An update to the international standard for auditing management systems
On 27 May 2026, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) published the new edition of ISO 19011:2026, the reference document that provides guidelines for auditing management systems. This is the fourth edition of the standard and it replaces ISO 19011:2018. The update reflects significant changes in the business environment, the digitalisation of processes, and the need for a modern and efficient approach to audit activities.
For organisations implementing standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000 or other management systems, the new recommendations represent an important step towards increasing the effectiveness of internal audit processes.
The main changes in ISO 19011:2026
1. Integration of remote and hybrid audits
The new edition offers detailed recommendations on planning, conducting and documenting audits carried out by digital means. Hybrid and remote audits are recognised as effective instruments for evaluating organisational conformity and performance.
2. Greater emphasis on the risk-based approach
ISO 19011:2026 reinforces the concept of risk-based auditing, encouraging organisations to concentrate their resources on the processes, activities and areas with the greatest impact on performance and conformity.
3. Use of digital technologies
The standard includes guidance on the use of digital tools, online platforms and electronic evidence in the audit process, contributing to more efficient audit activities and to greater traceability of information.
4. Developing auditor competence
Auditors need additional competences in order to evaluate digital information, manage remote audits, and use modern technologies for communication and for verifying evidence.
What do these changes mean for organisations?
Implementing the recommendations of ISO 19011:2026 can deliver a number of benefits:
- greater efficiency of the internal audit programme;
- faster identification of risks and opportunities;
- reduced costs associated with auditing;
- improved decision-making;
- a higher level of conformity with the requirements of ISO standards;
- support for the continual improvement process.
How can internal audit help you?
An effective internal audit is not merely a check on conformity. It is a strategic instrument that helps an organisation identify its strengths, reduce risks and improve the performance of its processes.
Our company provides professional ISO internal audit services, management system assessments, and support in preparing for certification audits against ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000 and ISO 13485.
For further information on the impact of the new ISO 19011:2026 edition on your organisation, and to plan an internal audit programme adapted to the new requirements, please get in touch with us.