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Strengthening anti-bribery measures to build trust and integrity with BS ISO 37001
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Strengthening anti-bribery measures to build trust and integrity with BS ISO 37001

Every organization should seize the opportunity to champion ethical business practices, foster trust, and enhance their reputation by proactively addressing bribery risks. BS ISO 37001:2025 Anti-bribery management systems – Requirements with guidance for use is the latest edition of the international anti-bribery management system standard. It provides organizations with an effective framework to prevent, detect, and respond to bribery risks. Bribery can happen anywhere, but organizations that take preventative action will be better equipped to handle risks and maintain stakeholder confidence. Now is the time to assess your organization’s anti-bribery policies and consider how BS ISO 37001 can strengthen your approach to compliance, integrity, and governance. Understanding the importance of BS ISO 37001 BS ISO 37001:2025 is a globally recognized standard that sets out requirements for implementing and maintaining an anti-bribery management system (ABMS). It helps organizations establish robust policies, controls, and procedures to reduce bribery risks, whether they occur internally, through third parties, or across supply chains. Designed to be adaptable, the standard applies to organizations of all sizes and industries, including the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Whether operating locally or globally, companies can implement BS ISO 37001 as a stand-alone framework or integrate it with other management systems like BS EN ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and BS ISO 37301 (Compliance Management). Discover how public sector organizations are benefitting from this standard and others by visiting our industry page. What are the benefits of using BS ISO 37001? The benefits to organizations of implementing BS ISO 37001:2025 extend beyond compliance. Those that adopt the standard can: Reduce legal and financial risks by proactively managing bribery threats. Build stakeholder trust through demonstrated commitment to ethical business practices. Protect corporate reputation by preventing corruption scandals. Improve governance and accountability at all levels of the organization. Ensure seamless compliance with global anti-bribery regulations. Drive long-term sustainability by integrating ethical business practices with ESG objectives. What changes have been introduced in BS ISO 37001:2025? BS ISO 37001:2025 is the latest edition of the international anti-bribery standard, introducing key updates to enhance its effectiveness. This revision places a stronger emphasis on organizational integrity and ethical leadership, ensuring that anti-bribery policies are actively promoted and embedded across all levels of an organization. It also integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into bribery risk assessments, aligning compliance efforts with broader sustainability and corporate responsibility commitments. Additionally, the standard provides clearer guidance on managing conflicts of interest, helping organizations identify and mitigate ethical risks more effectively. BS ISO 37001:2025 also introduces enhanced bribery risk assessments, ensuring organizations stay ahead of emerging threats and evolving compliance challenges. How to use BS 37001 Organizations of all sizes can implement BS ISO 37001:2025 by: 1. Assessing bribery risks – Identifying potential vulnerabilities within internal operations and third-party relationships. 2. Establishing an anti-bribery management system – Developing policies, procedures, and controls to prevent, detect, and respond to bribery. 3. Training employees and leadership – Ensuring awareness and accountability at all levels of the organization. 4. Integrating with existing compliance frameworks – Aligning with other management systems and ESG commitments. 5. Monitoring and continuously improving – Conducting audits and evaluations to maintain effectiveness over time. Ultimately, BS ISO 37001:2025 provides a stronger, more comprehensive framework to help organizations prevent bribery, safeguard their reputation, and reinforce ethical business practices. Get your copy of BS ISO 37001:2025 today and take the next step in strengthening your anti-bribery measures. Discover BSI Knowledge Over 100,000 internationally recognized standards are available for simple and flexible access with a BSI Knowledge subscription. Build your own custom collection of standards or opt for access to one of our pre-built modules and keep up to date with any relevant changes to your standards strategy. Request to learn more.Read more
How Brett Nicholls Associates rethought their approach to net zero transition planning
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How Brett Nicholls Associates rethought their approach to net zero transition planning

Despite wanting to do the right thing, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often find that net zero transition planning is a significant and complicated challenge.  Discover how one small business rethought their approach and found a framework to put their transition efforts on a firmer, more confident footing. Brett Nicholls Associates Brett Nicholls Associates (BNA) is an accountancy firm based in Glasgow with around twelve full-time employees, dealing with a range of traditional business clients. They started their net zero journey several years ago, when COP26 was hosted in the city. This alerted the team to their responsibility to be “citizens of the planet” and to act accordingly. Organically, over a few years, they have started to measure their carbon footprint and have taken actions to reduce emissions in both their energy usage and travel. However, it has only been recently that they have been looking to formalize their progress and produce a full action plan. They are also exploring and enhancing their understanding of net zero so they can be better placed to advise and inform their clients. This is what has driven their interest in BSI Flex 3030. First steps in transitioning to net zero In 2021, Glasgow City Council announced the Step Up to Net Zero programme in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce. This provided BNA the capacity to investigate further, taking on a dedicated team member for a 6 month placement. It helped accelerate their journey and kickstart actions and measurement in a more formal manner. As a result of this process, they now have several years of footprint data, alongside intensity metrics which measure just how many greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions Brett Nicholls Associates produced per activity. They had also signed up to a carbon neutrality programme. However, by their own admission they had not fully understood what this meant in relation to net zero. Over time, they have shifted their focus away from carbon offsetting and instead have opted to invest in local nature restoration programmes in Scotland.   