Integrated Management System Certification Audits

Key requirements — selected themes

• Defined scope for every participating management system
• Integrated context, governance and shared processes
• Standard-specific risks, obligations and operational controls
• Competent audit team covering each selected discipline
• Evidence and conformity conclusions for every standard
• Separate certification scope and approval for each standard

High-level summary

A coordinated assessment of two or more management systems through an aligned audit programme. Shared processes are reviewed together while discipline-specific controls and requirements remain fully visible in the assessment.

The approach gives management a connected view of system performance without treating integration as a separate certification standard. Each certification decision depends on conformity with the relevant standard and the applicable accredited or approved scope.

Third-party certification pathway

References: [S21] · [S01] · [S02] · [S03] · [G01] · [G02] · [G03]

• Application & scope. Identify each standard, contracted edition, system boundary and eligible site or activity.
• Review & audit planning. Confirm eligibility, impartiality, competence and applicable rules; agree scope, audit time and programme.
• Stage 1 — readiness. Review the level of integration and readiness of shared and discipline-specific processes.
• Stage 2 — implementation. Assess common processes and each standard’s distinct operational requirements using competent auditors.
• Nonconformity resolution. Review corrections and corrective actions; verify closure or accept action plans as the applicable rules require.
• Independent certification decision. A competent function independent of the audit evaluates the evidence; certification is issued only when requirements are met.
• Surveillance. Plan coordinated surveillance while maintaining coverage and conclusions for each certified standard.
• Recertification. Reassess the system before certificate expiry and complete the required review and decision for a new cycle.