Finally, the updated version of the ISO 22000:2018 standard has been published. While the idea of adapting our management system to the new requirements may raise concerns, in this case, the change brings more benefits than concerns, especially if your company also implements other standards such as ISO 9001 and/or ISO 14001. Integrated systems are now much simpler. Below, we will explain the structure of the new ISO 22000:2018 version.
Structure of the Standard
The ISO 22000:2018 standard is divided into 10 clauses, with the first three addressing general topics without requirements. Starting from clause 4 to 10, we find all the requirements, and it's these latter clauses that we will analyze in detail.
4. Context of the organization
This clause is a significant addition in the new ISO 22000. Here, the standard urges us not to consider our management system as an isolated entity within our company. Instead, we must analyze the external and internal context to identify situations that may affect our food safety system, whether positively or negatively. This involves considering factors such as political, social, market, cultural, among others.
It also requires us to identify stakeholders who have an interest in the operation of our management system and the achievement of planned results.
5. Leadership
In comparison to the previous version that referred to "management commitment," this clause emphasizes the concept of leadership. It retains the food safety policy but with certain adjustments that facilitate the implementation of integrated policies, such as combining food safety with quality, food safety with environmental aspects, and more.
6. Planning
This clause is entirely new. Here, we will not only carry out a risk analysis but two analyses: one for risks and another for opportunities. The standard requires the identification, evaluation, and application of measures to manage the risks associated with our food safety system, as well as the identification of opportunities to increase the likelihood of their realization. It also sets requirements for food safety objectives and change planning.
7. Support
This clause covers various requirements that were previously in other sections in the 2005 version. It includes resource management, competency management, communication, and documentation (previously document control and record control).
8. Operation
This clause is crucial in the standard. It retains much of what was in section 7, "planning and realization of safe products," in the 2005 version. At this point, the second hazard analysis is carried out, focusing on physical, chemical, and biological hazards related to raw materials, ingredients, packaging materials, processes, and more. Additionally, it addresses aspects like the HACCP plan, PRPs, OPRPs, and critical limits.
9. Performance evaluation
This section includes all requirements related to monitoring, measurement, analysis, evaluation, internal audits, and management reviews. This clause refers to verifying the performance of our management system, equivalent to the "Check" stage in the PDCA cycle.
10. Improvement
The final point of ISO 22000:2018 is dedicated to improvement. It details the requirements for driving continuous improvements, including handling non-conformities, implementing corrective actions, and updating the food safety management system.
The structure of ISO 22000:2018 is completely renewed. While many requirements have simply changed location, numerous additions require a careful transition. The key recommendation is to develop a plan and start as soon as possible to avoid deadline pressures and safeguard your certification.