ISO 45001:2018

Even organizations with established safety programs can benefit significantly from ISO 45001 implementation. The standard helps systematize and formalize existing programs, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all risks and consistent application across the organization. It introduces stronger management accountability, worker participation mechanisms, and risk-based thinking that may be missing from traditional safety programs. ISO 45001 also emphasizes continual improvement through performance evaluation and management review, driving ongoing safety enhancements rather than maintaining the status quo. Finally, certification provides external validation of your safety efforts and may satisfy customer requirements or tender specifications.

ISO 45001:2018 requires certain documented information but is less prescriptive than previous standards. Required documentation typically includes: OH&S policy and objectives; scope of the OH&S management system; risk assessment methodology and results; hazard identification processes; legal and other requirements; operational controls for high-risk activities; emergency preparedness and response procedures; monitoring and measurement evidence; internal audit programs and results; management review outputs; incident investigation processes; and continual improvement initiatives. The standard allows flexibility in how this information is documented based on organizational size, complexity, and risk levels.

Worker participation is a cornerstone of ISO 45001:2018 and goes beyond simple consultation. The standard requires organizations to establish, implement and maintain processes for consultation and participation of workers at all applicable levels and functions. This includes involving non-managerial workers in hazard identification, risk assessment, determination of controls, investigation of incidents, development of OH&S policies and objectives, and evaluation of compliance. Organizations must remove barriers to participation, provide necessary training, and establish formal mechanisms like safety committees or representation systems to ensure meaningful worker input in OH&S decision-making.

ISO 45001 certification typically follows a three-year cycle. After initial certification, surveillance audits are conducted annually (sometimes semi-annually) to verify ongoing conformity with the standard. At the end of the three-year period, a more comprehensive recertification audit is performed to renew the certificate for another three years. Organizations must maintain their OH&S management system throughout this period, conducting internal audits, management reviews, and continual improvement activities. Failure to address significant non-conformities identified during surveillance audits can lead to suspension or withdrawal of certification before the three-year period ends.