ISO recertification is a process that helps organisations maintain their compliance with international standards of quality management. It is a crucial aspect of ensuring that businesses continue to meet the requirements of their customers and stakeholders. 

Below is a step-by-step guide for a successful ISO recertification process in Australia.

Understand the Standards

The first step in the ISO recertification process is to understand the standards that your organisation is required to comply with. ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 are the two commonly used standards in Australia for managing quality and environmental systems. 

Knowing the standards and their requirements can help you prepare for the recertification audit.

Communicate

Communication is key throughout the ISO recertification process. It is important to communicate with employees, stakeholders, and the certification body to ensure that everyone is aware of the process and their roles and responsibilities. 

A seamless recertification process can be achieved by using effective communication to avoid misconceptions.

Identify Gaps

After understanding the standards, the next step is to identify any gaps in your organisation’s management system. This can be done through a gap analysis or internal audit. The gaps must be addressed before the recertification audit to ensure compliance with the standards.

Develop an Action Plan

Based on the identified gaps, develop an action plan to address the issues. The plan should include specific tasks, timelines, and responsible parties for each action. This plan will help ensure that all necessary steps are taken to achieve compliance with the standards.

Train Employees

Your employees play a significant role in meeting the ISO standards. It is important to provide them with the necessary training to understand the requirements, their roles, and responsibilities. 

Training ensures that everyone in your organisation is on the same page and that they can work together towards achieving ISO compliance.

Conduct Internal Audits

You can find any problems that need to be fixed prior to the recertification audit by conducting internal audits. Regular internal audits can also help your organisation maintain compliance with ISO standards.

Select a Certification Body

The next step is to choose a certifying body that has received accreditation from the Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand. The recertification audit will be carried out by the certifying authority.

Schedule the Audit

Once you have selected a certification body, schedule the audit. The audit should be scheduled well in advance to ensure that everyone in your organisation is aware, and prepared for the audit.

Conduct the Audit

During the audit, the certification body will review your organisation’s management system and processes to ensure compliance with the ISO standards. The auditor will also interview employees and review documentation to determine compliance.

Address Non-Conformities

If any non-conformities are identified during the audit, they must be addressed promptly. The certification body will provide a report detailing any non-conformities and the required corrective action.

Receive Certification

If your organisation meets the ISO standards, the certification body will issue a recertification certificate. The certification is good for three years, at which point your company must go through a recertification audit.

Continual Improvement

ISO recertification is not a one-time process but rather a continuous one. Organisations should strive for continual improvement by regularly reviewing their management systems, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing corrective actions.

Plan for the Next Recertification

As the recertification certificate is valid for three years, it is important to plan for the next recertification well in advance. Organisations should continue to maintain their compliance with the ISO standards and identify any areas for improvement to ensure a smooth recertification process in the future.

Conclusion

ISO recertification is a critical process for maintaining compliance with international standards of quality management. By following these steps, your organisation can ensure a successful recertification process in Australia.

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From development to implementation and maintenance, we provide comprehensive solutions to help your business achieve ISO certification. Call today to take the first step towards ISO certification success!