Implementing Multiple Standards—Reduce Certification Costs

The demand for ISO certification continues to grow worldwide, and many businesses seek certification for several ISO standards simultaneously, often as part of a strategic approach to risk management and market access.

These include:

• ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
• ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
• ISO 27001 (Information Security Management)
• ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety Management).

Implementing more than one standard at once can bring many benefits and is often easier than you might expect.

Aligning ISO Standards With the Annex SL Framework

The foundation of effective multi-standard implementation lies in Annex SL—the framework that standardises the structure, language, and terminology of all modern ISO management systems. Also known as a High-Level Structure (HLS), Annex SL simplifies integration by ensuring ISO standards follow a common format and core elements.

Key features include:

1. High-Level Structure (HLS): A uniform structure with consistent clause titles like ‘Context of the Organization’, ‘Leadership’ and ‘Planning’.
2. Consistent core text: Annex SL uses identical language across various standards, aligning each standard to support integration and understanding.
3. Common terms and definitions: This standardizes the terminology used across different standards, supporting clear communication.
4. Risk-based approach: Businesses are encouraged to identify and address risks and opportunities within their management systems.

Implementing ISO standards in line with this structure improves consistency across management systems, makes staff training easier, and strengthens relationships with stakeholders thanks to efficient management practices.

The common core requirements across ISO standards include:

The Strategic Advantage of an Integrated Management System (IMS)

While organizations can certify to each standard independently, developing an Integrated Management System (IMS) offers compelling advantages:

Operational efficiency

An IMS can support the reduction of duplication across management system processes where standardized requirements overlap. For example, document control procedures required by all four standards can be unified into a single robust system rather than maintaining separate processes for each standard.

By centralizing all important documents, an IMS makes them easy to find and use, streamlining access and fostering stronger cross-functional collaboration.

Simplified administration

Combining multiple standards into one system helps organizations streamline operations and make the best use of resources while also improving oversight across compliance areas.

Holistic risk management

An integrated approach means that risks are assessed comprehensively across the management systems you have in place, be it quality, environmental, information security, and/or occupational health domains, providing a more complete risk profile and more effective mitigation strategies.

Organizational clarity

An IMS gives a clear view of all operations, making decision-making easier and simplifying audits by simultaneously meeting the needs of different standards. This efficient approach focuses on common goals such as continually improving, which can lead to better performance and lower costs.

Benefits of Implementing Multiple Standards

1. Reduced audit time

One of the most compelling advantages of pursuing multiple ISO certifications is the significant reduction in audit time and associated costs. Consider these practical examples*:

• ISO 9001 + ISO 14001: Each standard typically requires 2 audit days individually. When integrated, they may be able to be audited in just 3 days, a 25% reduction in audit time and costs.
• ISO 9001 + ISO 27001: While ISO 27001 requires a minimum 3-day audit, organizations with smaller headcounts can often add ISO 9001 certification without a significant increase in audit duration, subject to scope and context. This may allow for certification of an additional standard with limited additional audit time.
• Adding ISO 45001: When added to an existing ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 IMS, the incremental audit time is significantly less than implementing it as a standalone system.

*These are examples only, and the audit efficiencies available to organizations differ, based on a number of factors, including complexity and scope.

2. Lower certification costs

The efficiencies gained from combined audits translate directly into cost savings. Organizations may achieve certification cost efficiencies when integrating audits, though savings vary depending on the size, complexity, and timing of implementation.

Read about the typical cost of ISO 9001 certification.

3. Boost operational efficiency

Implementing multiple ISO standards also improves an organization’s overall operational performance. By aligning various management systems, businesses can boost process efficiency and foster a culture of continual improvement.

This alignment means that all areas of the business are working towards common goals, such as risk management, quality assurance, and sustainability. This strategic alignment can enhance internal performance and pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation.

4. Build stakeholder trust

The combination of certifications addressing quality, environmental responsibility, information security, and workplace safety builds comprehensive trust with customers, partners, and industry regulators.

5. Enter new markets with ease

Different industries and clients prioritize different standards. Having multiple certifications broadens your market appeal and qualifies you for more business opportunities.

6. Strengthen your competitive edge

Achieving multiple ISO certifications can demonstrate alignment with recognized international standards, which may support stakeholder confidence. This strategic bundling can demonstrate a comprehensive commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and security, offering a competitive advantage.

Strategic Implementation Approaches

Organizations typically follow one of two approaches when pursuing multiple ISO certifications:

• Sequential implementation: Starting with ISO 9001 as a foundation, then progressively adding other standards based on business priorities.
• Simultaneous implementation: Implementing multiple standards concurrently as part of a planned IMS development. This maximizes efficiency but requires more intensive initial resources.

The right approach depends on your organization’s size, resources, and immediate business priorities. However, even with sequential implementation, planning for eventual integration from the outset can yield significant long-term benefits.

Real-World Results From ISO Implementation

How do other businesses do it? These anonymised examples are drawn from Amtivo’s client base, and they reflect common challenges and outcomes faced by businesses pursuing multi-standard certification. Each scenario highlights a practical application of ISO standards—showcasing how they can deliver measurable benefits across various industries.

• Case Study: Scaling Compliance in Telematics

A telematics provider faced the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry and sought to enhance its credibility and compliance with international standards. To address these, the team pursued ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001 and ISO 27001 certifications in one combined process and successfully achieved all four certifications. This helped them attract larger clients and solidify the company’s reputation for reliability and quality.

• Case Study: Driving Client Growth in IT Services

A managed service provider needed ISO certification to enhance customer experience and improve its ability to bid for and win new clients. They pursued ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 27001 certifications to improve service quality and competitiveness. Within nine months, the certifications were achieved, enhancing their market position and supporting successful bids for new business opportunities.

• Case Study: Accelerated Certification in Engineering

A mechanical and electrical solutions provider aimed to improve their business foundation by securing ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications. They achieved this in just four months, faster than the anticipated six months. This swift certification enhanced the business’s competitive edge, supporting bids against larger companies.

Make Multiple Standards Work for You

While the cost efficiencies of multiple ISO certifications are substantial, the strategic value extends far beyond audit day savings.

An integrated approach to ISO standards creates a more resilient organization with streamlined processes, comprehensive risk management, and enhanced stakeholder confidence.

Successful organizations view ISO certification not as a compliance exercise but as a strategic business tool that drives continual improvement and competitive advantage. By leveraging the Annex SL framework of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, and ISO 45001, organizations can build management systems that deliver sustained business value.

Download our PDF outlining the benefits of implementing multiple ISO standards and how it can help you save on the cost of ISO certification.

Drive Your Business Forward With Multiple ISO Certifications

Ready to explore how multiple ISO certifications can benefit your organization? Get a quote today and discover how a strategic approach to ISO implementation can transform your business operations while maximizing your certification investment.