Benefits and Importance of Implementing ISO 45001 for Workplace Safety

Is your business falling behind on safety standards while competitors move ahead? You’re not alone. Many companies still overlook the importance of ISO 45001, missing out on vital improvements in workplace safety. But here’s the truth: without implementing ISO 45001, industry leaders could be putting their employees and reputations at risk.

With ISO 45001, your business can take proactive steps to protect your team and stay competitive. In this blog, we’ll explain why implementing ISO 45001 is crucial for your workplace and show you how this standard can transform your safety practices. 

Let’s start with the basics of ISO 45001 and why it's a game-changer for your business.

Basics of ISO 45001: You Should Know

In 2018, ISO introduced ISO 45001, a new Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) standard. It replaced the older Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS 18001). 

This shift marked a significant change from a compliance-focused approach to one centered on managing risks. ISO 45001 aims to help organizations of all sizes enhance their safety performance by emphasizing risk-based thinking and continuous improvement in workplace safety practices.

ISO 45001 is used by any organization, regardless of size or industry, that aims to improve its safety management system. Whether you're in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, or service sectors, ISO 45001 helps address workplace hazards and supports a culture of safety. By using ISO 45001, your business will improve safety standards and boost your reputation in the upcoming years.

By now, you understand that implementing the ISO 45001 standard is not a choice but a necessity. But how does it benefit your business? Let’s find that.

How Does Your Organization Benefit from Implementing ISO 45001?

2.7 million deaths are reported worldwide just for occupational accidents. Implement ISO 45001 standards today as you want the best for your employees. Here’s a list of the benefits your business can achieve from these certifications:

1. Improved Safety Performance
ISO 45001 helps organizations identify occupational safety risks. By implementing this standard, businesses can enhance their safety performance, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses.

2. Legal Compliance
The standard supports organizations in staying compliant with health and safety regulations. Compliance is crucial if failure to meet these regulations will lead to legal issues, fines, or damage to the company’s reputation.

3. Employee Well-being
ISO 45001 promotes a proactive approach to employee health and safety. Addressing risks systematically creates a safer working environment and boosts employee morale and satisfaction.

4. Reduced Workplace Incidents
By identifying hazards and implementing mitigation strategies, ISO 45001 reduces workplace incidents. This improves safety, minimizes downtime, lowers insurance costs, and boosts productivity.

5. Enhanced Reputation
Certification demonstrates an organization’s commitment to health and safety. This can enhance its reputation with customers, investors, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders.

6. Cost Savings
Though implementing ISO 45001 requires an initial investment, the long-term savings from fewer accidents, illnesses, and reduced downtime outweigh the costs, leading to overall financial benefits.

7. Continuous Improvement
The standard emphasizes continuous improvement, helping organizations adapt to new risks and improve safety practices regularly. This promotes long-term sustainability and enhances operational performance.

8. Improved Employee Morale and Retention
ISO 45001 improves employee engagement and retention by prioritizing their health and safety. Employees who feel safe at work stay with the organization for a longer time, which reduces turnover costs.

9. Reduced Accidents and Injuries
Implement ISO 45001, which will identify and control workplace hazards, leading to fewer accidents and injuries. It also mandates the investigation of near-misses, preventing future incidents.

10. Improved Customer Satisfaction
Customers appreciate organizations that prioritize safety. ISO 45001 enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty by promoting the health and safety of the employees.

By adopting ISO 45001, organizations safeguard their employees and enhance their brand in the global market. But what is its importance in benefiting your business? Let’s help you understand that.

Importance of ISO 45001 Certification in Your Organization

ISO 45001 certification is more than just a badge of compliance. It's a strategic move for organizations committed to creating a safer and healthier workplace. Gaining ISO 45001 certification shows a commitment to align with global best practices for occupational health and safety (OHS). Here’s why ISO 45001 certification is essential for your business:

• Improves Risk Management
  ISO 45001 helps businesses identify, assess, and manage occupational risks effectively, leading to a more proactive approach to mitigating potential hazards before they become issues.

• Demonstrates Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
  Implement ISO 45001, which will reflect your commitment to CSR by ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and visitors, positioning your organization as a responsible and ethical business.

• Enhances Employee Engagement and Satisfaction
  A certified safety management system leads to a healthier work environment, fostering higher employee morale, engagement, and productivity.

• Reduces Legal and Financial Risks
  By adhering to ISO 45001, organizations mitigate the risk of legal actions, fines, and penalties associated with health and safety non-compliance.

ISO 45001 certification is about meeting legal requirements and supporting long-term business growth. The US is making steady progress with 936 ISO 45001 certificates, representing a growing commitment to workplace safety. While it currently accounts for just 0.5% of the global total, this is the right time for US businesses to adopt safety standards. The potential for growth is tremendous!

You can Log in to BPR Hub to start your journey toward the ISO 45001 certification. But how do you get this certification for your organization? Read the next section to know more!

