Serena Cooper

ISO 9001 for Construction

In the construction industry, quality, safety, and efficiency are critical. Clients expect projects to be delivered on time, within budget, […]

How many clauses are there in ISO 9001:2015?

ISO 9001:2015 is the globally recognised Standard for Quality Management Systems, designed for organisations of all sizes and sectors to […]

How often is ISO 9001 updated?

When it comes to maintaining high standards in quality management, keeping up with updates to ISO 9001 is essential for […]

8 ways to maintain ISO 9001 certification

Maintaining your ISO 9001 certification might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can become an […]

How to conduct an ISO 9001 internal audit

An ISO 9001 internal audit is a critical component of maintaining an effective quality management system (QMS). It makes sure […]

How long does ISO 9001 certification last?

There’s a lot to compete with as a business so maintaining quality and excellence is more important than ever. One […]

What is the ISO 27001 Climate Change Amendment?

In February 2024, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced the Climate Action Changes amendment to the most widely used ISO Standards including 27001, 14001, 45001, and 9001.

ISO 9001 for Care

In the healthcare sector, maintaining high standards isn’t just essential for patient safety and satisfaction but for regulatory compliance too. […]

ISO 9001 for Manufacturing & The Importance

ISO 9001 for Manufacturing In the world of manufacturing, quality is everything. It’s what keeps customers happy and products safe. […]

Does ISO 9001 require a quality manual?

If you’re getting to grips with the ISO 9001 Standard, you might be wondering about a fundamental question: does ISO […]

6 ways ISO 9001 improves quality

Maintaining high–quality standards is crucial for overall success, and businesses should prioritise and demonstrate continuous improvement of the services they […]

Does ISO 9001 cover Health & Safety? Exploring the connection

ISO 9001 is a big name in quality management systems, but does ISO 9001 cover Health & Safety? Let’s take […]

What is a management review for ISO 9001?

A management review for ISO 9001 is a critical process that makes sure your organisation’s quality management system (QMS) remains […]

ISO 9001 for Service Companies

ISO 9001 might often be more associated with product based businesses, however its core principles and benefits are just as […]

ISO 9001 for IT

In the world of information technology (IT), delivering the highest quality products and services is crucial for success. Customers and […]

What is the ISO 9001 Climate Change Amendment?

In February 2024, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced an ISO 9001 climate change amendment called the Climate Action […]

ISO 9001:2015 explained

ISO 9001 is a Standard that’s globally recognised for Quality Management Systems (QMS). Yes, the core principles remain the same, […]

ISO 27001 for the financial industry

As a financial business, your business relies on trust. Your customers trust banks, investment firms, and other financial institutions to […]

Photo of a person sat at desk with head in hand

Using ISO 45001 and 45003 to manage psychosocial hazards

Today’s dynamic work environment demands that employers ensure the wellbeing of employees beyond physical safety. Psychological and social factors can […]

The similarities and differences between ISO 9001, ISO 14001 & ISO 45001

In the world of business, ISO certifications are what companies strive to achieve to ensure the quality, safety, efficiency, and […]

What is a corrective action?

In the world of quality management, it’s essential for businesses to not only maintain compliance but also adopt a proactive […]

The benefits of combining ISO 9001 and ISO 27001

An Integrated Management System (IMS) can benefit your organisation magnificently. If you’re looking to get ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 […]

What is the role of a certification body?

The exact role of a certification body can sometimes be a bit difficult to unpick, but we’re here to demystify […]

Beat ‘Blue Monday’ and get your business fit for the future

It’s that time again. With the festive celebrations a distant memory and January feeling like it will go on forever, it’s likely your employees are feeling the slump. They’re not alone. January is the UK’s peak time for sickness absence and stress with the number of sick days higher in January than in any other month.

What is the difference between ISO 9001 and ISO 14001

In quality and environmental management, ISO Standards play a pivotal role in making sure organisations adhere to internationally accepted benchmarks. […]

Information Security vs Cyber Security: Recognising the difference

The difference between cyber security and information security might be small, but understanding the differences is a top priority if […]

ISO 27001 v 27002: What’s the difference?

