Start the Year off Right – 4 Tips to Keep Your QMS Effective

As we kick off the new year, it’s the perfect time to review your Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure you’re meeting all requirements and are well-prepared for the year ahead. Here are four essential tips to get you started:

1. Confirm Your Compliance with ISO9001

Did you know ISO9001 was updated in 2024? It remains the 2015 revision, however, clause 4.1 has been amended. Organizations must now determine whether climate change is a relevant issue. In addition, clause 4.2 includes a note clarifying that relevant interested parties can have requirements related to climate change.

Are you in compliance with the new 2024 requirement? If not, now is the time to include it. As you plan for the year, consider whether your organization’s interested parties have any requirements related to climate change.

2. Review Your Plans for the Year

• Have you set goals?
• Is your audit plan ready?
• Remember to consider risk!

Setting clear goals and preparing a comprehensive audit plan are crucial steps in maintaining an effective QMS. Don’t forget to assess risks throughout your processes to address potential challenges proactively.

3. Review Your Record Retention

Check your record retention policy and clean out anything past its retention time. If you don’t have retention times established, now’s the time to set them. Review any legal and regulatory requirements before setting retention times. Also, confirm there is a process to place a hold on disposal if there are any legal holds related to the records.  If you’re not sure, check with your legal counsel for guidance.

4. Review Your Quality Policy

This is a good time to review your quality policy. Ask yourself:

• Is it still relevant?
• Have there been any changes to the purpose or content of the organization that would affect the quality policy?
• Does it still provide a framework around the organization’s quality objectives?
• Does it contain a commitment to satisfying requirements and continually improving the Quality Management System?

By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your QMS remains effective and aligned with current standards and organizational goals. Here’s to a successful and compliant year ahead!