ISO 55001

 

What is ISO 55001?

ISO 55001:2024 is the certifiable international standard for Asset Management Systems (AMS). Providing a comprehensive and auditable framework for organizations of all types and sizes to establish, implement, maintain, and continuously improve their asset management.

Key principles of this standard include; a Systematic approach to Asset Management, value realization, leadership commitment, and collaboration and integration.

 

Who requires an ISO 55001 certification?

Although ISO 55001 is not a mandatory certification; the standard is designed to suit businesses of any size that wish to demonstrate and improve their dedication to implementing asset management into their organisations processes and system.

Sector specific organisations such as private enterprises, government bodies, and universities in particular would greatly benefit from pursuing certification in ISO 55001.

 

How can a ISO 55001 certification benefit your business?

Becoming certified for ISO 55001 can bring a wide range of benefits to your organisation, including:

 

• Structured asset processes


• Culture of continuous improvement


• Operational control

How can you prepare for ISO 55001 Certification?

Although the thought of starting the certification process may seem daunting, there are a variety of steps you can take to make the process to becoming certified far more streamlined:

 

• Familiarise yourself with the ISO 55001 standard


• Conduct a gap analysis to highlight areas of your organisation that do not meet the standard guidance


• Develop and implement an Asset Management System.

What are the key requirements for ISO 55001?

When working towards becoming certified for ISO 55001, there are various areas that will be a focus during the audit. These areas include:

 

• Asset Management


• Awareness and Knowledge


• Operational planning and control

What clauses make up the structure of ISO 55001?

 

Clauses 1-3 – Introductory clauses:

The first three clauses of ISO 55001 introduce the history and purpose of the standard, along with the scope of the certification, and the sectors in which it can be applied.

In addition, an extensive list of terms and definitions are provided in clause 3 to support the understanding of organisations and clarify terms that feature throughout the standard.

 

Clause 4 – Context of the organisation:

Clause 4 sheds light on the processes and measure that organisations must take to ensure that management systems are correctly implemented. This includes; identifying the scope, understanding the needs and expectations of interested parties and asset management decision-making.



Climate change amendments:

The amendments have not changed the requirements of clause 4.1 and 4.2, rather they have added an assurance that climate change is considered for the management system. Due to the necessity of climate awareness, it should be considered by organisations and is therefore included as part of the standard.

Rather than a transition being required, organisations should instead consider and apply the guidance provided in the amendment. Should a company minute their considerations during their Management Review regarding CCC as well as evidence of their considerations and any actions, a discrepancy shall NOT be raised. However, should no minute exist for any considerations, then a discrepancy will be raised.

Where a minute and evidence does exist but is clearly of little relevance to CCC an Opportunity for Improvement (OFI) will be raised.

 

Clause 5 – Leadership:

Clause 5 emphasizes the vital role of top management in the AMS. Outlining the ways in which top management must demonstrate leadership and commitment. This includes taking accountability for the effectiveness of the AMS, and ensuring the asset management policy and objectives are established and compatible with the strategic direction.

 

Clause 6 – Planning:

Clause 6 focuses on planning for assets, through which organisations must identify risks and opportunities relating to their asset management system that need to be addressed. To ensure that intended outcomes can be achieved, the establishment of Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP) at relevant functions and levels must be consistent with the asset management policy.

 

Clause 7 – Support:

Clause 7 addresses the resources and support needed for the implementation and maintenance of the AMS. To achieve this, organisations must identify resources such as people, infrastructure, documentation, data and information, knowledge, financial resources that will play a part.

 

Clause 8 - Operation:

Clause 8 details guidance surrounding the operation of the AMS. This includes ways in which organisations plan, implement, and control the processes needed to meet the asset management objectives; including the management of life cycle processes.

 

Clause 9 – Performance evaluation:

Clause 9 focuses on the monitoring, measurement, analysis, and evaluation of the AMS's performance. This section highlights the methods that organisations must use to determine what needs to be monitored and measured, and when it should be performed. This includes evaluating the effectiveness of the AMS, the assets performance and internal audits to highlight areas of issue in advance.

 

Clause 10 – Improvement:

In the final section of the standard, clause 10 drives for a continual improvement of the AMS. This is achieved through the implementation of corrective actions to prevent recurrence and the establishment of predictive actions for decisions relating to assets. Through this, organisations are able to continually improve the suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness of its asset management system, fostering a culture of ongoing learning and adaptation.

 

How long will your ISO 55001 certificate be valid for?

Your ISO 55001 certificate will be valid for at least three years; dependent on the type of site that is being certified.

 

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