Steps for establishing and implementing of ISO 22000

The following steps help an organisation plan and implement a food safety management system. The work should be adapted to its products, processes and existing controls.

Implementation steps

1. Build awareness: train relevant personnel on the requirements of ISO 22000:2018 and applicable amendments.
2. Assign responsibilities: appoint the food safety team and team leader.
3. Review current practices: identify gaps between the existing management system and applicable requirements.
4. Plan improvements: define actions, responsibilities, resources and timing to address the gaps.
5. Implement the FSMS: put the agreed arrangements into practice and retain evidence of operation.
6. Review readiness: evaluate implementation and address outstanding issues before arranging an independent certification audit, if certification is sought.

ISO 22000:2005 references in older implementation plans should be reviewed against the applicable current edition. See ISO's official overview.