Prepare for the new edition of ISO 9001 – what changes can be expected?
After ten years, the international standard for quality management is being revised. The new edition of ISO 9001 is expected in September/October 2026 and will introduce clearer requirements related to leadership, greater emphasis on technology and climate considerations, and a simplified structure to ensure the standard remains relevant for today’s organizations.
The revision of ISO 9001 is approaching completion, and the draft of the new edition is available. The final version is expected to be published in autumn 2026, but organizations can already begin preparing by reviewing the draft and participating in relevant training.
What do the changes mean in practice?
The overall scope of the changes is considered moderate. The revision appears less extensive than the transition to the 2015 edition; however, the adjustments may still have significant implications for both private and public sector organizations. ISO 9001 remains the world’s most widely used framework for quality management systems (QMS), and any revision therefore has broad impact.
The new edition builds on ISO 9001:2015 and the climate-related amendment introduced in 2024. At the same time, it represents a further step in aligning the standard with current challenges, particularly in relation to climate change and evolving expectations regarding organizational governance.
Key points in the draft
Promotion of a quality culture and ethical behaviour
A new provision has been introduced in Clause 5.1 “Leadership and commitment”. This clause sets out requirements for how top management shall promote a quality culture and ethical behaviour within the organization. The associated guidance explains how this can be demonstrated and supported by documented information in practice. The topic is also referenced in two additional clauses of the standard.
Clearer distinction between risks and opportunities
Clause 6.1 has been revised and structured into subclauses 6.1.1–6.1.3. This provides a clearer framework and more precise guidance for the determination and treatment of risks and opportunities. The intention is to strengthen a systematic approach to risk-based thinking within the QMS.
New structure for continual improvement
The new Clause 10.1 “Continual improvement” consolidates and clarifies requirements that were previously addressed in Clauses 10.1 and 10.3. Additional guidance highlights the importance of new technologies, digitalization and reliable data as enablers for the effective improvement of processes and activities.
Integration of climate change considerations
The amendment introduced in 2024 in Clauses 4.1 and 4.2, requiring organizations to consider climate change, is now fully integrated into the standard. This reinforces ISO 9001’s role in supporting sustainable business processes and long-term organizational resilience.
Updated requirements and clarifications
Several requirements in Clauses 4 to 10 have been adjusted, and certain notes have been added or revised to provide clearer explanations of existing requirements and their intent.
Expanded guidance in Annex A
Annex A (informative) has been significantly expanded and now provides more detailed and practical guidance to support the implementation of Clauses 4–10. This makes the standard more user-friendly for organizations seeking to further develop and mature their quality management system.
Stay ahead of the changes to ISO 9001
Obtain the draft
Obtain the draft of the new edition and start preparing now for the upcoming changes to ISO 9001 in 2026. The draft is available for single purchase only, either as Online Reading or Printed and Bound. The draft cannot be included in a subscription.
Please note that changes may still be introduced at the final draft stage (FDIS) following the review of comments received during the consultation process.
Receive the new edition automatically
If NS-EN ISO 9001:2015 is included in your subscription, you will automatically receive access to the new edition when it is published – at no additional cost or administrative effort.
Courses
We offer courses on the new ISO 9001:2026 (in Norwegian only), where the draft standard is included as part of the course material. The course provides a comprehensive and practical overview of the changes in the new edition and how they can support an effective and smooth transition for your organization.
A new edition of ISO 14001 is also on its way
A new edition of the international standard for environmental management is expected in March/April 2026. The revised version introduces clearer requirements related to climate and environmental issues, a more comprehensive life cycle perspective, and strengthened accountability for top management.