A contractor's guide to ISO 9001 for better construction quality management 

So you're a contractor and want to learn more about how ISO 9001 can help you streamline your quality management and ultimately win more business.  

By the end of this article, you'll understand exactly what ISO 9001 means for the construction industry, whether it's right for your organisation and how you can ensure you have the best chance of getting certified. 

1. What is ISO 9001?
2. Changes the construction industry needs to be aware of
3. Why you should get ISO 9001-certified
4. Documentation that contractors need to comply
5. What does the ISO 9001 compliance process look like?
6. A step-by-step guide to obtaining ISO 9001 certification 
7. A solution to help construction contractors obtain ISO 9001
   
   
   

{Sablono is a specialist construction quality assurance software that provides contractors with everything they need to obtain ISO 9001. You can learn more by booking a call here: Speak with Flo}

What’s ISO 9001?  

ISO 9001 is an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems (QMS). It provides a framework for the construction industry to ensure consistent quality across projects, focusing on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. 

The standard outlines requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a QMS, including process management, documentation, internal audits, and management review.  

ISO 9001 certification demonstrates a contractor's commitment to quality and is often required to win tenders and to strengthen competitive positioning in the market. 

What changes should the construction industry be aware of? 

The ISO 9001:2015 revision introduced significant changes that directly impact the construction industry, shaping the way quality management systems (QMS) are applied within the sector.

With an emphasis on more effective integration into business processes, the revision drives a shift towards a higher degree of management responsibility, risk management, and customer focus. Below are key changes that are particularly relevant to the construction industry: 

• Context of the organisation: Construction companies must now evaluate both internal and external issues that can impact their strategic objectives and the QMS. This means understanding the complexities of construction projects, legal requirements, competition, and market dynamics. 
  
  

• Leadership and commitment: ISO 9001:2015 places greater emphasis on leadership engagement. It requires top management in construction companies to take a more active role in governing the QMS, ensuring its integration into the business's core processes, which is crucial for project success. 
  
  

• Risk-based thinking: The updated standard emphasises using risk-based thinking to address operating challenges in the construction industry. This approach mandates construction companies to identify, assess, and manage risks in the context of each project, aiming to enhance client satisfaction and project outcomes. 
  
  

• Increased flexibility: The new version allows for more discretion in documentation, which enables construction companies to tailor their documentation to fit the size and complexity of their projects and company structure. 
  
  

• Continuous improvement: Companies must show continuous improvement in their QMS. This aligns well with the construction industry's drive towards improving efficiency, reducing waste, and honing operational processes over time. 

These alterations to the ISO 9001 standard underscore a more dynamic and forward-thinking approach to quality management in construction, reinforcing the strategic importance of a tailored QMS that aligns with the distinct nature of construction projects. 

Why should you get ISO 9001 certification? 

Although currently non-compulsory, construction contractors pursue ISO 9001 certification to standardise processes, enhance quality management, reduce errors, streamline operational efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.  

Certification offers a competitive edge in bidding for contracts and expands market opportunities. It fosters a proactive approach to risk management, ensures regulatory compliance, and promotes continuous improvement.  

Overall, ISO 9001 certification enhances contractors’ credibility, reputation and long-term sustainability, making it a valuable asset for business growth and reliability.  

What documentation do contractors need to provide to comply with 9001? 

Construction contractors need to provide several key documents to comply with ISO 9001 this includes the following: 

Quality Manual 

Although not a requirement in ISO 9001:2015, a quality manual is a document that outlines the scope and intentions of the Quality Management System (QMS). It usually includes the quality policy, objectives, and references to the procedures and processes used by the organisation. It serves as a guide for employees and stakeholders to understand the QMS's purpose and function. 

Documented Procedures 

These are specific methods that describe who does what, when, and how. Documented procedures ensure consistency and reliability in operations. They cover various aspects of the QMS, from document control and internal audits to nonconforming product management and corrective actions. 

