ISO 9001 Revision Delayed to 2026

ISO 9001 Revision Delayed to 2026: What Organisations Need to Know

The long-anticipated revision of ISO 9001 – the globally recognised benchmark for quality management systems (QMS) – has now been extended, with finalisation expected in 2026. Originally slated for release by the end of 2025, the delay is due to additional drafting and review requirements identified during recent committee discussions.

In April 2024, the initial Committee Draft (CD1) of ISO 9001 was issued for review by members of ISO Technical Committee 176 (ISO/TC 176). However, at the July 2024 meeting in Detroit, it was agreed that a second draft – Committee Draft 2 (CD2) – would be required. This decision was taken because the current draft was not yet ready to proceed to the Draft International Standard (DIS) stage. According to committee members, further structural refinements were necessary, and a substantial number of comments remained unresolved.

Additionally, the absence of a coordinated explanatory annex was cited as a factor contributing to the delay. The committee reconvened in September 2024 to address these issues and finalise the annex structure to ensure the revision process remains robust and well-informed.

Understanding the ISO 9001:2026 Revision

As a foundational quality standard used worldwide, ISO 9001 is undergoing a significant revision to ensure it remains relevant in the context of the digital era. This update is being driven by technological advancements, shifting business models, and global challenges – notably the COVID-19 pandemic – which have reshaped supply chains and workplace dynamics.

The aim is to modernise the standard, keeping it practical, accessible, and aligned with the current needs and expectations of stakeholders. The revision also seeks to improve integration with other standards such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety).

Key Anticipated Changes in ISO 9001:2026

Based on feedback from ISO/TC 176/SC2/WG29, the following areas are expected to be enhanced or introduced in the revised standard:

• Leadership and Ethics: A greater emphasis on ethical leadership and integrity, reflecting their pivotal role in quality culture.

• Risk Management: Strengthened guidance on identifying and mitigating risks, with an increased focus on resilience.

• Separation of Risk and Opportunity: Clearer guidance is likely to distinguish between managing risks and leveraging opportunities.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Broader consideration of the views and needs of customers, employees, suppliers, and communities.

• Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0: Integration of technologies such as AI, IoT, and big data analytics into QMS frameworks.

• Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Stronger requirements related to environmental stewardship and ethical supply chains.

• Flexibility and Simplification: A more accessible approach for organisations of varying sizes and sectors.

• Alignment with Other Standards: Editorial and structural alignment with ISO's new Harmonised Structure (HS), as seen in ISO/IEC 27001:2022.

Why is the Revision Necessary?

ISO 9001 must evolve to address the dynamic business environment shaped by innovation, globalisation, and societal expectations. Rapid digitalisation, increased remote working, sustainability imperatives, and calls for greater transparency necessitate a refreshed approach to quality management.

Timeline for ISO 9001:2026 and Transition Period

While the revised standard is now expected in 2026, the specific release date and transition period have yet to be confirmed. Typically, ISO provides a three-year transition period following the release of a new standard, during which organisations can maintain certification to the previous version (ISO 9001:2015) while transitioning to the updated requirements.

Organisations are encouraged to stay informed through updates from their certification bodies and standards organisations to ensure timely and effective planning.

How Can Organisations Prepare Now?

To prepare for ISO 9001:2026, organisations should begin laying the groundwork to ensure a smooth transition. Key preparatory steps include:

• Conducting a Gap Analysis: Compare the current QMS to anticipated revisions to identify improvement areas.

• Training and Awareness: Educate staff on the upcoming changes and their role in implementation.

• Updating Documentation: Begin revising QMS documentation to align with expected changes.

• Internal Audits: Use internal audits to assess preparedness and highlight areas for development.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate planned changes and improvements to key stakeholders.

• Technology Investments: Evaluate technologies that support enhanced quality management, particularly in areas of automation and data analytics.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of Change

The ISO 9001:2026 revision represents an opportunity for organisations to modernise their quality management systems in line with global trends and stakeholder expectations. While the standard's structure will remain familiar, the depth of changes in areas such as risk, ethics, digitalisation, and sustainability will require careful planning and proactive engagement.

By preparing early, organisations can position themselves not only to maintain certification but also to realise broader benefits such as improved performance, operational efficiency, and enhanced reputation in the marketplace.