The objective of ISO certification

The goal of ISO certification is to give companies a framework for creating, implementing, and maintaining a management system that complies with global standards. The ISO certification procedure aids businesses in risk identification and management, operational improvement, and demonstrating a dedication to quality and continuous improvement.

An array of internationally accepted standards for corporate operations are made available through ISO certification, including those for quality management, environmental management, information security management, occupational health and safety management, management of food safety, and management of energy. The certification procedure entails an impartial evaluation of the company's management system to make sure it complies with the applicable ISO standard.

Types of ISO certification

The list of types of ISO certification available in India is the same as the global list of ISO certifications. Here are the types of ISO certifications available in India:

• Quality Management Systems (QMS): ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management Systems
• Environmental Management Systems (EMS): ISO 14001:2015 - Environmental Management Systems
• Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS): ISO 45001:2018 - Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
• OHSAS 18001:2007 - Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
• Information Security Management Systems (ISMS): ISO/IEC 27001:2013 - Information Security Management Systems
• Energy Management Systems (EnMS): ISO 50001:2018 - Energy Management Systems
• Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS): ISO 22000:2018 - Food Safety Management Systems
• Social Responsibility: ISO 26000:2010 - Social Responsibility
• Asset Management: ISO 55001:2014 - Asset Management
• Risk Management: ISO 31000:2018 - Risk Management
• Anti-bribery Management Systems: ISO 37001:2016 - Anti-bribery Management Systems
• Compliant Management System: ISO 10002:2018 - Compliant Management System
• Security Management: ISO 28000:2007 - Security Management
• Sustainable Events: ISO 20121:2012 - Sustainable Events
• Medical Devices: ISO 13485:2016 - Medical Devices
• Testing and Calibration Laboratories: ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - Testing and Calibration Laboratories
• Language Codes: ISO 639:2002 - Language Codes
• Currency Codes: ISO 4217:2015 - Currency Codes
• Country Codes: ISO 3166:2013 - Country Codes
• Date and Time Format: ISO 8601:2019 - Date and Time Format

Note that some of these certifications have been updated over time, and the year of the latest version is mentioned alongside the certification name.

ISO Certification Process in India

The ISO certification process in India typically involves the following steps:

Determine the type of ISO certification needed: The first step is to determine the type of ISO certification that best suits your business needs. This could be based on the industry, target market, or customers' specific requirements.

Identify a Certification Body: Once you have determined the type of ISO certification needed, you will need to identify a Certification Body (CB) accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB). You can also check the list of CBs on the NABCB website.

Prepare the documentation: The next step is to prepare the necessary documentation, which includes a Quality Manual, Procedures, and Work Instructions. This documentation will help demonstrate that your business follows the requirements of the relevant ISO standard.

Implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS): The QMS must be implemented and maintained per the standard's requirements. This includes identifying and managing risks, documenting and controlling procedures, and performing internal audits.

• Stage 1 audit: A Stage 1 audit is a documentation review to ensure that the QMS documentation aligns with the requirements of the ISO standard.
• Stage 2 audit: A Stage 2 audit is a site audit to ensure that the QMS is implemented and maintained as per the standard's requirements. This audit typically includes interviews with key personnel, observations, and a review of records.

Certification decision: The Certification Body (CB) will decide based on the results of Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits. The CB will issue an ISO certificate if the QMS meets the standard's requirements.

Surveillance audits: After certification, the CB will conduct surveillance audits to ensure the QMS meets the standard's requirements.

Re-certification audit: After three years, the QMS will be re-certified based on a re-certification audit.

It is important to note that the ISO certification process may vary slightly depending on the specific ISO standard and CB.

IndiaFilings has a team of experienced professionals who can provide end-to-end support to businesses seeking ISO certification. We can help companies to save time, effort, and resources in the ISO certification process and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Documents Required for ISO Certification

For documentation, the first step is choosing the type of ISO Certification required for the business. The essential documents required for ISO Registration/Certification are:

• Identity and address proof of the applicant along with a copy of PAN Card and Aadhar card.
• Passport Size Photographs of the applicant
• Utility Bill or Electricity Bill
• Copy of Sale deed in case of owned property.
• If the place of business is a rented property, a Rent Agreement is required.
• In the case of a company, a Certificate of Incorporation, the MOA and AOA.

Benefits of ISO registration:

ISO certification is a globally recognized standard, and achieving it can provide various benefits:

• Improved quality management: A quality management system that meets international standards can be established and maintained through ISO certification. This can lead to improved quality control, better process management, and increased efficiency in operations.
• Increased customer satisfaction: ISO certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, which can help businesses attract and retain customers. ISO certification can also help companies to differentiate themselves from their competitors and build a reputation for quality and reliability.
• Enhanced credibility: ISO certification is recognized globally as a mark of quality and credibility. ISO certification can help businesses gain recognition and trust from customers, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Improved risk management: ISO certification requires businesses to identify and manage risks associated with their operations. This can help enterprises to identify potential risks and take steps to mitigate them, leading to improved risk management and increased resilience.
• Access to new markets: Many businesses require ISO certification as a prerequisite for doing business. ISO certification can help companies to access new markets and expand their customer base.
• Improved processes and efficiency: Obtaining ISO certification involves a comprehensive review of a business's processes and procedures, which can help identify areas for improvement and increase efficiency.
• Cost savings: By improving processes and efficiency, ISO certification can lead to cost savings for a business.

Overall, ISO certification can help businesses improve their operations, increase customer satisfaction, and enhance their reputation and credibility, leading to long-term success and growth.