Cyber security is important to all businesses but especially those scaling up. Businesses that don’t protect themselves as they grow can have a difficult time recovering from a cyber attack. Prioritising cyber security during business growth is essential to protect your business from threats that could hamper growth and the future of your business.

How physical security controls help businesses protect information

Physical security controls offer businesses protection against damaging attacks that threaten your information security. Keeping your data and information safe […]

How to write an ISO 27001 internal audit report

So, you’ve managed to attain certification to ISO 27001. You’ve strengthened your business’ information security, providing the platform for success. […]

How Information Security Risk Management protects against cyber threats

The constant evolution of cyber threats means businesses need to consider adopting information security risk management. As new technologies are […]

How to conduct an ISO 27001 gap analysis

Carrying out an ISO 27001 gap analysis might seem like a daunting task for your business. With multiple requirements, controls […]

How to improve cybersecurity across your business

Cyber security is important to all businesses but especially those scaling up. Businesses that don’t protect themselves as they grow can have a difficult time recovering from a cyber attack. Prioritising cyber security during business growth is essential to protect your business from threats that could hamper growth and the future of your business.

The importance of an effective information security policy

Information security policies form the foundation of an organisation’s security and are featured as part of ISO 27001’s controls. But what are they and what should they include?

How ISO 27001 can help your business achieve cyber resilience

Cyber resilience is a business’ ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from cyber threats and attacks while continuing […]

5 benefits of business continuity management systems

So, let’s paint a scenario, however far-fetched it may seem…your business is continuing to grow, going from strength to strength. […]

A Guide to ISO 14001

Implementing the ISO 27001 Management System does not necessarily mean that you have fulfilled your responsibilities as a business handling personal data in accordance with the GDPR, but it does mean you’re well on your way.

Getting your ISO 27001 risk assessment right – our top tips

Identifying and responding to risks that threaten to compromise your information security should be an integral part of your responsibility […]

A Guide to ISO 27001

Implementing the ISO 27001 Management System does not necessarily mean that you have fulfilled your responsibilities as a business handling personal data in accordance with the GDPR, but it does mean you’re well on your way.

Workplace colleagues gathering around a desk discussing a task

A Guide to ISO 9001 in the workplace

Implementing the ISO 27001 Management System does not necessarily mean that you have fulfilled your responsibilities as a business handling personal data in accordance with the GDPR, but it does mean you’re well on your way.

The difference between ISO 27001 and cyber essentials

Colleges and other education establishments are now required to implement ISO 27001 as part of their 2019/2020 contracts

10 common examples of ISO 14001 non-conformance

Does your organisation consider and manage its environmental impact? Everyday businesses are faced with increasing pressure from customers, regulators and governments to reduce their environmental impact.

ISO 27001 processes, policies and procedures

Colleges and other education establishments are now required to implement ISO 27001 as part of their 2019/2020 contracts

hand typing on laptop keyboard with network graphic overlay

How does ISO 27001 help protect your organisation?

ISO 27001 is the international Standard for information security but how does it work to protect your organisation and its information?

What is the latest version of ISO 14001?

The ISO 14001 standard has been updated, but how will these changes affect businesses? ISO 14001:2015 follows the new Annex SL framework. It also includes more leadership responsibilities and addresses the environmental impact at all stages within product life cycle.

ISO 27001 for the Construction Industry

Cyber security is just as important in the construction industry as any other. With so much sensitive information stored within […]

ISO 27001 For The Retail Industry

Cyber security is all about how organisations work to reduce the risk of cyber attacks. They’re becoming ever more common […]

ISO 9001 processes, procedures and work Instructions

ISO 9001 processes and procedures are integral for meeting the requirements of the ISO 9001 management Standard. While businesses might […]

Why should you buy ISO 14001?

If you are looking to reduce waste management costs and demonstrate your business’ commitment to protecting the environment, implementing an environmental management system such as ISO 14001 can be a fitting solution.

