Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our ISO Certifications FAQ
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about key standards like ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 and 27001. Whether you’re just starting your ISO journey or looking to maintain certification, these answers will help you understand each standard, the certification process, and how our services can support your business growth.
If you have any specific questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’re always happy to have a conversation.
General Questions
Answers to common general questions about ISO Certifications, Standards, Certifications & Accreditations.
1What are ISO certifications and why do they matter?
ISO certification is formal recognition that your organisation meets a specific international standard. It helps build trust, win contracts, improve internal processes, and show compliance.
2Which ISO standards do you support?
We currently support ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management), ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & Safety), ISO 20000-1 (IT Service Management), ISO 27001:2022 (Information Security Management), ISO 31000:2018 (Risk Management) and Integrated Management Systems (IMS).
3What’s the difference between certification and accreditation?
Certification is what your business gets when it demonstrates it meets an ISO standard. Accreditation is the approval that your certification body holds from a national authority (like UKAS) to ensure their certificates are credible.
4What does the ISO certification process involve?
The process usually includes:
A gap analysis to see where you stand.
Creating or updating your management system documents.
Training staff and embedding the processes.
An internal audit to check readiness.
A certification audit by an accredited Certification Body.
About our services
An overview of how we support you through certification, training, and ongoing compliance.
1What’s the difference between your full implementation and support packages?
Full implementation is for businesses starting from scratch — covering scoping, documentation, training, internal audits and pre-certification prep. Support packages help maintain compliance once you’re certified.
2Do you offer training for staff and managers?
Yes! We run tailored training sessions, on-site or online, to help staff understand their roles and responsibilities day-to-day.
3Can you help us prepare for an upcoming audit?
Absolutely — we provide internal audits, gap analysis and support to get you ready and confident for certification.
The certification process
What happens during certification, how long it usually takes, and what you can expect when working with us.
1How long does it take to get ISO certified?
Typically 2 to 6 months, depending on your business size, complexity, and existing systems.
2How much does it cost?
Our implementation packages start from £9,500. Certification body fees are separate and vary depending on your size and scope.
3Can you help us prepare for an upcoming audit?
Yes! We specialise in Integrated Management Systems (IMS) that combine multiple standards into one easy-to-manage framework.
4Do you work with businesses outside Hertfordshire?
Yes — we help clients across the UK, both remotely and in person.
5Why do people choose to work with you?
We don’t just hand over templates. We get to know your business, speak your language, and build systems your team can actually use. ISO made simple, practical and achievable.
Questions about ISO 9001 and how it can help improve your quality and customer satisfaction.
1What is ISO 9001?
ISO 9001 is the international standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). It helps you meet customer requirements consistently and improve satisfaction.
2What are the benefits of ISO 9001?
Improved product or service quality, fewer mistakes, better customer satisfaction, and stronger business reputation.
3Who needs ISO 9001?
Any organisation providing products or services that wants to strengthen processes, build client trust, and reduce inefficiencies.
4What are the key principles?
Customer focus, leadership, engagement of people, process approach, continual improvement, evidence-based decisions, and relationship management.
How ISO 14001 can help your business reduce its environmental impact.
1What is ISO 14001?
It’s the international standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It helps manage environmental responsibilities and reduce impact.
2Who benefits from ISO 14001?
Any business looking to demonstrate sustainability, improve resource efficiency, and meet environmental regulations.
3Do we need to publish our environmental policy?
Yes — your policy should be documented, communicated to staff, and available to interested parties.
4What does “life cycle perspective” mean?
It means considering the environmental impacts of your products or services from design to disposal.
How ISO 45001 supports a safer, healthier workplace for your team.
1What is ISO 45001?
It’s the international standard for Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems. It helps protect workers and create safer workplaces.
2Who needs ISO 45001?
Any organisation that wants to reduce workplace incidents, comply with OH&S regulations, and show commitment to employee wellbeing.
3Who is covered under ISO 45001?
It includes employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by your activities.
4Is a health & safety policy required?
Yes — it must be documented, communicated, and understood by all workers.
How ISO 27001 helps protect your business data and manage information security risks effectively.
1What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is the international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), helping organisations keep their data safe and secure.
2Who should get ISO 27001 certified?
Any business that handles sensitive information or wants to improve its security practices can benefit from ISO 27001.
3What are the main benefits of ISO 27001?
Improved data protection, reduced risk of breaches, compliance with legal requirements, and increased customer trust.
4How does ISO 27001 work?
It sets out a framework to identify, assess, and manage information security risks systematically.
5Is ISO 27001 relevant to GDPR compliance?
Yes, ISO 27001 provides a strong foundation for protecting personal data and supporting GDPR requirements.