A2LA Adds New Accreditation Programs for ISASecure Cybersecurity Certification

A2LA Expands Its Accreditation Portfolio

In a landmark development, the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) has broadened its service offerings significantly by incorporating the Inspection Body (IB) and Product Certification Body (CB) accreditations for the ISASecure Automation and Control System Security Assurance (ACSSA) certification. This announcement was made on July 13, 2026, by the International Society of Automation (ISA), a leading entity in the realm of automation.

A2LA's addition to its accreditation services underscores a profound commitment to enhancing safety and compliance within the automation sector, particularly concerning cybersecurity. The ISASecure ACSSA certification is built around the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards, which provide a robust framework for ensuring the security of industrial automation and control systems (IACS).

The Importance of Cybersecurity in Automation

As industries progressively pivot toward increased connectivity and automation, the need for standardized cybersecurity measures becomes paramount. The ISASecure certification program, a global standard, has emerged to authenticate compliance with security protocols that protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats. By obtaining ISASecure ACSSA certification, organizations can demonstrate their adherence to best practices in cybersecurity, thus assuring clients and stakeholders of the security and integrity of their operations.

A2LA's Expanded Role and Recognition

A2LA, as one of the globe's leading accreditation bodies, is also notable for being the only independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in the United States focused exclusively on providing comprehensive accreditation services. Since its inception in 1978, A2LA has dedicated itself to formally recognizing laboratories and bodies across an array of sectors, establishing a giant footprint with over 4,500 accredited certificates spanning all 50 states and more than 50 countries.

The inclusion of ISASecure in A2LA's portfolio is a significant step in A2LA's mission: to extend its support for emerging cybersecurity frameworks. Trace McInturff, the VP of Accreditation Services at A2LA, expressed enthusiasm for this new development, noting its importance for independent assurance in an environment where operational technologies are becoming more integrated and complex. This move was not only a strategic response to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity but also a proactive measure to enhance the integrity of critical infrastructures worldwide.

The Future of ISASecure Certification

Dr. Mark DeAngelo, ISASecure program manager, also commented on this pivotal moment, affirming A2LA's reputation in cybersecurity and anticipating a positive impact for ISASecure members aiming to become involved as IBs or CBs under the new ACSSA framework. The collaboration between A2LA and ISA symbolizes a melding of expertise aimed at bolstering security measures across the industry.

The ISASecure program's mission has been firmly rooted in the establishment of cybersecurity standards since its inception in 2007. It focuses on delivering high-level assurance for industrial automation control systems. With the backing of major corporations like BP, Chevron, and Honeywell, ISASecure has set a benchmark for consistent compliance, making it a cornerstone for organizations looking to validate their cybersecurity practices.

Conclusion

In summation, A2LA's enhancement of its accreditation portfolio by including ISASecure ACSSA certification programs is not just an expansion of services but a reinforcement of industry standards aimed at safeguarding critical cyber infrastructures. As organizations strive to secure their automated systems against the backdrop of increasing cyber threats, such certifications become essential in proving reliability and competence in operational technology cybersecurity. As this field continues to evolve, A2LA and ISASecure's collaborative efforts will play a pivotal role in setting the stage for a more secure future in automation and control systems.