iso standards are prepared by the International Organisation for Standardisation which is an international standard setting body headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland and was established in 1947.

The International standards published by ISO are designated with the format ISO[/IEC] [/ASTM] [IS] nnnnn[-p]:[yyyy] Title, where nnnnn is the number of the standard, p is an optional part number, yyyy is the year published, and Title describes the subject.

i.e. ISO 9001:2008 Quality management systems - Requirements

The standards are copyrighted by ISO and are not freely distributed. In the UK BSI are recognised as the National Standards body authorised to distribute the ISO standards.

ISO assured are an authorised affiliate of BSI British Standards; http://shop.bsigroup.com/en/

Do I need to own a copy of the standard?

Generally speaking a copy of the standard is useful but is not essential if you are using one of our self-assessed or consultancy packages as we will supply you with checklists that cover all areas set out by the relevant standard.