Step 1: Choosing the Right Standard

Every organisation is unique, so the first step is identifying the ISO standard that best fits your business and objectives. Whether it is ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, or ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety, selecting the right standard ensures your processes align with internationally recognised best practices and sets the foundation for successful certification.

Step 2: Preparing for Certification

Once the standard is selected, your company evaluates the requirements and prepares for implementation. Senior management commits to the process, sets objectives, and assigns responsibilities to ensure the standard is embedded across operations effectively.

Step 3: Establishing and Implementing the Management System

Your organisation develops a management system with documented processes, procedures, and policies aligned with the chosen ISO standard. This system forms the backbone of your operations and supports ongoing compliance and continuous improvement.

Step 4: Internal Audits and Management Reviews

The organisation or business must ensure that an internal audit was done which help identify areas for improvement and ensure the system meets ISO requirements. Any non-conformities must be addressed. After the internal audit has been completed, a management review should be done to confirm the system’s effectiveness and alignment with the organisation or business goals.

Step 5: Applying for Certification

Certification formally begins when your organisation or business submits an application along with supporting documents, which may include company profiles, process flows, product specifications, policies, and management system records. GTICS review the submission and if any information is missing or incorrect, you will be requested to provide clarification or resubmit. A certification contract is prepared, outlining scope, fees, audit requirements, and terms.

Step 6: Stage 1 Audit

The Stage 1 audit is a preliminary review to assess documentation and readiness for certification. Auditors examine processes, management systems, records, and compliance with relevant statutory and regulatory requirements. This stage identifies any gaps that must be addressed before the Stage 2 audit.

Step 7: Stage 2 Certification Audit

The Stage 2 audit verifies that the management system is effectively implemented. Auditors review records, interview employees, and observe operations to ensure conformance with the standard. Any non-conformities must be resolved within a specified timeframe, after which a audit report is submitted to GTICS for review.

Step 8: Certification Decision

Based on the audit report and verification thereof, GTICS makes the certification decision. Companies that meet all requirements are awarded the ISO certificate, which is valid for three years, with periodic surveillance audits to ensure ongoing conformance to the standard requirements. If requirements are not met, certification is withheld, and the organisation is provided with reasons.

Step 9: Surveillance Audits

Once your company has achieved ISO certification, the work does not stop there. During the three-year certification period, GTICS conducts regular surveillance audits to make sure your management system continues to meet the requirements of the standard. These audits are essential for check-ins where auditors review records, interview staff, and observe processes to confirm that the systems are working as intended. The aim is to:

• Ensure continued conformance with the ISO standard.
• Identify opportunities for improvement before they become issues.
• Maintain confidence in your certification among customers, partners, and stakeholders.

Step 10: Recertification

After three years, companies undergo recertification to renew ISO certification. This process ensures conformance with the standard.