?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
4.8
Confidentiality
4.8.1
How does the certification body safeguard confidentiality of the information obtained in
the course of its activities, and in particular how does it ensure that individuals involved
in the certification program maintain confidentiality and reveal any potential conflict of
interest?
Reference: Tab:
4.8.2
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Except as described in the FSAB Accreditation Standards, information about a particular
individual shall not be disclosed to a third party without the written consent of that
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individual. In those instances where the law, for example, through a court order,
requires disclosure, the individual shall be notified as to the information provided. How
does the certification body ensure that it is in compliance with these requirements?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.
Certification Standards
5.1
General Provisions
5.1.1
Please state the measures taken by the certification body to ensure that certificates are
awarded only to applicants who meet or exceed the criteria set by the certification body,
and to ensure that these criteria are applied uniformly to all applicants.
Reference: Tab:
5.1.2a
Page
[or]
Exhibit
Do the certification criteria include explicit requirements of appropriate credentials?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
5.1.2b
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Do the certification criteria include successful examination completion?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
5.1.2c
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Do the certification criteria include agreement to abide by defined ethical and
professional standards?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
5.1.3
Section
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the certification body require periodic recertification?
Yes
No
What is the period?
Reference: Tab:
Page
years
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.1.4a
How many certificants does the certification body currently recognize (including
those grandfathered)?
5.1.4b
Do the current policies of the certification body allow an individual to become certified
without passing a written and practical examination testing the individual’s relevant
knowledge and application of the forensic specialty?
Yes
Application
No
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5.1.4c
If yes, explain in full.
Reference: Tab:
5.1.4d
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Has the certification body ever certified individuals by grandfathering?
Yes
No
Comments
If no, skip to 5.2, Credentialing
5.1.4e
If yes, how many of the current certificants hold their certificates though
grandfathering?
5.1.4f
What criteria were used as the basis for grandfathering?
5.1.4g
During what period has grandfathering occurred?
Reference: Tab:
5.1.4h
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Is any form of grandfathering or awarding certificates without written and proficiency
examination presently allowed?
Yes
No
If yes, for what purpose?
5.1.4i
If yes, when will this practice end?
5.1.4j
Have any individuals been awarded certification without passing a written and
proficiency examination?
Yes
No
Comments
5.1.4k
How many?
5.1.4l
Under what circumstances were these individuals awarded a certificate?
Reference: Tab:
5.1.4m
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What policies exist for continued competency assessment of grandfathered and/or
non-tested certificants?
Reference: Tab:
Application
Page
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Section
[or]
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Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
5.2
Credentialing
5.2.1
Does the credentialing of applicants include an assessment and verification of the
following?
5.2.1.1
Academic education or equivalent training, including specific subject requirements?
Yes
No
5.2.1.2
Relevant professional experience or employment Yes
5.2.1.3
Other relevant training Yes
5.2.1.4
Relevant professional licensure, certification or registration.
Yes
No
No
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.3
General Requirements for Initial Professional Development or Training
5.3.1
Does the documentation of the certification applicant’s training include a description of
the nature and extent of the training undertaken, and any assessment of the trainee and
the outcome?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab
5.3.2
Section
[or]
Exhibit
For forensic specialties that have a strong academic foundation as a basis on which
training and experience is based, is the required knowledge and competency gained
through a combination of mechanisms to include course work, workshops, and training
courses?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab
5.3.3
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
For certification bodies in the forensic specialties in which the required knowledge and
competency are predominantly experience-based, does the certification body ensure
that the certification applicant’s education has included a formal training program
requiring extensive peer-based review?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab
5.3.3.1
Section
[or]
Exhibit
If the applicant certification body has previously been accredited by the FSAB prior to
2010, do the certification requirements now mandate the formal training program
described in 5.3.3?
Yes
Application
Page
No
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Reference: Tab:
5.3.3.2
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Can the certification body affirm that more than 50% of its certificants have gone
through the formal training program described in 5.3.3?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
5.3.3.3
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Where nationally recognized professional training standards exist for a particular
forensic specialty, are these followed?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.4
Competency and Examination
5.4.1
If competency is assessed, at least in part, by examination of relevant knowledge, skills
and abilities, how does the certification body ensure that this examination provides a
reliable assessment of the applicant’s knowledge, skills, and abilities?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.4.2. Does the examination, at least in part, require the candidate to apply forensic expertise
of the discipline to a set of facts set out by the creators of the examination?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
5.4.3
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
If the examination includes a written component, please describe the structure of that
component?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
5.5
Ethical and Professional Standards
5.5.1
Does the certification application process include inquiry into the applicant’s adherence
to ethical and professional standards?
Yes
No
How is this done?
Reference: Tab:
5.5.2a
Page
[or]
Exhibit
Does the certification process require that the candidate agree in writing to abide by
the ethical and professional standards identified by the certification body?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Application
Section
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Section
[or]
© Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
5.5.2b
What disciplinary actions does the certification body provide for breach of ethics or
professional standards by a certificant?
