ISO 45001

ISO 45001 is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. Designed for organisations of every size, sector, and location, it provides a structured framework to help build a culture of safety, prioritise employee wellbeing, and support stronger overall business performance. It can be applied throughout the supply chain to create safer, healthier working environments.

While not mandatory, ISO 45001 is increasingly recognised or required by regulators in many countries. Achieving certification demonstrates a clear commitment to workplace safety, both internally and externally, and helps strengthen trust with clients, employees, and stakeholders.

ISO 45001 is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. Designed for organisations of every size, sector, and location, it provides a structured framework to help build a culture of safety, prioritise employee wellbeing, and support stronger overall business performance. It can be applied throughout the supply chain to create safer, healthier working environments.

ISO 45001 aims to reduce workplace incidents by promoting a proactive health and safety culture. Employees are encouraged to participate actively, supported by strong organisational leadership. This approach can improve morale, reduce turnover, and create a safer, more positive working environment.

By understanding and managing risk profiles through a systematic process, organisations can reduce absenteeism and staff turnover. Healthier, safer teams typically perform better, resulting in increased productivity.

ISO 45001 provides a clear framework for managing legal and regulatory requirements. Certification enhances confidence among clients and stakeholders, strengthens brand reputation, and can offer a competitive advantage when tendering for contracts.

Integrating ISO 45001 with standards such as ISO 9001 further enhances risk management, supports a clearer understanding of organisational context, and contributes to improved business performance.

ISO 45001 encourages organisations to consider not only internal health and safety risks, but also their broader impact on society. An effective Occupational Health and Safety Management System should reflect the organisation’s unique activities, hazards, compliance obligations, stakeholders, products, and operating environment.

Context goes beyond Occupational Health and Safety factors, it also includes organisational culture, strategic direction, capabilities, and external influences such as socioeconomic conditions. Tools such as ‘SWOT’ analyses can help organisations better understand this context and design an Occupational Health and Safety Management System that fits their needs.

Certification typically involves a two-stage process:

1. System appraisal – assessing your existing management system.
2. Initial audit – a detailed evaluation tailored to your organisation’s size, complexity, and system maturity.

Once certified, regular surveillance visits ensure your system continues to perform effectively and evolve over time.

Contact us to learn more about ISO 45001 certification.