This article delivers the latest insights on ISO management system updates, with a focus on the upcoming ISO 45001:2027 and ISO 14001:2026 standards. Discover what’s changing, when to expect updates, and how to prepare your management systems for the future.
ISO 45001:2027 Update (Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems)
Background and News
The ISO 45001:2027 update is now underway. Recently, regulators required an administrative update from the 2018 to the 2023 version, but these versions are identical—no new requirements exist. The update simply aligns the standard with the European version at a national level. Currently, you do not need to take any action; the 2018 version remains valid.
Next Update?
The next significant update is due in 2027. Meanwhile, the first committee meeting is already underway in May 2025. At this early stage, any details about amendments or additions in Committee Drafts (CD)—let alone the final version—are purely speculative.
Should I Do Anything Now?
You do not need to take immediate action. Instead, focus on maintaining the best OHS management system possible. This approach will put you in a strong position when more solid information becomes available.
ISO 14001:2026 Update (Environmental Management Systems)
Background
On 4th March 2025, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) registered a Draft International Standard (DIS) update for ISO 14001. Afterwards, the ballot period will close in 12 weeks. If the committee agrees by vote, this draft could become the final version. Alternatively, if changes are necessary, the committee will return the Committee Draft (CD) for further amendment.
Predicted Release Date
The International Organization for Standardization expects to publish the new updated standard for use in September 2026.
Details on the New Content
The updated standard is more of a refinement than an overhaul. Proposed key changes include:
- Harmonisation: The standard will achieve better uniformity of terms and structure with other standards such as ISO 9001.
- Clarity: Improved wording of requirements and guidance for better understanding.
- Annex A: Increased instruction to improve understanding of requirements.
- Sustainability: Expanded focus on climate change and sustainability.
- Interested Parties: Clarification of who may be deemed an interested party, with reference to ISO 9001.
- Life Cycle Perspective: Further instruction on applying a life cycle perspective to environmental issues.
- Change Management: Greater emphasis on pre-planning and monitoring progress.
- External Processes: Stricter control over externally offered processes, products, or services relevant to your EMS.
- Management Review (MR): Restructured requirements to better define MR inputs and MR outputs.
Summary
Timelines are set, but the changes are still in draft. This situation presents a great opportunity to prepare and improve your systems. Furthermore, you will have three years to transition to the new standards, which should be plenty of time to manage the change effectively.
Ready to prepare for the upcoming changes?
With these ISO management system updates on the horizon, now is the time to review your processes and prepare for change. Contact our team today for expert guidance on aligning your systems with the latest requirements.
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Article by
Phill Davies
Risk & Compliance Specialist, Risk Evolves
