OHSAS 18001 is the common name used for ISO standard 18001 and was created to be used for occupational and health safety management systems. The system is a specification only and is not designed to be a requirement or used as a guide when implementing procedures. This is because the system is already based on existing information which has been published.
When a company becomes certified in this area they are demonstrating their commitment for implementing, maintaining and managing their health and safety systems. When an organization is certified with this certification they will become more confident when meeting health and safety regulations and guidelines. Additionally it becomes easier to set targets through health and safety policies and form ongoing measurements to constantly improve the procedures.
This system is compliant with 9000 quality and 14000 environmental management system standards. The compliance is designed to monitor the integration of quality, environmental, safety, health and occupational system standards by organizations. The OHSAS specification provides requirements for an occupational health and safety management system.
Some benefits for using this system include reduced risk to employees and other individuals. Also there is a chance that the reduction could turn into a complete removal of risks involved. Another benefit is the option a company has to continually improve the current procedures which are in place and work toward a friendly environment that is completely accident free.
The implementation process begins by evaluating the safety and health needs for employees within the company. Also the risks will need to be assessed for visitors coming to and from the site so proper safety measures are put in place. When all of the assessments are completed the procedures and policies can be documented and implemented.
Upon creating the documentation regarding the new policies and procedures a company will have to undergo an audit process. The process begins with an internal auditing of the documentation which ensures the policies are effectively working. In addition the process will also be used to ensure the policies are adhering to legislative guidelines that are already put in place.
When the internal audit process has been completed, a third party external audit needs to be performed. The external audit will review existing documentation in order to determine if it is truly following the proper guidelines. After a company passes the external audit process they will be issued their certification license. When a company receives their certification they will be able to demonstrate their compliance.
If the company passes the external audit they are granted their ISO standard 18001 certification. At this time they can add it to existing certifications or if there are none they can proudly display it as their first. Having a certification such as this proves that a company will go the extra mile to protect employees and visitors from harm.
More information OHSAS 18001 and OHSAS 18001





