Certification System Research Articles

Development of a test method for adhesive tapes certification and application

Sufficient airtightness of a building envelope is important both to ensure the overall energy efficiency of a building and to prevent moisture-related damage to the structure. Air leakages typically occur in the context of joints and perforations in vapor barriers installed inside walls and roofs. It is essential to give proper attention to details to achieve sufficient airtightness of building envelopes and joint’s durability. Sealing such building details with durable solutions is essential for ensuring sufficient airtightness overall. In recent years, adhesive tapes have increasingly been used for this application. However, there remains uncertainty regarding its performance in the long-term. The study offers an overview of the current state of the art by incorporating findings from a literature review including an analysis of established methods currently being used for evaluation of tape joint durability, as well as other experimental test methods. The aim of research presented in this paper is to contribute to the development of a test method with sufficient accuracy, reproducibility, and repeatability to be used in the development and certification of tape products and systems. Although the method in development displays limitations in terms of reproducibility, it is regarded as a promising concept. Through further development, the method is believed to be suitable for potential integration into wider evaluation programs addressing adhesive tape durability, supplementary to existing methods.

Experiences and challenges in the development of carbon footprinting in megacities - taking Shanghai as an example

Using Shanghai as a case study, this article discusses the practices and methods of carbon footprint measurement in megacities, analyzing its evolution and significance in supporting densely populated megacities worldwide to achieve carbon neutrality. The study emphasizes thorough greenhouse gas emission accounting in high-density urban areas characterized by intensive economic activity and population concentration. Globally, nations, including China, are enhancing carbon management strategies by introducing new standards under the regulatory guidance of organizations such as the National Development and Reform Commission. However, notable obstacles remain, including the lack of a centralized database, insufficient product-specific approaches to managing emissions, and the absence of standardized certification systems for labeling products based on their environmental impact. To address these challenges, Shanghai is promoting a low-carbon transition across industries and encouraging the city's green development by fostering a collaborative industrial framework. This includes the CN100 program, which mobilizes leading companies to reduce the carbon footprint of supply chains and industrial processes.

A fractional-order model for the effects of expansions in hospitals on the applicability of performance certificate programme

This study explores the impact of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system on healthcare services in private hospitals in North Cyprus using a fractional-order system of equations. The Near East Hospital (NEH) earned Gold-level certification with 79 points, while Burhan Nalbantoğlu Hospital (BNH) obtained 31 points. Through sensitivity analysis of indoor air quality and sustainable land criteria, the study demonstrates that hospitals adopting LEED certification provide superior service quality. The findings suggest that government hospitals could benefit from aligning with green certification criteria, potentially improving patient outcomes. Data collected from NEH and BNH support a positive relationship between green certification and increased patient and employee satisfaction, with significant evidence ( p < 0.05 ) distinguishing LEED-certified hospitals from non-certified ones. The study also evaluates how hospital expansions affect the applicability of certification programs and the management of COVID-19, focusing on criteria such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. The analysis provides insights for healthcare administrators and policymakers seeking to enhance hospital infrastructure to meet certification standards, improve healthcare services, and better manage future pandemics. The research underscores the importance of green certification in improving patient care, employee satisfaction, and overall hospital performance.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Occupational Health and Safety Management System Certification Program on Firm Work Injury Rates in Alberta, Canada.

Occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS) certification programs have the potential to improve workplace health and safety. In Canada, the Certificate of Recognition (COR) program is an example of such program and has been introduced in many industries and provinces. This study's objective was to identify whether the implementation of the COR program led to greater reduction in firm work-related injuries in Alberta, Canada. Using firm- and claim-level data from the Workers' Compensation Board of Alberta and COR registration data from Government of Alberta, the effect of becoming COR-certified on firm-level injury rates was assessed using a matched difference-in-differences study design with population-averaged negative binomial regression models. A total of 14,377 certified firms were matched with 11,338 non-certified firms during the years 2000 to 2015. Firms that became certified had a greater reduction in the lost-time injury rate (IRR: 0.86, 95% CI 0.83-0.88) and disabling injury rate (IRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94-1.00) relative to the change in injury rates among similar non-certified firms. The effectiveness of OHSMS certification was strongest in the transportation, manufacturing and trade sectors, in more recent years, and among firms certified using the standard COR program as opposed to the program adapted for small employers. The findings suggest that COR can be an effective program, but that the effectiveness of this program is dependent on the context in which it is implemented, such as the industry sector, time period, and type of audit program.

