ISO 45001, often referred to as the "new face" of OHSAS 18001, represents a significant advancement in the field of occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems. While OHSAS 18001 was a widely recognized standard for OH&S management, ISO 45001 was developed to improve upon its framework and align with the High-Level Structure (HLS) used in other ISO management system standards, making it more compatible for integration with other management systems. Here's how ISO 45001 relates to and differs from OHSAS 18001:
1. Global Standard:
ISO 45001 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This makes it globally recognized and accepted, allowing organizations worldwide to adopt a consistent framework for OH&S management.
2. High-Level Structure (HLS):
ISO 45001 follows the HLS, which provides a standardized framework for all ISO management system standards. This ensures compatibility and ease of integration with other management systems like ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management).
3. Risk-Based Approach:
While both standards emphasize hazard identification and risk assessment, ISO 45001 places a stronger emphasis on the proactive management of risks and opportunities. It encourages organizations to address not only hazards but also factors that can improve OH&S performance.
4. Leadership and Worker Involvement:
ISO 45001 explicitly requires leadership commitment to OH&S, making top management responsible for the effectiveness of the OH&S management system. Additionally, it emphasizes worker participation and consultation, ensuring that employees are actively engaged in safety-related processes and decisions.
5. Continuous Improvement:
Both standards promote a culture of continuous improvement. ISO 45001, however, aligns more closely with the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle and places a greater emphasis on monitoring and measurement to drive improvements.
6. Documentation:
ISO 45001 does not prescribe specific documentation requirements but emphasizes the need for a documented OH&S management system. This gives organizations flexibility in how they document their processes while ensuring essential information is captured.
7. Transition:
Organizations certified to OHSAS 18001 can transition to ISO 45001 with relative ease, as there are many similarities between the two standards. The transition process involves aligning the OH&S management system with the new standard's requirements.
8. Legal Compliance:
Both standards require organizations to comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements related to occupational health and safety. ISO 45001 maintains this focus on legal compliance.
In summary, ISO 45001 builds upon the foundation laid by OHSAS 18001 and enhances it with a more global perspective, a risk-based approach, greater emphasis on leadership and worker involvement, and compatibility with other ISO management system standards.
As a result, ISO 45001 is considered the "new face" of OHSAS 18001 and represents a more comprehensive and integrated approach to occupational health and safety management. Organizations that transition to ISO 45001 can benefit from improved workplace safety, reduced risks, and greater alignment with international best practices.
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