Revision of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001: Implications and Preparation for Management System Upgrades

Høvik, February 3, 2025 – ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, the cornerstones of global quality and environmental management systems, are under revision. As part of an ongoing effort to adapt to growing market demands and new global challenges, preliminary drafts of both standards are currently in circulation, with the expectation that the final versions will be published in 2026.

At Ariol Consulting, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve on international standards, ensuring that the organizations we advise not only meet, but exceed market expectations. That is why we offer this detailed guide to the changes expected in the revisions of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards and how companies can prepare for their transition.

ISO 9001 is recognized worldwide as the benchmark for quality management systems, and its revision is at an advanced stage. Although specific details are yet to be defined, the new version of the standard is expected to introduce moderate adjustments to strengthen its alignment with other management standards, thus facilitating smoother integration with existing management systems.
The main changes expected include:

• Restatement of Existing Requirements: Adjustments will be made to simplify and improve understanding of existing requirements, without introducing new complex requirements.
• Improved Harmonization: Closer alignment with ISO’s High-Level Structure (HLS), which will facilitate integration with other management standards, such as ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.

Expected timetable for the publication of ISO 9001:

• Publication of the preliminary draft (DIS): mid-2025.
• Publication of the revised standard: September 2026.

ISO 14001, the global standard for environmental management systems, is also being revised, with the aim of facilitating understanding of the requirements and improving their applicability in various organizational contexts. The preliminary draft of the standard was published on February 3, 2025, with the expectation that the final version will be released in January 2026.
Main Changes in the Revision of ISO 14001:

1. Alignment with the Harmonized Structure: As with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 will be aligned with the ISO Harmonized Structure, which will facilitate its integration with other management systems in organizations. This common structure will improve synergy between different management standards.
2. Simplification and Clarification of Requirements: The requirements of the standard will be reformulated to make them easier to understand and apply, without introducing new requirements. In addition, the implementation guidance contained in Annex A will be improved to provide clarity on key issues such as environmental risk management and product life cycle.
3. Increased Emphasis on Senior Management: The role of senior management in the implementation and oversight of the environmental management system will be strengthened, ensuring that environmental strategies are addressed as an integral part of organizational objectives.
4. Sustainability and Climate Change: The new standard will more explicitly address issues related to pollution prevention, sustainable resource use and climate change mitigation, aligning with global sustainability objectives.

Expected timetable for the publication of ISO 14001:

• Publication of preliminary draft (DIS): February 3, 2025.
• Publication of the revised standard: January 2026.

The transition process for the new versions of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 will take up to three years from the publication of the final versions, allowing organizations to adequately adapt to the new requirements. However, it is essential that companies start preparing now to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.
Recommended Steps for Transition:

1. Familiarization with the New Requirements: Organizations should conduct a thorough analysis of the preliminary drafts and understand the implications of the proposed changes. The key is to identify areas where your management system will need to be adjusted to meet the new requirements.
2. Staff Training and Education: It is essential that companies train their key personnel on the changes to the standards, ensuring that they understand how the adjustments will affect management processes and how to implement the new requirements effectively.
3. Deficiency Assessment and Implementation Planning: Organizations should conduct an internal audit of their current systems to identify any deficiencies and develop an action plan to adapt to the new requirements in a structured and efficient manner.
4. Change Implementation: Once areas for improvement have been identified, companies must proceed with updating their processes, documentation and controls to ensure compliance with the new standards. Change management is critical to a successful transition.

Updating ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards is not only a regulatory obligation, but a strategic opportunity for organizations seeking to strengthen their competitiveness and align with best practices in sustainability and quality. At Ariol Consulting, we have a team of experts with vast experience in the implementation of management systems, and we are ready to guide your company in this transition process.

As leading consultants in the field of management systems, at Ariol Consulting we provide customized solutions that optimize operational efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance, positioning your organization as a benchmark in quality, sustainability and social responsibility.
Contact us today to receive strategic advice and ensure a successful transition to the new versions of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Together, we will move towards a more efficient, responsible and competitive future.