Looking for good net zero guidance Brett Nicholls Associates has tried to make as much progress as possible. However, they have been frustrated by the lack of industry guidance or clarity on what ‘good’ looks like. They’ve achieved B Corp status, which has helped flag a lot of other changes to be made within the organization. A net zero commitment is outlined on their website. However, this is a target rather than a detailed action plan. They are looking to implement and update this with more details on how they aim to reach net zero by 2045.  This extends to their clients too. In fact, they are currently investigating how best to support their clients with the net zero transition, using their own experience as a guide for others, but also considering additional services that they can launch to formally support clients. What next? The challenges faced by the team have mostly centred around knowing what to do next, as well as having the resources and time to put in place a plan with specific responsibilities across the organization. As a small practice working a four day week, the team are at capacity with their daily roles and serving clients, which makes taking on extra jobs, such as measuring electricity usage for reporting, difficult to do. Broadly, they are facing no pressure or requirements from suppliers or legislation, but they want to be ahead of the curve, and want to treat the transition as an essential, not simply a ‘nice to have’. Many SMEs experience challenges when trying to engage with their own clients on net zero, a subject which has still not gained as much interest as their ‘business as usual’ activities. Having successfully measured their own emissions, Brett Nicholls Associates is in a position of being unable to influence much of it. Most of their carbon footprint is in their building itself from the heating and cooling and their landlord has been unwilling to engage in a conversation around reducing that impact. While they may look to move offices in the future, it is not practical.  This is a considerable barrier to successful decarbonization. A welcome sense of direction Against the backdrop of these challenges, the BSI Flex 3030 standard has provided welcome clarification and a sense of direction. 'Any initial concern over the technical nature of such a document was quickly dispelled once it was properly digested in detail.' - Brett Nicholls Associates. The next challenge will be to ensure that their clients become equally familiar with the Flex.  Some SMEs might not want to read such a document unless it is for something they are directly required to do. This may be where businesses and trusted advisors like BNA can provide support. It’s worth noting that engaging clients with net zero transition planning using the approach in the Flex will be made easier by the introduction of a guide with a concise checklist of the key areas that are in the Flex itself. Reporting what matters For Brett Nicholls Associates, the most useful parts of BSI Flex 3030 were the sections on reporting. This allowed them to understand how best to demonstrate and communicate their journey in a consistent manner that would align with industry standards. BNA has gone on to adjust their own reporting already as a result. The example emissions profiles given in the Flex helped paint a picture and demonstrate the technical language in a real-world scenario. This helped members of the team to grasp how this may impact their clients too. These stories and examples were helpful in tying the technical aspects of carbon emissions to reality. Providing clarity Several decisions became clear once Brett Nicholls Associates had read the BSI Flex 3030 document. Firstly, in retrospect they would not have aimed for carbon neutrality, instead prioritizing more rigorous measurement and focused on an action plan for net zero. There is a feeling of wasted time with their previous focus on carbon neutrality. More ambition is now required. Secondly, they would have had a much better understanding of the wider context surrounding net zero and the scale and rigour of the targets in place. This education has taken many years for them to understand, but the document realigned their desire and plans to accelerate their learning. The challenge remains in driving others to read this document when they are facing other day-to-day challenges. Equally, users sometimes find it difficult to source approved service providers in the industry with which to work. Creating opportunities BSI Flex 3030 has helped the BNA team start to understand their net zero journey and how to create additional offerings to clients. This may provide opportunities for growth as well as having the benefit of supporting existing clients in their transition. In the wider industry, there’s been an increase in platforms and tools facilitating the upskilling of accountants on delivering net zero services. Trade bodies such as the Association of Certified Chartered Economists (ACCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) are putting teams in place to drive this forward. A strong start So far, BSI Flex 3030 has been most helpful in providing a framework for BNA to start building a more formal net zero plan, engage their team and provide some basic training. It has proved superior to any of the materials available from other platforms and organizations they have engaged with. The standard has been a huge help and has helped Brett Nicholls Associates start engaging clients and their own team with much more confidence than before