ISO 45001 is an international standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems that helps organizations provide a safe and healthy workplace by managing risks and improving performance. Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 2018, it offers a framework for all types of organizations to establish, implement, and maintain an OH&S system, proactively preventing work-related injuries and diseases and promoting worker well-being. The standard’s requirements are integrated into an organization’s overall business processes and can be integrated with other ISO standards like ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
Key Aspects of ISO 45001
- Purpose: To prevent work-related injuries and ill health by providing a framework for managing OH&S risks and opportunities.
- Proactive Approach: It moves beyond just managing hazards (like its predecessor, OHSAS 18001) to encompass psychosocial risks, such as mental health and wellbeing.
- Framework: It uses a 10-clause structure, including requirements for an OH&S policy, risk assessment, legal compliance, and continual improvement.
- Leadership Commitment: Requires commitment from top management to establish and maintain an effective OH&S management system.
- Worker Participation: Encourages active participation from workers in the OH&S management system.
- Risk-Based Thinking: Emphasizes risk identification and management to reduce fatal accidents and occupational risks.
- Integration: Designed to be compatible and integrated with other major ISO management system standards.
Benefits of ISO 45001
- Reduced Accidents: Helps significantly reduce the number of occupational risks and fatal accidents.
- Improved Health and Well-being: Promotes employee health and well-being by providing a safe and healthy work environment.
- Enhanced Productivity: A safe workplace can lead to increased worker productivity.
- Legal Compliance: Ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to OH&S.
- Credibility: Certification demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and can improve public image and credibility.
- Cost Reduction: Minimizing injuries and illnesses can lead to significant cost savings.
Who Can Use It?
ISO 45001 is a generic standard applicable to any organization, regardless of its size, type, sector, or industry.