Health-product manufacturing

ISO certification for pharma, cosmetics & medical devices

ISO 13485 is not one option among several for a medical-device manufacturer — it is a baseline requirement, at the core of market-access schemes like MDSAP and CE/UKCA marking. In cosmetics, ISO 22716 (GMP) plays the equivalent role. Greek pharmaceutical manufacturers already apply it at industrial scale — this is not a theoretical standard.

ISO 13485: the basis for CE and MDSAP

It applies to anyone designing, manufacturing, maintaining or distributing medical devices. It does not just certify "good quality" — it is the evidence base underpinning EU CE marking and the international Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP). Without it, access to many markets simply does not open.

ISO 22716: GMP for cosmetics

It covers production, control, storage and distribution of cosmetic products under good manufacturing practice. It is the scheme European distributors and large retail chains recognise before adding a new cosmetics supplier to their list.

When ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 gets added

In units with a broader product range (not only devices/cosmetics), ISO 9001 provides a wider organisational base. Where production has a significant environmental footprint (chemicals, waste), ISO 14001 documents its management — also important for licensing.

Not sure which standard fits your case? Book a free assessment — we will map your clients’ requirements and recommend the shortest path.

Free Assessment

FAQ — Pharma, Cosmetics & Medical Devices

We manufacture both medical devices and cosmetics. Do we need two separate systems?+

Not necessarily two entirely separate ones — many processes (raw-material control, batch traceability, complaint handling) share common logic. We design one shared infrastructure with each standard's specific requirements layered on top.

Do we need a Notified Body for CE marking, or is ISO 13485 enough?+

It depends on your product's risk class under Regulation (EU) 2017/745 (MDR). ISO 13485 is almost always necessary, but the full compliance route differs by class — we clarify this at the free assessment.

Other industries

Start your journey to certification

Book a free initial assessment. We will analyse your needs and recommend the optimal standard and timeline.