ISO, which stands for the International Organisation for Standardisation, is an independent global organisation dedicated to creating International Standards like ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. It's essential to note that ISO itself does not handle the certification process or distribute ISO certificates. Instead, external certification bodies in India are responsible for carrying out the ISO certification process.
Importance of ISO Certification in Organisations
ISO certification plays an important role in guiding organisations towards innovation and trade development. It sets standards that are essential for maintaining quality, safety and efficiency in products and services. This certification is mandatory for organisations to ensure that their offerings meet both customer expectations and regulatory requirements.
ISO registration goes beyond quality assurance; it also signifies that a company's management system aligns with ISO standards, benefiting the business, clients and employees. Moreover, it serves as evidence of continuous improvement, indicating a commitment to enhancing processes.
Diverse Fields of ISO Certification
ISO registration is issued in various fields, each with its unique set of criteria. The certification covers the following areas:
- Management System Certification:
Ensures that the company's management system complies with ISO standards.
- Manufacturing Process Certification:
Validates that the manufacturing processes adhere to established standards.
- Service or Documentation Process Certification:
Certifies that services and documentation processes meet the required quality standards.
Adherence to ISO standards across these different areas reinforces an organisation's commitment to maintaining high-quality standards and continuous enhancement.
Main Objective of ISO Certification
The primary objective of obtaining ISO registration is to advance the standardisation of technology within an organisation. By adhering to ISO standards, organisations aim to improve and simplify their technological processes.
Benefits of ISO Registration
- Enhances Business Efficiency:
ISO registration plays an important role in building credibility in overseas business, ultimately enhancing overall business efficiency.
- Improves Marketability:
ISO registration expands the market potential of a company, making it more appealing to a broader range of clients and partners.
- Better Customer Services:
ISO registration is instrumental in improving customer services, promoting greater satisfaction and encouraging organisations to consistently deliver high-quality services.
- Global Credibility:
For organisations aspiring to expand globally, ISO registration is vital for building credibility on an international scale, instilling trust in customers and partners.
- Improves Product Quality:
ISO registration ensures that product quality meets international standards, preventing non-acceptance due to quality issues. This commitment to quality improvement is integral to maintaining a competitive edge.
- Helpful in Government Tenders:
ISO registration provides a significant advantage in government tenders, giving businesses a competitive edge over other participants and increasing their chances of success in securing government contracts.
Determining ISO Registration Fees in India
The applicable fee for ISO registration in India is based on several factors, with the certification body calculating it based on specific parameters unique to each organisation. These factors include:
- Size of the Organisation:
The fee for ISO registration varies according to the size of the organisation. Larger organisations may incur higher fees compared to smaller ones.
- Number of Employees:
The total number of employees within an organisation is a significant factor influencing the certification fee. Larger workforces may result in higher fees.
- Processes of the Organisation:
The complexity and intricacy of the organisational processes contribute to the determination of the ISO registration fee. Organisations with intricate processes may face higher fees.
- Level of Risk Associated:
The nature and level of risk associated with the scope of services provided by the organisation play a role in fee calculation. Higher-risk services may lead to increased certification fees.
- Complexity of the Management System:
The complexity of the management system implemented by the organisation is considered in determining the certification fee. More intricate systems may result in higher fees.
- Number of Working Shifts:
The number of working shifts in the organisation is a factor influencing the certification fee. Organisations with multiple shifts may face different fee structures based on their operational hours.
It is important for organisations seeking ISO registration to engage with the certification body to understand the specific fee structure applicable to their unique circumstances, considering these parameters.
ISO Certification Processing Time
The processing time for ISO certification varies from one organisation to another. The ISO certification body determines and communicates the specific processing time after assessing the size and unique characteristics of the organisation.
Essentials for ISO Certification Processing
Before initiating the ISO registration process, certain conditions must be addressed. The following steps provide the necessary considerations:
Selecting the Type of ISO registration:
Entrepreneurs must first identify the specific type of ISO registration required for their business. Various ISO registrations are available, each catering to different aspects of organisational management and compliance.
