ISO 42001
Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS)
QLC’s ISO 42001 certification consultants answer your questions
ISO/IEC 42001 is the first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS). Developed by ISO/IEC, it sets the requirements for the responsible development, use, and governance of AI systems. It helps organizations manage the risks and opportunities arising from AI adoption, strengthening transparency, safety, compliance, and stakeholder trust.
The standard applies to any organization—of any size or sector—that develops, uses, or is affected by AI systems, including:
Technology companies, startups, and software development teams
Organizations using AI in critical operations (e.g., decision support, safety-relevant processes)
Public bodies, service providers, and companies seeking responsible AI practices
An ISO/IEC 42001 AIMS typically involves:
AI use-case analysis: mapping AI applications in development or operation
Policies & procedures: establishing accountability, ethics, and safety controls for AI
Governance & oversight: mechanisms for monitoring, evaluation, and risk management
Training & awareness: upskilling staff on roles and AIMS requirements
Internal audits & improvement: periodic checks, corrective actions, and continual improvement
Complexity depends on:
The degree of AI integration across processes
The complexity and risk profile of models/algorithms in use
Organizations already certified to ISO 27001 or ISO 9001 typically have a head start (shared management-system structure and controls).
Yes. Certification is performed by accredited certification bodies (in Greece, bodies accredited by ESYD or equivalent). The process includes:
Conformity assessment against standard requirements
Implementation audit (evidence that controls operate effectively)
Certification decision: a three-year Certificate of Conformity (with corrective actions required before issuance if major nonconformities exist; minor items resolved by the next audit)
Surveillance audits: scheduled, at least annually, to confirm ongoing conformity
Demonstrable responsible and transparent AI use
Increased trust from customers, investors, and regulators
Reduced legal, ethical, and business risks associated with AI
Competitive advantage through standardized, safe, and auditable practices
Timelines vary by organizational maturity, AI scope, size, and process complexity. For small organizations, development and certification typically take around 3–5 months.