ISO 45001:2018
Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
Introduction
ISO 45001:2018 is the internationally recognised standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OH&S).
It provides a structured framework for organisations to proactively manage workplace risks, improve employee well-being, and reduce incidents of work-related injuries and illnesses. The standard focuses on creating a safe and healthy work environment while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
ISO 45001 applies to organisations of all sizes and industries, helping businesses integrate health and safety measures into their operations. Certification demonstrates a company’s commitment to continuous improvement in occupational health and safety, reducing workplace hazards, and promoting a strong safety culture.
ISO 45001 applies to organisations of all sizes and industries, helping businesses integrate health and safety measures into their operations. Certification demonstrates a company’s commitment to continuous improvement in occupational health and safety, reducing workplace hazards, and promoting a strong safety culture.
Why ISO 45001 Matters?
Improved Workplace Safety
and Risk Reduction
The standard establishes a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating occupational health and safety risks, reducing workplace incidents and ensuring employee well-being
Compliance with Legal
and Regulatory Requirements
Many countries enforce strict occupational health and safety regulations. ISO 45001 certification helps organisations meet these legal obligations, minimising the risk of fines and penalties.
Enhanced Employee Morale
and Productivity
A safe and healthy work environment leads to higher employee satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity. ISO 45001 fosters a culture of safety and well-being.
Reduced Costs
and Financial Impact
Workplace accidents and illnesses can lead to significant costs, including medical expenses, legal liabilities, and lost productivity. Implementing ISO 45001 helps organisations prevent costly incidents and disruptions.
Stronger Reputation
and Business Opportunities
Many organisations prefer working with partners and suppliers that prioritise workplace safety. ISO 45001 certification enhances credibility and provides a competitive advantage in the market.
Integration with
Other Management Systems
ISO 45001 follows the same High-Level Structure (HLS) as ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), allowing businesses to integrate occupational health and safety with other management frameworks for greater efficiency.
Key Requirements of ISO 45001
ISO 45001 sets out a structured approach to workplace health and safety, focusing on risk prevention, employee engagement, and continuous improvement. The core requirements include:
-
Leadership and Employee Participation
Top management must demonstrate leadership by setting health and safety objectives, allocating resources, and promoting a culture of safety. Employee participation is essential, ensuring workers are actively involved in identifying risks and improving workplace safety. -
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
Organisations must establish processes for identifying workplace hazards, assessing risks, and implementing control measures to eliminate or reduce risks. The standard encourages proactive risk management rather than reactive measures. -
Occupational Health and Safety Policy
A clear OH&S policy must be developed, outlining the organisation’s commitment to providing a safe work environment. The policy should be communicated to employees and stakeholders and reviewed regularly for improvements. -
Worker Health and Well-Being
The standard emphasises worker well-being by addressing issues such as mental health, fatigue management, ergonomic risks, and workplace stress. Providing access to health programmes and supportive working conditions is a key requirement. -
Operational Controls and Emergency Preparedness
ISO 45001 requires organisations to implement control measures for high-risk activities and ensure preparedness for emergencies such as fire, chemical spills, or workplace accidents. This includes establishing response procedures, conducting drills, and providing employee training. -
Monitoring, Auditing, and Continuous Improvement
Regular workplace inspections, audits, and performance evaluations must be conducted to assess compliance with OH&S policies. Organisations should use data-driven insights to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions. -
Incident Investigation and Corrective Actions
Organisations must have a structured process for reporting, investigating, and addressing workplace incidents. Root cause analysis and corrective actions should be implemented to prevent recurrence and continuously improve safety measures. -
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
ISO 45001 mandates compliance with national and international health and safety laws. Organisations must monitor regulatory updates, conduct internal audits, and ensure ongoing compliance.
Who Needs ISO 45001?
-
Manufacturing and Industrial Companies
Ensuring worker safety in high-risk environments such as factories, production plants, and warehouses. -
Construction and Engineering Firms
Managing risks associated with hazardous working conditions, heavy machinery, and on-site operations. -
Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Organisations
Protecting healthcare workers from exposure to biological hazards, chemicals, and workplace stress. -
Government and Public Sector Organisations
Ensuring the safety of employees in public service roles and maintaining compliance with workplace regulations. -
Logistics and Transportation Companies
Reducing risks related to vehicle operations, manual handling, and supply chain hazards. -
Retail and Hospitality Businesses
Addressing employee safety concerns, including ergonomics, fire safety, and emergency preparedness. -
Energy and Utility Providers
Managing occupational hazards in power plants, oil and gas operations, and renewable energy facilities. -
Educational Institutions and Research Facilities
Ensuring a safe working environment for staff, teachers, and researchers handling chemicals, laboratory equipment, or fieldwork operations.
Certification Process
To achieve ISO 45001 certification, organisations must follow a structured implementation process:
1
Gap Analysis and Initial Assessment
The organisation evaluates its current health and safety practices against ISO 45001 requirements to identify areas needing improvement before certification.
2
Development of OH&S Policies
and Risk Management Plans
and Risk Management Plans
A documented OH&S policy, hazard identification procedures, and risk control measures must be established to align with ISO 45001 guidelines.
3
Implementation
and Employee Training
and Employee Training
Safety policies, procedures, and risk management strategies are put into practice, and employees receive training to ensure awareness and compliance with workplace safety requirements.
4
Internal Audits
and Management Review
and Management Review
An internal audit is conducted to assess compliance with ISO 45001. Management reviews findings, implements corrective actions, and ensures readiness for the certification audit.
5
Certification Audit
An independent certification body conducts a two-stage audit. Stage 1 reviews documentation and policies, while Stage 2 assesses practical implementation, safety controls, and risk management effectiveness. If all requirements are met, the organisation receives ISO 45001 certification.
6
Ongoing Compliance and Recertification
Certified organisations must undergo periodic surveillance audits to maintain compliance. A full recertification audit is required every three years to ensure continued adherence to the standard.