What is ISO 9001?
ISO 9001 is the globally recognised standard for quality management. It sets the requirements for how to establish, implement, maintain and continually improve a quality management system (QMS).
It helps organisations of all sizes and sectors improve their performance, meet customer expectations and demonstrate their commitment to quality. Certification shows that you have effective processes and trained staff to deliver your products or services consistently, time after time.
Why ISO 9001 matters
With more than one million certificates issued to organisations in over 170 countries, ISO 9001 is the most widely used management system standard in the world. It is also the most frequently requested by customers, and a common requirement in tenders and supplier registration.
ISO 9001 is built on seven quality management principles, including a strong customer focus, leadership, engagement of people, a process approach and continual improvement. It is also a strong foundation for other ISO standards, which share the same structure.
Who needs ISO 9001 certification?
Any organisation that wants to improve its quality management, meet customer and regulatory requirements and increase customer satisfaction can be certified, whatever its size or sector. This includes:
- Manufacturers and processors
- Oil and gas contractors and suppliers
- Construction and engineering firms
- Service and consulting companies
- Healthcare providers
- Schools and training institutions
- Government ministries and agencies
- Non-profit organisations
Benefits of ISO 9001 certification
Customer confidence
Robust quality control builds trust and satisfaction, and makes it easier to win new customers.
Access to new markets
International recognition opens doors to overseas customers and large contracts.
Better processes
Identify and remove inefficiencies, reduce waste and make decisions based on evidence.
Fewer complaints
A clear approach to resolving customer complaints quickly and fairly.
Engaged staff
Clear roles, feedback and teamwork improve morale and working practices.
Continual improvement
Regular audits and reviews keep your business competitive over time.
What the standard requires
Like all modern ISO management system standards, it follows the same high-level structure, so it integrates easily with other standards in a single management system.
Context of the organisation
Understand your organisation and its context, the needs of interested parties, and the scope of your QMS. Since 2024, this includes considering whether climate change is a relevant issue.
Leadership
Top management commitment, a clear policy, and defined roles and responsibilities.
Planning
Address risks and opportunities and set measurable objectives.
Support
Resources, competence, awareness, communication and documented information.
Operation
Plan and control how you deliver products and services, from customer requirements and design to suppliers, production and release.
Performance evaluation
Monitoring and measurement, internal audit and management review.
Improvement
Correct nonconformities and continually improve the system.
How SCL certifies you
STEP 1
Request a quote
Tell us about your organisation, sites and scope.
STEP 2
Apply
Complete the application and agree the audit plan.
STEP 3
Stage 1 audit
We review your QMS documentation, scope and readiness.
STEP 4
Stage 2 audit
We assess how your quality management system works in practice.
STEP 5
Get certified
Receive your accredited certificate, listed on IAF CertSearch and maintained by annual surveillance audits over its 3-year term.
Frequently asked questions
Is ISO 9001 certification mandatory?
No. Certification is voluntary, but many customers, tenders and supplier registrations require it.
How long does certification take?
It depends on the size of your organisation and how ready your system is. We give you a clear timeline with your quote.
How long is the certificate valid?
Three years. Annual surveillance audits confirm your system continues to meet the standard, followed by a recertification audit before expiry.
How can my customers check my certificate?
Every accredited SCL certificate is listed on IAF CertSearch, and can also be checked on our certificate verification portal.
What was the 2024 amendment?
In 2024 a small amendment added climate change considerations to clauses 4.1 and 4.2. Organisations should consider whether climate change is relevant to their QMS.