With the three-year migration period for ISO 45001:2018 coming to an end next March, Altius Group’s Matthew Counsel explains the ISO standards for WHS and why now is the optimal time to check for gaps in your organisation’s compliance.
ISO 45001: 2018 explained
ISO 45001 is an International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) for management systems of Occupational Health and Safety / WHS, with updates published in 2018 – creating 1SO 45001:2018. Considering the last published amendments to these standards were back in 2001, it’s important to review the 2018 additions and updates.
- Why now? A three-year migration period from the 2001 standards was put in place from 2018 to 2021. Since the deadline for complying to ISO 45001:2018 has been set as March 2021, it’s worth taking time now to review your WHS Management System for gaps in compliance to allow time for any required updates to be made.
- It may be that your organisation requires ISO certification to complete specific work (for example, for government tenders or specific requirements of your industry).
- Coronavirus has had us all looking to our WHS practices – and it may be that you have discovered some gaps in compliance while managing your safety systems in the face of this threat?
- Besides Coronovirus, we have seen a number of new threats emerge and heightened awareness around concerns such as silicosis, higher temperatures and natural disasters, all which impact the way we work, safely.
- A strong WHS Management System will bring you, and your employees, peace of mind during uncertain times. At the same time, you’ll be minimising risks and premium costs while keeping your workforce as well as possible.
How can a gap analysis can guide the compliance process?
A comprehensive on-site gap analysis and review of WHS Management Systems will ensure gaps in compliance to regulations and standards aren’t overlooked. A gap analysis is a valuable first step in reducing risks to employees and the likelihood of prosecution and fines.
Through on-site reviews, our consultants are able to assess the specific WHS needs of a business and provide advice on the support required. We can also carry out audits of industry or workplace specific hazards such as use of chemicals, or checking traffic management systems.
As a scalable offering, we provide a Desktop Compliance Screening for due diligence, to guide your compliance needs and direct your investments in Workplace Health and Safety.
Further Information.
