The ISO 9001 standard is one of the most renowned Quality Management System (QMS) standards, and it can bring countless benefits to a business. The updated ISO 9001:2015 version can help organisations improve their processes and their quality management system and thus offer better, more competitive products and services to their customers.
But, if you want to get your ISO 9001 certification, it’s important to understand the mandatory procedures that ISO 9001 requires.
Every ISO standard has its own specific requirements. In this article, we will take a look at the six mandatory procedures that ISO 9001:2015 requires.
6 Mandatory Procedures for ISO 9001
1. Control of Documents
The ISO 9001 standard requires organisations to establish proper control of documents and records so that everyone in the company has access to the most recent and accurate instructions.
For proper document control to be established, you need to determine:
- Where do you intend to store the documents – is it going to be on a server or in a cabinet within the company’s perimeter?
- Take the necessary actions to ensure the documents will be safe in case of a cyber attack, data breach, fire, etc.
- Determine who has access to the documents and who will disseminate the documented information to the right parties within the organisation.
2. Control of Records
This procedure will make it easier for companies to store, identify, and retrieve the documentation required to improve their procedures and systems. By carefully and properly documenting your records, you will not only improve company operations but also show compliance with the ISO 9001:2015 requirements.
3. Internal Audit
The purpose of an internal audit is to determine the efficiency of your quality management system. An audit can also help you identify and address potential risks that could affect your operations.
4. Corrective Action
As the name may suggest, corrective action means observing and defining a problem, identifying its cause, finding the appropriate solution, and then developing the right steps and procedures to prevent the problem from occurring again.
5. Preventive Action
Unlike corrective actions, where you act when the problem has already occurred, the purpose of preventive actions is to identify potential risks before they affect your organisation. ISO 9001:2015 requires companies to also document the proposed preventive actions.
6. Control of Non-conforming Products
ISO 9001 requires companies to identify and address non-conforming products. The ongoing monitoring and measuring of the quality of the products and services offered will ensure that the company will not deliver faulty products to its customers.
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