Make change that lasts this Mental Health Awareness Week

Make change that lasts Let’s face it, many businesses view mental health initiatives as a nice thing to have rather […]

A Guide to ISO Non-conformance

ISO non-conformance is the failure to meet one or more of the requirements outlined in management standard criteria. Whether it’s […]

How to Take Corrective Action Against ISO Non-conformance

What is ISO corrective action? In every business mistakes will happen, but it’s how you learn from these mistakes that […]

Cost of ISO non-conformance

ISO Standards are thought of as the global best practices by many industry leaders, so being ISO-certified shows your clients and customers that you’re a company to be trusted. But what happens when your business isn’t operating up to Standard? It’s known as non-conformance.

How to make your business more energy efficient

With rising energy costs a challenge for every business you’ll want to make sure you’re being as efficient as possible and reducing your energy waste. Improving how you manage your energy can make a real difference to your business and the environment. So, it’s time for some positive energy, you’ve got the power to make changes to increase your energy efficiency, reduce your environmental impact, increase savings and boost your brand reputation.

A brand-new chapter

We’ve changed our name from QMS International to Citation ISO Certification. We’re the same great people providing the same great service, but our new and exciting rebrand is a truer reflection of who we are and we’re ready to share it with you.

ISOMentor – new courses now available

We’re excited to share that we now offer ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 (as well as ISO 9001) on our popular virtual training workshop service, ISOMentor.

Are you getting workplace wellbeing right?

The first Monday in February (which this year was 6 February) has been dubbed ‘National Sickie Day’. Statistically, it’s the day that more workers in the UK will call in sick than any other day.

Atlas just got smarter

You may remember back in November we aligned our management system platform with Citation’s and introduced you to your improved, streamlined management system hub – Atlas. Well, we promised you more exciting developments to come in 2023 and they’re here!

Unpicking the ISO 27001:2022 changes

The much-anticipated 2022 update to the ISO 27001 Standard is here! Its official name – ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Information Security, Cybersecurity […]

5 ways to retain and engage your employees

Is employee disengagement or ‘quiet quitting’ if you want to be trendy, affecting your business? Odds are, it is. According […]

Thinking about mental health? You should be

When you think about Health & Safety what springs to mind? It’s probably a safe working environment – handrails, hazard […]

Why Health and Safety professionals need ISO 45001

We’ve all heard the saying safety first. So, when you’re responsible for the Health & Safety of employees and customers, […]

Which ISOs are suitable for smaller businesses?

At first glance, International Standards can seem tricky, time-consuming, and reserved for larger organisations but take a closer look and […]

The importance of compliance in manufacturing

When you work in manufacturing, you know compliance is key to meeting the standards expected of your business. From health and safety hazards to unsatisfactory goods, a breach in the system could damage operations. Such problems can lead to unhappy customers and harm the reputation of your business.

Meet ISOMentor

Whether you want to dig deeper into the Standard requirements, recap on internal audit training or gain practical advice, our virtual workshops are your new go-to ISO guide. Our live workshops will ensure you and your team understand everything you need to know about your management system and get the maximum benefit for your business.

How to minimise the risk of workplace injury in the construction sector

According to the HSE, construction is ranked as one of the most dangerous industries to work in. In fact, the rate of fatal injury in construction is around four times as high as the average rate across all industries.

The future of IT security for business: Why is it so important?

The rate at which businesses are experiencing cybersecurity breaches is alarming. The latest UK government survey found that in the last 12 months, 39% of UK businesses identified a cyber-attack. Within this, 31% of businesses estimate they were attacked at least once a week.

Use Blue Monday to focus on your employees’ mental health

The third Monday of January is held to be the most depressing day of the year, bringing some much-needed attention to mental health. But what can employers do to support their workers’ well-being through the winter and beyond?

The Environment Act is now law – but what does it mean?

After a long and bumpy path through parliament, in November 2021 the Environment Act was finally given royal assent. But what does the Act cover, and what does it mean for businesses?

QMS launches ISO 45003 product

The new global Standard on psychosocial risks in the workplace is now available from QMS, who will be offering it as a standalone product or as part of an integrated management system with relevant ISOs.

How sustainable is your business?

Want to find out how your business measures up against your peers when it comes to environmental sustainability, business continuity and information security? A new tool promises to do just that.

