The Similarities between the Quality, OHS and Environmental Standards

The ISO 9001, Quality Management Standard, is frequently combined with ISO14001, Environmental Management Standard. Also a further three way integration is being called for with AS4801, Occupational Health and Safety Standard. The main advantage of having a truly integrated system is that there are elements of all three Standards that are similar or the same:

• All three Standards have a document control requirement;
• The control of records is specified in all three;
• Training, competence and awareness is seen in all three;
• All three have a requirement for internal auditing;
• Management review is seen as critical for all three Standards;
• Monitoring and measuring devices are referred to in each;
• Continual Improvement is key to all three;
• Corrective and Preventive Action are major requirements.

It is clear that with this amount of similarity, integrating the standards simplifies the system and can greatly reduce costs. Benefits to the organisation can be substantial. Incorporation of an integrated management system says a great deal your business:

• - that you care about the quality of your products and/or services.
• - that you care about the degree of your customers' satisfaction.
• - that you care about the environment and the effect your operation is having on the planet.
• - that you care about the health, safety and welfare of your employees, contractors and visitors.

And finally that you are sufficiently confident to get these systems externally tested and certificated. Many Companies looking to place contracts and purchase goods are looking for organisations that have ISO 9001 and increasingly have green credentials as well and look after their staff and can demonstrate it. An Integrated System is the answer.

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