As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in how we work and deliver value; the need for responsible governance is only growing. Until recently; there was no international framework to guide organisations on how to manage AI ethically; transparently; and in line with evolving regulation.

Enter ISO/IEC 42001; the world’s first certifiable AI Management System Standard (AIMS). Designed to help organisations manage AI risk and promote trust; it offers a practical framework for aligning innovation with compliance.

If your business is already aligned with ISO 27001 or other recognised standards; ISO 42001 provides a natural extension; and a smart step forward in futureproofing your AI systems.

What is ISO 42001?

Published in late 2023; ISO 42001 is a globally recognised standard for organisations that develop; deploy; or use AI systems. It sets out how to build a structured; auditable management system to govern AI use; ensuring it is safe; fair; and aligned with both internal values and external regulation.

The standard follows the same High-Level Structure (HLS) as ISO 27001 and ISO 9001; which makes integration into existing compliance frameworks straightforward.

Why it matters

AI brings exciting opportunities; but also significant risks. From biased algorithms to lack of transparency or accountability; the potential for harm is real. And as regulations like the EU AI Act start to roll out; businesses need to be proactive in how they govern and document AI use.

ISO 42001 provides clarity in a fast-moving space. It helps you:

Build stakeholder trust through documented governance.
Reduce regulatory and reputational risk.
Ensure AI is used ethically; securely; and transparently.
Align with current and future frameworks- including the EU AI Act.

Who should adopt ISO 42001?

ISO 42001 is relevant for any organisation working with AI; especially those in regulated sectors or offering AI-based products and services.

It is particularly valuable if you:

Use AI in high-risk areas (such as hiring; healthcare; legal; or infrastructure).
Work with general-purpose AI models or foundation models.
Need to demonstrate trust and accountability to customers; partners; or regulators.
Want to align with upcoming legislation like the EU AI Act

As AI adoption accelerates; formal risk management is becoming a priority. Gartner predicts that by 2026; 40% of enterprises will use formal AI risk management frameworks* – up from less than 5% in 2023. ISO 42001 provides a timely and structured approach to meet this growing need.