Is it green? Designing a blockchain-based certification system for the EU hydrogen market

Energy production and consumption are major contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, exacerbating one of the greatest challenges faced by modern societies: climate change. Thus, societies must switch to more sustainable energy sources. Green hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative energy carrier, facilitating storage and utilization across various industries. However, amidst different production processes, solely sustainable electrolysis stands out as an environmentally benign production method. Hydrogen producers must prove provenance and sustainable production to regulatory bodies and hydrogen buyers to comply with the regulations for sustainable development. Blockchain provides a viable solution encompassing trustworthy and secure information sharing between untrusted partners. In this article, we employ a design science research approach to develop a blockchain-based certification system (BLC-CS) for green hydrogen. Through collaboration with experts to gather requirements and conduct evaluations, we design an artifact that streamlines the certification process for producers, regulators, and consumers. Our proposed solution facilitates information gathering, verification, and reporting, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy practices. We provide a comprehensive discussion of the BLC-CS’s feasibility for green hydrogen certification, including technical extensions, recommendations for practitioners, and directions for future research.

The Roles of Pharmacists and Pharmacies in Sustainable Medical Care: Current Status and Outlook Three Years After the Issuance of Recommendations by the Science Council of Japan

Three years have passed since the Science Council of Japan issued its recommendations entitled "Profession and lifelong learning of pharmacists responsible for sustainable medical care." These recommendations include active involvement in community medicine, securing patient information necessary for pharmaceutical management, harmonizing undergraduate and post-graduate education, reform of the certification system for specialty-credentialed pharmacists, and development of the pharmacist resident system. This paper provides an overview of recent trends and future prospects for pharmacists and pharmacies in Japan.

Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Microorganisms Found in Fura De Nono Sold in Different Markets in Makurdi Benue State

Fura de Nono, a traditional fermented dairy and millet product popular in Nigeria, is widely consumed for its nutritional value. However, its production, often under unsanitary conditions, raises concerns about microbial contamination and public health risks. This study investigates the microbial load in Fura de Nono samples collected from local markets in Makurdi, Nigeria, assessing the presence of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Using standard microbiological techniques, including colony counting and biochemical tests, the study identified harmful microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, and Salmonella species. Antibiotic susceptibility tests revealed resistance in certain isolates, posing additional risks to consumers. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved sanitation practices among vendors, routine microbiological testing, and better regulatory enforcement to ensure food safety. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance hygiene practices and establish a certification system for vendors to protect public health.

Standardisation of Compliance Management and Process Quality in the Organization Based on the Integrated Management System

Purpose: Examine the implementation possibilities, methods, and benefits of compliance management and anti-bribery management in organisational practice and propose an innovative model for building progressive systems for comprehensive quality and sustainability of production. Methodology/Approach: It examines the structure, methods, and possibilities of system authorisation built according to ISO 37001:2016 and ISO 37301:2021 and the possibilities of their integration into a comprehensive IMS. Findings: Organisations currently need to address issues of individual or joint use of standards, the optimal structure of the integrated system, authorisation, and continuous improvement in the context of increasing competitiveness and ensuring sustainable development in globalised markets. Research Limitation/implication: The first limitation is the development of globalised policies that may influence the voluntary use of ISOs or change their structure. The second limitation is limited access to the state of preparation of standards revision and their annexes (ISO 37301:2021, ISO 14001:2015). Originality/Value of paper: The paper is original in its connection to addressing the latest globalised challenges by building an integrated organisational system according to voluntary standards and jointly managing multiple aspects, including ensuring accredited system certification.

