ISO 14001 is the international standard for environmental management systems (EMS) and the most widely used EMS in the world, with over 14,000 organizations certified in the UK and over 360,000 ISO 14001 certificates issued globally.
ISO 14001 is the principal management system standard which specifies the requirements for the formulation and maintenance of an EMS. This helps to control your environmental aspects, reduce impacts and ensure legal compliance.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle and Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 14001.
Find out more or get a quote for ISO 14001 certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-14001
Understanding and implementing iso 14001Ankit Goswami
- Introduction
- What is EMS?
- Aim of EMS
- PDCA cycle
- Overview of various clauses
- Scope of ISO 14001:2015
- Few Important definitions from ISO 14001:2015
- All Clauses in Detail( Clause 4- Clause 10)
ISO 14001:2015 Integrity in Implementation and Auditing the New EMS StandardPECB
The webinar covers:
• How ISO 14001:2015 has created new opportunities for consultants and auditors alike.
• How ISO 14001:2015 has improved into a practical EMS with clear scope and expectations;
• What are the principles of auditing?
Presenter:
This webinar was hosted by Mr. Cecil Corloncito, Managing Consultant of Aquagem Environment, and who is also PECB Certified Trainer.
Link of the recorded session published on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VrdTQhimLDQ
Global Manager Group provides this presentation that talks about mandatory documents required for ISO 14001:2015 Certification. The key documents like quality manual, procedures, SOPs, audit checklist, etc required for certification are described in details. Also give information about how Global Mananger Group helps in quick certification by providing ISO 14001:2015 Documentation kit.
For more information visit @ http://www.globalmanagergroup.com/
Understanding and implementing iso 14001Ankit Goswami
- Introduction
- What is EMS?
- Aim of EMS
- PDCA cycle
- Overview of various clauses
- Scope of ISO 14001:2015
- Few Important definitions from ISO 14001:2015
- All Clauses in Detail( Clause 4- Clause 10)
ISO 14001:2015 Integrity in Implementation and Auditing the New EMS StandardPECB
The webinar covers:
• How ISO 14001:2015 has created new opportunities for consultants and auditors alike.
• How ISO 14001:2015 has improved into a practical EMS with clear scope and expectations;
• What are the principles of auditing?
Presenter:
This webinar was hosted by Mr. Cecil Corloncito, Managing Consultant of Aquagem Environment, and who is also PECB Certified Trainer.
Link of the recorded session published on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VrdTQhimLDQ
Global Manager Group provides this presentation that talks about mandatory documents required for ISO 14001:2015 Certification. The key documents like quality manual, procedures, SOPs, audit checklist, etc required for certification are described in details. Also give information about how Global Mananger Group helps in quick certification by providing ISO 14001:2015 Documentation kit.
For more information visit @ http://www.globalmanagergroup.com/
Significant changes have occurred in the ISO 14001 standard. Those suggested changes are now mandatory to improve both transparency and commitment to the continuous improvement of environmental management systems. The information is presented by AECOM and EtQ.
The presentation provide a simple and clear explanation to all aspects of ISO : 14001 Environmental Management System for a manufacturing organization with thrust for line managers.
Environmental management systems by Abu Khairul BasharAbu Khairul Bashar
An EMS is a set of management processes and procedures that allows an organization to evaluate, control, and reduce the environmental impacts of its activities, products, and services and operate with greater efficiency and control.
According to ISO 14001 - “The part of the overall management system that includes organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing and maintaining the environmental policy.”
Key steps to successful ISO 14001 ImplementationPECB
The webinar discussed the main steps organizations should take to successfully implement ISO 14001 and increase its competitive advantage. Also, it covered the importance of sustainability and how it can support the standard’s implementation.
Main points covered:
• What's new in ISO 14001
• Sustainability's key feature and relevance for EMS
• ISO and Sustainability: How they relate, and how sustainability is key to ISO implementation
• Conclusion and Tips
Presenter:
Jessica Mann is the CEO and founder of Green Futures Unlimited, a specialty Environmental Health & Safety and sustainability consulting firm. With over 30 years of experience in the field, she has served in leadership roles at several international corporations. Currently she provides consulting services to leading organizations, and teaches at the University of California San Diego in the sustainable business certificate program. A frequent guest-speaker at various professional events, she has written a number of articles and white papers on sustainability topics including green chemistry, and the integration of occupational health & safety with sustainability.
