THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S) MANAGEMENT SYSTEM STANDARD
ISO 45001 was published in March 2018 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and it supersedes the OHSAS 18001 standard. ISO 45001 is the first international standard to provide a comprehensive OH&S management systems framework. The standard defines requirements for an OH&S system and includes an implementation guide. Also, it enables organizations to proactively address OH&S-related risks and opportunities, thereby improving the safety of personnel.
THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF ISO 45001
The standard implements the "high level structure," giving it a common framework with other management systems, such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
It places great emphasis on the responsibility of senior management. This aspect has already been implemented in the revised ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards.
ISO 45001 includes persons who are not permanently employed, but are in other ways working under the responsibility of the organization/company, such as subcontractors, as well as processes that have been outsourced in their entirety. In this way, it incorporates elements of the SCC certificate.
The standard also introduces the term “opportunities” as a new aspect in the field of occupational health and safety. This covers issues that go beyond the mere elimination or minimization of OH&S risks and hazards.
ISO 45001 CERTIFICATION WITH TUV-CERT
As an internationally accredited Certification Body, TUV-CERT has the expertise to assess your organization against the ISO 45001 standard requirements. Before the certification audit can take place, the management system must be implemented, and its effectiveness documented against compliance requirements. We have experience with assisting organizations in both stages of the ISO 45001 certification process.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR CERTIFICATION
- Become familiar with ISO 45001 objectives
- Identify key gaps against requirements
- Outline and implement necessary measures
- Document effectiveness and compliance
CERTIFICATION PROCESS
- Stage 1: Evaluation of preparedness and documentation review audit
- Stage 2: On-site audit
- Correction of non-conformance issues
- Issuance of ISO 45001 certification
- Annual audit required to maintain certification validity
BENEFITS OF ISO 45001 CERTIFICATION
A robust OH&S system represents an opportunity for organizations to proactively improve injury prevention and reduce ill health. An OH&S also supports the organization's longevity by bolstering business growth and competitiveness. In addition, organizations have a moral and legal responsibility to ensure the health of their employees. Certification to ISO 45001 delivers a competitive advantage by formally clearing that your organization takes OH&S risk management seriously.
