NEW SAFETY STANDARD ON ITS WAY
11 Jul 2017
Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems Standard (AS/NZS 4801) will soon transition to a new International Standard, ISO 45001
What are the Benefits?
ISO 45001 provides better integration with other ISO Management System Standards, such as ISO 14001 (Environmental) and ISO 9001 (Quality). It enables organisations operating across different countries to adopt a consistent approach to OHS Management.
ISO 45001 promotes the development and implementation of OHS policies and objectives to improve overall OHS management performance.
When will the new Standard be released?
The participating members of the ISO committee did not approve the first Draft International Standard (DIS), causing a delay in its release. Members of the ISO 45001 working group met in Canada in June to discuss the 3000 comments that were made to the first DIS version. Official communication after this meeting suggested ISO 45001 would be released in late 2017.
What if I currently have AS/NZ 4801 or OHSAS 18001 Certification?
You can remain certified to AS/NZS 4801 and OHSAS 18001 or a period (anticipated to be 3 years) from the date of publication before you must transition to ISO 45001.
What can I do to get ready for the change?
Understanding the gaps between your current systems and the new Occupational Health and Safety Management Standard is a good place to start. Once complete you will be in a position to identify the tasks required to transition to ISO 45001.