At ABC, we strive to help you have the smoothest accreditation survey process possible. That’s why we accept blackout dates to help you with already scheduled conflicts that could affect your onsite survey. 

Blackout dates are a handy tool, but don’t let the who, when and how confuse you! 

All currently accredited facilities applying for reaccreditation are eligible to apply for blackout dates. If you are adding an affiliate location, you are not eligible for blackout dates.

To guarantee the accommodation of your blackout dates, your request must be submitted to ABC within two weeks of the date your application is received. All requests for blackout dates must be submitted via our online Blackout Date Request Form by the deadline provided in your facility’s application receipt email.

You are allowed a maximum of 14 blackout dates during a six-month period. If your site will be unavailable to be surveyed for longer than 14 dates, you need to put your application on hold.  

You will receive an email notification that your site is due to be reaccredited. The link to the blackout date form is included in this email and must be submitted online. We are unable to accommodate blackout dates submitted after your application deadline. 

You will receive email status updates throughout the application process that will include information on your requested blackout dates.

If an ABC surveyor does show up to your facility and they can’t conduct your survey, it will result in a failed survey and a denied/revoked accreditation. Providing information on when you’ll be unavailable allows everyone to plan ahead and creates a smoother process for both sides. If you have any questions regarding blackout dates, please contact us at accreditation@abcop.org.