To obtain comprehensive and practical understanding and application of the ISO 14000 as well as to understand what is required in order to effectively manage the same and the benefits of compliance
ISO 45001 is the world’s international standard for occupational health and safety, issued to protect employees and visitors from work-related accidents and diseases. ISO 45001 certification was developed to mitigate any factors that can cause employees and businesses irreparable harm.
Its standards are the result of great effort by a committee of health and safety management experts who looked closely at a number of other approaches to system management — including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. In addition, ISO 45001 was designed to take other existing occupational health and safety standards, such as OHSAS 18001, into account — as well as the ILO’s labor standards, conventions and safety guidelines.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle, Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 45001.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-45001
Significant changes have occurred in the ISO 14001 standard. Those suggested changes are now mandatory to improve both transparency and commitment to the continuous improvement of environmental management systems. The information is presented by AECOM and EtQ.
The presentation provide a simple and clear explanation to all aspects of ISO : 14001 Environmental Management System for a manufacturing organization with thrust for line managers.
Environmental management systems by Abu Khairul BasharAbu Khairul Bashar
An EMS is a set of management processes and procedures that allows an organization to evaluate, control, and reduce the environmental impacts of its activities, products, and services and operate with greater efficiency and control.
According to ISO 14001 - “The part of the overall management system that includes organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing and maintaining the environmental policy.”
Key steps to successful ISO 14001 ImplementationPECB
The webinar discussed the main steps organizations should take to successfully implement ISO 14001 and increase its competitive advantage. Also, it covered the importance of sustainability and how it can support the standard’s implementation.
Main points covered:
• What's new in ISO 14001
• Sustainability's key feature and relevance for EMS
• ISO and Sustainability: How they relate, and how sustainability is key to ISO implementation
• Conclusion and Tips
Presenter:
Jessica Mann is the CEO and founder of Green Futures Unlimited, a specialty Environmental Health & Safety and sustainability consulting firm. With over 30 years of experience in the field, she has served in leadership roles at several international corporations. Currently she provides consulting services to leading organizations, and teaches at the University of California San Diego in the sustainable business certificate program. A frequent guest-speaker at various professional events, she has written a number of articles and white papers on sustainability topics including green chemistry, and the integration of occupational health & safety with sustainability.
To obtain comprehensive and practical understanding and application of the ISO 14000 as well as to understand what is required in order to effectively manage the same and the benefits of compliance
ISO 45001 is the world’s international standard for occupational health and safety, issued to protect employees and visitors from work-related accidents and diseases. ISO 45001 certification was developed to mitigate any factors that can cause employees and businesses irreparable harm.
Its standards are the result of great effort by a committee of health and safety management experts who looked closely at a number of other approaches to system management — including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. In addition, ISO 45001 was designed to take other existing occupational health and safety standards, such as OHSAS 18001, into account — as well as the ILO’s labor standards, conventions and safety guidelines.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle, Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 45001.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-45001
Our Team offers a variety of Consulting Services and
Solutions for ISO 9001,14001,18001 and other ISO standard and Product Certification.
We understand that each organization or person is unique. Our Solutions are comprehensive and will be customized to meet your specific needs.
Provides well-planned and stage by stage audit program.
A sound, coherent and non disruptive assessment.
We have an enviable record of customer satisfaction.
ISO 14001 Certification in Namibia provides the standards for an efficient environmental management system (EMS). Factocert, one of the most successful consulting firms, provides you with the most efficient Consulting methodologies. For further information, visit www.factocert.com
Why Audit? What Is the Difference Between Regulatory Auditing and ISO 14001 o...Triumvirate Environmental
We hear about the importance of conducting audits of your facilities. They allow us to be prepared for when the regulators show up. However, have you ever considered obtaining an ISO certification? The two standards that focus solely on EH&S are the ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standard or the ISO 45001 Occupations Health and Safety Standard. This session will cover the importance of auditing, what the ISO standards entail, and how they may actually help you with compliance and to show your end users that you care about your employees' health and safety and the environment.