QMS International is now ISO 27001 compliant!

With information increasingly under threat, QMS International has implemented a fully compliant ISO 27001 management system to help ensure the protection of business information.

How can ISOs help businesses to reach COP26 goals?

The COP26 gathering in Glasgow brought home the importance of change to the way we run our businesses and live our lives. But what part can ISOs play in this?

Are you serious? New study suggests employers don’t take H&S seriously

Keeping workers safe and healthy is a legal obligation but results from a new survey have revealed that than one in 10 manual workers don’t feel that their employers take the issue seriously enough.

What are the barriers to business’ environmental ambitions?

Customers, governments and campaigners all want businesses to embrace sustainability, but change is taking a long time to come. So, what’s stopping them?

What are the issues with carbon off-setting?

Carbon off-setting is being increasingly used by businesses to boost their green credentials. But how does it work and is it actually a useful tool for greater sustainability?

Meet ACS Requirements with ISO 9001/BS 10800

Create a tailored quality management system that also follows the recommendations of the new BS 10800 to help your security business meet the criteria of the Approved Contractor Scheme of the Security Industry Authority.

How do toolbox talks fit into ISO 45001?

Safety meetings such as toolbox talks are a great way to promote health & safety within an organisation. But what do they involve and how can they help you to meet ISO 45001 requirements?

Natasha’s Law is coming – are your processes up to scratch?

On 1 October Natasha’s Law comes into force, which means food producers and suppliers need to ensure that they have the right ingredient information displayed. But what exactly is changing and how can ISO 22000 help?

How can ISO 9001 help sole traders?

ISO 9001 is an internationally recognised Standard for quality, but this doesn’t mean that it is only designed for large companies. Read on to find out how micro businesses and sole traders can also benefit from its processes.

All alone: what are the risks of lone working?

Lone working carries unique risks, and with approximately eight million people already working without others in the UK, employers need to know what they can do to keep them safe.

Construction firms must commit to net zero to win public contracts

From September, construction companies bidding for public contracts worth £5 million or more must commit their business to reaching a net zero target by 2050, highlighting the growing emphasis on businesses growing their environmental consciousness.

Open full notepad full of pieces of paper with pen resting on top

How can ISOs support mental well-being in the workplace?

Mental health in the workplace has become a priority issue, particularly after the effects of COVID-19. But how can ISOs help you to support your team’s mental well-being?

Case study: Efinity Labs

When the pandemic hit, Efinity Labs threw itself into sanitiser production. With a new product and new processes, the time was right to take quality to the next level with ISO 9001.

Computer graphic showing a lock, cloud, shield and world icon

The cost of cyber insecurity

Cyber crime is becoming ever more lucrative to criminals as more and more businesses implement more digital solutions. With the number of attacks growing, more businesses are suffering the financial cost.

Why should you buy ISO 45001?

If you want to build greater trust both within and outside of your organisation, implementing a strong framework of health & safety processes can help to grow your business’ reputation as a responsible employer.

What are the 10 most common Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) non-conformances found by ISO 45001?

If you’re looking for advice on how to best apply the guiding principles of ISO 45001, our top 10 non-conformances could help you identify where improvements could be made.

What are the 10 most common non-conformances identified at an annual ISO 27001 surveillance audit?

Typical non-conformance can help you to identify where you could make improvements to your own processes and procedures to ensure you’re getting the very best out of your ISO. Here is our ISO 27001 top 10.

What are the 10 most common environmental non-conformances identified by ISO 14001?

With the reduction of environmental impact an on-going hot topic, we’ve identified the top 10 non-conformances our customers identified through their ISO 14001 Certification.

How could ISO 9001 help to improve my business?

Although all businesses try their best to avoid errors and issues that impact their business, it’s common knowledge that this is notoriously hard to achieve. So how can a ISO 9001 compliant Management System help? Here’s our 10 ten.

Under attack: how ready are SMEs for a cyber-attack?

The rapid switch to remote working turned business cyber security on its head. But how prepared are SMEs for a cyber-attack, and how strong are their defences? To find out, we went and asked them.

