OHSAS 18001

The International Labour Organization (ILO) revealed in 2014 that every year 2.34 million people throughout the world lose their lives due to accidents at the workplace. The new ISO 45001:2018 standard was published on 12 March 2018 and applies internationally. It replaces BS OHSAS 18001:2007, which will be withdrawn by the British Standards Institute (BSI). Consistent use of ISO 45001 is intended to achieve continual improvement of occupational health and safety throughout the world.

The arrangements for transition from OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001 have been laid down by the IAF (International Accreditation Forum) for all certification bodies, in internationally binding form. There is a three-year transition period which ends on 11 March 2021, and after this all certificates based on OHSAS 18001:2007 will lose their validity. Up to the expiry date, organizations can change to the new standard within the framework of a recertification or surveillance audit. The cost and time needed for the transition to ISO 45001:2018, depend among other things on the maturity and the effectiveness of the current health and safety management system. For this reason, we urgently recommend carrying out a gap analysis in order to determine the actions that are needed and also to determine the necessary resources and establish the time schedule. The IAF estimates a changeover time to the new standard of at least one audit day.

Due to COVID-19, the transition period for migrating accredited certifications from OHSAS 18001:2007 to ISO 45001:2018 is extended by 6 (six) months to: 29 September 2021.

COVID-19 Update: https://iaffaq.com/

Work-related accidents and illnesses often result from inappropriate behavior and defects in the organizational structures within companies. Implementation of an occupational health and safety management system according to OHSAS (Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series) 18001 helps to correct shortcomings.
The system aims to protect the health and the lives of employees, and also limits liability risks for those responsible within the company, contributing to increased profitability and enhanced reputation. Increasing numbers of customers and potential partners now set certification according to OHSAS as a requirement.

Introduction and certification of an occupational health and safety management system is suitable for organizations from all sectors. Because the standard applies worldwide, certification according to OHSAS 18001 is of particular benefit to companies who work internationally. In addition, it is recommended for implementation of an integrated management system in combination with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

Certified companies optimize their processes in the area of safety and health and therefore can expect fewer operational disturbances. Amongst other things, this leads to cost savings based on lower accident and illness rates, increased safety awareness on the part of employees and greater legal certainty for those responsible for safety within the company. In addition, successful certification enhances image and creates competitive advantages.

Use of the implemented safety and health management system according to the requirements of OHSAS 18001 is required over a period of at least three months prior to certification. Essential requirements include:

• Establishment/communication of the occupational health and safety policy, objectives and programs
• Identification/evaluation of risks existing at the workplace
• Observance of the legislation related to occupational health and safety
• Determination of measures to be used in emergencies, risk avoidance measures
• Establishment/communication of responsibilities in the area of occupational health and safety Training/instruction of employees in matters relating to occupational health and safety
• Internal review and assessment of the occupational health and safety management system, along with continuous improvement

TÜV NORD is a well-established and reliable partner for inspection and certification services. Our experts and auditors have extensive knowledge based on experience and are generally permanently employed by TÜV NORD. This guarantees independence and neutrality, and also means we can offer continuity in supporting our clients. The benefit to you is clear: our auditors accompany and support the development of your company and provide you with objective feedback.