Examples of ISO registrations include:
- ISO 9001:2008 - Quality Management System
- OHSAS 18001 - Occupational Health & Safety Management System
- ISO 37001 - Anti-bribery Management Systems
- ISO 31000 - Risk Management
- ISO 27001 - Information Security Management System
- ISO 10002 - Complaint Management System
- ISO 14001:2015 - Environmental Management System
- ISO 26000 - Social Responsibility
- ISO 28000 - Security Management
- ISO 22008 - Food Safety Management
- SA 8000 - Social Accountability
- EnMS EN 16001 ISO 50001 - Energy Management
- ISO/IEC 17025 - Testing and Calibration Laboratories
- ISO 13485 - Medical Devices
- ISO 639 - Language Codes
- ISO 4217 - Currency Codes
- ISO 3166 - Country Codes
- ISO 8601 - Date and Time Format
- ISO 20121 - Sustainable Events
- ISO/IEC 27001 - Information Security Management
The selection of the appropriate ISO registration depends on the nature of the business and its specific requirements.
It is important for entrepreneurs to understand and choose the most relevant ISO registration before proceeding with the certification process. This initial step sets the foundation for a successful and efficient ISO registration journey.
Selecting an ISO Certification Body (ISO Registrar)
The process of selecting an ISO certification body, also known as an ISO registrar, is an important step in obtaining ISO registration. Since ISO does not directly provide certification to companies, external certification bodies play a pivotal role. When choosing a certification body, entrepreneurs should consider the following factors:
- Evaluate Several Certification Bodies:
Entrepreneurs should thoroughly assess and compare multiple certification bodies to determine which one aligns best with their business needs and values.
- Check CASCO Standards Compliance:
Ensure that the chosen certification body adheres to the relevant Conformity Assessment Committee (CASCO) standards. Compliance with these standards ensures consistency and quality in the certification process.
- Verify Accreditation Status:
Check whether the certification body is accredited. While accreditation is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Accreditation provides assurance that the certification body operates according to recognised international standards and practices.
- Contact the National Board of Accreditation (NBA), India:
To find an accredited certification body in the country, entrepreneurs can reach out to the National Board of Accreditation in India. The NBA can provide information about certification bodies that meet accreditation requirements.
It is essential for entrepreneurs to exercise due diligence in the selection of an ISO registration body to ensure a reliable and reputable certification process. This careful consideration contributes to the overall credibility and acceptance of the ISO registration obtained by the organisation.
Documents Required for ISO Certification
The documentation process for obtaining ISO certification involves several key documents. The required documents may vary based on the type of ISO certification sought. Given below is a list of essential documents needed for ISO Registration/Certification:
- Identity and Address Proof of the Applicant:
Copy of PAN Card and Aadhar card, serving as proof of identity and address for the applicant.
- Passport Size Photographs:
Passport-size photographs of the applicant, typically required for documentation and identification purposes.
- Utility Bill or Electricity Bill:
A copy of a utility bill or electricity bill, providing proof of the business's address and operation.
- Copy of Sale Deed (Owned Property):
In case the business operates from an owned property, a copy of the sale deed is required to establish ownership.
- Rent Agreement (Rented Property):
If the business operates from a rented property, a valid rent agreement is necessary to verify the tenancy arrangement.
- Company Documents (For Companies):
For companies, the following documents are typically required:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum of Association
- Articles of Association
Process for ISO Certification in India
The ISO certification process in India involves a series of crucial steps, as outlined below:
- Make an Application:
Once the entrepreneur selects the desired ISO standard and certification body, an application must be submitted in the prescribed form, dependent on the ISO registrar. This application outlines the rights, obligations, and terms between the entrepreneur and the certification body, covering aspects such as liability, confidentiality, and access rights.
- Documents Review by Registrar:
The ISO registration body conducts a comprehensive review of all quality manuals and documents related to organizational policies and procedures. This review helps identify potential gaps in compliance with ISO standards.
- Determination of Pre-assessment Needs:
Pre-assessment involves an initial review of the Quality Management System to identify any significant weaknesses or omissions. The registrar provides the organization with an opportunity to rectify deficiencies before the regular registration assessment.
