ISO 28001:2007 – Supply Chain Security Management Systems (SCSMS)

ISO 28001:2007 is a standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving security management systems specifically for the supply chain.

The standard supports organizations in identifying and mitigating security threats such as terrorism, smuggling, piracy, theft, and tampering that may occur at any point in the supply chain. It integrates security risk management with business processes to ensure safe and efficient supply chain operations.

🔍 Purpose of ISO 28001

Secure international supply chains

Improve resilience to disruptions or attacks

Align with global customs and trade security programs (e.g., WCO SAFE Framework)

Facilitate trade and ensure uninterrupted flow of goods

Strengthen stakeholder confidence (e.g., customers, regulators, partners)

🛠️ Key Elements of ISO 28001

ISO 28001 is aligned with ISO 28000 (Supply Chain Security Management System – Requirements), and provides additional guidance on best practices. Key areas include:

1.  Security Risk Assessment

Identify threats and vulnerabilities throughout the supply chain

Assess impact and likelihood

Prioritize and implement mitigation strategies

2.  Policy and Objectives

Define a security management policy

Set measurable security objectives

Align with organizational strategy and legal requirements

3.  Security Management

System Planning
Develop policies and plans to manage risks

Assign roles and responsibilities

Ensure contingency and emergency preparedness

4. Operational Controls

Screening of personnel, containers, cargo, and vehicles

Secure logistics practices (e.g., seals, tracking)

Secure facility management

5.  Monitoring and Review

Conduct internal audits and security performance evaluations

Measure against key performance indicators (KPIs)

Identify nonconformities and take corrective actions

6.  Training and Competence

Ensure personnel are trained on security threats, awareness, and emergency response

7.  Stakeholder Engagement

Collaborate with customs, logistics partners, and government authorities

Share intelligence and ensure supply chain partners also implement security practices

✅ Requirements for ISO 28001 Certification

To be certified, an organization must:

Implement a supply chain security management system (SCSMS) compliant with ISO 28001.

Conduct a gap analysis to identify areas needing improvement.

Develop required documentation, including:

Security policy

Procedures for risk assessment

Incident response protocols

Training and communication plans

Perform internal audits and a management review.

Engage a third-party certification body to perform a two-stage audit:

Stage 1: Review documentation and preparedness

Stage 2: Evaluate implementation and effectiveness on-site

Address nonconformities (if any) found during the audit.

Receive ISO 28001 certification, usually valid for 3 years, with annual surveillance audits.

🎯 Benefits of ISO 28001 Certification

Reduces risks of disruption, theft, and loss

Enhances customer confidence and brand reputation

Improves compliance with customs and trade regulations

Facilitates faster and more secure border clearances

Enables competitive advantage in logistics and manufacturing sectors