having access to this tool. Learn more about how standards are supporting organizations to achieve their net zero targets, by visiting our Net Zero topic page. About BSI Flex 3030 BSI Flex 3030 Net zero transition plans for small and medium enterprises. Code of practice can be used by any size or type of organization, profit or non-profit, but it is designed primarily for use by those with fewer than 250 employees. This standard can help you get to grips with your net zero transition by providing a clear and simple code of practice. In other words, it outlines the right way to do things, as agreed by a consensus of experts in the field. It gives practical step-by-step guidance, arranged so that you can follow a logical sequence of actions to develop, implement and maintain your transition plans. And it’ll help whether you’re working on an internal plan, or responding to external requirements, from a potential new client, for example. Plus, there is now also a short introductory guide and checklist to BSI Flex 3030. This simple tool might be useful in fully understanding the aims and principles behind the Flex and translating those into practical action. Download your copy for free here. Join others like you online If you have any questions about BSI Flex 3030 or other thoughts about your own net zero transition, please visit the Sustainability Standards Hub, or email us on sustainabilitystandards@bsigroup.com Develop a standard with BSI Elevate your sustainability journey and drive positive environmental impact by sponsoring the development of a fast-track standard tailored to your industry's needs. A fast-track standard establishes best practices for products, services, and processes. To find out more download our brochure here or contact us.
Bridging safety and technology: The role of BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 in the built environment
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Bridging safety and technology: The role of BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 in the built environment

The built environment sector has long faced challenges in ensuring health and safety (H&S) compliance across project and asset life cycles. According to a report by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), in the UK the annual cost of accidents and ill health attributable to work in construction is estimated to be around £1.3 billion, with around 2.6 million working days lost each year. In addition to the financial costs, health and safety issues in the built environment can have a profound impact on employees, often resulting in physical injuries, long-term health conditions, emotional stress, and reduced quality of life for workers and their families. To help address this critical issue, a new standard has published: BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 Organization and digitization of information about buildings and civil engineering works, including building information modelling (BIM) — Information management using building information modelling — Part 6: Health and safety information, which focuses on the organization and digitization of H&S information in building and civil engineering projects. As the sixth part of the BS EN ISO 19650 series on information management using Building Information Modelling (BIM), this standard supersedes PAS 1192-6:2018 as the key standard for managing H&S information throughout the project and asset life cycles. By specifying how H&S information is managed and shared, BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 offers an opportunity to enhance worker safety, reduce costs and ensure projects run more smoothly, with fewer incidents. What does BS EN ISO 19650-6 cover? The core objective of BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 is to provide a robust framework for identifying, recording, using and sharing H&S information digitally and collaboratively throughout the project lifecycle. This includes the classification, sharing, and delivery of H&S information, ensuring it reaches the right stakeholders at the right time, with clear and actionable insights. The standard outlines how H&S information can be used to: Create safer environments for workers, users, and end-users of buildings and infrastructure. Mitigate inherent risks by identifying and managing hazards throughout the entire asset life cycle, from procurement to end-of-life. Enhance H&S performance by reducing incidents and their associated impacts. Optimize project value, improving both construction processes and operational outcomes. By ensuring that H&S risks are identified early and integrated into project planning via BIM tools, BS EN ISO 19650-6 improves the visibility and communication of risks throughout all project stages. Who should use this standard? This standard is essential for all professionals involved in managing H&S information during the lifecycle of a building or infrastructure project. Whether you're a designer, contractor, project manager, or asset owner, the principles and practices outlined in BS EN ISO 19650-6 will help streamline your H&S risk information management processes. Applicable to: Design and construction professionals working to embed H&S information from the planning stages. Facility managers and operators, who need to ensure that maintenance work is carried out safely and efficiently throughout the operational phase of the asset. Procurement teams responsible for ensuring compliance with H&S standards across their supply chain. Notably, the standard applies to all phases of the project lifecycle, whether you're working in the design, construction, or operational stage of an asset. It is also relevant to projects that aren't currently using BIM, as it emphasizes the collaborative sharing of structured H&S information across all project stakeholders. What are the key benefits of implementing BS EN ISO 19650-6? Increased safety: By embedding H&S information early in the design process and throughout the project lifecycle, this standard helps create a safer environment for all stakeholders. Risk mitigation: The clear framework for identifying, classifying, and sharing H&S risks leads to better risk management and fewer incidents on-site. Enhanced project outcomes: Clear and timely communication of H&S information minimizes rework, waste, and