Common structure, common language
for integrated management systems
With the publication of ISO 9001:2026 and ISO 14001:2026, two more widely used management system standards now follow the Harmonized Structure (HS), after ISO/IEC 27001. Since 2021, the new structure has been gradually replacing the High Level Structure (HLS). The proven outline of ten clauses remains, as do the common core requirements. What is new are targeted clarifications, additions, and deletions, which each standard adopts with its next revision. Until then, both structures exist side by side.
What makes our white paper so valuable
- Six ISO standards at a glance: Infographics for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001, and ISO 22301
- A quick, reliable overview: Place the structures of the management system standards side by side and compare them
- Key changes to the Harmonized Structure explained in brief: from the climate-related aspects in Clause 4 and the planning of changes (6.3) to the new perspective on documented information
Background
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced the High Level Structure in 2012 to give management system standards a common basic structure, common core requirements, and common terms and definitions, making integrated management systems easier to implement. With the revision of Annex SL in 2021, it became the Harmonized Structure. It takes effect with the next scheduled revision of each standard. While ISO 9001:2026, ISO 14001:2026, and ISO/IEC 27001:2022 already follow the new structure, ISO 45001, ISO 50001, and ISO 22301 are currently still based on the High Level Structure. The revised edition of ISO 45001 is expected to be published in mid-2027.
Expertise from practice
This free overview of the Harmonized Structure and the High Level Structure was created by experienced standards experts at DQS. It is based on the current editions of the standards and provides quick orientation.
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