Comparing epidemiological and clinical data from RPS patients documented in a German cancer registry to a cohort from TARPSWG reference centres

PurposeRetroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) are rare, heterogeneous tumours. Treatment recommendations are mainly derived from cohorts treated at reference centres. The applicability of data from cancer registries (CR) is controversial. This work compares CR and TARPSWG (Transatlantic Australasian Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Working Group) data to assess the representativeness of the TARPSWG and the applicability of the CR data.MethodsTARPSWG cohort has previously been described. The CR Baden-Württemberg cohort includes patients with primary RPS M0 (years 2016–2021, ICD-10 C.49.4/5, C48.x) who underwent surgery within 12 months. Only patients with sarcoma-typical histology codes as used for the German Cancer Society certification system were included. Patient, tumour and therapy factors as well as survival times were compared with Chi2-test, Kaplan Meier curves, and adjusted models.Results1000 (TARPSWG) and 364 (CR) patients were included. CR patients were older (median: 64 years vs. 58 years), had more high-grade tumours (FNCLCC 3 48.1% vs. 27.4%, p < 0.0001) and the 5-year survival rate was significantly lower (56.3% vs. 67.9%, p = 0.0015). The proportions of dedifferentiated liposarcoma (CR 37.1% vs. 37.0%) and leiomyosarcoma (CR 20.1% vs. 19.2%), and patterns of recurrence in these most frequent RPS subtypes were similar.ConclusionICD-O/ICD 10 based filters appear to be a valid tool for extracting RPS cases from CR. The similar distribution and biological behavior of distinct RPS subtypes suggests that TARPS-WG are representative, and CR data may be used to verify recommendations derived from reference centre cohorts. Complementary use of data from different sources warrants further investigation in rare cancers.

Blockchain in Agroecological Certifications: Innovation and the Challenges of Socio-Environmental Autonomy in the Face of Technological Colonization

Objective: This article explores the application of blockchain in agroecological certifications, through the theoretical framework of Socially Disruptive Technologies (SDTs), focusing particularly on technosocial disruption, examining how these innovations transform technical processes and the social and cultural dynamics involved. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical foundation relies on Bruno Latour’s Actor-Network Theory (ANT), which considers technology as an active actor in socio-technical networks. In this context, blockchain is analyzed as a tool that can modify interactions among farmers, consumers, and certifiers. This perspective incorporates discussions proposed by Jürgen Habermas and Herbert Marcuse to explain the risks of technological colonization and instrumental rationality, which may occur when technologies like blockchain are implemented without regard for traditional knowledge and local practices. Method: Using a qualitative approach and integrative literature review, the research addresses local governance and the risks of technological colonization through observation in rural communities. Results and Discussion: The results suggest that the disruptive blockchain technology can promote greater transparency and traceability, yet it also presents challenges to the socio-environmental autonomy of rural communities. The social and cultural context of these communities needs to be respected, and blockchain implementation should promote participatory governance that values local knowledge. Research Implications: This study discusses how the results may be applied or influence practices in the field of agroecology, highlighting the consequences for governance and local autonomy. These implications span areas such as participatory governance, the management of disruptive technologies in agricultural practices, and the preservation of socio-environmental autonomy in certification systems. The research proposes a hybrid governance model for the implementation of socially disruptive technologies, ensuring that they are used as support tools rather than as replacements for local practices. Originality/Value: This study contributes to essential reflections on transformations occurring in agroecology by exploring the interaction between socially disruptive technologies (SDTs) and their interconnections with environmental autonomy. The research takes a critical perspective on the impacts of SDTs on the traditional practices and knowledge of rural communities. Additionally, it offers an approach that balances technological innovation and the preservation of sustainable practices, thereby promoting the ethical and inclusive use of emerging technologies in agroecological certification and production, serving as a reference for future policies and sustainability practices.

