ISO Management System documentation comprises of five levels: system manual, procedures, work instructions, reference documentation and records. The extent of required documented information depends on the size of the organisation, complexity of processes and competence of personnel.

As a leading provider of management system consultancy and training our consultants understand the requirements for, and benefits of, effective documented information. We can support organisations by updating and writing their documentation as well as teaching individuals how to develop appropriate documentation themselves.

Reasons for ISO Documentation 

  • Ensures the intentions and direction of top management is clearly understood throughout the organisation
  • Provides a formal environment to ensure everyone understands their operating procedures
  • Assists with continual improvement and business continuity of the business in the event of unforeseen interruptions
  • Creates standardised procedures to ensure that outcomes are clearly defined and consistent 
  • Provides evidence of conformance with the management system and ISO standard

ISO System Documentation

System Manual

The System Manual (sometimes referred to as Business Manual) describes the management system. Typically, a system manual includes the company policy and objectives, business principles, organisational charts, core business processes, key responsibilities and process descriptions.

Procedures

Procedures specify the way an activity or a process should be carried out. Documented procedures provide the necessary basis for control by defining the scope, sequence of events and responsibilities. Outputs of procedures should be clearly defined.

Work Instructions

Work instructions, for example operating instructions, are often documented if the activity or task is critical.

Documented work instructions specify the detailed requirements for an operation, such as the tasks involved, how these should be performed and the standards to be used. 

Reference Documentation

Reference documentation is documentation that needs to be reviewed in order to follow a procedure or work instruction. It may refer to an external document such as a standard, legislation or codes of practice.

Records

Records are a type of documentation that provide evidence that activities have been performed and results achieved. They can also be used to provide objective evidence that the management system is functioning and effective.

 

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