If your business in Manchester is planning to achieve ISO certification — for example to strengthen credibility, meet procurement requirements or improve processes — working with the right provider is essential. ISO certification must typically be issued by a UKAS-accredited certification body so that it’s recognised by regulators, clients and tender panels across the UK.
Below you’ll find certification bodies and related services located in or serving Manchester, including both bodies that can certify and local consultants or support services that help you prepare for certification.
Recommended ISO certification bodies in Manchester
These organisations are either UKAS-accredited certifiers operating in Manchester or nationally available bodies frequently used by local companies:
- ISOQAR – UKAS-accredited certification provider offering audits and certificates for standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001 and more, with an office in Trafford Park.
- Centre for Assessment Ltd – UKAS-accredited body based in Manchester offering certification to a range of ISO and sector standards plus training services.
- Approachable Certification – UKAS-accredited certification body with a friendly, service-oriented approach; helps with ISO 9001, 14001, 27001 and 45001.
These bodies are recognised for providing independent third-party ISO certification that carries acceptance across government, corporate and international markets.
ISO consultants and implementation support in Manchester
Certification bodies audit and issue certificates, but many firms benefit from preparatory support. In Manchester you can also find experienced consultants and support services to help document, implement and prepare for audits:
- Manchester ISO consultants – Mark1 Systems Ltd – Provides support with developing management systems and preparing for certification.
- LMS Certifications Limited – Local certification agency offering tailored support for quality and management systems.
- Candy Management Consultants – Consultancy specialising in business systems and operational improvement (including ISO readiness).
- Integral Certification Pvt Ltd – Consultant providing guidance on standards and management systems.
- LMS Assessments Limited – Training and assessment centre supporting ISO understanding and audit preparation.
These local consultants can be particularly helpful where in-house expertise is limited, helping organise documentation, conduct internal audits and make the certification process smoother.
Certification vs consultancy — what’s the difference?
- Certification bodies conduct independent audits and issue ISO certificates. These certificates are widely recognised if the body is UKAS-accredited, which demonstrates competence and impartiality.
- Consultants help you prepare your management systems and documentation before you approach a certifier; they do not issue certificates themselves.
For many Manchester companies, a combination of consulting support and then a UKAS-accredited certification body audit delivers the best results.
Popular ISO standards you might pursue
Most Manchester businesses seek certification against one or more of the following standards:
- ISO 9001 – Quality management
- ISO 14001 – Environmental management
- ISO 27001 – Information security management
- ISO 45001 – Occupational health and safety
Each standard requires documented processes, internal audits and a successful third-party audit before certification is granted.
Tips for Manchester businesses
- Check UKAS accreditation: Always verify that the certification body is accredited for the specific standard you need.
- Understand timelines: Certification typically takes several months from initial gap analysis to final audit.
- Get local support: Working with a Manchester-based consultant and a local auditor can save time and reduce travel coordination.