Reference: Tab:
6
Recertification
6.1
General Requirements
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the recertification process measure the certificant’s continuing
professional development?
6.1.1a
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the recertification process measure the certificant’s work experience?
6.1.1b
Reference: Tab:
6.1.1c
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does recertification require reaffirmation of ethical and professional standards?
Yes
No
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
6.2
Continuing Professional Development
6.2.1
Does the certificant’s continuing professional development program include at a
minimum, ongoing learning, growth and professional development within the certificant’s
field of expertise?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
6.2.2
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the certification body measure continuing competency?
Reference: Tab:
6.2.3
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does recertification require documentation of continuing professional development?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Application
Rev. 3/15/2015
Page
Section
[or]
© Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board, Inc.
Exhibit
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
6.2.3a
How is credit for continuing education earned?
Reference: Tab:
6.2.4
Page
No
Exhibit
Comments
Reference: Tab:
6.2.4a
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How many units of continuing education are required over what period of time?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the continuing education program allow completion of multiple types of activities?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
6.2.6
[or]
Does the certification program continuing professional development requirement include
at least 40 hours of instruction or point equivalents over 5 years?
Yes
6.2.5
Section
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Where an examination is used in lieu of sufficient professional development, are the
same general principles applied as in section 8 of the FSAB Standards?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Note: FSAB Standards do not require a certificant to take an examination in order to be
re-certified.
However, some certification boards may choose to administer an
examination as a component of recertification. It is recognized that for some forensic
specialties periodic demonstration of competency may be required by means of
proficiency testing, case audits and audit of court testimony.
6.3
Work Experience
6.3.1
Does recertification require documentation of continued relevant work experience?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
6.4
Ethical and Professional Standards
6.4.1
Prior to recertification are certificants provided with a current version of the certification
body’s ethical and professional standards?
Yes
Application
No
Comments
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Reference: Tab:
6.4.2
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does recertification require written reaffirmation of adherence to the certifying body’s
current ethical and professional standards?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
7
Competency Evaluation Personnel
7.1
Training and Instruction
7.1.1
How does the certification body ensure that proctors, examiners, and appraisers are
impartial, trustworthy, and responsible individuals who have received training
appropriate for the tasks they perform on behalf of the certification body?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
7.2
Conflicts of Interest
7.2.1
Does the certifying body require that proctors, examiners and appraisers avoid situations
which might affect their objectivity or present a conflict of interest in performing the tasks
they are assigned?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
8
Examination for Initial Certification
8.1
In what way are examinations designed to measure a candidate’s knowledge, skill and
ability in a valid and reliable fashion?
Reference: Tab:
8.2
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Are examinations revised periodically to maintain their currency?
Yes
No
How often?
Comments
Reference: Tab:
8.3
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What measures are taken to ensure that examinations are prepared by individuals who
have sufficient knowledge, skill, ability and experience in the target forensic specialty?
Comments
Application
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
Reference: Tab:
8.4
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
How does the certification body ensure that examinations cover the basic knowledge,
skill and ability required for competent practice within the target forensic specialty?
Reference: Tab:
8.5
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What methods have been used to ensure that scoring and grading of examinations are
methodologically sound?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
8.6
What is done, or will be made available, to provide appropriate accommodation for
candidates with an identified disability?
8.7
What steps are taken to ensure that examinations are administered in a manner that
provides the environment and physical conditions that are generally accepted as
necessary for an examination?
8.7a
Are all written examinations proctored?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
8.8
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Where the length and complexity of a competency examination is such that traditional
proctoring is not practical, what steps are taken to protect the integrity of the examination
and to ensure that the candidate was the person who took the practical examination?
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
8.9
What security does the certification body provide for examinations and examination
questions?
8.9a
If it should become know that the integrity of the examination has been compromised, is
the certification body prepared to offer a different examination?
8.9b
Is the replacement examination equal in quantity and quality?
Yes
Application
No
Comments
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Reference: Tab:
8.10
Section
[or]
Exhibit
What minimum waiting period does the certification body require before a candidate can
reapply for certification?
Reference: Tab:
8.11
Page
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
Does the certification body ensure that the decision on certification is taken by
individuals different from those who carried out the evaluation?
Yes
No
Comments
Reference: Tab:
Page
Section
[or]
Exhibit
9.
Certificates
9.1
Issuance
9.1.1
Are certificates issued upon the successful completion of all requirements of the
certification program? (A certificate may take the form of a letter, card or other
document, signed or authorized by a responsible officer of the certification body.)
Yes
No
9.1.2
Is ownership of the certificate maintained by the certifying body?
9.2
Contents
9.2.1
Does the certificate include the following?
Yes
No
9.2.1.1
The name of the certification body or program?
Yes
No
9.2.1.2
The name of the certification?
