What do I need to do about the 2026 revisions of ISO 9001 & ISO 14001?
With new revisions to ISO 9001 (Quality) and ISO 14001 (Environmental) scheduled for release in 2026, you may already be seeing a steady stream of LinkedIn posts urging organisations to “get in early” or “prepare for the changes now.”
Here’s the truth: Until the new revisions are formally released, there is nothing official to review — and nothing you need to change.
This article explains what stage the revisions are at, what DIS and FDIS actually mean, and how organisations should respond depending on whether their systems are already certified or currently in development.
Where Are the New Standards Up To? Understanding DIS and FDIS
When ISO standards are updated, they move through a structured development pathway. Two key stages matter most for organisations tracking revision progress:
Draft International Standard (DIS)
Open to full technical review and comment.
Can still undergo substantial amendment based on member feedback.
Not final — inappropriate for certification planning or redesigning management systems.
Final Draft International Standard (FDIS)
Allows only minor editorial changes.
Generally not subject to further technical adjustment.
Indicates the standard is approaching publication but is still not yet final.
Current Status (as of December 2025)
ISO 9001 is at the DIS stage (note as of date of this post, the DIS has reportedly been approved to move from DIS to FDIS stage – watch this space).
- BONUS: If you’re interested to read some commentary on ISO/DIS 9001, I’d recommend having a read of Christopher Paris’ articles on the planned changes to Clauses 0 – 10, and Annex A Guidance Materials.
ISO 14001 is at the FDIS stage.
In simple terms: neither standard has been released, and organisations should not be adjusting their systems based on drafts.
What Should Organisations Do Right Now?
In short:
Do absolutely nothing.
Here’s why:
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Drafts are not final. Reviewing or rewriting your system now is premature and could result in wasted time, rework, and unnecessary cost.
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There is no requirement to realign your management system until the official revisions are published.
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Most changes in recent revisions have been clarifications rather than structural overhauls, meaning your fundamental system elements will remain valid.
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Beware the hype. Some consultants market “early preparation” services long before revisions are released. These efforts rarely serve the organisation’s interests.
What Should I do After the New Revisions are Released?
If your organisation is currently certified to either / both of the 2015 revisions:
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Any new or modified requirements within Clauses 4–10 will only need to be addressed after the official revisions are published.
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Annex A of the standards will again provide interpretation guidance — a useful resource when updating your system.
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Certification bodies will issue transition guidance after the standards are released.
In other words, you will have clear, structured information to work with — and plenty of time to apply it.
Already Certified? Understanding the 3-Year Transition Period
ISO maintains a consistent approach to transition periods. When the 2026 revisions are released:
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There will be a 3-year transition window.
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You are not required to transition immediately.
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Transition can be completed either:
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During your next 3-yearly recertification audit, provided this falls within the transition period; or
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During a surveillance audit, though additional audit time may be required for transition elements to be reviewed.
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If timed with recertification, most organisations experience no increase in audit duration or cost.
Planning to Develop a New ISO-Based Management System?
Good news — there is no need to delay system development.
Here’s why:
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The core structure (Annex SL/HLS) will not change significantly.
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Leadership, risk, process, and improvement requirements remain the backbone of all ISO management systems.
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You can comfortably certify to ISO 9001:2015 or ISO 14001:2015 now, and then transition to the 2026 revisions later.
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Early implementation:
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Builds internal capability.
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Establishes evidence of systematic management.
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Reduces the scale of future changes (which will likely be minimal).
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Delaying development only postpones the benefits that your system can deliver.
Where to Track Official Release Updates
The best sources of accurate, non-speculative updates are:
Your regional standards body (e.g., Standards Australia, ANSI, BSI).
Note that regional reprints of updated standards can take 12 months or longer to become available after ISO publishes the revisions.
Accessing Official copies of ISO Standards Updates
ISO management system standards are protected by copyright, with reproduction subject to certain restrictions. This includes the standards being subject to licensed purchasing via the ISO website and approved distributors.
If you require a copy of these standards, visit the ISO website, or follow the below links for specific standards:
Speak with Us about your ISO Needs
If your organisation needs guidance with developing a new management system, or planning a smooth transition once the 2026 standards are released, DBell Consulting can help.
To discuss your needs or request tailored support, please visit our Contact Us page.
