International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
What Is International Organization for Standardization
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes global standards to ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability in products, services, and systems worldwide.
Key Facts About ISO:
Founded: 23 February 1947
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Members: 170+ national standardization bodies
Purpose: To develop international standards that promote innovation, trade, and consumer safety.
Why ISO Standards Matter?
ISO standards help organizations:
Improve product and service quality
Increase customer trust and satisfaction
Ensure safety and regulatory compliance
Enhance efficiency and reduce waste
Facilitate global trade
Popular ISO Standards:
ISO 9001 – Quality Management System (QMS)
ISO 14001 – Environmental Management System (EMS)
ISO 27001 – Information Security Management System (ISMS)
ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
ISO 22000 – Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
Benefits of ISO Certification for Businesses:
Improves Product/Service Quality – Enhances customer satisfaction.
Increases Market Credibility – Helps in global trade and client trust.
Boosts Efficiency – Reduces waste and improves operations.
Compliance with Regulations – Helps meet legal and statutory requirements.
Competitive Advantage – Differentiates businesses in the market.
Documents Required for ISO Certification
1. Business Documents:
Company Registration Certificate (Proof of business registration)
GST Certificate (If applicable)
PAN Card of the Business
Address Proof of the Business (Electricity bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)
Bank Account Details (Cancelled cheque or bank statement)
2. Management System Documents:
Scope of Business Operations (Details about products/services offered)
Business Process Documentation (Workflows, SOPs, and quality policies)
Organizational Structure (Details of key personnel and responsibilities)
Proof of Employee Details (For certain ISO standards)
Previous Audit Reports (If applying for renewal)
3. Industry-Specific Documents (If Required):
ISO 9001 (Quality Management System): Quality Manual, Customer Feedback Reports
ISO 14001 (Environmental Management): Environmental Impact Assessment Report
ISO 27001 (Information Security): Data Security Policies, IT Infrastructure Details
ISO 45001 (Health & Safety): Workplace Safety Guidelines, Risk Assessment Report
ISO 22000 (Food Safety): Food Safety Procedures, HACCP Plan