Work Instructions 

Work instructions provide detailed, step-by-step guidance on performing specific tasks or operations. They are more detailed than procedures and are designed to ensure tasks are performed consistently and correctly, reducing variation and errors. 

Records 

Records are evidence that activities have been performed according to prescribed procedures and work instructions. They demonstrate the effective operation of the QMS by providing tangible evidence of processes, compliance, and improvements. Examples include inspection records, training records, and meeting minutes. 

Documentation of Quality Policies 

Quality policies are formal statements from management, expressing the organisation's commitment to quality. They serve as a directive for the organisation to follow, ensuring that the QMS meets the intended outcomes, including customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. 

Objectives 

Quality objectives are specific, measurable goals set by the organisation to achieve its quality policy. They should be relevant to the conformity of products and services and the enhancement of customer satisfaction. Objectives should be monitored, communicated, and updated as needed. 

Scope of the QMS 

The scope of the QMS outlines the boundaries and applicability of the quality management system. It details the types of products and services covered and provides information on any exclusions from the QMS requirements. 

Process Flowcharts 

Process flowcharts visually map out the sequence and interaction of processes within the QMS. They help in understanding the flow of activities and identifying potential bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or risks. 

Risk Assessments 

Risk assessments are tools used to identify, analyse, and evaluate risks related to processes, with the aim to minimise negative impacts while maximising opportunities. They are fundamental in the planning and implementation of the QMS. 

Audit Reports 

Audit reports document the findings, conclusions, and recommendations following an audit. They are tools for evaluating the effectiveness of the QMS and identifying areas for improvement. 

Records of Corrective and Preventative Actions 

Records of corrective actions document how nonconformities were addressed, including the problem-solving steps taken, the results, and future preventative measures to avoid recurrence. Preventive actions records, though not a specific requirement in ISO 9001:2015, pertain to actions taken to eliminate the causes of potential nonconformities to prevent their occurrence. 

These documents ensure transparency, consistency, and traceability in their quality management processes.  

{See how Sablono can help you easily provide this documentation across each of your projects here: How Sablono supports ISO 9001 certification.} 

What does the ISO 9001 compliance process look like?  

The ISO 9001 compliance process involves several steps:  

1. Understanding the standard's requirements 
2. Gaining top management commitment 
3. Defining the scope of the QMS 
4. Developing necessary documentation. 

Contractors then implement the QMS by training staff, managing processes, and monitoring performance. Internal audits are conducted to identify areas for improvement, followed by a management review.

Once the QMS is deemed effective, an external audit by a certification body is performed. If successful, the organisation receives ISO 9001 certification, which is maintained through regular surveillance audits and continuous improvement.  

A step-by-step guide to obtaining ISO 9001 certification 

To attain this globally recognised mark of quality excellence, construction companies must undertake a systematic approach, ensuring their processes align with the principles of ISO 9001.  

Here's a distilled guide to help construction contractors embark on this journey towards certification. 

Steps to obtain ISO 9001 certification for construction contractors 

1. Comprehend ISO 9001 requirements: Begin with a thorough understanding of what the ISO 9001 standard entails, especially the 2015 changes that emphasise risk management and leadership engagement. It's crucial for construction companies to grasp the essence of these standards, which pivot on implementing a quality management system that consistently meets customer desires and regulatory requirements, while fostering continual improvement.  
   
   
2. Documentation and process identification: Documenting your processes stands as a pivotal step in this journey. ISO 9001 requires clear documentation of your operational procedures, quality control metrics, and the methods employed to meet and exceed quality standards. For construction contractors, this involves detailing the process workflows that span across different project phases and ensuring that these processes are geared towards enhancing efficiency and quality outcomes. 
   
   
3. Adopt a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS): Crafting and implementing a robust QMS is the heart of achieving ISO 9001 certification. It demands a holistic approach to managing your operations to assure quality. This spans identifying key processes critical to your project's success, deploying effective control measures, and setting up a framework for continuous evaluation and improvement of these processes. 
   