THE BOLIVIAN ORGANIC QUINOA IN THE FAIRTRADE MARKET, IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WEAKEST LINK IN THE VALUE CHAIN: SMALL-SCALE FARMERS

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;The fair trade model seeks to redress the imbalance of power in global supply chains. Unlike conventional trade structures, this commercial alternative purport to benefit small farmers and workers in developing countries. In the real world, however, small-scale producers are often excluded from the benefits. &lt;strong&gt;Objective&lt;/strong&gt;: To analyzes organic Bolivian quinoa as a Fairtrade product and the impacts and challenges that Bolivian quinoa farmers face in the marketing chain. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology: &lt;/strong&gt;A documentary analysis of the production system, application of qualitative techniques with local actors involved in the supply chain of Bolivian quinoa, and field work in regional markets were carried out. &lt;strong&gt;Results&lt;/strong&gt;: The economic conditions of smallholder quinoa producers are improving under this certification system. However, global oversupply and increased competition are having a significant impact on retail prices and Bolivian sales to foreign markets. The retail price is more than a third higher than the Fairtrade price, maximizing profits at the expense of fair trade. &lt;strong&gt;Implications&lt;/strong&gt;: Organic and Fairtrade certified Bolivian quinoa may not be a suitable product for the Fairtrade model. Being a landlocked country and commercial competition from Peru are the two main challenges for small quinoa producers. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusions&lt;/strong&gt;: The Bolivian organic Fairtrade quinoa value chain involves several intermediaries, similar to conventional trade. Organic certification is a time-consuming and costly process because farmers cannot cover the costs. The almost non-existent governance structures imply that most decisions are based on the buyer-driven commodity chain, demonstrating the weak bargaining position of farmers. An alternative certification for small quinoa producers could be the Small Producers' Symbol label.&lt;/p&gt;

Competitiveness in the Catalan agri‐food cooperatives: Internationalization–certification relationship

AbstractThe competitiveness of Catalan agri‐food cooperatives is studied from a new point of view, their internationalization and specifically the effects on internationalization due to the adoption of quality certifications. Most of the previous research focuses on organizational, economic and commercial aspects, and there are few works linking both fields. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to analyse the behaviour of the relationship between internationalization and certification. For this purpose, the non‐parametric Mann–Whitney U test for two independent samples and boxplot analysis were used. The results of this research show a positive relationship between different certification systems and internationalization. Empirical evidence was found: Exporting cooperatives that adopt ISO 9001 or a production system certification have a higher export intensity and geographical diversification than those that do not adopt it.

CONTRATOS E ASSINATURAS DIGITAIS – VALIDADE, CONFECÇÃO E JURISPRUDÊNCIA

This article presents an evolutionary analysis of contracts, from the rigidity of Roman Law to the flexibility and complexity of contractual relationships in the digital age. The research addresses the importance of the digital signature as a tool to guarantee the authenticity, integrity, and legal validity of electronic contracts. The concepts of electronic, digitized, and digital signatures are explored, as well as the Brazilian legislation that regulates this practice. The relevant Brazilian legislation, especially Law 14.063/2020, is analyzed to verify how it regulates and validates digital signatures, highlighting any gaps or challenges that may still compromise legal security. To clarify the differences between types of signatures, the text details three types: electronic, digitized, and digital, explaining the particularities of each and the authentication methods, with emphasis on the ICP-Brazil certification system. The Brazilian Public Key Infrastructure (ICP-Brasil) is detailed as a fundamental system for the security of digital transactions. In addition, the different modalities of electronic contracts, the tools available for digital signatures are discussed, including presenting free digital signature tools made available by the Brazilian government and the challenges related to the security and legal validity of these documents. It is concluded that the digital signature represents a significant advance in the formalization of contracts, providing greater security, agility, and efficiency in legal relationships.

