High Level
Structure
In 2015, ISO introduced a common structure for all new and updated management standards. It was called High Level Structure (HLS), and it means that ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001, ISO 27001 and several others have the same overall structure today. In 2021, the structure was updated and renamed Harmonized Structure.
this is what high Level Structure looks like
The High Level Structure or Harmonized Structure, as the common structure is called today, includes 10 sections:
- Scope
This section describes the purpose and framework of the standard - what it covers and what it does not cover. - Normative references
This section contains the wording specific for the standard in question and defines the purpose. - Terms and definitions
This section contains a list of key concepts in the standard to establish a common understanding. - The organisation's framework and conditions
In this section, the company must analyse its context, stakeholders and framework conditions. - Leadership
In this section, the top management must show ownership and commitment to the management system, e.g. through policies and distribution of roles. - Planning
In this section, the company must describe risks as well as goals and planning to achieve results. - Support activities and functions
This section focuses on the resources, competences, communication and documentation required to support the management system. - Operations
This section focuses on how the company runs the management system and checks and implements its core processes. - Performance evaluation
This section focuses on requirements for monitoring, measuring, internal audits and the management's evaluation of the system's performance. - Improvements
This section focuses on how the company handles non-conformities and works with continuous improvements.
The structure ensures that all certifications are based on comparable requirements for e.g. documentation, management involvement and a risk-based approach.
why is High Level Structure an advantage?
A common structure for standards makes it easier to integrate several standards in one unified management system. If you already have, for example, ISO 9001 and wish to add ISO 14001 or ISO 45001, you do not have to do everything twice - you can gather your requirements in one place. You can continue working on what you already have and strengthen your system step-by-step.
do you need to compile more STANDARDs?
Bureau Veritas helps both small, medium-sized and large companies get started with one or more ISO certifications. We recommend most people to start with a gap analysis, so you get an overview of what is already in useable – and what is missing.