Compliance
What is ISO 42001?
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 (ISO 42001) is the world’s first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS), developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). While not a regulation, ISO 42001 provides a globally recognized framework for managing AI responsibly and effectively.
As AI adoption rapidly increases across industries, organizations are facing growing challenges in ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical use of AI technologies. Conforming to ISO 42001 helps address these challenges by offering structured best practices for AI governance, risk management, and regulatory alignment.
ISO 42001: The Global Standard for AI Management Systems
ISO/IEC 42001 outlines a comprehensive framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving an AIMS. It applies to any organization that develops, deploys, produces, or utilizes AI-driven products and services—regardless of industry or size.
The Goal
ISO 42001 is designed to support organizations in mitigating AI-related risks, enhancing compliance, and promoting the ethical use of AI technologies.
How It Started
Recognizing the urgent need for guidance in a rapidly evolving AI landscape, ISO and IEC launched the initiative in 2021. Between 2022 and 2023, the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) collaborated with international stakeholders—including government agencies, academic institutions, and industry leaders—to draft the new standard.
In December 2023, ISO 42001 was officially published, marking a pivotal milestone for AI governance. Since then, organizations around the world have begun adopting the standard to future-proof their AI programs and prepare for upcoming regulatory requirements.
By implementing an AIMS, businesses can proactively demonstrate accountability, improve transparency, and position themselves as leaders in responsible AI.
Getting Started with ISO 42001
Establish AI Governance and Leadership
Any organization adopting AI should clearly define AI policies, roles, and responsibilities within the organization. They should also appoint an AI Governance Team to oversee compliance and risk management for their deployment. To reduce AI risk and guide adoption organizations should ensure leadership commitment to ethical AI practices and regulatory alignment.
Conduct an AI Risk and Compliance Assessment
Understanding AI risk is critical, especially given its likely newness to the origination. Organizations should identify potential AI-related risks, biases, and security vulnerabilities upfront. As part of the assessment, organizations should evaluate compliance with ISO 42001 requirements and relevant laws (e.g., GDPR, EU AI Act). Ater risks have been identified, they should implement risk mitigation strategies and establish safeguards for AI transparency and accountability.
Ready to Lead in Responsible AI?
Whether you’re just beginning your AI journey or working toward fully implementing ISO 42001, Coalfire is here to help. Let us guide you through the next steps and showcase your commitment to secure, ethical, and compliant AI practices. Contact Coalfire to take the next step toward certification.