Recent advancements in meat traceability, authenticity verification, and voluntary certification systems

The growing demand for transparency in the food industry has led to significant advancements in meat traceability. Ensuring the authenticity and origin of meat products is critical for consumer trust, public health, and compliance with regulations. This paper reviews recent innovations in meat traceability, with a focus on blockchain technology as a novel approach to ensuring traceability. Additionally, advanced methods for verifying meat authenticity and origin, such as isotope fingerprinting, DNA analysis, and spectroscopic methods, are discussed. The role of voluntary certification schemes in enhancing traceability and authenticity verification in the meat industry is also explored. The findings highlight the importance of integrating cutting-edge technologies and certification schemes to build a robust and transparent meat supply chain.

INTEGRATION OF SNI ISO/IEC 17024:2012 AND SNI ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 STANDARDS IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AT PT QUANTUM HRM INTERNASIONAL

This study discusses the application of the integration of ISO 17024 and ISO 17021 standards in Improving the Quality of Management Systems at PT Quantum HRM International (QHRMI). The purpose of this study is to find out how to apply the integration of the two standards. This study uses qualitative research method with the type of research used, namely literature research or literature study or known as desk study where the researcher relies on various literature to obtain research data. The results of this study show that the implementation of ISO 17024 and ISO 17021 at QHRMI has strengthened objective, transparent, and reliable certification standards. In personnel certification, QHRMI prioritizes the principles of impartiality and integrity, supported by a structured management system and competent experts. Meanwhile, the implementation of ISO 17021 ensures that audits and certification of the management system of educational organizations are carried out professionally, in accordance with international standards and applicable regulations. Through the integration of these two standards, QHRMI has succeeded in improving operational efficiency by reducing duplication of documents, optimizing management coordination, and encouraging continuous improvement. The integration also strengthens QHRMI's reputation as a credible certification body, while increasing its competitiveness in the certification industry.

Defining Responsibility: A Framework Analysis of Error Attribution and Accountability in AI Telemedicine Services

This study examines the regulatory landscape governing liability and accountability in AI telemedicine in Ghana. Using the CREAC (Context, Rules, Explanation, Application, Conclusion) legal analytical approach, it analyzes existing Ghanaian healthcare laws and regulations in the context of AI telemedicine. The study finds that while Ghana has a comprehensive set of healthcare regulations, they are inadequately equipped to address the unique challenges posed by AI in telemedicine, particularly regarding liability determination, accountability mechanisms, and error management. Significant gaps exist in current legislation, leaving Ghana vulnerable to the risks associated with AI in healthcare. The study recommends developing AI-specific healthcare legislation, updating existing laws, establishing a national AI in healthcare ethics committee, implementing a certification system for AI in healthcare, and creating a specialized AI healthcare liability framework. These measures aim to balance innovation in AI telemedicine with patient safety and ethical healthcare delivery.

ONCE AGAIN ON THE QUESTION OF THE LEGAL CONSEQUENCES OF DEPRIVING A PERSON OF AN ACADEMIC DEGREE AND OTHER ISSUES IN THE SYSTEM OF SCIENTIFIC CERTIFICATION

This article examines the legal aspects of the consequences of depriving a person of an academic degree, previously not covered in the legal literature, as well as certain issues of the existing state system of scientific certification. In the process of work, two problems associated with depriving a person of an academic degree were identified and analysed. The first is predetermined by the fact that, being a candidate or doctor of sciences, a person subsequently deprived of an academic degree, can participate in the procedure for defending other theses. The second is due to the fact that a person who was subsequently deprived of an academic degree could, before this moment, be involved in the work of dissertation councils. It is stated that the solution to these issues requires a differentiated approach, with the inadmissibility of unreasonable and unnecessary complication of the institution of state scientific certification and the need to prevent significant temporary and detailed uncertainty in the status of scientific personnel. Particular attention is paid to the problem of depriving a person of an academic degree in the context of the existence of parallel schemes for state awarding of academic degrees in Russia – dissertation councils at scientific and educational organisations included in the Higher Attestation Commission system under the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, and dissertation councils at scientific and educational organisations vested with the right to independently award scientists’ degrees. A conclusion is formulated about the advisability of returning to a unified state system of scientific certification, headed by the Higher Attestation Commission under the Government of the Russian Federation.

