SGS Highlights Launch of ISO IEC 42119 Series to Set Global Framework for AI System Testing

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(IN BRIEF) SGS has announced the launch of the ISO/IEC 42119 series, a new set of international standards dedicated to the testing of AI systems. The first publication, ISO/IEC TS 42119-2:2025, provides an overview of AI testing concepts, lifecycle coverage and risk-based approaches, building on established software testing standards. Designed to complement ISO/IEC 42001, the series will expand to cover verification and validation, red teaming and generative AI quality assessment. SGS supports organizations in applying these standards through certification, testing, advisory and training services to help build reliable and trustworthy AI systems.

(PRESS RELEASE) GENEVA, 14-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — SGS has announced the introduction of the ISO/IEC 42119 series, a new family of international standards focused specifically on the testing of artificial intelligence systems. The series represents a major step forward in strengthening transparency, reliability and trust in AI, and is designed to complement ISO/IEC 42001, the global standard for AI management systems.

The first milestone in the series is the publication of ISO/IEC TS 42119-2:2025, titled Overview of Testing AI Systems. This technical specification provides organizations with a structured entry point into AI testing by explaining how established software testing principles can be applied to AI technologies. It demonstrates how the ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119 software testing standards can be adapted to address the unique characteristics and risks associated with AI systems.

ISO/IEC TS 42119-2:2025 outlines key concepts and processes for testing AI across its lifecycle, including risk-based testing approaches, tailored test documentation, and the definition of appropriate test levels and types. Particular attention is given to AI-specific challenges such as data quality, model behaviour, and the identification and mitigation of risks that do not typically arise in conventional software systems. While the document serves as an overview, it lays the foundation for more detailed and specialized guidance within the broader ISO/IEC 42119 framework.

Further parts of the ISO/IEC 42119 series are already in development. Upcoming publications will address verification and validation analysis of AI systems, structured adversarial testing through red teaming, and quality assessment for prompt-based generative AI systems such as large language models. Together, these documents will provide organizations with practical methods to generate strong evidence that AI systems behave as intended, remain robust under stress, and meet safety and quality expectations.

The ISO/IEC 42119 series has been designed to work alongside ISO/IEC 42001 by translating governance requirements into concrete technical assurance practices. While ISO/IEC 42001 defines how AI should be responsibly managed, ISO/IEC 42119 focuses on how AI systems can be tested, validated and monitored to ensure they are dependable and trustworthy throughout their lifecycle.

As a global leader in testing, inspection, certification and digital trust services, SGS supports organizations in applying these emerging AI standards through a comprehensive portfolio of services. This includes accredited certification for AI management systems, technical testing aligned with ISO/IEC 42119, advisory services, training through SGS Academy, and tools such as the SGS AI Trust Check to help organizations assess readiness and identify gaps.

Through its global network of digital trust experts and accredited laboratories, SGS continues to support organizations across sectors including finance, healthcare, manufacturing and mobility as they navigate evolving AI standards, regulatory requirements and best practices. The launch of the ISO/IEC 42119 series marks a significant step in building a common, internationally recognized framework for trustworthy and responsible AI.

About SGS

SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

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Michal Cichocki
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t: +48 22 329 22 22

SOURCE: SGS