What happened?
ISO/TC 176/SC 2 announced on 24 June 2026 that ISO/DIS 9002 had reached the enquiry stage and was open for public comments, with the ballot closing on 8 September 2026. ISO's project page also lists ISO/DIS 9002 as a Draft International Standard in the enquiry phase.
Why it matters
ISO 9002 is guidance for applying ISO 9001. It does not add to or change ISO 9001 requirements, but it helps organisations understand intent and possible implementation approaches. As ISO 9001 moves toward its 2026 edition, updated application guidance will be useful for process owners, auditors, consultants, and management teams who need consistent interpretation.
Practical checks
- Track ISO 9002 progress together with ISO 9001 revision progress, not as a separate exercise.
- Prepare to refresh internal QMS guidance notes after ISO 9002 is finalised.
- Use the current review period to collect recurring audit questions and interpretation issues.
- Speak with your national standards body if your organisation wants to comment formally on the draft.
The practical benefit is better interpretation. When requirements and guidance are read together, organisations can reduce over-documentation and focus on evidence that proves the quality system is actually working.