Linda Helen's Blog

ISO 45001 - Occupational Health and Safety Standard

Linda Helen's photo
Linda Helen
·

3 min read

What is ISO 45001?

ISO 45001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system. It provides a framework that organizations can use to improve their OH&S performance by preventing work-related injury and ill health, as well as promoting worker wellness. The standard is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act model, which is a widely used approach for managing processes and improving organizational performance.

History of ISO 45001

ISO 45001 is the result of a four-year development process that involved more than 60 countries and thousands of experts. The standard was developed by ISO's technical committee on occupational safety and health (ISO/TC 157), with input from a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from business, labor, academia, and governments. The first version of ISO 45001 was published in March 2018. It replaces the previous OH&S standard, OHSAS 18001, which was published in 2007. Many companies throughout the globe obtain ISO 45001 certification as a validation indicating that they adhere to the best policies when it comes to workplace safety.

Why was ISO 45001 developed?

The development of ISO 45001 was motivated by a desire to improve worker safety and health globally. Work-related injuries and ill health cost billions of dollars each year, and cause needless suffering for workers and their families. By providing a framework for organizations to manage OH&S risks, ISO 45001 aims to help reduce the incidence of work-related injuries and ill health.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 45001

  • Helps an organization to proactively manage occupational health and safety risks, rather than simply reacting to incidents when they occur.

  • Provides a robust framework for setting OH&S objectives and continually improving performance.

  • Can help to boost morale and engagement by making employees feel that their safety is valued.

  • Helps to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.

  • Can lead to reduced insurance premiums and other cost savings.

  • Helps to improve an organization’s reputation and attract new business.

  • Creates a platform for sharing best practices and lessons learned across the supply chain.

Getting Certified to ISO 45001

ISO 45001 certification is a formal recognition that an organization's OH&S management system meets the requirements of the standard. There are a number of certification bodies that offer certification to ISO 45001. Organizations that are certified to ISO 45001 can use the standard's logo on their marketing materials, which can be helpful in promoting their commitment to OH&S.

Conclusion

ISO 45001 lead auditor training is a great way for organizations to improve worker safety and health globally. The standard provides a framework that organizations can use to manage OH&S risks, and can lead to reduced insurance premiums and other cost savings. To get certified to ISO 45001, organizations can contact a certification body that offers certification to the standard.