CIBSE Certification for Our Management Systems

Read our interview with Roxana, Karsons’ Operations Manager and the person in charge of quality management.

Can you explain why your firm chose CIBSE Certification for your management systems rather than another certification body?

At Karsons, we’ve had a long-standing relationship with CIBSE. A few of our engineers are already certified as Low Carbon Consultants through CIBSE, so when it came time to certify our management systems, it felt like a natural extension of the partnership. Choosing CIBSE Certification gave us confidence in the credibility and relevance of the certification process in the building services sector.

Which management system standards are you currently certified to through CIBSE (e.g. ISO 9001, 14001, 45001), and what drove the decision to pursue those?

We operate under an integrated management system that includes ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety). Pursuing these certifications was a strategic decision to demonstrate our commitment to delivering high-quality services while prioritising the sustainability and well-being of our team and stakeholders. These certifications are a visible testament to our values, assuring our clients that every project we undertake is built upon a foundation of quality, sustainability, and safety.

What benefits have you seen since achieving certification via CIBSE Certification?

One of the most noticeable benefits has been the improvement in our internal processes. The structure and discipline that come with certification have helped us streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and ultimately deliver better outcomes for our clients. Beyond the operational gains, the certification process has enhanced our team's collective understanding and application of quality, environmental, and safety standards, fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the board.

How long did the certification process take, and were there any key lessons learned along the way?

Our initial certification audit spanned three days. Stepping into the process, there was a natural degree of uncertainty about what to expect. However, the audit plan provided by CIBSE Certification was incredibly helpful and gave us a clear roadmap for preparation. One of the key takeaways was the value of having an integrated management system, which not only simplifies compliance but also enhances how we manage and improve our internal processes.

How has your experience with CIBSE Certification’s recertification audits been?

Our experience has been consistently positive. The process is straightforward, and the auditor is always professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive. We appreciate the constructive feedback we receive, as it’s always within the scope of the audit and helps us continue to improve without compromising the integrity of the certification. For instance, we’ve received feedback on how to manage our integrated system documentation more effectively. We continue to follow this structure for our document procedures, which reduces duplication and ensures a smooth, usable system.

How do your certified management systems align with your wider business strategy and goals?

Our certified management systems are a core part of how we operate and grow as a business. They provide a structured framework that supports our operations and delivery of high-quality services, reducing our environmental impact and ensuring the health and safety of our team and partners. We take pride in actively cultivating a culture of continuous improvement, a culture that is integral to our long-term vision for sustainable and responsible growth within the built environment industry.

What value do you believe CIBSE Certification brings to firms operating in the building services and sustainability sectors?

CIBSE Certification brings a unique value to firms like ours because it understands the specific challenges and priorities of the building services and sustainability sectors. Their expertise ensures that the certification process is not only rigorous but also relevant to the work we do. It adds credibility in the eyes of our clients and partners, and reinforces our commitment to best practices in quality, environmental responsibility, and health and safety. Working with a certification body that shares our industry focus allows us to make tangible improvements across our entire organisation.