How to Get ISO Certification
Losing contracts in government, public or another regulated sector? Want to manage your business more efficiently? Lacking credibility points? Get ISO certified quickly and confidently!
Getting ISO certification might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s completely achievable with the right guidance of an ISO provider. Whether you’re starting from scratch or improving existing systems, our team is here to simplify the process and support you every step of the way – so you can focus on running your business with confidence.
Companies who worked with Candy Management Consultants achieved ISO certification
What Is ISO?
ISO standards are internationally recognised frameworks designed to improve quality, safety, efficiency, and environmental performance in businesses. Developed by an independent, non-governmental organisation, these standards help companies streamline processes, meet regulatory requirements, and build customer trust.
Each ISO certification has its own criteria and is verified through independent audits. Popular standards include ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environment), ISO 45001 (Health & Safety), and ISO 27001 (Information Security).
In simple terms, ISO standards are management systems that help businesses monitor and improve their operations. Many companies choose to work with consultants to implement the right systems and prepare for certification.
Companies seeking ISO certification can choose to work with either accredited or unaccredited certification bodies. Accredited certification bodies are recognised by national accreditation agencies – such as UKAS in the UK – for meeting specific international standards of auditing and certification. Unaccredited certification bodies also offer ISO certification services and may provide more flexibility in their approach, which can be beneficial depending on a company’s specific needs or industry requirements. The choice between the two depends on factors such as customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and business goals.
What Is ISO Certification?
Once you’ve implemented your management system, you can achieve certification to demonstrate to potential clients that your business practices align with industry standards, such as ISO 14001 for environmental management. An auditor will visit your business to review the practices you’ve put in place and, if they meet the required standards, issue a certificate. Depending on your preference, you can choose to go for accredited or unaccredited certification.
Certification bodies provide management system certification, and if they are accredited, they are typically evaluated against the international standard ISO/IEC 17021:2015, often by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service). These certification bodies undergo regular assessments to ensure they continue to meet the requirements of this standard.
Certification is the formal assessment of conformity to a specific standard, which could be related to a management system, product, process, or personnel. The standards used may include international ISO standards, European EN standards, or various national standards.
Certification is typically valid for a fixed period, usually 3 years. After this period, a recertification audit is required. Additionally, annual surveillance assessments are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance during the certification period.
Accredited
This means your certificate has been issued by a UKAS-accredited certification body, ensuring that it meets internationally recognised ISO standards. The certification process involves a thorough assessment, where a qualified auditor will evaluate your management system to verify its compliance before certification is granted.
Many government tenders and larger contracts specifically require UKAS-accredited ISO certification as a condition for consideration.
Unaccredited
This means you may have achieved ISO standard compliance by implementing the necessary systems and processes to meet ISO standards. However, it hasn’t been certified by a body accredited by a national accreditation body, such as UKAS.
Some companies may choose to pursue ISO compliance through a non-accredited certification body as a cost-saving measure, while still demonstrating their commitment to maintaining ISO standards.
Most Popular ISO Certifications
ISO certifications help businesses demonstrate their commitment to quality, security, and efficiency – and some stand out as particularly valuable across industries. Among the most popular are ISO 9001, which focuses on quality management systems and continuous improvement, and ISO 27001, the leading standard for information security management for companies managing sensitive data or operating online. These certifications not only build trust with customers but also give businesses a competitive edge by showing they meet international best practices.
| ISO Standard | Total Number of Valid Certificates Globally | UKAS-accredited Certificates in the UK |
| ISO 9001 | 1,474,118 | 32,988 |
| ISO 14001 | 676,232 | 16,140 |
| ISO 45001 | 542,527 | 10,757 |
| ISO 27001 | 96,709 | 4,455 |
*The chart above lists four most popular standards in 2024 according to the ISO Survey of Management System Standard Certifications held by ISO and IAF.
Read Our Blogs to Learn More
The Standards We Cover
We support a wide range of ISO standards designed to improve quality, safety, and efficiency across your business. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your management systems or meet customer and legal requirements, we’re here to guide you through the right certification for your goals.
ISO 9001
ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). It helps businesses improve processes, ensure high-quality products and services, and maintain regulatory compliance.
ISO 14001
ISO 14001 is the standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It outlines the requirements for businesses to improve environmental performance and ensure sustainable practices.
ISO 27001
ISO 27001 is the standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It focuses on regulating and improving processes to ensure the confidentiality and secure storage of critical information and documents.
ISO 45001
ISO 45001 outlines the requirements for an Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System, helping businesses demonstrate commitment to workplace safety and comply with safety legislation.
ISO 22301
ISO 22301 is for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS), designed to help businesses protect against the risks associated with downtime and ensure operational resilience.
ISO 28007
ISO 28007 provides guidelines for private maritime security companies offering armed security on ships, ensuring compliance with legal and operational standards for enhanced safety.
ISO 42001
ISO 42001 outlines the requirements for an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS), helping businesses ensure responsible AI use, manage risks, and build trust in AI technologies.
ISO 20000-1
ISO 20000-1 outlines the requirements for an IT Service Management System (ITSMS), helping businesses deliver reliable IT services, improve efficiency, and meet customer expectations.
ISO 50001
ISO 50001 outlines the requirements for an Energy Management System (EnMS), helping businesses improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and demonstrate commitment to sustainability.
See Success Stories from Our Certified Clients
How Do I Get ISO Certified?
For many businesses unfamiliar with the process, answering the question “How to take ISO certification?” seems confusing – if not intimidating. With a variety of standards to choose from and a lack of clear, jargon-free guidance, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Certification is all about proving your business meets internationally recognised standards for things like quality, environmental impact, information security, or health and safety. It’s a way to demonstrate credibility, win new contracts, and improve internal efficiency – but navigating the requirements and documentation can quickly become overwhelming.
We take the pain out of the process with a flexible, three-step path designed to build your ISO-compliant management system around the way you already work. Our approach saves you time, eliminates errors, and helps you achieve certification in the most cost-effective way possible.
Begin Building Your Management System Online
How Much Does ISO Certification Cost?
The cost of ISO certification varies depending on factors like:
Smaller businesses may pay less, while larger or more complex organisations might require more time and support, which can affect the price. Typically, ISO certification fees include:
ISO certification charges can differ widely between providers, so the best way to get an accurate idea is to request a tailored quote based on your specific needs.
Our ISO Implementation Offer to You
What Are The Benefits Of ISO Certification?
Start Your ISO Journey Today
