ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Upgrade
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is preparing to release revised versions of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems.
To ensure ISO Standards remain relevant in a changing landscape, the ISO typically reviews ISO Standards every five years. Following their last review in 2021, both ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 were considered relevant. However, they are now undergoing a revision, with the updated versions expected to be published later this year, although this could be delayed until early 2026.
How will ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 change?
Until their official release, the exact changes are unknown. However, we anticipate that ISO 9001:2015 will see a significant update, focusing on aspects such as:
- Resilience
- Supply chain management
- Change management
- Sustainability
- Risk management
- Organisational knowledge
However, changes to ISO 14001:2015 will likely be less extensive, primarily focusing on alignment and refinement rather than introducing new requirements.
Both ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 were also among 30 ISO Standards recently updated with amendments to Clause 4: Context of the Organisation, reinforcing a stronger focus on climate change considerations. While these amendments are not yet mandatory, they are expected to become official requirements in the upcoming revisions.
Seminar: Preparing for the Upgrade
Following the publication of the revised ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Standards, we will host a series of upgrade seminars to help organisations transition smoothly to the latest versions.
These sessions will be conducted remotely via Zoom and hosted by one of our experienced Lead Auditors involved in the upgrade project at ISO QSL. Each seminar will run for approximately two hours and cover:
- The key changes to ISO 9001:2015 or ISO 14001:2015
- How these changes will directly impact your business and management system
- Steps required to ensure compliance with the updated versions
- How ISO QSL can support you through the transition
Full seminar details, including time and dates, will be confirmed once the new standards have been released, but the first seminar could take place as early as November. Spaces will be limited, so we encourage you to join the waiting list for early access to seminar registration along with updates and insights on the upgrade process.
Businesses currently certified by ISO QSL will receive one complimentary seminar place. Additional places can be purchased if required.
How can ISO QSL support your transition?
We’re already working behind the scenes to support businesses through the upgrade. Our dedicated upgrade team is on standby to begin the process as soon as the new Standards are published. When the time comes, our priority is to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for businesses whilst maintaining compliance with the latest requirements. Our team will work closely with you to ensure you understand the changes, how these impact your management system and what works are required to gain compliance.
We’re well accustomed to helping businesses transition, having previously supported businesses through the previous ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 upgrades. Most recently, we’ve successfully supported businesses through the updates to ISO 27001:2022 Information Security, Cybersecurity and Privacy Protection and BS EN 17513:2023 Secure Destruction of Confidential and Sensitive Material, with both seeing significant changes from their predecessors.
For businesses certified with ISO QSL
If you’re already certified to ISO 9001:2015 and/or ISO 14001:2015 with ISO QSL, we aim to upgrade you within the first year, as we successfully did with most of our ISO 27001:2022 clients. However, the exact timeline will depend on the published changes and the work required by ISO QSL and our clients.
Once the new Standards are released, we will provide transition timelines, seminar dates and resources, and tailored upgrade planning for your organisation.
For businesses with UKAS, INAB or other accredited certification
If you have accredited ISO certification, we can still support your transition with our ISO consultancy services. We recommend joining our waitlist to:
- Be among the first to receive updates on the new standards
- Understand how we can support you through the transition process
- Secure early consultancy dates for upgrade support
With a high number of businesses expected to complete the upgrades, early booking is key to ensure you’re one of the first to complete the process.
“It was a pleasure working with Julia, who is an experienced and very knowledgeable auditor. She’s provided us with additional, valuable information that will help with the smooth transition to the new ISO 27001:2022 standard”.
Global Language Services Limited
What is the process for upgrading to a new Standard?
The process begins with an upgrade assessment where your auditor will conduct a GAP analysis against the revised Standard and outline the necessary steps to meet the new requirements.
Following this, we will provide you with a set of recommendations to work on over a specified timeframe, which will vary based on the extent of the changes needed. During this period, you may need to update policies, procedures, and documentation to align with the revised Standard. It is good practice to provide staff training on the new or revised requirements.
Once you’ve implemented the necessary changes and conducted internal audits on the changes, you’ll be ready for your Certification audit. This is where you are formally assessed against the new Standard. If compliant, you will be issued with your new certificate to the updated Standard.
The complete timeframe for the transition depends on factors such as the complexity and size of your organisation, the extent of changes required, and resource availability. With ISO QSL’s support, most businesses complete the upgrade process in 3-6 months, from the upgrade assessment to the certification audit.
For ISO QSL certification clients, we’ll continue to visit you twice a year to help you maintain compliance and identify opportunities for improvement. If you have accredited certification, we can continue to support you with our ISO consultancy services.
