ISO/IEC 42001 Certification – Artificial Intelligence (AI) Management System

AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, from learning and reasoning to decision-making and perception.

AI incorporates various technologies, such as:

• Machine learning (ML) – training algorithms on data to predict or decide without being explicitly programmed
• Deep learning – a type of ML that utilizes multi-layered neural networks to analyze numerous factors of data
• Natural language processing (NLP) – enables machines to understand, interpret and generate human language

AI offers amazing potential, but it also introduces significant risks if improperly managed, including:

• Safety hazards from autonomous systems making unintended decisions
• Poor transparency in complex models obscuring how outcomes are generated
• Privacy breaches through misuse of personal data
• Cybersecurity threats from cyberattacks or system vulnerabilities

Examples include an AI-powered chatbot unintentionally leaking sensitive information or a predictive model reinforcing bias if not properly governed. As AI systems become more embedded in critical operations, structured oversight becomes more urgent.

AI is developing and being adopted rapidly in many industries, products and services. Undoubtedly, AI is influencing, and will further influence, society and our lives.

Due to this progress and influence, trust, ethics and social concerns must be addressed. AI must be reliable, fair and transparent – it must be trustworthy.

ISO/IEC 42001 provides a certifiable AI management system (AIMS) framework in which AI systems can be developed and deployed as part of an AI assurance ecosystem.

Any organization or professional looking to develop, provide or use AI systems or services safely, ensuring responsible development and use. It covers all industries, the public sector and non-profits.

Because AI systems are complex, implementing an AIMS requires a truly multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the use case, this may include legal, privacy, operations, marketing, R&D, sales, HR, IT and risk managers.

It applies to all AI applications and contexts.

An ISO/IEC 42001 AIMS is a set of interrelated or interacting elements of an organization to help establish policies and objectives, as well as processes to achieve these objectives, relating to responsibly developing, providing or using AI systems.

The main benefits of ISO/IEC 42001 certification are:

• Responsible and trustworthy AI: ensures ethical and accountable AI use
• Reputation management: enhances trust in AI applications
• AI governance: supports legal and regulatory compliance
• Practical guidance: manages AI-specific risks effectively
• Identifying opportunities: encourages innovation within a structured framework

The international standard contributes to UN SDG:

• 5 – Gender Equality
• 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
• 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
• 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• 10 – Reduced Inequalities
• 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
• 14 – Life Below Water