What is ISO 13485?

ISO 13485 is an ISO standard, published in 2003 (current version), that represents the requirements for a comprehensive management system for the design and manufacture of medical devices.

While it remains a stand-alone document, ISO 13485 is generally harmonized with ISO 9001. A fundamental difference, however, is that ISO 9001 requires the organization to demonstrate continuous improvement, whereas ISO 13485 requires only that they demonstrate the quality system is implemented and maintained.

What are the other specific differences

• the promotion and awareness of regulatory requirements as a management responsibility. An example of market specific regulatory requirements is 21 CFR 820 Quality System Regulation for Medical Devices sold in the United States.
• controls in the work environment to ensure product safety
• focus on risk management activities and design transfer activities during product development
• specific requirements for inspection and traceability for implantable devices
• specific requirements for documentation and validation of processes for sterile medical devices
• specific requirements for verification of the effectiveness of corrective and preventive actions