delays, boosting the overall value of construction projects. Global applicability: With its basis in BS 1192-6:2018, now elevated to international status, this standard facilitates global collaboration and harmonizes H&S practices across borders. Support for BIM integration: As the construction industry increasingly adopts digital tools and practices, the standard leverages BIM to make H&S risk management more visual, comprehensive, and actionable. The wider context: BIM and the BS EN ISO 19650 series of standards Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital process that involves creating and managing detailed 3D models of buildings and infrastructure throughout their lifecycle. It integrates data about a structure’s design, construction, and operation into a centralized model, enabling better collaboration between all project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers. By providing accurate, up-to-date information, BIM enhances decision-making, reduces errors, and improves project efficiency, ultimately leading to safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective buildings. BS EN ISO 19650-6 is part of the broader BS EN ISO 19650 series, which sets the international framework for information management in the construction industry using BIM. The series includes the following parts: BS EN ISO 19650-1: Concepts and principles of information management BS EN ISO 19650-2: Delivery phase of assets BS EN ISO 19650-3: Operational phase of assets BS EN ISO 19650-4: Information exchange BS EN ISO 19650-5: Security-minded information management Part 6 adds to this by focusing specifically on health and safety information, providing vital links between traditional risk management tools and the new digital processes enabled by BIM. By integrating H&S information into BIM, projects can harness the full potential of digital modelling, improving risk visibility and control. To implement best practices in health and safety information management and align your projects with the latest international standards, purchase BS EN ISO 19650-6:2025 today.
BS 9991: A comprehensive update to the UK’s essential fire safety standard
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BS 9991: A comprehensive update to the UK’s essential fire safety standard

The latest revision of BS 9991 - the UK's key fire safety standard for residential buildings - represents a critical advancement in fire safety regulation.  As fire safety concerns have evolved, the new edition incorporates essential updates designed to enhance safety in the design, management, and use of residential buildings.  Here, we’ll explore the significance of the upcoming BS 9991:2024 Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings - Code of practice, the key changes being introduced, and why adopting this standard is vital for anyone involved in residential building safety. Get your copy of the standard here. What is BS 9991? BS 9991 is a code of practice standard that offers comprehensive guidance and recommendations for ensuring fire safety in residential buildings. First introduced as a British Standard in 2011, it serves as a primary reference for achieving fire protection measures, safeguarding lives, and minimizing property damage in the event of a fire. It covers a wide range of building types, from apartment blocks and flats to residential care homes. The objective of the standard is twofold: To ensure an adequate standard of life safety in the event of a fire, focusing on occupant safety, firefighter safety, and the protection of emergency services. To offer property protection, safeguarding not only the building in question but also adjacent properties, businesses, and the environment. BS 9991 bridges the gaps between different regulatory frameworks in the UK, providing a unified approach to fire safety that can be applied nationally. Explore our library of fire-related standards and the benefits they can bring to your organization by visiting our Fire topic page.  What are the key changes in BS 9991:2024? The upcoming  2024 revision brings significant updates.  These reflect the increasing complexity of modern building designs and the evolving knowledge of fire behaviour, materials, and fire safety systems.  The key changes include: Expanded scope: BS 9991 now covers residential care homes, recognizing the unique evacuation needs and fire safety challenges unique to those properties.  Explicit exclusions on timber have been removed: The scope of the standard has been limited in terms of reaction-to-fire classifications of load-bearing elements of structure to better reflect the available evidence regarding the use of mass timber in medium and high residential buildings. Revised guidance for sprinklers and single-stair buildings: Updates include a new height limit for single-stair buildings and adjustments to sprinkler installation guidelines. European classifications for fire doors: National fire door classifications have been replaced with European classifications to ensure consistency and reliability in fire resistance. Enhanced recommendations for smoke control and evacuation lifts: Improved provisions for smoke control systems and detailed recommendations for evacuation lifts, making tall buildings safer in fire emergencies. Updates on ancillary areas, kitchens, and external wall systems: The recommendations for these areas have been revised to account for the latest safety practices. The 2024 edition offers a robust framework for fire safety in residential buildings, accommodating advancements in building technology while maintaining practicality. For more detailed information on BS 9991:2024, you can download the free executive briefing here. What are the benefits of the revised BS 9991:2024? BS 9991:2024 provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date recommendations for fire safety in residential buildings, ensuring the highest level of protection for both occupants and the building itself.  The revised standard addresses the complexities of modern building design, including mixed-use and high-rise structures, offering solutions for even the most challenging fire safety scenarios.  The 2024 edition integrates the latest advancements in fire safety knowledge, providing a future-proof approach to the design and management of residential buildings. Who should use BS 9991:2024 and why?  