AI has moved beyond the hype. It is now embedded in products, processes, and decisions across industries. But as AI becomes part of everyday business, so do its risks.
Bias. Data breaches. Compliance failures. Reputational damage. Left unchecked, AI quickly shifts from opportunity to liability.
ISO/IEC 42001 is the first international standard focused on AI management systems. It provides a framework for organizations to manage AI responsibly, balancing innovation with governance, transparency, and risk control.
It helps organizations ensure that AI systems are safe, fair, and aligned with legal and ethical expectations. Like ISO 27001 for information security, ISO 42001 brings structure and clarity to a fast-evolving space where many organizations still operate without clear guidelines.
Who is it for?
ISO 42001 applies to any organization that develops, integrates, or uses AI systems.
It is relevant whether you:
- Build AI-powered products
- Embed AI into your operations
- Rely on AI-based third-party services
- Handle sensitive data processed by AI
Simply put, if your organization interacts with AI, directly or indirectly, it will benefit from applying ISO 42001.
What are the requirements?
The standard outlines how to establish, implement, maintain, and improve an AI management system.
Key requirements include:
- Defining AI objectives linked to business goals
- Establishing clear roles and responsibilities
- Identifying and managing AI risks, including ethical, legal, and social risks
- Implementing safeguards to mitigate those risks
- Monitoring, auditing, and improving AI practices continuously
- Keeping documentation to demonstrate compliance and accountability
The focus is not only on the technology itself but also on the people and processes responsible for it.
What is the process?
ISO 42001 follows a familiar process, especially for organizations used to frameworks like ISO 27001 or ISO 9001.
- Assessment – Identify gaps between your current AI practices and ISO 42001 requirements
- Design – Develop governance, policies, and controls tailored to your AI environment
- Implementation – Embed those controls into day-to-day operations
- Internal audit – Review and refine your system
- Certification audit – Optional, but recommended for organizations wanting formal recognition
Certification is not mandatory, but readiness is.
How will Deepsight help with ISO 42001?
At Deepsight, we see ISO 42001 as more than a compliance exercise. It is an opportunity to strengthen AI governance and integrate it into your broader security and compliance posture.
We help organizations:
- Map their AI systems, data flows, and stakeholders
- Identify AI-specific risks, including bias, misuse, and data security gaps
- Build practical governance structures that complement existing security programs
- Stay prepared for audits and adapt to evolving AI regulations
Our approach is tailored, scalable, and built to keep you ready for what comes next. We do not just aim for compliance. We help you turn AI into a trusted asset.
Next Step
Start with an ISO 42001 readiness assessment. Schedule yours here.