Obtaining ISO 45001 certification involves a systematicprocess to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OH&S) standard. Here is a step-by-step guide to the certification process:
Gap Analysis and Readiness Assessment: Before starting thecertification process, conduct a gap analysis to assess your organization's current OH&S management system against the ISO 45001 requirements. Identify areas of non-compliance and areas that need improvement. This will help you
understand the scope of work required for certification.
OH&S Management System Development: Develop andimplement an OH&S management system that aligns with the ISO 45001 standard. This includes establishing policies, procedures, and controls to manage OH&S risks effectively.
Internal Audit: Conduct an internal audit of your OH&Smanagement system to verify its effectiveness and identify any non-conformities. Address the non-conformities and take corrective actions as needed.
Management Review: Hold a management review meeting toassess the performance of your OH&S management system. Top management should review the results of the internal audit and take necessary actions to improve the system.
Selection of Certification Body: Choose an accreditedcertification body that is authorized to conduct ISO 45001 audits. The certification body should be independent and competent in OH&S management system audits.
Stage 1 Audit (Documentation Review): The certification bodywill conduct a Stage 1 audit, which involves reviewing your OH&S management system documentation to ensure it complies with ISO 45001 requirements. The auditor will assess your readiness for the Stage 2 audit.
Stage 2 Audit (On-Site Assessment): In the Stage 2 audit,the certification body will perform an on-site assessment of your OH&S management system's implementation. The auditor will interview employees, observe workplace practices, and review records to verify compliance with the
standard.
Non-Conformities and Corrective Actions: If anynon-conformities are identified during the audit, you must take corrective actions to address them within a specified timeframe.
Certification Decision: Based on the audit findings and theeffectiveness of the corrective actions, the certification body will make a certification decision. If your organization complies with the ISO 45001 standard, you will be awarded the certification.
Certification Maintenance: ISO 45001 certification is validfor a specific period (usually three years). During this period, your organization will need to undergo surveillance audits by the certification body to ensure continued compliance with the standard.
Recertification: Before the certification expires, yourorganization must undergo a recertification audit to renew its ISO 45001 certification for another cycle.
It's essential to maintain your OH&S management systemand continually improve it to ensure long-term compliancewith the ISO 45001 standard. Certification is not a one-time event but anongoing commitment to providing a safe and healthy work environment for employees and stakeholders.
