What is BS EN ISO 26190:2012?

The BS EN ISO 26190:2012 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for document management systems. It specifies the requirements for an organization to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve a document management system to effectively support its operations and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Key Features of BS EN ISO 26190:2012

This standard outlines the key features of an effective document management system. It emphasizes the importance of establishing clear document control procedures and maintaining accurate records. Here are some of the main aspects covered by BS EN ISO 26190:2012:

Document Control: The standard provides guidelines for the control of documents, ensuring that they are adequately protected, properly identified, stored, and readily available when needed.

Document Lifecycle: It defines the stages involved in the lifecycle of a document, including creation, review, approval, distribution, and obsolescence.

Version Control: BS EN ISO 26190:2012 emphasizes the importance of maintaining document versions to prevent confusion and ensure that only current and approved versions are used.

Benefits of Implementing BS EN ISO 26190:2012

By adhering to the requirements outlined in BS EN ISO 26190:2012, organizations can enjoy several benefits:

Improved Efficiency: Effective document management leads to streamlined processes, reducing the time and effort required to find, access, and distribute documents.

Enhanced Compliance: Implementing BS EN ISO 26190:2012 helps ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties or legal issues.

Increased Productivity: Easy access to accurate and up-to-date documents enables employees to work more efficiently and make well-informed decisions.

Better Collaboration: BS EN ISO 26190:2012 emphasizes the importance of document sharing and collaboration, fostering enhanced communication and teamwork within an organization.

Getting Started with BS EN ISO 26190:2012

If your organization is considering implementing BS EN ISO 26190:2012, it's essential to follow a systematic approach:

Evaluate Current Document Management Processes: Assess your existing document management practices to identify areas that need improvement.

Create a Document Management Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan outlining the steps to be taken to implement BS EN ISO 26190:2012.

Train Employees: Provide training sessions to help employees understand the standards and their roles in ensuring effective document management.

Implement Document Control Procedures: Establish procedures for document creation, review, approval, distribution, and storage.

Monitor and Continually Improve: Regularly assess and review your document management system to identify areas for improvement.

By following these guidelines, organizations can successfully implement BS EN ISO 26190:2012 and reap the numerous benefits that come along with it.