Yes
No
9.2.1.3
A certificate number?
Yes
No
9.2.1.4
The date the certificate was issued?
Yes
No
9.2.1.5
An expiration date or period of validity?
Yes
No
9.2.1.6
The forensic specialty covered under the certificate?
Yes
No
Yes
No
9.3
Expiration
9.3.1
What is the period of validity for the certificates?
Include a copy of the certificate under Tab 8.
10.
Changes in Certification Programs
10.1
Notification
Application
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10.1.1 Does the certifying body give reasonable notice to all certificants (and as practical, other
interested parties) of any changes to its certification requirements, the exact nature of
the changes, and the effective date of the changes?
Yes
Application
No
How is notification given?
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS.
Based on the answers provided in this application, it is understood that additional information
may be requested by the FSAB. Any additional information provided will be considered part of
this application. Information provided in this application may be verified.
The representative speaking on behalf of the candidate organization or certification body affirms
through signing below that he or she has the authority to so speak and states that the
information provided herein is true and accurate to the best of his or her knowledge. By signing
this document, that representative acknowledges that any misrepresentation of fact is cause for
denial of accreditation or, should such misrepresentation be brought forward after accreditation
or reaccreditation has been granted, revocation of accreditation by the FSAB.
In the event of a disagreement with the action of the FSAB, I agree on behalf of the applicant
that the Appeals Policy and Arbitration process of the FSAB shall be followed (Appendix 1).
Representative of applicant
(Signature)
Title
Date
Application
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
APPENDIX 1
FSAB Appeal Process
(Excerpted from the FSAB Policies and Procedures Manual)
Section 18
18.1
Appeals
Right of Appeal
18.1.1 The certifying body may appeal the decision of the Board to revoke or deny
accreditation.
18.1.2 The appeal shall be submitted in writing and shall state the reasons for the Board
to reconsider its decision.
18.1.3 The appeal shall be submitted by the certifying body within 90 days of receipt of
denial of accreditation or accreditation revocation.
18.1.4 Unsettled disputes shall be settled by binding arbitration.
18.2
18.3
Process for Appeal
18.2.1
Response to Appeal
18.2.1.1
The Vice-President will acknowledge the appeal.
Evaluation of Appeal
18.3.1 The President will appoint an ad hoc appeal review committee (ARC) of three to
include the Vice President and two other Board members.
18.3.2 The ARC will have authority to solicit assistance from non-Board members
(lawyers, investigators, etc.) in the event such provides additional benefit.
18.3.3 Such outside assistance must be subject to signed confidentiality agreement.
18.4
Committee Action
18.4.1 The ARC will make a recommendation to the full Board.
18.5
Board Review
18.5.1 The full Board will decide any action to be taken considering ARC
recommendation(s).
18.5.2 Board decisions will be documented and notice made to the certifying body
involved by mail, electronic or otherwise, with acknowledgment by the recipient.
18.5.3 Records of such decision will be maintained in confidence.
18.6
Timeline
Application
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Application for Accreditation / Re-Accreditation
18.6.1 The appeal process will be completed within 60 days, if possible.
18.6.2 Notice will be made thereafter, in a timely manner.
18.7
Complaint Record Maintenance
18.7.1 All documents will be achieved and held in confidence.
18.7.2 These will include any and all recommendation, Board deliberations and actions
taken.
Section 19
19.1
Arbitration
Purpose of Binding Arbitration
19.1.1 Should the procedures identified in the Appeals Section (Section 18) fail to
resolve the appeal to the satisfaction of the Certifying Body, the Certifying Body
and FSAB shall have the appeal resolved through binding arbitration.
19.2
Arbitration Standard
19.2.1 The arbitration proceeding shall take place in a manner consistent with the
Administrative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Act through a reputable ADR provider.
19.2.2 One (1) arbitrator who is an expert in the field of certification shall resolve the
appeal. The arbitrator shall be selected using procedures consistent with the
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Act.
19.3
Arbitration Demand
19.3.1 The Certifying Body shall make the demand for arbitration no later than six (6)
months after the date the appeal was denied.
19.3.2 The demand shall be made in writing to the President of the FSAB Board.
19.4
Decision
19.4.1 The decision rendered by the arbitrator shall be final.
19.5
Costs
19.5.1 The Certifying Body and FSAB shall split the costs of arbitration.
Application
19.5.1.1
The arbitration administration fees shall be borne equally by the
Certifying Body and FSAB.
19.5.1.2
The expense of a court reporter/stenographer, if required, shall be
borne equally by the Certifying Body and FSAB.
19.5.1.3
The party producing the witness shall pay the witness expenses.
19.5.1.4
Each party shall bear the cost of its own travel expenses.
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19.5.1.5
Application
All other expenses shall be borne equally by the Certifying Body and
FSAB, unless the arbitrator apportions or assesses the expenses
otherwise as part of his/her award.
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