   {Learn more about the best construction quality management software solutions  here:6 Best construction quality management software solutions}
   
   
4. Engage in rigorous training: Training your team is indispensable. Every individual involved in the construction process needs to align with the quality management principles set by ISO 9001. This not only enhances awareness but also ensures that your workforce is competent enough to implement and maintain the QMS  effectively. 
   
   
5. Undergo internal audits: Before inviting external auditors, conduct thorough internal audits. These serve as rehearsals, exposing any gaps in your QMS and providing you with an opportunity to refine and perfect it. Internal audits are critical for ensuring that every aspect of your operations is in compliance with ISO 9001 requirements, setting the stage for successful external evaluation. 
   
   
6. External evaluation and certification: Finally, an external audit conducted by an ISO-recognised certification body will assess whether your QMS adheres to the ISO 9001 standard. Passing this evaluation paves the way for obtaining the ISO 9001 certification. It’s a testament to your commitment to maintaining exemplary quality standards in all your construction projects. 
   
   
7. Continual improvement and re-certification: ISO 9001 certification is not a one-time achievement but a continuous commitment to excellence. Regular monitoring, reviewing, and improving your processes ensure compliance with the standard. Additionally, recertification is required at specified intervals to ensure ongoing adherence to ISO 9001 standards. 

ISO 9001 certification can significantly boost a construction contractor's operational efficiency, project quality, and client satisfaction. Achieving this benchmark requires a dedicated effort across all levels of the organisation but leads to substantial long-term benefits. 

How does Sablono help in supporting ISO 9001 certification?  

Sablono's comprehensive project management capabilities are tailored specifically to the needs of supporting ISO 9001 certification for construction contractors.  

It offers robust features for QA documentation management, process tracking, and performance analytics to provide construction contractors with a streamlined approach to managing their QMS.  

Additionally, Sablono's user-friendly interface and real-time collaboration tools enhance transparency and communication among project stakeholders, making it easier to maintain compliance with ISO 9001 standards.  

With a focus on construction-specific workflows and integration with existing systems, Sablono is the smarter choice for contractors looking to become ISO 9001-certified.  

Here's how Sablono's quality assurance software can support your ISO 9001 compliance: 

What features does Sablono provide for ISO 9001 certification?   

Sablono software provides features that are central to ISO 9001 compliance including process management, risk management, performance evaluation, and internal audit support.  

These tools help contractors maintain accurate records, standardise processes, identify and mitigate risks, and continuously monitor and improve their QMS.   

Key features include: 

Workflows: Provide Documented Procedures and Process Flowcharts with Sablono's Workflow Templates. Capture processes in reusable templates and plan your workflows down to the most granular detail. Define activities, responsibilities and sign-offs. Add hold points, QA checklists and more. 

QA Checklists: Clearly document your quality procedures and policies with Sablono's QA checklists. Digitalise your quality workflows and embed quality standards from the start. Define responsibilities, sequences of works and link any relevant documentation you need your team to provide as evidence of compliance. 

Issue Lists & Reports: Clearly provide records of corrective actions and document how nonconformities were addressed with Sablono's Issues Lists and Reports. See all issues raised and their current status, then, export PDF reports to streamline their resolution or as evidence of quality and compliance standards being met. 

Digital Audit Trail: Create records as evidence that activities have been performed according to prescribed procedures and work instructions using Sablono's Digital Audit Trail. Create a fully accountable, connected digital audit trail of all quality-related data. 

Performance KPIs: See how you are performing against your Objectives based on Sablono's real-time data and performance KPIs. 

What does Sablono not provide for ISO 9001 certification?  

Sablono does not provide specific training management, which may require additional support to ensure complete compliance. 

Want to learn more about how Sablono can help you achieve SO 9001 certification? Grab a call with our Co-Founder, Florian to discuss your needs in more detail below.