What is ISO 45001:2018, And How It Can Benefit Your Business?
ISO 45001:2018 is an international occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) standard. It offers a structure that companies can utilize to assess how they can manage and enhance their workplace security and health performance. The standard was created in collaboration with ISO. International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Here are some key aspects of ISO 45001:2018 certification:
- Scope: ISO 45001 sets out the guidelines to establish an OHS management program.
- Requirements: The standard outlines various requirements that organizations must meet to achieve certification. These include establishing policies and objectives, conducting risk assessments, implementing risk mitigation controls, and ensuring compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
- Continuous Improvement: ISO 45001 emphasizes the importance of constant improvement in occupational health and safety performance. Organizations are encouraged to monitor and measure their performance, conduct internal audits, and take corrective actions to address any identified deficiencies.
- Legal Compliance: Organizations seeking ISO 45001 certification must identify and comply with relevant occupational health and safety laws and regulations in their jurisdiction.
- Employee Involvement: The standard promotes the involvement of employees at all levels in the development and implementation of the OHSMS. It encourages communication and consultation with employees regarding health and safety matters.
- Documentation: ISO 45001 requires organizations to maintain documented information related to their OHSMS, including policies, procedures, risk assessments, and records of incidents and corrective actions.
- Certification Process: To achieve ISO 45001:2018 certification, an organization typically undergoes a certification audit conducted by an accredited certification body. The audit assesses the organization’s compliance with the standard’s requirements and effectiveness in managing occupational health and safety.
Benefit ISO 45001:2018 For Your Business
These benefits extend beyond just compliance with occupational health and safety standards and can positively impact various aspects of your organization.
Here are some of the key advantages:
- Improved Workplace Safety: ISO 45001 helps identify and reduce the risks to occupational health and safety and reduces the chance of injuries and accidents at work.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with ISO 45001 often aligns with legal and regulatory requirements related to workplace safety. This reduces the risk of non-compliance, potential fines, and legal liabilities.
- Enhanced Reputation: ISO 45001 certification demonstrates your commitment to creating a safe and healthy workplace. This commitment can improve your reputation among customers, partners, investors, and potential employees.
- Reduced Insurance Costs: A strong safety management system can lower insurance premiums, as insurance providers may view your organization as a lower risk.
- Cost Savings: By preventing accidents and illnesses, ISO 45001 can help your organization save money on medical expenses, workers’ compensation claims, and other associated costs.
- Competitive Advantage: ISO 45001 certification can set you apart from competitors who do not have such certificates.
- Supply Chain Benefits: Some customers and partners may require their suppliers to have ISO 45001 certification, which can expand your business opportunities and open doors to new markets.
- Improved Efficiency: The systematic approach promoted by ISO 45001 encourages efficiency in managing safety-related processes, reducing waste and inefficiencies.
- Continuous Improvement: ISO 45001 promotes a culture of constant improvement. Regular monitoring, assessment, and corrective actions can lead to ongoing safety enhancements.
- Risk Management: The standard helps organizations identify, assess, and manage risks proactively, reducing the potential for costly incidents and their associated consequences.
To maximize the advantages, it’s crucial to integrate the standard into your organization’s culture and operations, involve employees at all levels, and regularly review and improve your occupational health and safety management system.