What is ISO? ISO Standards and Their Importance for Companies

ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an international organization that develops standards aimed at unifying practices across various industries. These standards cover both management systems and technical standards, helping companies and organizations worldwide meet the highest levels of quality, safety, and efficiency.

ISO standards have a significant impact on businesses striving to improve processes, build customer trust, and comply with international regulations. In this article, we’ll explore the different categories of ISO standards, including management system standards that are certifiable and technical standards that support process optimization but are not subject to certification.

Who Develops ISO Standards?

ISO standards are developed by teams of international experts working within ISO technical committees. These teams include representatives from various sectors, ranging from industry and academia to consumer organizations. This collaborative approach ensures that the standards are both universal and responsive to the needs of the global market.

Why Implement ISO Standards?

Implementing ISO standards offers numerous benefits to companies, including:

• Improved operational efficiency – through standardized processes.
• Increased customer trust – ISO standards are recognized globally.
• Compliance with international regulations – facilitating easier cooperation in the global market.

ISO Standards for Organizational Management

Management system standards are a key tool for companies looking to streamline their operations and achieve ISO certification. Below are the most popular standards among companies seeking certification:

• ISO 9001 – Quality Management: This standard helps organizations improve product and service quality.
• ISO 14001 – Environmental Management: Focuses on minimizing environmental impacts.
• ISO 27001 – Information Security Management: Protects data from cyber threats and prevents data breaches.
• ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management: Reduces the risk of workplace accidents.

All of these standards are certifiable, meaning that an organization can obtain an ISO certificate that confirms compliance with the standard’s requirements.

Technical ISO Standards Without Certification

Technical ISO standards regulate specific aspects of products, processes, and materials but are not certifiable. Companies apply these standards to ensure quality and safety, but certification is not available. Examples of technical ISO standards include:

• ISO 21573-1:2024 – Concrete Pumping: A technical standard that defines requirements for concrete pumps.
• ISO 286-1 – Tolerances and Fits System: Governs standards for mechanical part dimensions.
• ISO 14644 – Cleanroom Air Cleanliness: Used in industries like pharmaceuticals and electronics manufacturing.
• ISO 4406 – Hydraulic Fluid Contamination Classification: An essential standard in the automotive and aerospace industries.

While these standards do not lead to certification, their application helps companies maintain high quality standards and meet technical requirements.

Differences Between ISO Management Standards and Technical Standards

The key difference between management and technical ISO standards lies in their purpose and role within a company. Management standards, such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, focus on organizational processes. They are certifiable, meaning that after implementation, companies can obtain official certification that confirms compliance with international standards.

On the other hand, technical standards, like ISO 21573-1 or ISO 286-1, focus on specific product or technology requirements. These standards are not certifiable, but their adherence is crucial for ensuring quality and safety in production and engineering. These standards help companies meet high technical standards, resulting in improved product reliability and compliance with market demands.

The Importance of ISO Standards for Companies and the Global Economy

ISO standards play a vital role in both individual businesses and the global economy. For businesses, these standards provide a framework for process optimization, quality improvement, and operational efficiency. Implementing ISO standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management) or ISO 14001 (environmental management) enables companies to build trust with customers and business partners, increasing their competitiveness in the marketplace.

Globally, ISO standards harmonize requirements, fostering international cooperation and trade. Standardized technical and quality requirements eliminate trade barriers, encourage innovation, and enhance product safety. With ISO standards, companies from different countries can more easily collaborate, driving global economic growth and creating more stable, transparent markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get certified for any ISO standard?
No, only management standards like ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 are certifiable. Technical standards do not lead to certification.

Why should I implement ISO standards?
ISO standards help improve quality, safety, and operational efficiency, and provide the opportunity to gain a globally recognized certificate.

Which ISO standards are most commonly used?
The most popular are ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 27001 (information security), and ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety).

Conclusion

ISO standards play a critical role in the development of companies and the global economy. Implementing management standards such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 allows organizations to obtain certification, enhancing their competitiveness in the market. Meanwhile, technical standards, though not certifiable, ensure the highest quality in production and operational activities.

Through Certiget, companies can easily find ISO certifying bodies that best meet their needs and requirements, significantly streamlining the process of implementing the appropriate standards and obtaining ISO certificates.