BS 9991:2024 is essential for a wide range of professionals involved in the design of new buildings, as well as material alterations, extensions, and changes of use to existing buildings. Users of the standard include:  Designers and Architects: BS 9991 offers a clear and authoritative guide to integrating fire safety into the design process, ensuring that buildings are constructed with the latest fire safety technologies and methods. Fire Safety Engineers and Risk Assessors: The revised standard provides detailed guidance on fire safety risk assessments and offers updated methodologies to tackle emerging fire safety challenges. Building Owners and Managers: Following BS 9991 helps maintain legal compliance, reduce liability, and ensure the protection of residents and properties in the event of a fire. Fire and Rescue Services: BS 9991 helps fire services by providing standardized design and operational procedures that make firefighting and rescue operations more efficient and effective. Whether you are designing a new building or making material changes to an existing one, this standard provides the tools to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and to mitigate fire risks. Stay informed, stay up to date, and ensure your buildings meet the highest standards of fire safety. Get your copy of BS 9991:2024 today.

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About BSI: The world’s first national standards body
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About BSI: The world’s first national standards body

BSI is appointed by the UK Government as the national standards body (NSB), holds the Royal Charter, and represents UK interests at the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the European Standards Organizations (CEN, CENELEC and ETSI). BSI is the UK's first national standards body to be created. We represent UK economic and social interests across all European and international standards organizations and in the development of business information solutions for British organizations of all sizes and sectors. Our role is to help improve the quality and safety of products, services and systems by enabling the creation of standards and encouraging their use. Annually, BSI publishes over 3,100 standards, each meticulously crafted through a process of collaboration and refinement. These standards serve as pillars of guidance, underpinning the quality and safety of products, services, and systems while fostering a culture of continuous improvement within organizations. Delivering best practice knowledge BSI serves as more than a publisher of standards; we are custodians of knowledge, stewards of innovation, and champions of best practices. Our commitment to delivering best practice knowledge is unwavering, recognizing that knowledge is the lifeblood of successful businesses. Through British Standards, we offer distilled wisdom, carefully curated from vast pools of experience and expertise. This knowledge, encapsulated within our standards, is a testament to the collective insights of industry practitioners, subject matter experts, and stakeholders. Furthermore, BSI operates within four key areas of purpose as the UK's National Standards Body: Supporting government policy. Fostering growth and competitiveness within UK business and industry. Nurturing educational initiatives within the UK. Safeguarding consumer rights and safety. Visit BSI Group website to learn more about our work. Supporting businesses through standard development Central to our role is the facilitation of standards development, ensuring that UK businesses have access to the frameworks necessary for success. Standards, ranging from specific product guidelines to broader business management practices, serve as invaluable tools for innovation, market expansion, and operational excellence. Through our extensive network of experts and committees, we drive UK influence in the development of European and international standards, empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in a global marketplace. BSI remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting businesses through standardization, offering tailored resources and guidance to navigate the intricate landscape of standards. Whether you're a multinational corporation or a burgeoning start-up, our comprehensive catalogue of standards and supporting documents stands ready to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed for sustainable growth and success. Discover our extensive catalogue of standards and supporting documents today. Have your say on standards Standard development Over 9,000 UK experts volunteer their knowledge and time to participate in BSI committees and contribute to the drafting of Standards. These committees comprise manufacturers, users, research organizations, government departments, and consumers who all work together to address industry challenges. Want to get involved? It’s easy to have your say on standards. There are several different ways that you can help to develop standards. By using our Standards Development Portal, you can: Comment on proposed and draft standards Suggest an idea for a new standard Contact a committee You can also apply to become a BSI committee member, enabling you to share your expertise and collaborate with others to create new standards and rewrite existing ones. Learn more about applying to be a committee member here. Standard feedback On the Standards Development Portal, you will be able to browse through the standards in your area of interest and see which committees they sit under. You can follow the committee links to find out more about each one's scope, membership list, work program, and how to contact them. Standard users can contact our committees to: Request comment resolutions Raise issues and provide feedback on a standard and your use of it Discover BSI Knowledge Subscriptions At their core, our standards promote a focus on achieving excellence across every sector - from quality management and supply chain stability to net zero and digital trust. Our tailored BSI Knowledge subscription service provides flexibility, access, visibility, and control over the standards and insights your organization needs to achieve your objectives. Request to learn more.Read more
What are the benefits of using standards?
