The New ISO 45001 Standard Will Improve Occupational Health And Safety
The OHSMS ISO 45001 standard, officially titled “ISO 45001:2018 — Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems,” represents a significant advancement in the field of occupational health and safety (OH&S). This standard was developed to provide organizations with a robust framework for improving workplace safety, protecting employees’ health, and reducing the risk of work-related accidents and illnesses. Here are some ways in which ISO 45001 is expected to improve occupational health and safety:
Global Consistency: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems ISO 45001 provides a globally recognized and consistent framework for OH&S management. This standard is applicable to organizations of all sizes and industries, making it a versatile tool for addressing workplace safety issues worldwide.
Risk-Based Approach: ISO 45001 encourages organizations to take a proactive approach to identify, assess, and mitigate OH&S risks and opportunities. By systematically managing risks, organizations can prevent accidents and illnesses and create safer working environments.
Worker Involvement: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems ISO 45001 emphasizes the active participation of workers in the OH&S management system. Employees at all levels are encouraged to contribute to hazard identification, risk assessment, and the development of safety measures. This promotes a culture of safety where everyone is responsible for workplace health and safety.
Leadership Commitment: The standard requires top management to demonstrate leadership and commitment to OH&S. When leaders prioritize safety and health, it sends a strong message throughout the organization and sets the tone for a safety-conscious culture.
Continuous Improvement: ISO 45001 follows the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, which is a systematic approach to continuous improvement. This cycle ensures that organizations regularly assess their OH&S performance, make necessary adjustments, and strive for ongoing enhancement of their safety management systems.
Legal Compliance: By implementing ISO 45001, organizations can ensure compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements related to occupational health and safety. This reduces the risk of legal liabilities and penalties.
Reduced Accidents and Illnesses: The systematic approach to hazard identification and risk control, as well as the emphasis on worker involvement, is expected to lead to a reduction in workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses. This not only improves employee well-being but also reduces productivity losses and related costs for organizations.
Improved Reputation: ISO 45001 certification can enhance an organization’s reputation, demonstrating to customers, stakeholders, and the public that it is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment.
Competitive Advantage: Organizations that achieve ISO 45001 certification may gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Many clients and partners prefer to work with companies that prioritize safety, which can lead to new business opportunities.
Employee Morale and Productivity: A safe and healthy workplace fosters higher employee morale and engagement. When employees feel secure in their work environment, they tend to be more productive and motivated.
In summary, the ISO 45001 standard is a powerful tool for organizations seeking to improve occupational health and safety. By adopting ISO 45001, organizations can create safer workplaces, protect their workforce, reduce accidents, and enhance their overall performance and reputation. This standard plays a vital role in advancing global efforts to prioritize health and safety in the workplace.
