Question 1

How quickly can you perform a Gap Analysis?

Accepted Answer

We prioritise our clients and can typically schedule an ISO 9001 or 14001 Gap Analysis within 1-2 weeks of your enquiry. The on-site process takes 1-2 days depending on complexity, with a full 'Action Plan' report delivered within 48 hours.

Question 2

Do you only work with manufacturing companies?

Accepted Answer

While we have deep expertise in engineering and high-tech manufacturing across diverse regions and sectors, ISO standards are universal. We also support logistics, construction, and professional service firms who need a practical, non-bureaucratic approach to compliance.

Question 3

What happens if we have a Major Non-Conformance?

Accepted Answer

Don't panic. A Major Non-Conformance isn't the end of the road. We specialise in 'recovery'—helping you conduct a Root Cause Analysis, implementing an engineered fix, and providing the evidence required to clear the finding with your certification body (e.g., BSI, SGS, NQA) quickly.

Question 4

Are your internal audits recognised by certification bodies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Teresa is a qualified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor and ISO 14001 Internal Auditor. External auditors from major bodies (BSI, etc.) actively prefer to see internal audits conducted by independent, qualified professionals rather than internal staff, as it demonstrates impartiality and higher competence.

Question 5

What are your fees for ISO consulting?

Accepted Answer

We believe in transparency. Unlike large agencies with hidden costs, we offer fixed-price packages for Gap Analysis and Audit days. For ongoing support, our 'Retained Manager' service offers a predictable monthly fee that is significantly more cost-effective than hiring a full-time Quality Manager.

Question 6

Do you help with both ISO 9001 and ISO 14001?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many of our clients integrate both Quality (9001) and Environmental (14001) management systems. Since the standards share a common structure (Annex SL), we can often audit both simultaneously, saving you time and disruption.

Question 7

How much does ISO 9001 certification cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Two costs are involved. Our consultancy fees are fixed and published: an ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 gap analysis is £650, internal audit days are £650 (£375 for a remote half-day), our Audit Rescue package is £1,200, and Internal Audit Cover starts at £220 a month. The certification body's own fees (BSI, NQA, SGS and others) are separate and depend on your company's size and scope — we help you scope and compare those quotes so there are no surprises.

Question 8

How long does ISO 9001 certification take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how mature your existing processes are, which is exactly what a gap analysis establishes. We can usually schedule your gap analysis within 1-2 weeks of enquiry, with a written action plan delivered within 48 hours. From there, the timeline to your certification body's Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits is driven by how quickly the actions are closed — the gap report gives you a realistic, prioritised schedule rather than a guess.

Question 9

What is ISO 9001 and does my company need it?

Accepted Answer

ISO 9001 is the international standard for quality management systems. Certification is voluntary, but many UK manufacturers pursue it because larger customers and public-sector tenders increasingly require it from suppliers. For chemicals, adhesives and sealants manufacturers it also provides the process discipline that regulators and customer audits expect. If you're unsure whether it's worth it, a free 20-minute exploratory call is the place to start.

Question 10

What is the difference between ISO 9001 and ISO 14001?

Accepted Answer

ISO 9001 covers quality management — how you consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements. ISO 14001 covers environmental management — how you control and reduce your environmental impact. They share the same Annex SL structure, so much of the documentation and auditing overlaps; we frequently implement and audit both together, which cuts cost and disruption compared with running them separately.

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