ISO 9001:2026: Everything You Need to Know About the Upcoming Standard Update

Change is coming to the world's most recognised quality management standard. ISO 9001:2026 is set to replace the current ISO 9001:2015 version in September 2026, marking the first major revision in over a decade.

While late 2026 might seem a while away, the development process is already in full swing. International experts are working behind the scenes to ensure this critical standard evolves with modern business needs.

Understanding ISO 9001: The Foundation of Quality Management

ISO 9001 serves as the global benchmark for quality management systems (QMS). Organisations implementing a compliant QMS can achieve certification through certification bodies, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

This has become a powerful tool for businesses. It allows them to showcase their dedication to consistently delivering quality products and services.

Timeline: When to Expect ISO 9001:2026

The anticipated publication date is September 2026 and the revision timeline follows a structured approach:

• Current Phase: Expert committees from over 40 countries are reviewing submitted comments and refining key areas
• Next Milestone: Draft International Standard (DIS) release expected "within the next few months"
• Final Phase: Public comment period before official publication

The April 2025 Paris meeting saw international experts tackle a raft of critical topics. These included operations control, infrastructure, organisational knowledge, business continuity, and ethics—signalling the comprehensive nature of this update.

Impact on Your Current Certification

Good news for certified organisations: Your existing ISO 9001:2015 certification won't become invalid overnight.

Based on historical precedent, organisations typically receive a three-year transition period. When ISO 9001:2015 replaced ISO 9001:2008, companies had until 2018 to complete their updates. While not officially confirmed, a similar grace period is expected for the 2026 revision.

This means your current certification will likely remain valid well into 2029, providing ample time for a smooth adaptation.

What Changes Are Coming?

The specifics remain under wraps, but the revision's direction is clear: modernising the standard to reflect today's business realities.

Since 2015, the business landscape has transformed dramatically. The revision aims to address contemporary challenges and align with how organisations actually operate in the digital age.

Key Focus Areas Identified:

• Operation and control mechanisms
• Infrastructure requirements
• Organisational knowledge management
• Business continuity planning
• Ethics and governance
• Evolving customer expectations

Preparing for the Transition

While we await the Draft International Standard release, organisations can take proactive steps:

1. Stay Informed: Monitor official ISO communications and industry updates (or watch out for updates on the Brookfields website)
2. Strengthen Current Systems: Ensure your existing QMS is robust and well-maintained
3. Build Flexibility: Design processes that can adapt to new requirements
4. Engage Your Team: Keep stakeholders aware of the upcoming changes

Looking Ahead

The release of the Draft International Standard will provide the first concrete glimpse of what's changing. This document will undergo public scrutiny, allowing the global community to provide feedback before finalisation.

Your certification body will play a crucial role in guiding you through the transition process. They'll provide detailed guidance, training resources, and support to ensure your certification remains valid under the new standard.

The Bottom Line

ISO 9001:2026 represents an evolution, not a revolution. While changes are coming, the fundamental principles of quality management remain constant. Organisations with strong, well-maintained quality management systems will find the transition manageable.

The key is staying informed and preparing early. By maintaining awareness of developments and keeping your current systems strong, you'll be well-positioned for a smooth transition when the time comes.