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What are the benefits of using standards?

In the dynamic landscape of industry and innovation, standards emerge as the unsung heroes, quietly shaping the way we operate, communicate, and progress.  From fostering interoperability and quality assurance to driving innovation and sustainability, the benefits of standards permeate every facet of our interconnected world. For example, imagine a world where every electronic device speaks its own language, unable to communicate with others. Chaos would ensue. Fortunately, standards step in to ensure interoperability and compatibility. Whether it's the USB port that connects your devices or the internet protocols enabling seamless communication, standards lay the groundwork for harmonious interaction. They also play a pivotal role in helping us to build a better global future. Whether it's energy efficiency standards supporting us through the transition to net zero, or fair trade regulations helping us to eradicate modern slavery, standards serve as guiding principles, steering organizations towards responsible stewardship of resources and equitable treatment of stakeholders. Regardless of your approach to standards, they offer tangible benefits for organizations like yours. Whether your aim is certification or not, the mere act of implementing a standard and following the guidance it provides can be incredibly advantageous. By enhancing your processes through standards, you can unlock a myriad of benefits that contribute to your organization's success and competitiveness. Benefit 1: Standards boost productivity and improve performance  They: Increase efficiency by streamlining processes. Reduce cost by minimizing waste and cutting out the time spent on ‘trial and error’. Allow production at scale by replacing bespoke variety with standardized solutions, performance, or outcomes, thus freeing resources for differentiating products and services from those of competitors. Lower the cost of regulatory compliance and the costs of non-compliance. Foster high-quality products and services that give buyers confidence and build company reputations. Shorten the time to market for new products. Benefit 2: Standards kickstart innovation  They: Agree on common terminology and transfer new information into the commercial environment, which accelerates the spread of innovation. Support innovators by providing expert, authoritative new knowledge, which in turn is a platform for further innovation. Build communities and promote the exchange of knowledge, which catalyses collaborative development and speeds up technology lifecycles. Encourage process innovation through continual improvement. Enable organizations to unlock their full potential in terms of their products, processes, and behaviour's. Benefit 3: Standards support domestic and international trade They: Give buyers confidence that products will be safe and fit for purpose, so they are more widely accepted. Improve transparency – buyers know what they’re getting – which reduces the costs of international trade, such as the need for repeated product testing. Make UK firms more efficient and innovative, so they can compete globally. Overcome arbitrary national technical barriers to trade Improve confidence and transparency throughout complex and often multinational supply chains. Key standards to benefit your business Maintain fundamentals – you can use BS EN ISO 9001, to create your own unique quality management system (QMS), BS 13500 to benchmark and optimize your corporate governance, and BS ISO 31000 to manage risks. Ensure organizational resilience - understand and prioritize operational threats with BS EN ISO 22301, which provides a framework with which to control and reduce potential hazards. Protect your information - the coronavirus pandemic was exploited by cybercriminals. Constant vigilance is required to counter deliberate or accidental data breaches and cyberattacks. Keep vital information safe with BS EN ISO/IEC 27001. Nurture and inspire your people - recovery needs talented and engaged employees. Protect your people with BS EN ISO 45001 for health and safety, and BS ISO 45003 for psychological wellbeing. Nurture staff with BS 76000 and PD 76006 to help align their aspirations with company goals. Build a culture that recognizes and respects all differences with BS 76005. Prioritize responsible business – BS EN ISO 26000 provides guidance on social responsibility, while BS EN ISO 14001 outlines a sustainability framework to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Start reaping the benefits of standards today, by browsing our range and adding all the key business standards to your collection. Have your say on standards Standard development Over 9,000 UK experts volunteer their knowledge and time to participate in BSI committees and contribute to the drafting of Standards. These committees comprise manufacturers, users, research organizations, government departments, and consumers who all work together to address industry challenges. Want to get involved? It’s easy to have your say on standards. There are several different ways that you can help to develop standards. By using our Standards Development Portal, you can: Comment on proposed and draft standards Suggest an idea for a new standard Contact a committee You can also apply to become a BSI committee member, enabling you to share your expertise and