(a) During the operational period, additional conformity assessment bodies (CAB's) will be considered for equivalence using the procedures and criteria described in Sec. Sec. 26.36, 26.37, and 26.39, taking into account the level of confidence gained in the overall regulatory system of the other party.
(b) Once a designating authority considers that such CAB's, having undergone the procedures of Sec. Sec. 26.36, 26.37, and 26.39, may be determined to be equivalent, it will then designate those bodies on an annual basis. Such procedures satisfy the procedures of Sec. 26.66(a) and (b).
(c) Following such annual designations, the procedures for confirmation of CAB's under Sec. 26.66(c) and (d) shall apply.