Learn about ISO 45001 OH&S

 

ISO 45001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system. The goal of ISO 45001 is to provide a framework for organizations to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve their occupational health and safety performance. The standard was published in March 2018, replacing the previous OHSAS 18001 standard.

 

Here are key aspects of ISO 45001:

 

1. Scope and Applicability:

Applicability:

ISO 45001 is applicable to any organization, regardless of its size, industry, or location. It is designed to be adaptable to various organizational contexts and types.

2. Structure:

High-Level Structure (HLS):

ISO 45001 follows the same high-level structure as other ISO management system standards, such as ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management). This allows for easier integration with other management systems.

3. Leadership and Commitment:

Top Management Involvement:

The standard emphasizes the importance of leadership commitment. Top management is required to demonstrate active involvement in the ISO 45001 OH&S management system.

4. Policy and Objectives:

OH&S Policy:

Organizations are required to establish and maintain an OH&S policy that provides a framework for setting OH&S objectives and includes a commitment to compliance with legal requirements.

5. Planning:

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment:

 

Organizations must identify hazards, assess risks, and determine necessary controls. The emphasis is on proactive planning to prevent injuries and ill-health.

Legal and Other Requirements:

 

There is a requirement to establish, implement, and maintain processes to regularly assess and ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements and other OH&S requirements.

6. Support:

Resources and Competence:

 

Organizations are required to determine and provide the necessary resources and competence for the effective operation of the OH&S management system.

Communication:

 

The standard emphasizes effective communication both internally and externally, ensuring that relevant information regarding OH&S is communicated throughout the organization.

7. Operation:

Operational Planning and Control:

 

Organizations are required to plan, implement, and control operations that are associated with identified hazards and risks.

Emergency Preparedness and Response:

 

There is a specific requirement to establish and maintain processes for emergency preparedness and response to potential OH&S incidents and emergencies.

8. Performance Evaluation:

Monitoring and Measurement:

 

Organizations are required to monitor, measure, analyze, and evaluate their OH&S performance. This includes the use of performance indicators and regular audits.

Incident Investigation:

 

Procedures for incident investigation and corrective action are required to identify the root causes of incidents and prevent their recurrence.

9. Improvement:

Continuous Improvement:

The standard emphasizes the need for organizations to continually improve their OH&S performance. This includes addressing nonconformities and implementing corrective actions.

10. Integration with Other Management Systems:

Compatibility with ISO Standards:

ISO 45001 is designed to be compatible with other ISO 45001 management system standards, facilitating integration with quality, environmental, and other management systems.

11. Certification:

Third-Party Certification:

Organizations can seek certification from third-party certification bodies to demonstrate their compliance with ISO 45001. Certification involves an external audit of the organization's OH&S management system.

Implementing ISO 45001 can bring several benefits to organizations, including improved workplace safety, reduced accidents, legal compliance, and enhanced employee well-being. It provides a systematic approach to managing occupational health and safety risks and promotes a culture of continuous improvement. Organizations considering ISO 45001 certification should carefully review the standard's requirements and tailor its implementation to their specific needs and context.