DNV highlights progress of ISO 9001 revision as draft released ahead of 2026 publication

DNV highlights progress of ISO 9001 revision as draft released ahead of 2026 publication

(IN BRIEF) DNV has confirmed that the revision of ISO 9001 is progressing, with the Draft International Standard now released for global ballot and review. The update, due for full publication in late 2026, introduces new leadership requirements for promoting quality culture and ethics, clearer guidance on risk and opportunity management, integration of climate change considerations, and an expanded Annex A. While the revisions are expected to be moderate for certified companies, the IAF will define transition timelines closer to release.

(PRESS RELEASE) HØVIK, 29-Aug-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — DNV has highlighted the progress of the ISO 9001 revision process, which has now reached a major milestone with the publication of the Draft International Standard (DIS) for a 12-week ballot and comment period. The final version of the updated standard is expected to be released in the second half of 2026, most likely in October or November.

“ISO 9001 is a cornerstone for quality assurance across industries. This revision is therefore important and followed by many stakeholders. It is key that the standard is regularly updated to ensure the standard remains relevant in today’s increasingly complex and dynamic business environments,” said Tor Gunnar Tollefsen, Global Service Manager for Management Systems in DNV.

The 2026 draft introduces a number of focused updates designed to bring ISO 9001 in closer alignment with the harmonized structure of other ISO management system standards.

Notable changes include:

• A new amendment in section 5.1, requiring leadership and commitment to promote a strong quality culture and ethical behaviour, accompanied by new implementation guidance.
• Clearer separation of risk and opportunity management within Clause 6.1, supported by new subclauses (6.1.1–6.1.3).
• Integration of the climate change amendments introduced in 2024 into Clause 4.1.
• Adjustments across Clauses 4 to 10, with several notes added or updated for improved clarity.
• A significantly expanded Annex A, providing deeper and more detailed explanations aligned with the main requirements of the standard.

The changes are regarded as moderate, with limited disruption expected for organizations already certified under ISO 9001. Final adjustments may be made after the stakeholder consultation on the draft.

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) will confirm transition rules and timelines once the revision is finalized. Although ISO standards often provide a transition window of up to three years, experts note that the relatively limited scope of the 2026 update could mean a shorter period will be set.

Media Contact:

Motunrayo Shafau
External & Internal Communication Specialist
Phone: +330762432480
Motunrayo.Shafau@dnv.com

SOURCE: DNV