GlossaryKind of term: Standard and conventionISO 9001
What is ISO 9001?
ISO 9001 is the international standard setting requirements for a quality management system, against which an independent body can certify an organisation.
The requirements concern how the organisation works: how you determine and review customer requirements, control processes, address risks, manage measuring equipment, monitor outsourced work, handle nonconformities and improve. The standard sets no requirements for a product or for the accuracy of parts; it asks that your way of working is controlled and can be demonstrated. A certificate covers the organisation and the scope stated on it.
What does the standard say about ISO 9001?
The certificate names the edition and the scope it was audited against. From 2015 that was ISO 9001:2015, supplemented in 2024 by an amendment on climate change. When a new edition appears, a transition period usually applies in which certificates to the previous edition remain valid. A certificate is issued by a certification body; under accredited certification that body is recognised by a national accreditation body. The cycle usually runs three years, with annual surveillance audits. Sector standards build on it with further requirements, such as AS9100 for aerospace and defence and IATF 16949 for automotive.
How does ISO 9001 work in practice?
For quoting, the standard mainly touches the review of requirements: before you confirm a quote or an order, you check that drawing, revision, quantities, lead time and special requirements are clear and that you can meet them. Earlier editions called this contract review. The cost of the system, such as the quality function, audits and calibration of gauges, is usually spread through overheads in the hourly rate rather than charged per order. Many customers ask for the certificate when selecting suppliers, so without one you can drop out of some requests before price is considered.
What is ISO 9001 often confused with?
ISO 9001 is not a product mark and no guarantee of dimensional accuracy: the certificate covers how the organisation works. Sector standards ask for more, for example first article inspection under AS9100 or a part approval process such as PPAP under IATF 16949. Nor is ISO 9001 a measurement standard; requirements on dimensions and tolerances are on the drawing and in the standards it refers to.
Frequently asked questions
Is ISO 9001 mandatory for a supplier?
Generally not by law. Many customers in machine building, aerospace and medical technology, among others, do ask for it when selecting suppliers. Without a certificate you often do not make the list of suppliers invited to quote.
What does ISO 9001 ask of your quoting process?
That you review the customer's requirements before you commit: drawing, revision, quantities, lead time and special requirements. When requirements change, you amend the quote or order and inform the people involved. Keep a record of the outcome, in a form of your choice.
Does an ISO 9001 certificate say anything about a shop's accuracy?
Not directly. It shows that processes are controlled and measuring equipment is managed, not which tolerances a shop can hold. That shows in the machine park, gauges, inspection reports and experience with similar parts.