Certification to ISO 45001 OHS Management

 

Certification to ISO 45001, which is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Management Systems, involves a structured process. Here's a step-by-step overview of how organizations typically achieve certification:

 

Gap Analysis: The organization begins by conducting a thorough review of its existing occupational health and safety management practices against the requirements outlined in ISO 45001. This process helps identify areas where the organization's practices may not align with the standard's requirements.

 

OHSMS Development: Based on the findings of the gap analysis, the organization develops and implements an Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) that meets the requirements of ISO 45001. This includes establishing policies, objectives, procedures, and processes to manage occupational health and safety risks effectively.

 

Training and Awareness: Employees at all levels of the organization undergo training to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities within the OHSMS and are aware of the organization's commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

 

Internal Audit: The organization conducts an internal audit of its OHSMS to assess its effectiveness and identify any areas for improvement or non-conformities. The internal audit helps prepare the organization for the external certification audit.

 

Management Review: Senior management reviews the results of the internal audit and assesses the overall performance of the OHSMS. They may also identify opportunities for improvement and allocate resources as needed.

 

Certification Audit (Stage 1): The organization schedules a certification audit with an accredited certification body. The stage 1 audit typically involves a review of the organization's documentation, including its OHSMS manual, procedures, and policies, to ensure they meet the requirements of ISO 45001.

 

Certification Audit (Stage 2): Following a successful stage 1 audit, the certification body conducts a stage 2 audit, which involves an on-site assessment of the organization's OHSMS implementation. During this audit, the certification body evaluates the effectiveness of the OHSMS in managing occupational health and safety risks.

 

Certification Decision: Based on the findings of the stage 2 audit, the certification body decides whether to grant ISO 45001 certification to the organization. If the organization meets all the requirements of the standard, the certification body issues a certificate valid for a specified period, usually three years.

 

Surveillance Audits: After obtaining certification, the organization undergoes periodic surveillance audits, typically conducted annually, to ensure ongoing compliance with ISO 45001 requirements.

 

Recertification: At the end of the certification period (usually three years), the organization undergoes a recertification audit to renew its ISO 45001 certification. This process involves a reassessment of the organization's OHSMS to ensure it continues to meet the requirements of the standard.

 

Throughout the certification process, organizations may seek assistance from external consultants or advisors with expertise in ISO 45001 implementation to help facilitate the process and ensure successful certification.