ISO 9001:2015 Revision Update

As some of you might be aware, the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Standard is currently undergoing a review and update in line with changing business demands and context.  

So far, a draft copy of the revised ISO 9001 (Draft International Standard ISO/DIS 9001) was released for ballot and voting at the end of last year (Source: ISO). Certex’s Impartiality Committee Chairman, Michael McLean, is also part of the ISO/TC 176/SC 2 Committee involved in the revisions.

In this article, we aim to answer some of the most common questions we have received about the revised ISO 9001, including what’s being changed, when it will be published and what it means for our clients who are already certified. 

Why is the current edition being revised? 

ISO conducts regular reviews of its standards to ensure they remain relevant and effective. Following a global consultation which was conducted in 2023, it was decided that a revision would strengthen the standard and better reflect today’s business environment. (Source: ISO) 

When is the new edition expected to be released? 

The new updated standard is expected to be released in September 2026 and will replace the existing ISO 9001:2015 edition.  

What does this mean for organisations that are already ISO 9001 certified? 

Organisations that are already ISO 9001 certified will have a three-year transition period to transition to the new standard from the date of its publication.  

Once the final copy of the revised ISO 9001 standard is released, Certex will contact our clients to advise what steps are needed to migrate to the new standard and what the deadlines are.  

What’s the benefit of the revised ISO 9001? 

The revision will offer organisations that are already ISO 9001 certified an opportunity to evaluate and enhance their quality management systems to align better with changing business environments and stakeholder expectations. It’s been highlighted that the most notable changes in the proposed draft of ISO 9001 include: integration of climate change amendments, stronger focus on quality culture and ethical behaviour, and strengthened requirements around planning, controlling and reviewing changes. 

What’s next? 

Check this space for more information later in the year.