ISO 37001:2016 - ANTI-BRIBERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Understanding ISO 37001
ISO 37001:2016 provides comprehensive anti-bribery solutions by specifying requirements and offering guidance for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving an anti-bribery management system. ISO 37001:2016 can be implemented as a stand-alone system or integrated into an organization’s existing compliance management system.
ISO 37001:2016 sets out requirements and provides guidance for a management system designed to help an organization to prevent, detect and respond to bribery and comply with anti-bribery laws and voluntary commitments applicable to its activities. Implementing ISO 37001:2016 not only helps in bribery risk management but also aligns your organization with the global best practices for corporate governance.
ISO 37001 Framework and Requirements
ISO 37001:2016 has ten sections. Three sections are general information about the standard for your company and are not auditable. Certification focuses on the seven key auditable sections:
- Context of the organization
- Leadership
- Planning
- Support
- Operation
- Performance evaluation
- Improvement
The evolution of ISO 37001 introduced enhanced requirements for organizations to demonstrate continual improvement, reduce bribery risks, and strengthen anti-bribery practices through a systematic, process-based approach.
ISO 37001 — The Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle (PDCA)
The Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle is the operating principle of all ISO management system standards, including ISO 37001:2016. This framework provides a structured approach to establish, implement, maintain, and improve an organization’s anti-bribery management system (ABMS) while supporting continuous improvement.
Plan
In the planning phase, organizations identify bribery risks by assessing internal and external factors. This stage involves defining the scope of the ABMS, establishing anti-bribery objectives, and setting measurable targets aligned with the organization’s compliance and ethical standards.
Do
During this stage, organizations allocate resources, assign responsibilities, and develop controls to mitigate identified bribery risks. Policies, procedures, and training programs are implemented to ensure employees and third parties comply with the anti-bribery requirements established in the planning phase.
Check
The checking phase involves monitoring and measuring the effectiveness of the ABMS to ensure anti-bribery objectives and targets are achieved. This includes conducting internal audits at planned intervals to evaluate compliance with ISO 37001 requirements and identifying any non-conformities.
Act
Based on the findings from the checking phase, organizations conduct a management review to identify areas for improvement. Corrective actions and preventive measures are implemented to enhance the ABMS and reduce the risk of bribery incidents.
Benefits of ISO 37001
Implementing ISO 37001:2016 certification offers a range of benefits that strengthen a company’s commitment to ethical business practices and compliance with international standards. Here’s how:
Anti-Bribery Risk Management
Assists a company in implementing an anti-bribery management system, or in enhancing its existing controls, with the potential to reduce corporate risk and costs related to bribery.
Boosts Stakeholder Confidence
Helps provide assurance to the management and owners of a company, and to its funders, customers and other business associates that the company has implemented internationally recognized anti-bribery controls.
Demonstrates Compliance
Helps in the event of an investigation to provide evidence to the prosecutors or courts that the company had taken reasonable steps to prevent bribery.
Professional ISO 37001 Consultant in Malaysia
At SQC, our comprehensive ISO 37001:2016 consulting services guide your business through each step of certification, ensuring compliance with the ISO 37001 standard and setting your organization up for long-term success. Our process includes:
Initial Consultation and Assessment
We conduct a thorough analysis to understand your organization’s goals, current practices, and desired outcomes with ISO 37001 standards. This helps us identify your unique needs and expectations.
Planning and Customization
We assist in developing a tailored plan for ISO implementation. This includes defining the implementation scope across relevant departments, setting timelines, and collaborating with your team to establish an effective schedule.
Gap Analysis and Policy Development
Our consultants conduct a thorough gap analysis, comparing existing processes with ISO 37001 requirements. We then assist in creating a customized documentation framework, revising policies, and aligning procedures to bridge identified gaps.
Training and Implementation
Working alongside your team, we support the rollout of new processes identified in the gap analysis. We provide targeted training to ensure employees understand ISO 37001 standards, the importance of ethical practices, and their role in preventing bribery. We support the rollout of the ABMS, including establishing controls, communication channels, and due diligence procedures. Internal audit programs are also implemented to monitor and measure compliance.
Pre-Certification and Audit Support
Before the certification audit, we conduct a pre-certification audit to evaluate your organization’s ISO 37001 readiness. Our team helps implement corrective actions if needed and supports your selection of a reputable certification body. We guide you through the final certification audit process to ensure success.
Continuous Support and Improvement
After achieving ISO 37001 certification, we work with your organization to foster a culture of continuous improvement, conducting periodic reviews to maintain compliance. Our team conducts periodic reviews and updates to ensure your ABMS remains effective, adaptive, and compliant with changing business and regulatory environments.
FAQs on ISO/IEC 17025:2017
What is ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System?
ISO 37001 is an internationally recognized standard for Anti-Bribery Management Systems (ABMS) designed to help organizations prevent, detect, and respond to bribery. It provides a framework for establishing effective anti-bribery controls and demonstrates a commitment to ethical business practices.
Why is ISO 37001 important for my business?
ISO 37001 certification strengthens your organization’s bribery prevention measures, enhances its reputation, and demonstrates compliance with international anti-bribery laws. It helps build trust among stakeholders, reduces bribery risks, and protects your business from financial and legal consequences.
How long does it take to achieve ISO 37001 certification?
The time needed for ISO 37001 certification varies depending on the organization’s size, current practices, and readiness. Generally, it can take from several months to a year.
What is the cost of ISO 37001 certification in Malaysia?
The cost of ISO 37001 certification in Malaysia varies based on factors like company size, scope, and certification body fees. Consulting fees may also vary depending on the level of support needed, generally ranging around several thousand Ringgit Malaysia. Contact us to find out more.
Do I need a consultant for ISO 37001?
While ISO 37001 certification can be achieved independently, working with a consultant can simplify the process, provide expert insights, and increase the likelihood of successful certification.
Can I apply for ISO 37001 without a consultant?
Yes, but working with a consultant can simplify the process, provide essential guidance, and reduce the time to certification. If you prefer to apply for ISO 37001:2016 by your own organization, consider visiting our Training Programmes for resources and courses that can help you understand and implement ISO 37001 requirements effectively.
Can ISO 37001 be integrated with other ISO standards?
Yes. ISO 37001 follows the common high-level structure for ISO management system standards, for easy integration with other standards such as ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems.
Strengthen Your Organization with ISO 37001 Certification
Demonstrate your commitment to ethical practices and protect your organization from bribery risks. With SQC’s ISO 37001 certification services, you can prevent, detect, and respond to bribery while ensuring compliance with international anti-corruption standards.
Ready to safeguard your organization? Contact us today to begin your ISO 37001 certification journey!