THE NEED FOR LEGAL REGULATION OF THE ‟BLACK BOX” OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

This paper discusses the transparency and regulation of Artificial Intelligence (hereinafter the AI). It discusses the growing trend of using decision-making algorithms in various areas of life and the need for transparent and the understandable AI systems. The author highlights the concept of a ‟black box” where algorithms and their processes become hidden to users and developers, and emphasises the importance of explainability and accessibility of information about the operation of the AI. The article also addresses the right to explanation and possible strategies for ensuring transparency and accountability in algorithmic decision-making, including parameter documentation and system certification.

Mixed method evaluation of factors influencing the adoption of organic participatory guarantee system certification among Vietnamese vegetable farmers

AbstractIn markets where vegetables are commonly cultivated with heavy use of synthetic pesticides, it is particularly important for consumers to be able to identify genuine organic produce. Organic Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) certification offers smallholder farmers an affordable way to build trust among consumers and secure premium prices for their organic produce. In Vietnam, the demand for vegetables with no, or low, pesticide residues is growing. The attractiveness of PGS certification should increase accordingly, but the number of organic PGS certified farmers in Vietnam are stagnating or even decreasing. The aim of this study is to explain this paradox by investigating the factors that influence the adoption of organic PGS certification among Vietnamese vegetable farmers. We follow a mixed methods approach, combining a qualitative analysis of farmer interviews (n = 62) and a quantitative analysis of a farm survey data (n = 434) using a sample selection model that estimates adoption contingent on farmers’ awareness of PGS certification. Drawing on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, we found that social relationships and positive attitudes towards farming and the environment drive the adoption of organic PGS. Barriers include insufficient knowledge of organic farming techniques, labour shortages, and ageing farmers. At the systemic level, support by (non-)governmental institutions facilitates adoption, but challenges such as lower yields and limited access to premium markets remain. To promote organic PGS among Vietnamese vegetable farmers, efforts should focus on disseminating organic farming techniques that boost yields, alleviate labour demands, and ensure secure markets for premium-priced organic vegetables.

Combating Greenwashing of Construction Products in New Zealand and Australia: A Critical Analysis of Environmental Product Declarations

The construction industry’s increasing environmental impact has led to the widespread adoption of sustainability claims, yet the prevalence of greenwashing—where organizations make misleading environmental claims—threatens genuine sustainable development efforts. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) have emerged as a potential solution, particularly in the New Zealand and Australia construction sectors, where recent government climate regulations have accelerated their adoption. However, the effectiveness of EPDs in combating greenwashing and their practical implementation remain understudied. This research addresses this gap through a comprehensive analysis of EPDs in construction, employing a systematic literature review of 82 articles from 2010 to 2024 across major databases. Using ATLAS.ti 9 software, this study makes three key contributions: (1) develops a novel framework for evaluating EPD programs and their effectiveness in preventing greenwashing, (2) establishes a standardized methodology for assessing the completeness and accuracy of life cycle assessment information in EPDs, and (3) provides evidence-based recommendations for improving EPD implementation in the construction industry. The findings reveal critical shortcomings in current EPD practices, including inconsistent assessment methodologies and incomplete life cycle data. This study proposes specific reforms to enhance EPD reliability and transparency, offering practical guidelines for industry stakeholders to verify environmental claims. These contributions advance both the theoretical understanding of environmental certification systems and practical implementation of sustainable construction practices by developing regulatory frameworks.