collaborate with others to create new standards and rewrite existing ones. Learn more about applying to be a committee member here. Standard feedback On the Standards Development Portal, you will be able to browse through the standards in your area of interest and see which committees they sit under. You can follow the committee links to find out more about each one's scope, membership list, work program, and how to contact them. Standard users can contact our committees to: Request comment resolutions Raise issues and provide feedback on a standard and your use of it Discover BSI Knowledge Subscriptions At their core, our standards promote a focus on achieving excellence across every sector - from quality management and supply chain stability to net zero and digital trust. Our tailored BSI Knowledge subscription service provides flexibility, access, visibility, and control over the standards and insights your organization needs to achieve your objectives. Request to learn more.
How to find the right standards for your business
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How to find the right standards for your business

Whether you're a start-up or a seasoned enterprise, determining the right standards for your organization can be a daunting task. However, with careful consideration and strategic planning, you can navigate this process effectively.  Standards play a vital role in facilitating trade, innovation, and collaboration on a global scale.  Developed through consensus by industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, professional associations, and standardization organizations, they provide a common language and framework for organizations, regulators, and consumers. Their implementation fosters trust, efficiency, and interoperability. To learn more about the positive impact of standards, read our article The Benefits of Standards. The only problem is with over 100,000 of them - and more publishing every year - knowing which standard to implement can be a challenge.  To help you know where to start, here’s our comprehensive guide to help you find the right standards for your organization: 1. Define your business objectives There is pretty much a standard for everything - shoe sizes, tattooing, facial recognition technology, there’s even a standard for the perfect cup of tea. In order to determine which will be the right standard for you, you need to clarify your organizational objectives. What are your short-term and long-term goals? Understanding your company's mission, vision, and values will provide a clear framework for selecting appropriate standards. For example, if you work for an organization that wants to improve the quality of its products, you might consider implementing BS EN ISO 9001 Quality management systems. Requirements. Or, if your organization is looking to improve its environmental impact, then BS EN ISO 14001 Environmental management systems. Requirements with guidance for use could be the one you opt for.  2. Conduct a needs assessment You might also want to evaluate your business operations, products, and services to identify areas where standards are essential. This assessment will highlight areas where standards can improve quality, mitigate risks, and enhance efficiency. Consider factors such as regulatory requirements, industry norms, customer expectations, and internal processes. 3. Research industry standards Investigate industry-specific standards relevant to your organization. These may include information security (BS EN ISO/IEC 27001), occupational health and safety (BS EN ISO 45001), or sector-specific standards such as BS EN 9100 for aerospace or BS ISO 7101 for healthcare.  Engage with industry associations, regulatory bodies, and professional networks to stay informed about the latest developments in standards. 4. Analyze legal and regulatory requirements Compliance with legal and regulatory standards is non-negotiable for businesses operating in any industry.  Research applicable laws, regulations, and industry-specific mandates governing your business activities. Ensure that your chosen standards align with these requirements to avoid legal complications and penalties. 5. Consider customer expectations Understanding and meeting customer expectations is paramount to business success.  Solicit feedback from customers to identify their quality, safety, and performance requirements.  You can then tailor your choice of standards to align with these expectations, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. 6. Evaluate organizational capabilities Purchasing a standard is one thing, but you’ll also need to be able to adhere to its requirements and specifications. Not all standards are the same, with some requiring more process changes and documentation than others.  Assessing your organization's resources, capabilities, and readiness to implement and maintain standards can help to narrow down which will be best suited to your organization's unique needs. Consider factors such as budget, expertise, infrastructure, and organizational culture.  It is also worth determining whether you have the necessary skills and capacity in-house to implement a standard, or if you require external assistance such as consultants or training providers. Get started on your standard journey In summary, finding the right standards for your business requires careful planning, research, and strategic decision-making. By aligning standards with your objectives, complying with legal requirements, meeting customer expectations, and leveraging industry best practices, you can establish a robust framework for success.  