Information: ISO 9001:2008

Implementation of accredited certification to ISO 9001:2008
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and the IAF (International Accreditation Forum) have agreed an implementation plan to ensure a smooth migration of accredited certification to ISO 9001:2008, after consultation with international groupings representing quality system or auditor certification bodies, and industry users of ISO 9001 certification services.

ISO 9001:2008 does not contain any new requirements
They have recognized that ISO 9001:2008 introduces no new requirements. ISO 9001:2008 only introduces clarifications to the existing requirements of ISO 9001:2000 based on eight years of experience of implementing the standard world wide with about one million certificates issued in 170 countries to date. It also introduces changes intended to improve consistency with ISO14001:2004

The agreed implementation plan in relation to accredited certification is therefore the following:

Accredited certification to the ISO 9001:2008 shall not be granted until the publication of ISO 9001:2008 as an International Standard.
Certification of conformity to ISO 9001:2008 and/or national equivalents shall only be issued after official publication of ISO 9001:2008 (which should take place before the end of 2008) and after a routine surveillance or recertification audit against ISO 9001:2008.

Validity of certifications to ISO 9001:2000
One year after publication of ISO 9001:2008 all accredited certifications issued (new certifications or recertifications) shall be to ISO 9001:2008.

Twenty-four (24) months after publication by ISO of ISO 9001:2008, any existing certification issued to ISO 9001:2000 shall not be valid.

FAQ For ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System

1. Does my company need to upgrade to the ISO 9001:2008?
Yes. All certified companies who wish to remain certified has to upgrade within the stated timeframe. Otherwise, the certificate will become invalid.

2. Where can I get the latest ISO 9001:2008 standard?
You can purchase it from www.iso.org or www.singaporestandardseshop.sg/Product/Home.aspx

3. When was ISO 9001:2008 release?
ISO published ISO 9001:2008 on 14 November 2008, the latest edition of the International Standard used by organizations in 175 countries as the framework for their quality management systems (QMS).

4. What are the main changes of ISO 9001:2000 to ISO 9001:2008?
ISO 9001:2008 contains no new requirements compared to the 2000 edition, which it replaces. It provides clarifications to the existing requirements of ISO 9001:2000 based on eight years’ experience of implementing the standard worldwide and introduces changes intended to improve consistency with the environmental management system standard, ISO 14001:2004.

5. How can we help you?
As a consultant, we offer series of trainings, also consultancy package to review and incorporate new changes due to ISO 9001:2008 and introduce applicable improvements, simplifications and updates to your organisation's existing manual and procedures.