One of the most difficult and time-consuming elements of implementing ISO 42001 can be carrying out a security risk assessment. ISO 42001 is a risk-based framework, but it does not prescribe a specific risk assessment methodology. Choosing the correct risk assessment methodology for your organisation is an essential step toward effectively managing your security risks.

The risk assessment methodology should address the size of the risks versus organisational risk appetite, and apply a consistent asset-based or scenario-based approach. We take a pragmatic approach to assessing and documenting, and prioritising the real risks to your business-critical information and help you to develop effective risk treatment plans.

Before carrying out an ISO 42001 implementation, it is common for organisations to have inadequate policy documentation and, in some cases, no written policies at all. Where policy gaps are identified, we can help you speed up the process of creating policy documents.

SHCO can provide both template and bespoke documentation. We aim to help you produce policy documents that are practical and brief enough to be usable but robust enough to provide effective information security controls.

Before you can qualify for an ISO 42001 certificate, you will need to implement an internal security audit program. You will also need to have carried out at least some of the audits from your schedule. We can help you get up to speed quickly by walking you through the security audit process.

Our internal audit service is also aimed at organisations that already have an internal audit program in place but need assistance with the audit workload, or who feel they would benefit from a fresh pair of eyes from time to time.

Periodic management reviews are a cornerstone of an ISO 42001-based management system, and you will need to have held at least one management review to gain certification.

Simon Hunt will guide you through the process and ensure effective review of internal and external audit results, security incident records and your updated risk assessments to help you ensure continual improvement of your security management system.

SHCO can provide expert assistance to guide you through the certification process to ensure you are fully prepared for the final certification audits with your UKAS-accredited certification body.

We can also attend the certification audits, if you want the additional support, to ensure that the quality and effectiveness of your Information Security Management System is communicated to your external auditor, in terms that will be familiar to them.