Learning the risk: why risk assessments are key to your business

Risk assessments are key to keeping your workforce safe. But the changes brought by COVID-19 revealed that not all businesses are necessarily being proactive when it comes to assessing risk.

How do sole traders carry out a management review?

Management reviews are an essential part of ISO maintenance – but how do you carry them out if you are the only one in your business? Read on to find out.

How can construction companies help in the Race to Zero?

The Race to Zero is on, and every industry needs to do its bit to cut our carbon emissions. But what can construction companies do to shrink their footprint, and how can ISO 14001 help?

What is a QMS?

Read on to find out what a QMS is, what it does and what benefits it can bring to any organisation, large or small.

Case study: How Copart UK improved its continuity planning

Copart UK wanted to enhance their services and provide reassurance to clients in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read on to find out how QMS’ Business Continuity Solution helped them to develop a robust plan and set them on the course for ISO 22301.

Our Review Of The Back to Work Report

To find out how business adapted to the first national lockdown and how they recovered afterwards, we’ve created an in-depth report based on the results of our survey of SMEs.

Four white arrows painted on a wooden surface

Did business continuity plans help businesses during lockdown?

When the first national lockdown was announced, businesses across the country had to adapt quickly. But were those with business continuity plans better able to deal with the challenge? We went to find out.

HSE reveals that more than half of working days were lost to mental ill health

The latest statistical report produced by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) has revealed the lowest number of workplace deaths on record. However, it has also found an increasing trend towards work-related mental ill health.

Wrap it up: how to keep outdoor workers safe in winter

As the leaves fall and the mercury drops, many of us head inside to hibernate. But outdoor workers need to go outside in all weathers, which opens them up to cold-related illnesses and injuries. So, what can you do to keep workers warm and safe this winter?

Why should manufacturers get ISO 9001?

Maintaining quality, consistency and customer satisfaction is key for success in the manufacturing industry – which is why the Standard for quality management (ISO 9001) could be the perfect partner if you’re looking to get ahead in the industry.

Master the 8D method of problem-solving

A one-off non-conformity is common in any business, but if left to multiply, they can cause significant damage. Finding the root cause is key, and there are plenty of methods you can use. One of the most popular, particularly among larger companies, is the 8D method.

Building trust with ISO 45001

ClearView has been providing powerful commercial security systems to businesses and organisations since 1996. But to show their customers that they put safety alongside security, they chose to implement ISO 45001. Read on to discover their insights into the process.

Testing, testing: how to test your business continuity plan

A robust business continuity plan can help your business get back on its feet after an unexpected interruption, such as an IT failure, powercut or pandemic. But a plan is only effective if it is implemented correctly, and the best way to determine that is to test it.

How can ISO 9001 attract clients in the recruitment industry?

The recruitment industry is a pretty saturated market with thousands of companies vying for the interest of clients and candidates. So how can you stand out from the crowd? With ISO 9001 in your pocket, you could put your agency at the front of the queue.

Time to upgrade your ISO 22301?

In 2019 the requirements of ISO 22301, the Standard for the Business Continuity Management System, were updated. Changes are minimal, but businesses certified to this Standard now have three years to upgrade. Read on to find out what the upgrade entails and how QMS can help.

Everything you need to know about non-conformance in ISO 9001

Hunting for the root cause of a non-conformity and putting corrective action in place is all part and parcel of maintaining an ISO management system. But how do you go about it? To find out, check out our step-by-step guide.

One in five managers aren’t trained in health and safety

Research by IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) and YouGov has revealed that businesses may be underestimating the importance of health and safety training for managers and the benefits it can bring to their reputation, productivity and working environment.

What are the 5 key components of a business continuity plan?

The power goes off, you’re hit with a cyber-attack, a pandemic breaks out… disruption to your business can happen at any time, but how you react to it can make all the difference. A business continuity plan can ensure your reaction is the right one, but what does it involve?

Are your cyber policies up to scratch for the ‘new normal’?

Whether working remotely, heading back to the office or switching between the two, the ‘new normal’ in the wake of the pandemic has put IT teams and cyber policies under strain. But what are the risks of our new working lives, and how can you keep your business secure?

