Integrated Management System Certification UK

An Integrated Management System (IMS) combines the requirements of two or more ISO management system standards into a single, unified framework — one system, one internal audit programme, one management review, one certification audit. For UK businesses in construction, manufacturing and facilities management that need ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 simultaneously, an integrated certification is almost always the most cost-effective and operationally efficient approach.

What is an Integrated Management System?

An IMS merges the shared elements of multiple ISO standards — document control, risk management, objectives and targets, internal audit, management review and continual improvement — into one cohesive system. Integration is possible because ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 27001 and ISO 50001 all share the same High Level Structure (Annex SL).

What does integration save?

• Audit cost savings — an integrated QHSE audit typically costs 25–35% less than three standalone certifications
• Implementation time savings — build shared infrastructure once
• Ongoing management savings — one internal audit programme, one management review, one document control system

Most common IMS combinations for UK businesses

How much does integrated certification cost?

Read the full integrated management system certification guide

Our in-depth UK guide explains the shared ISO clauses 4 to 10, how IAF MD 5 sets audit days, how IAF MD 11 removes duplicate assessment, and what to check about a certification body's accreditation scope before you buy.