Step-by-Step ISO Certification Process
The ISO Certification Process generally involves the following stages.
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Requirement Assessment
We will talk through your business processes, organisational structure, what your customers require and what your aims are. We will then identify the correct standard and scope.
Outcome: Applicable standard and certification scope.
Step 2: Gap Analysis
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Step 3: ISO Documentation Development
Ensure that all the necessary documents for your management system are updated, these include policy, objectives, process maps, RACI matrix, SOPs, Work Instructions, Risk Assessment records, Monitoring and Inspection records, Internal Audit records and Corrective Action records.
Outcome: A documented management system suitable for your organization.
Step 4: Management System Implementation
Implement processes, assign responsibilities, controls and documentation.
Outcome: An operational system supported by implementation evidence.
Step 5: Employee Training and Awareness
Employees will be trained on the requirements of ISO, their responsibilities, processes and performance targets.
Outcome: Employees understand their roles in the system.
Step 6: Internal Audit
An internal audit will take place to ensure that the system is compliant and implemented correctly. Any non-conformities will be corrected.
Outcome: Audit findings, corrective actions and evidence of improvement.
Step 7: Management Review Meeting
Top management will review performance, audit results, customer feedback, objectives, risks, resources and improvements.
Outcome: Documented review decisions and action items.
Step 8: Certification Body Selection
Choose a certification body, ideally accredited against the appropriate standard and scope by a well-recognised accreditation body.
Outcome: Certification audit arrangements.
Step 9: Stage 1 and Stage 2 Certification Audits
Stage 1 will look at preparedness and documentations. Stage 2 will look at implementation and effectiveness. Any non-conformities will need to be addressed as per the certifying body
Outcome: Audit results and certification decision process.
Step 10: Certification and Ongoing Improvement
If the certifying body have completed an independent review and confirmed you meet the requirements you will be awarded a certificate. The system will continue to be maintained and you will take part in surveillance and re-certification audits.
Outcome: Certification and ongoing maintenance.