Make best use of standards

You can use a number of recognised standards to promote good business and organisational practices. Many businesses adopt certain management systems to ensure they stay competitive.

Quality management standard

ISO 9001 is an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems. It benefits businesses by helping them improve customer satisfaction, internal efficiency and employee involvement. See more on ISO 9001 quality management standard.

Environmental management standard

ISO 14001 is the international standard that specifies a process for controlling and improving a business' environmental performance. It can help you manage your environmental responsibility and ensure that you comply with legal requirements. BS 8555 offers phased implementation for small and medium-sized businesses. See how to set up an environmental management system.

Energy management standard

ISO 50001 standard is used by organisations across the world to manage and reduce their energy use and costs. It sets out the requirements for energy management systems and can help your organisation save money, reduce emissions and comply with legislation.

Health and safety management standard

All businesses must comply with a range of regulations on health and safety in the workplace. Senior managers may also bear legal responsibility for this. One way of ensuring that you meet these requirements is to follow standards on occupational health and safety.

ISO 45001 (replacing BS OHSAS 18001) sets the standard for workplace health and safety management. ISO 45003 addresses psychological health and safety at work. Find out how you can set up a health and safety management system.

Information security management standard

An information security management system provides a systematic approach to managing and securing information - one of your key business assets. The ISO 27001 IT security management standard is a key standard in this area, securing data and systems. It is essential for UK General Data Protection Regulation and cyber compliance.

Innovation management standard

ISO 56001 provides requirements for establishing, implementing and improving an innovation management system. Launched in 2024, it helps businesses systematically manage innovation activities - from idea generation to market delivery - making innovation repeatable and measurable rather than ad-hoc.

Business continuity management standard

The ISO 22301 standard provides guidance for businesses on how to reduce the impact of disruptive events, such as IT viruses and supply chain disruption, as well as extreme incidents such as flash floods or terrorism. Find other best practices for business continuity and crisis management.