Step 1
Upgrade assessment
First meeting with your auditor who will identify gaps in compliance and areas where you may require additional support.
Step 2
Update documentation
You’ll then be given time to complete the recommendations and update policies, procedures, and documentation to align with the revised Standard.
Step 3
Certification audit
Once the requirements of the new Standard have been met, you’ll be ready for your certification audit.
Step 4
Maintain compliance
We can then support you with maintaining compliance with the Standard and identify future improvement opportunities.
How can we ensure a smooth transition?
Whilst the process can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking a proactive approach, you can streamline the process and minimise disruptions to your operations. Here are our tips for a smooth transition:
- Begin planning early and assign clear responsibilities within your team.
- Engage employees through training and open communication, ensuring everyone understands their role in meeting the new requirements.
- Conduct internal audits regularly, identify areas for improvement, and take corrective actions as needed.
- Work closely with your certification provider for expert guidance and support to navigate the transition efficiently and ensure compliance.
FAQs
ISO Standards are periodically updated to reflect industry best practices, regulatory changes, and new risk management approaches. Upgrading ensures compliance, improves operational efficiency and enhances organisational resilience.
Previously, both Standards were updated in 2015 and are currently known as ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System. The 2015 updates introduced a stronger emphasis on aspects such as risk-based thinking, leadership commitment, and improved integration. Both Standards were reviewed again in 2021, but no changes were deemed necessary at the time.
If a new version of the relevant ISO Standard is published, your organisation must transition before the deadline, usually three years from the release date.
Once the updated versions of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 are released, you will have three years to transition to the latest versions. However, we strongly advise starting the process early to ensure ample time to gain compliance and avoid any last-minute delays. As ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 are two of the world’s most popular Standards, there may also be longer wait times for completing the transition, so starting earlier will help you stay ahead and align with the latest best practices.
Once released, the new versions will replace ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems.
Failing to upgrade before the transition deadline can result in loss of certification, which may impact business operations, contracts, and regulatory compliance.
You will have three years from the release date to transition. After three years, the old version of the Standard will become obsolete, and you will no longer be certificated.
Your existing certification remains valid until the transition deadline, providing you maintain compliance with the Standard requirements. However, we will require evidence of progress towards compliance with the updated version.
This is dependent on the extent of the changes required. In most cases, additional resources are not required to complete the upgrade. However, there may be some instances where organisations may need an external consultant, additional training, or software updates to meet the new requirements effectively.
Key personnel, including senior management, compliance officers, internal auditors, and department heads, should be involved in the upgrade process. Employee involvement is also crucial to ensure smooth implementation and adherence to updated procedures.
In some cases, yes. If the new requirements impact your supply chain management or stakeholder communication, you may need to collaborate with suppliers and partners to ensure alignment with the updated Standard.
Common challenges in upgrading an ISO management system include resource constraints, resistance to change, lack of understanding of new requirements, and time pressures. Good planning and stakeholder engagement can help overcome these obstacles.
Undertaking the upgrade without professional guidance can be challenging and may lead to non-compliance with the new Standard/s.
Upgrading an ISO management system requires a thorough understanding of the revised requirements, detailed documentation updates, and staff training.
Without support from an expert, you may overlook key changes, leading to increased risks, inefficiencies, and potential certification delays.
Working with a provider like ISO QSL ensures you receive the necessary guidance, assessments, and recommendations to achieve a smooth and successful transition.
Yes, many organisations use this opportunity to integrate multiple management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001 and ISO 45001) for improved efficiency and streamlined compliance processes.
For expert assistance with your ISO transition, please contact ISO QSL. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
As your trusted certification provider, ISO QSL is here to support you. We offer internal support, training, consultancy, and guidance to help you achieve a seamless transition. You can also refer to our client portal for templated documents, specific ISO guidance documents online and industry forums for additional insights.
The upgrade costs include time spent on-site by our assessors, administrative work required to prepare for the upgrade, and the provision of supporting documents.
For existing certification clients of ISO QSL, upgrade costs are outlined in our Terms & Conditions.
For a further discussion on the associated costs, please contact ISO QSL directly.
No, delaying the process would mean missing out on the benefits these Standards offer. Achieving certification to these Standards demonstrates your commitment to quality and environment management, which can significantly enhance your business’s reputation and operational efficiency.
If you choose ISO QSL as your ISO certification partner, we’ll support you through every step of the process, from your initial implementation to subsequent transition. We believe in a hand-held approach, providing you with as much support as required at every stage.