ISO 37301
International standard for compliance management systems
ISO 30301
International standard for records management systems requirements
Quick Verdict
ISO 37301 establishes certifiable compliance management systems focusing on risks, culture, and whistleblowing across all organizations. ISO 30301 builds auditable records management systems ensuring reliable evidence preservation. Companies adopt them for governance, risk mitigation, and stakeholder assurance through integrated, scalable frameworks.
ISO 37301
ISO 37301:2021 Compliance management systems – Requirements
Key Features
- Certifiable requirements standard replacing guidance-only ISO 19600
- High-Level Structure alignment for integrated management systems
- Risk-based compliance obligations assessment and planning
- Leadership commitment and compliance culture emphasis
- Robust whistleblowing channels with anti-retaliation protections
ISO 30301
ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records requirements
Key Features
- High-Level Structure for MSS integration
- Records lifecycle operational controls (Clause 8, Annex A)
- Explicit records requirements analysis (Clause 4.1.2)
- Risk-based planning and measurable objectives
- Flexible conformity pathways including certification
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
ISO 37301 Details
What It Is
ISO 37301:2021, titled Compliance management systems – Requirements with guidance for use, is a certifiable international standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving effective compliance management systems (CMS). It applies to all organization sizes and sectors, using a risk-based approach and Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle aligned with the ISO High-Level Structure (HLS).
Key Components
- Core clauses: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- Emphasizes leadership commitment, risk assessment, whistleblowing protections, internal audits, and continual improvement.
- Built on HLS for integration with ISO 9001, 14001, 27001; supports companion standards like ISO 37302 (effectiveness).
- Certifiable via accredited bodies like ANAB.
Why Organizations Use It
- Demonstrates systematic compliance to stakeholders, reduces risks of fines/reputation damage.
- Meets investor/ESG demands; enhances culture of integrity.
- Provides competitive edge through certification; supports UN SDGs.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk register, training, audits, certification.
- Scalable for SMEs/enterprises; 3-year certification cycle.
- Global applicability; 2024 amendment adds climate action changes. (178 words)
ISO 30301 Details
What It Is
ISO 30301:2019 is the international standard titled Information and documentation — Management systems for records — Requirements. It provides certifiable requirements for establishing, implementing, and improving a Management System for Records (MSR). The primary purpose is to ensure organizations create, control, and maintain reliable records as evidence supporting business activities, using a risk-based management system approach aligned with the High-Level Structure (HLS).
Key Components
- **HLS clauses 4–10Context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- **Clause 8 and Annex ARecords-specific operational controls for lifecycle (creation, capture, access, retention, disposition).
- Core principles: Authenticity, reliability, integrity, usability.
- Flexible conformity: Self-declaration, external confirmation, or third-party certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Enhances governance, compliance (legal/regulatory), risk mitigation (loss, litigation).
- Improves efficiency, auditability, stakeholder trust.
- Integrates with ISO 9001, 27001 for competitive advantage.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: Gap analysis, policy design, operational controls, audits. Applicable to any organization/size; certification optional via accredited bodies. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | ISO 37301 | ISO 30301 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Compliance obligations, risks, whistleblowing, culture | Records lifecycle, creation, retention, disposition |
| Industry | All sectors, sizes, global applicability | All sectors, sizes, global applicability |
| Nature | Certifiable requirements standard, voluntary | Certifiable requirements standard, voluntary |
| Testing | Internal audits, management reviews, certification audits | Internal audits, management reviews, certification audits |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, no legal penalties | Loss of certification, no legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ISO 37301 and ISO 30301
ISO 37301 FAQ
ISO 30301 FAQ
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