In focus: DS Water and ISO 9001 and ISO 14001

To find out how the services of QMS help businesses reach ISO certification, we spoke to Daniel Goaillard of DS Water to learn about his experience and how he plans to use the Standards and QMS Connect to grow his business.

The long game: why strategy is the key to environmental sustainability in business

We’ve all doing our bit by throwing cans in the recycling bin at work and flicking off the lights when we’re the last to leave the office, but can environmental sustainability in business ever be fully realised without a long-term strategy?

Taking action: 7 things SMEs are doing now to save the planet

Every little helps when it comes to saving the environment, but some SMEs are taking even bigger steps towards a more sustainable business. To find out exactly what SMEs are doing to protect the planet, we went and asked them. Here’s a round-up of what we discovered.

Planet vs profit: what are current SME attitudes towards environmental sustainability?

Consumers and governments are calling for more businesses to embrace an environmentally sustainable way of working. But how realistic is it? And what should be done? We spoke to some SMEs to get their opinion.

Major vs Minor: Non-Conformance ISO

Non-conformances will often get flagged up in audits, but what is the difference between a major and a minor non-conformance? To dispel some of the confusion, we’ve put together a handy guide.

The business case for ISO 9001: why should you buy?

You have to speculate to accumulate, and ISO 9001 has a strong case for investment. But if you or your management team need convincing, we’ve put together a business case just for you. Read on to find out more.

How can ISOs make your business disaster-proof?

Fire, flood, theft, a global pandemic… disaster can strike at any time. But with the right preparation and tools at your disposal, you can help your business to come out on top. Here’s how ISOs can help.

Slips, sickness and stress remain high at work says HSE

Figures from the 2018-19 HSE summary show that illness and injury rates at work remain high. Discover the details and what you can do to improve health and safety

5 Cloud Security Tips For Keeping Your Business Data Safe

Cloud storage presents many benefits for the convenient availability of data, but confidentiality risks should be considered at all times. Here are five tips to tighten your cloud security:

Everything you need to know about ISO Management Systems

Are you struggling to get your head around ISO Management Systems? This comprehensive guide will tell you all the essentials and get you up to speed in no time!

A Beginner’s Guide to understanding SSIP Membership and Accreditation

What is SSIP? And what does it all mean? This blog explains SSIP membership and how businesses may become SSIP accredited. It also addresses the great benefits that SSIP accreditation can pose for buyers and suppliers. Finally, it provides insight into SMAS.

What is an Integrated Management System?

Find out about Integrated Management Systems and how they can help businesses like yours.

The History of ISO 9001 Standards

In the year 2000, the ISO 9002 and ISO 9003 standards were retired and succeeded by a revised ISO 9001 – but is it a suitable replacement?

GDPR – Understanding your rights

In today’s digital world, almost every interaction you have with an organisation will involve the sharing of your personal data. Find out what rights you have when it comes to your personal data.

Shot of a group of colleagues giving each other a high five while using a computer together at work

Can an ISO really be the secret to business success?

A newly published standard, ISO 9004 : 2018, claims exactly that, by divulging the secrets and strategies used by some of the most successful businesses today.

Why Is ISO 9001 Important?

With so many different quality standards available, is ISO 9001 certification still important and valuable to businesses? And, perhaps more importantly, is it relevant to your industry in particular?

How to ensure your business operations are efficient at all times

Here are the top 10 process failings we help businesses to overcome on a daily basis, through the implementation of an ISO 9001:2015 Management System:

ISO 37001 Published Today – the Anti-bribery Management System Standard

The new ISO 37001 Standard, published today, will help Organisations to prevent, detect and address bribery

ISO 45001 – What to expect from the new Standard

ISO 45001 is due to be published towards the end of 2016 and will become the internationally recognised standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. It will replace OHSAS 18001 and other similar systems and comes with a range of additional benefits.

QMS achieves new accreditation status

QMS International has successfully achieved accreditation with the ASCB*, a UK Accreditation Body respected for its integrity and impartiality throughout the World.