What is ISO 14001?

ISO 14001 is the internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It provides a framework for organizations to design and implement an EMS, and continually improve their environmental performance. By adhering to this standard, organizations can ensure they are taking proactive measures to minimize their environmental footprint, comply with relevant legal requirements, and achieve their environmental objectives. The framework encompasses various aspects, from resource usage and waste management to monitoring environmental performance and involving stakeholders in environmental commitments.

Structure of the ISO 45001:2018 Standard

The ISO 45001:2018 standard is structured into several clauses that outline the requirements for an occupational health and safety management system. Here’s a brief overview of the structure by clause:

  1. Scope (Clause 1):Defines the scope of the standard, outlining what it covers and excludes.
  2. Normative References (Clause 2):Lists any referenced standards or documents essential for understanding and implementing ISO 45001.
  3. Terms and Definitions (Clause 3):Provides definitions of key terms used throughout the standard to ensure common understanding.
  4. Context of the Organization (Clause 4):Requires organizations to determine the external and internal issues relevant to their purpose and strategic direction, as well as the needs and expectations of workers and other interested parties.
  5. Leadership and Worker Participation (Clause 5):Focuses on the commitment of top management to the OHSMS, including leadership, worker participation, roles, responsibilities, and authorities.
  6. Planning (Clause 6):Covers actions to address risks and opportunities, occupational health and safety objectives, and planning to achieve them.
  7. Support (Clause 7):Addresses resources, including competent personnel, awareness, communication, and documented information necessary for the OHSMS.
  8. Operation (Clause 8):Includes operational planning and control, emergency preparedness and response, and outsourcing arrangements.
  9. Performance Evaluation (Clause 9):Covers monitoring, measurement, analysis, and evaluation, internal audits, and management review.
  10. Improvement (Clause 10):Deals with incidents, nonconformity and corrective action, and continual improvement.

Stages of ISO 45001:2018

The certification process with Guardian Assessment Private Limited involves several systematic steps to ensure thorough evaluation and compliance with ISO 45001:2018 standards:

  1. Stage One Audit:A preliminary audit to evaluate your preparedness for the certification audit. This includes a review of your occupational health and safety management system documentation and initial identification of potential non-conformities.
  2. Stage Two Audit:An on-site audit to assess the implementation and effectiveness of your occupational health and safety management system. This involves interviews, observation of activities, and review of records to ensure compliance with ISO 45001:2018 requirements.
  3. Addressing Non-Conformities:Identification and resolution of any non-conformities discovered during the audit. Our auditors will provide detailed feedback and work with you to develop corrective actions to address any issues.
  4. Certification Decision:Upon successful completion of the audit and resolution of any non-conformities, Guardian Assessment Private Limited will make a certification decision and issue the ISO 45001:2018 certification. This certification demonstrates your organization’s commitment to occupational health and safety excellence.
  5. Surveillance Audits:Regular surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance and continual improvement of your occupational health and safety management system. These audits will be scheduled at intervals to monitor the effectiveness and sustainability of your management system.
  6. ongoing effectiveness and compliance.

Benefits of ISO 45001:2018 Certification

ISO 45001:2018 certification offers numerous benefits to organizations:

  • Improved Health and Safety: Enhances workplace safety, reducing the risk of injuries and illnesses, and fostering a healthier work environment.
  • Enhanced Employee Safety and Well-being: By implementing effective OHS management practices, organizations create a safer working environment, which improves employee morale, satisfaction, and productivity, leading to lower absenteeism and turnover rates.
  • Enhanced Reputation: Certification demonstrates a commitment to employee safety and well-being, boosting organizational credibility and trust among stakeholders.
  • Reduced Workplace Accidents and Injuries: The standard’s proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks helps prevent accidents and injuries, leading to fewer disruptions and associated costs.
  • Increased Employee Morale: A safe work environment improves employee morale and satisfaction, leading to higher productivity and retention rates.
  • Improved Incident Response and Recovery: ISO 45001:2018 promotes a structured approach to incident management, enabling organizations to respond effectively to emergencies and recover quickly, minimizing disruptions to operations.

Documents and Records an Organization Should Maintain for ISO 45001:2018 certification?

Mandatory Documents:

  1. Scope of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (Clause 4.3)
  2. Occupational Health and Safety Policy (Clause 5.2)
  3. Occupational Health and Safety Objectives (Clause 6.2)
  4. Criteria for Evaluation and Selection of Suppliers (Clause 8.1.4)
  5. Documented Information Required by the Standard (Clause 7.5.1)

Mandatory Records:

  1. Records of Monitoring and Measurement Equipment Calibration (Clause 7.1.5.1)
  2. Records of Training, Skills, Experience, and Qualifications (Clause 7.2)
  3. Risk Assessment and Determination of Controls (Clause 6.1.1)
  4. Records of Communication, Consultation, and Participation of Workers (Clause 5.4)
  5. Incident Investigation Records (Clause 10.2)
  6. Supplier Evaluation and Re-evaluation Records (Clause 8.1.4)
  7. Records of Control of Nonconforming Outputs (Clause 8.7.2)
  8. Results of Monitoring and Measurement of Occupational Health and Safety Performance (Clause 9.1.1)
  9. Internal Audit Program and Results (Clause 9.2)
  10. Management Review Minutes (Clause 9.3)
  11. Records of Corrective Actions (Clause 10.2)

Non-Mandatory Documents (Examples):

  1. Procedure for Control of Documented Information
  2. Procedure for Internal Audits
  3. Procedure for Incident Investigation
  4. Procedure for Corrective Actions
  5. Procedures for Preventive Actions