FAQs
Q. Who are ISO and what do they do?
The International Standards Organisation (ISO) was established in 1947 and is an association of over 150 countries, each represented by a National Standards Body. ISO's headquarters are based in Geneva, Switzerland.
ISO is the world's largest developer and publisher of International Standards. Although non-Governmental, ISO does have major influence with links to Governments around the World. ISO acts as a bridge between the public and private sectors and whilst many members are part of Governmental structures, other members are purely private sector.
ISO employs a system of committees and groups to develop its International Standards. Besides the National Standards Bodies, ISO permits other international organisations that develop standards to participate in its work by accepting them as liaison members.
ISO do not carry out certifications themselves and while it is possible to self-certify, most organisations choose to employ a respected third party Certification Body (e.g. the British Assessment Bureau) to independently prove their credentials.