Embrace standards as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and differentiation in today's competitive business landscape. Have your say on standards Standard development Over 9,000 UK experts volunteer their knowledge and time to participate in BSI committees and contribute to the drafting of Standards. These committees comprise manufacturers, users, research organizations, government departments, and consumers who all work together to address industry challenges. Want to get involved? It’s easy to have your say on standards. There are several different ways that you can help to develop standards. By using our Standards Development Portal, you can: Comment on proposed and draft standards Suggest an idea for a new standard Contact a committee You can also apply to become a BSI committee member, enabling you to share your expertise and collaborate with others to create new standards and rewrite existing ones. Learn more about applying to be a committee member here. Standard feedback On the Standards Development Portal, you will be able to browse through the standards in your area of interest and see which committees they sit under. You can follow the committee links to find out more about each one's scope, membership list, work program, and how to contact them. Standard users can contact our committees to: Request comment resolutions Raise issues and provide feedback on a standard and your use of it Browse our huge range of standards to start improving your business today.
BSI Membership: Be a champion of excellence
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BSI Membership: Be a champion of excellence

We cordially invite you to be a part of our exclusive membership programme. Having a BSI membership allows you to reap the maximum benefit from your standards – helping you save time, become more productive, and drive organizational performance. Whilst thousands of organizations use standards to support their practices, it is only BSI members who get access to tools, industry insights, and expert support. By becoming a BSI member, you can: Prove you’re committed to excellence, through visible association with BSI Draw on our professional researchers for help with standards Reach a new level of expertise, with unique insights into best practices and upcoming innovations in your sector Save up to 50% on standards and subscriptions. What BSI Membership gives your organization As a member of BSI, you’re linked to a global leader in standards. BSI is synonymous with excellence and innovation, and our expertise is trusted worldwide. Enhance your status A BSI Membership will strengthen your organization’s reputation by joining a global leader in standards, and clearly show your commitment to quality and best practices. Raise your profile – access a membership toolkit with digital and physical certificates, and guidance on using your BSI credentials. A connection to the right people - get to know BSI’s experts and be part of the conversations that matter. Make a difference - have a say in steering the direction of BSI via voting rights at the Annual General Meeting and getting involved in making standards. 'I’d definitely recommend BSI Membership. It’s what I use to persuade people that I’m professional and that my business is professional.' - CHRIS MCCARTHY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, APEX SECURITY SYSTEMS Get expert support from our researchers We want to make you the expert, sharing our extensive knowledge and experience so you can speak confidently about standards and understand how they apply to your business. Expert research on demand – get free access to the BSI Member Enquiry service saving you hours of time and ensuring complete accuracy. The Standards Watch Service - identify relevant standards and receive regular reports on them – keeping you effortlessly up to speed. 'We need to know what standards say, and our integrity hangs on that. The Knowledge Centre is a very, very useful source of help.' - HOWARD CLAYTON, TECHNICAL LIBRARIAN, AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING Giving you value Generous discounts - save up to 50% on standards and subscriptions – so you can improve your performance for less Priceless prestige - enhance your organization’s standing by gaining a new level of expertise and aligning with the BSI brand Fast-track your organization to operational excellence. Become a BSI Member today. Already a member? Access your benefits on our Member Portal How much does BSI Membership cost? BSI Membership delivers exceptional value every day. It provides expert support for you and your business; generous savings; and a badge of excellence that sets you apart. Prices start from as little as £213 a year and vary depending on your sector and size. Get an instant quote for Membership. Discover BSI Knowledge Subscriptions At their core, our standards promote a focus on achieving excellence across every sector - from quality management and supply chain stability to net zero and digital trust. Our tailored BSI Knowledge subscription service provides flexibility, access, visibility, and control over the standards and insights your organization needs to achieve your objectives. Request to learn more.