- Prepare an Action Plan:
Based on the identified gaps, the entrepreneur develops an action plan to eliminate deficiencies. This plan includes a list of tasks required to meet the Quality Management System standards. Employee training may be necessary to ensure awareness and efficiency in implementing ISO standards.
- Onsite Inspection or Audit:
The ISO registrar conducts a physical onsite inspection to audit the changes made in the organization. During the audit, any discrepancies with ISO standards are noted as nonconformities, categorized as minor or major depending on severity.
- Minor Non-conformance: Involves minor infractions or failures of the system.
- Major Non-conformance: Relates to issues where nonconforming products may reach customers or a breakdown in the quality system leads to inefficiency.
- Final Audit:
The registration process proceeds only after addressing all significant nonconformities, involving a re-audit of affected areas. Corrective action plans are required for minor nonconformities, closed during the first surveillance.
- Get ISO Certificate:
Once all non-conformities are addressed and findings are updated in the ISO audit report, the ISO registration is granted by the registrar.
- Surveillance Audits:
Surveillance audits are conducted periodically to ensure the organization maintains ISO quality standards. These audits are essential for ongoing compliance and may be performed at regular intervals.
ISO Certification Renewal
Renewing ISO certification is a vital process that guarantees an organisation's sustained alignment with ISO standards. Typically lasting three years, ISO certificates require a renewal through a recertification audit carried out by a recognised certification authority.
During this audit, the organisation's ongoing adherence to ISO standards and the efficacy of its Quality Management System are scrutinised. A successful renewal not only affirms the organisation's dedication to upholding high-quality standards but also underscores its commitment to continuous improvement. This process further strengthens the organisation's credibility with both customers and stakeholders.
Types of Audits Conducted under ISO Registration
ISO Registration involves various types of audits that are important for assessing the authenticity and compliance of a company or organisation. The following are the main types of audits conducted under ISO Registration:
- Internal Audit:
Conducted by trained internal staff or external organizations like StartupFino, the internal audit assesses the organization's adherence to its own processes and quality management system. It helps identify areas for improvement and ensures ongoing compliance with ISO standards.
- Supplier Audit:
Supplier audits are conducted by lead auditors within the organization. The purpose is to verify that suppliers are operating effectively and delivering products or services that meet the organization's quality standards. This ensures the integrity of the supply chain.
- Certification Audit:
Certification audits are performed by auditors from Certification Bodies. These audits are a critical component of the ISO Registration process.
So, while Internal audits focus on internal processes, supplier audits assess external contributors, and certification audits determine the organization's eligibility for ISO registration. Together, these audits contribute to the overall quality assurance and continuous improvement of the organization.
Coverage of ISO 9001:2015
The ISO 9001:2015 certification focuses on establishing a strong quality management system within an organization. The certification covers various aspects to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of the system. Key components of ISO 9001:2015 include:
- Leadership:
Highlighting the significance of leadership commitment in establishing and sustaining the quality management system is important. Leadership assumes a pivotal role in defining objectives, promoting customer focus and cultivating a culture that prioritizes quality within the organization.
- Emphasis on Customer Satisfaction:
Highlights the significance of meeting customer requirements and enhancing customer satisfaction. Customer focus is integral to the ISO 9001:2015 standard, encouraging organizations to understand and fulfill customer needs and expectations.
- Process-Oriented Approach:
Advocates for a process-oriented approach to quality management. The standard emphasizes the identification, documentation, and improvement of key processes within the organization to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness.
So, ISO 9001:2015 covers a comprehensive range of elements, from leadership commitment to collaborative supplier relationships, all aimed at establishing and maintaining a healthy quality management system within an organization.
Why Choose StartupFino for ISO Certification?
StartupFino is a company that specialises in offering complete services for ISO Certification. We can help you with everything from providing advice in the initial phase to ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and compliances for your ISO registration.
It's important to note that specific ISO registration bodies may have additional requirements or variations depending on the nature of the business and the chosen ISO standard. Entrepreneurs are advised to communicate with experts like StartupFino to understand the detailed requirements for their specific certification process.
