Association Certification And Accreditation Programs: Minimizing The Liability Risks

Certification and accreditation programs (collectively referred to herein as "certification" programs) sponsored by trade and professional associations are increasingly common. Whether it is the certification of individuals, products or services, the credentialing of professionals, or the accreditation of programs, services or institutions, these programs confer an array of valuable benefits not only to associations and association members, but also to industry, government, and the general public. However, as the recent litigation involving the National Spa and Pool Institute and other associations remind us, standard-setting and certification programs are not without liability risk – potentially significant risks.