Get ISO 45001 Certification Cost-effectively for Your Organization

ISO 45001 certification is an investment in workplace safety and regulatory compliance. However, achieving this certification doesn’t need to break the bank. With careful planning and strategic decisions, you can reduce costs throughout the certification process. You can follow the steps below to obtain ISO 45001 certification while offering practical tips on how to minimize expenses.

Steps to Achieve ISO 45001 Certification and Tips to Reduce Costs

Step 1: Conduct a Gap Analysis

Start by assessing your current safety management system. A gap analysis will help identify what changes are needed to meet ISO 45001 standards. 

Tip: Your team can do this step in-house to avoid consulting fees.

Step 2: Develop or Update Your Safety Management System

Based on the results of your gap analysis, you’ll need to develop or update your safety management system (SMS) to align with ISO 45001. This includes creating policies, procedures, and controls around health and safety management.

Tip: If you already have an existing safety management system (such as OHSAS 18001), you may not need a complete overhaul. Instead, focus on updating policies to align with ISO 45001. This approach can save both time and money.

Step 3: Train Your Team

One of the key requirements for ISO 45001 certification is ensuring that your staff is trained on the updated processes and safety management protocols. This training helps your team understand their roles in maintaining a safe workplace.

Tip: Invest in online ISO 45001 training courses for your employees. These are often more cost-effective than in-person training sessions while still delivering the required knowledge.

Step 4: Conduct Internal Audits

Before scheduling an external audit, conduct internal audits to ensure your OHSMS is fully compliant with ISO 45001. Internal audits identify any gaps or weaknesses that could prevent certification.

Tip: Before the formal external audit, conduct a few internal audits. Use internal staff to reduce external audit fees. Regular internal audits help identify and fix issues early, saving you from costly delays later.

Step 5: Undergo the External Audit

The external audit involves a thorough review of your OHSMS by the certification body. They will assess your compliance with ISO 45001 and either approve or recommend improvements.

Tip: Prepare thoroughly for the external audit. Having a comprehensive and organized safety management system will help avoid additional costs from audit rework.

Step 6: Certification and Ongoing Maintenance

After receiving ISO 45001 certification, ongoing surveillance audits are required to maintain the certification. These audits will ensure that your organization continues to meet the standards over time.

Tip: ISO 45001 certification requires annual surveillance audits. To save costs, consider maintaining a strong internal audit program to reduce the frequency and scope of external audits.

By reducing unnecessary costs at each stage, your organization can achieve ISO 45001 certification without exceeding your budget. ISO 45001 certification is experiencing impressive growth, continuing a strong upward trend from 2018 to 2019. 

During this period, ISO 14001 saw a steady 2% increase, while ISO 45001 soared with an incredible 223% surge. This remarkable rise highlights the growing recognition of the importance of workplace safety management.

But how do you stay aligned with all the updated standards and ahead of your competitors? In the 20s era, digitalization is the key. Opt for a cloud-based platform that will take care of compliance management, real-time updates, and risk minimization. 

Take Advantage of ISO 45001 Certification with BPR Hub’s Service

As businesses continue to prioritize workplace safety, now is the perfect time to take action and implement ISO 45001 with the help of BPR Hub. Our cloud-based platform streamlines the certification process, providing you with the tools and resources needed to ensure smooth and cost-effective certification. With BPR Hub, you can easily track progress, manage audit results, and gain insights into key compliance metrics. Start improving your safety management system today and stay compliant with international standards.

Begin your ISO 45001 journey with BPR Hub now and take advantage of the tools that make certification easier than ever. Schedule a Free Consultation with Us Today—get on the path to success before your next audit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do we need to hire a consultant for ISO 45001 certification?

Hiring a consultant for ISO 45001 certification is optional but can be helpful, especially if your organization lacks expertise in occupational health and safety management systems. A consultant can guide you through the certification process, provide training, and help implement the necessary changes efficiently. However, many companies successfully achieve certification without external help by dedicating internal resources and following a structured plan.

2. What are the costs associated with ISO 45001 certification? 

Costs vary depending on factors like company size and scope of operations, typical expenses include internal audit preparation, training, and the external audit fee. It's essential to factor in these costs to plan for ISO 45001 certification accurately.

3. Can small businesses benefit from ISO 45001 certification? 

Absolutely. ISO 45001 certification is for organizations of all sizes, and even small businesses can improve workplace safety, employee morale, and compliance with local regulations by implementing the standard.

4. What happens if we fail to meet ISO 45001 standards during an audit? 

If your organization fails to meet ISO 45001 standards during an audit, you will be given corrective actions to address non-conformities. You will need to resolve these issues and submit evidence of improvements before receiving certification.

5. How often do we need to recertify ISO 45001?

ISO 45001 certification typically needs to be renewed every three years. However, regular internal audits and continuous improvement practices should be maintained to stay compliant and ready for the recertification process.