How to register and acquire UNBS certification for your goods

Uganda.

All products covered by compulsory standards must be certified by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and issued with its Distinctive Mark before they are allowed on the market, following the coming into force of the Use of Distinctive Mark Regulation, 2018 on 1st January 2019.

Some of the products that must be certified before they are allowed on the market covered by compulsory standards include foods, drinks, electronics, cosmetics, steel products and cement, confectionaries (bread and biscuits), apiary and mattresses, among others.

This regulation is part of the government’s consumer protection policies to ensure that locally manufactured products comply with quality standards. This is to enhance the competitiveness and increase access for locally manufactured products to regional and international markets. 

Certified products undergo conformity assessments that include product testing, and auditing production systems to ensure that they meet standards for good hygienic and manufacturing practices. All complying products are issued with UNBS Distinctive Mark.

This is a simple guide for anyone intending to register their goods and obtain certification form UNBS.

1. Determine the Applicable Standards: Identify the relevant standards that apply to your goods. UNBS has established specific standards for various products, and you need to ensure that your goods meet these requirements.
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather all the required documents for your product, such as test reports, technical specifications, quality assurance certificates, and any other supporting documentation.
3. Product Testing and Inspection: Depending on the nature of your goods, you might need to have them tested and inspected by an accredited laboratory to ensure they comply with the relevant standards.
4. Submit Application: Complete the application form for certification and submit it to the Uganda National Bureau of Standards along with all the necessary documents and fees.
5. Review and Evaluation: UNBS will review your application and the provided documentation to assess compliance with the applicable standards. UNBS auditors may also carry out certification audits and pick samples for laboratory analysis and testing.
6. Inspection of Production Facilities: UNBS may conduct an inspection of your production facilities to verify that you have the necessary quality control measures in place.
7. Certification Decision: Based on the evaluation and inspection results, UNBS will make a decision on whether to grant the certification for your goods.
8. Certification Issuance: If your goods meet all the requirements, you will receive the Uganda National Bureau of Standards certification.
9. Surveillance and Renewal: After obtaining certification, you may be subject to periodic surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance. Certifications are typically valid for a limited period and require renewal.

Obtaining Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) certification for your goods is a vital step in ensuring compliance with national quality and safety standards. By following the outlined process, which involves preparing necessary documentation, undergoing product testing, and meeting inspection requirements, businesses can enhance consumer trust and gain a competitive edge in the Ugandan market. Staying updated with the latest guidelines from UNBS will facilitate a smooth and successful certification journey for businesses seeking to register and acquire UNBS certification for their goods.