The ISO Certification Process Explained: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ISO certified? This guide walks you through the entire process - from preparation to audit - so you know exactly what to expect!

The ISO Certification Process Explained

Achieving ISO certification is a significant milestone for any business, signifying that your organisation adheres to internationally recognised standards for quality, environmental management, and more.

This process, though critical, may seem overwhelming if you're unfamiliar with it.

However, with the right guidance, ISO certification becomes an achievable and rewarding goal.

At One System Mgt, we not only help you implement a fully compliant system but also ensure that your organisation remains compliant long after the certification is granted.

Here, we’ll take you through the ISO certification process, focusing on everything from preparation to audits, including the various stages of the audit, common outcomes, and ongoing support to make the process as seamless as possible.

1. Preparation for ISO Certification

The journey towards ISO certification starts with preparation.

Before you even begin implementing the ISO standards in your company, it's crucial to assess your current processes, identify gaps, and establish a clear plan of action.

Preparation steps include:

Understanding the Standard

Each ISO standard (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, 45001, 27001 etc.) has specific requirements.

The first step is understanding which standard applies to your business and what it entails.

Conducting a Gap Analysis

This is where we step in.

Our GAP Analysis service will identify areas where your current system does not meet the standard's requirements. This is an essential first step in ensuring compliance.

Management Commitment

For a successful ISO implementation, top management must be committed to the process.

Their leadership will set the tone for the entire organisation's involvement in the process.

Assigning Responsibilities

Assign roles to employees who will oversee the implementation process.

These roles will include everything from process owners to internal auditors.

Staff Training

A critical component of preparation is ensuring that your team is fully trained and knowledgeable about the ISO standard, the system you are implementing, and their roles within that system.

2. Implementation of the ISO Management System

Once you’ve prepared, it’s time to implement the system.

This phase involves establishing and documenting your processes according to the ISO standard, with a focus on compliance and continuous improvement.

This will include:

Documenting Procedures

Procedures for key processes must be created, including work instructions, policies, and records.

Implementing Controls

Establish quality controls to monitor and manage your processes and ensure they align with the ISO standard.

Ongoing Monitoring and Review

Regularly monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the system is necessary to ensure compliance, identify areas of improvement, and make adjustments where necessary.

As part of our ongoing support, One System Mgt will guide you through this phase, providing assistance and ensuring that your system is aligned with the standards at every step.

3. Internal Audit and Pre-Audit Check

Before the official certification audit, it’s wise to conduct an internal audit.

This is an internal review of your processes to ensure they meet the requirements of the ISO standard and that you’re ready for the external certification audit.

We’ll help you carry out a pre-audit check to:

Identify any potential issues before the audit, ensuring you address these issues early on.

Ensure complete compliance with the ISO standard and readiness for the formal audit.

4. Certification Audit

Now comes the big day – the certification audit.

During this stage, an external auditor from a UKAS accredited certification body will assess your system to confirm that it meets the requirements of the ISO standard.

Possible Results of the Audit

There are several possible outcomes of the certification audit.

The auditor will review your management system, processes, and records.

Based on their findings, they may issue:

Major Nonconformances

These are significant deviations from the ISO standard that need to be addressed immediately.

A major nonconformance could jeopardise your certification, so prompt corrective action is required.

Minor Nonconformances

These are less severe issues that still need addressing but won't prevent certification.

They generally require corrective action within a set time frame.

Opportunities for Improvement (OFIs)

While not mandatory, these suggestions are areas where your system could be improved to increase efficiency, effectiveness, or compliance.

Observations

These are comments made by the auditor that don't require action but can provide valuable insights into how your system is performing.

At One System Mgt, we’ll ensure you understand what these results mean and work with you to address any nonconformances or opportunities for improvement.

We’ll implement a fully compliant system and provide clear instructions on what needs to be done to ensure ongoing compliance.

5. Surveillance Audits

After certification, your company will undergo surveillance audits during the first two years.

These are smaller-scale audits that ensure your system continues to operate effectively and in compliance with the ISO standard.

They will focus on:

Monitoring continuous improvement.
Ensuring compliance with any corrective actions.
Reviewing records and processes to ensure that standards are maintained.

At One System Mgt, we offer ongoing support after your certification audit.

Our expertise ensures that these surveillance audits run smoothly and are far less daunting, as your system will already be fully compliant and effectively managed.

6. Recertification Audit

At the end of year three, your company will go through a recertification audit, which is similar to the initial certification audit.

During this audit, your organisation’s management system will be evaluated to ensure it continues to meet ISO standards.

This pattern repeats every three years, with surveillance audits in years one and two, followed by the recertification audit in year three.

The ongoing cycle of audits ensures that your company remains compliant and focused on continual improvement.

At One System Mgt, we’ll help you maintain your system so that your recertification audits are just as easy and seamless as the previous ones.

UKAS Accreditation – Why It Matters

Choosing the right certification body is critical.

UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) is the national accreditation body recognised by the government to assess organisations against international standards.

There are distinct advantages to using a UKAS accredited certification body:

Recognised Global Standard

UKAS accreditation ensures that your ISO certification is recognised both nationally and internationally.

Credibility

Certification from a UKAS accredited body carries weight and signals a commitment to quality and compliance.

Trust and Transparency

UKAS accredited certification bodies follow rigorous, unbiased processes to ensure that the audits are thorough and fair.

The Disadvantages of Non-UKAS Accredited Certification Bodies

While it may be tempting to opt for a non-UKAS accredited certification body due to potentially lower costs, this comes with significant risks:

Lack of Recognition

Certifications from non-UKAS bodies may not be recognised by customers, suppliers, or stakeholders who rely on the credibility of UKAS accreditation.

Weaker Audits

Non-UKAS certification bodies may not adhere to the same stringent auditing procedures, potentially allowing gaps or weaknesses in your system to go unnoticed.

Limited International Recognition

If your business is planning to expand internationally, certification from a non-UKAS body may not be accepted in some markets.

At One System Mgt, we only work with UKAS accredited certification bodies.

This ensures that your business receives a certification that is recognised, trusted, and respected globally.

Conclusion – Your Ongoing ISO Support

Achieving ISO certification is just the beginning.

The real value comes from maintaining and improving your management system over time.

With One System Mgt by your side, you’ll have the ongoing support you need to ensure your system remains compliant, efficient, and effective through every stage of the certification cycle.

From preparation to the certification audit and beyond, we’ll guide you through the process, help you manage surveillance audits, and ensure a smooth recertification process.

Choose a UKAS accredited certification body for your certification audit, and choose One System Mgt for a fully compliant ISO management system that sets your business up for success.

Ready to take the next step in ISO certification?

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