Integrated Management System (IMS) Development

What is an Integrated Management System (IMS)?

An Integrated Management System (IMS) is a single management system that meets the requirements of multiple standards, such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. Instead of managing separate systems, the organisation runs one structured set of processes. In practice, this means one framework, one manual structure and one evidence set, rather than duplicated documents for each standard.

How does the Garek 10 Standard support an Integrated Management System?

The Garek 10 Standard is used as the core structure for the Integrated Management System. Its ten management areas provide a stable, process-based framework into which ISO and other standard requirements are mapped. This allows multiple standards to be integrated into one logical system without changing how the business actually operates.

Can we integrate multiple ISO standards using the Garek 10 Framework?

Yes. The Garek 10 Framework is designed to accommodate multiple standards by mapping their clauses and requirements into the same ten management areas. Shared requirements such as leadership, risk, competence, control of documented information, internal audit and management review are handled once, with standard-specific requirements added only where genuinely needed.

What does deconstruction and integration mean when using Garek 10?

Deconstruction means breaking each standard down into what it actually requires, rather than treating clause numbers as processes. Integration then places those requirements into the appropriate Garek 10 management areas. This avoids running parallel systems and ensures that requirements sit naturally within existing business processes.

How does Garek 10 help reduce duplication in an Integrated Management System?

By using Garek 10 as the single system structure, policies, procedures and records are written once and referenced across standards. Evidence mapping is used to show how one process or record satisfies multiple requirements, removing the need for duplicate documents or separate procedures for each standard.

What does an integrated audit look like under the Garek 10 Framework?

An integrated audit follows the Garek 10 management areas rather than individual ISO clauses. Auditors review each area and capture evidence that satisfies multiple standards at the same time. This creates one audit trail, one set of findings and clearer visibility of how the system performs as a whole.

Does using Garek 10 change how certification bodies audit the system?

Certification bodies still audit against the relevant standards, but the evidence is presented through the Garek 10 structure. Clause mapping tables and cross-references are used so auditors can easily see where each requirement is met within the integrated system.

Do we need a separate manual for each standard in an IMS?

No. An Integrated Management System built on the Garek 10 Standard uses one manual and one system structure. Standard requirements are mapped into that structure, meaning the organisation manages one system rather than maintaining multiple manuals for quality, environment, health and safety or other disciplines.

How long does it take to build an Integrated Management System using Garek 10?

Timescales depend on the organisation’s size, complexity and starting point. Using the Garek 10 Framework typically speeds up integration because the structure already exists, allowing teams to focus on mapping requirements and evidence rather than designing a system from scratch.

Is Garek 10 only suitable for ISO standards?

No. While it is commonly used to integrate ISO standards, the Garek 10 Framework can also incorporate other management system requirements, customer standards and regulatory obligations, all within the same integrated structure.