[To download this presentation, visit:
https://www.oeconsulting.com.sg/training-presentations]
ISO 14001:2015 is an international standard designed and formulated to help organizations implement a robust Environmental Management System (EMS).
ISO 14001:2015 is intended for use by an organization seeking to manage its environmental responsibilities in a systematic manner that contributes to the environmental pillar of sustainability.
This management tool enables an organization of any size or type to identify and control the environmental impact of its activities, products or services, and improve its environmental performance continually through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste, gaining a competitive advantage and the trust of stakeholders.
The benefits of implementing the ISO 14001:2015 framework include increased efficiency in the use of energy and resources and reduction in waste outputs.
This ISO 14001:2015 (EMS) Awareness PPT training presentation can be used to brief staff, new hires and potential auditees so as to create awareness of the ISO 14001:2015 standard. Alternatively, the presentation may be used to supplement your materials for the training of EMS professionals and internal auditors.
This presentation includes the what and benefits of ISO 14001:2015, the EMS clause structure, the implementation process and offers practical tips on how to handle an audit session.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Provide background knowledge on ISO 14001
2. Gain an overview of the ISO 14001:2015 structure
3. Define the ISO 14001:2015 certification process
4. Describe the audit approach and learn useful tips for handling an audit session
Our new Information Security Standards Mapping Tool has been designed to make it easier for your organization to compare the differences between the standards commonly used to manage information and data privacy and security.
The ISO 13485:2016 standard governs quality management for medical devices and related services. It’s published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Get a free ISO 13485 quote from NQA today here: https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-13485
There are various methods for measuring operational
resilience, some of which are complex, protracted and
involve various disciplines. Yet often the best way is the
simplest way. This method is one of those, and the only
requirement is that you know what you know and what
you don’t know about your organisation.
ISO 22301:2019 "Security and resilience – Business continuity management systems - Requirements" was released in October 2019 and is set to replace ISO 22301:2012 via a three plus-year transition period. All organizations that wish to remain certified to ISO 22301 will need to transition to the 2019 revision of the standard within the set transition period which now ends in April 2023.
Learn more here: https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/transitions/iso-22301-2019
In order to get the most out of your NQA visit, it is wise to spend a few minutes in preparation to make sure that the visit goes smoothly on the day. Read our handy 10 tips!
ISO 13485 is the medical industry's optimal medical device standard, which ensures that all medical devices meet the proper regulatory compliance laws and customer needs. ISO 13485 certification is a valuable credential put in place to keep professionals and customers safe in clinics, hospitals and other medical settings.
ISO 13485:2016 is based on the ISO 9001 process model approach and is a management systems standard specifically developed for the manufacture of medical devices. Its primary objective is to facilitate harmonized medical device regulatory requirements.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits and clauses in detail for implementing ISO 13485.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-13485
In the event of an emergency, many businesses and organizations must have the ability to mitigate damage and continue operating. ISO 22301 is the international standard for Business Continuity Management (BCM). Published by the International Organization for Standardization, ISO 22301 is designed to help organizations prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from unexpected and disruptive incidents.
Use this ISO 22301 checklist to help when implementing a business continuity management system.
We work with many large and small organizations to ensure that information is managed through a risk based approach. Management systems can ensure that information resilience and risk mitigation is a focal point of corporate strategy as well as becoming a part of everyday business practice.
Read about risk assurance in our brochure now!
When your company displays the ISO 27001, your customers will know that you have policies in place to protect their information from today’s big threats.
The 27000 series of certifications cover a variety of information security. You can optimize your time and energy by focusing on just ISO 27001, arguably the best-known and top preparation standard designed to protect your network through an information security management system (ISMS).
Here is a complete guide to ISO 27001. In this guide we will run you through the standard, stages of planning for ISO 27001, the sections for the standard, the certification process and more.
Find out more about ISO 27001 or get a quote for certification here - https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-27001
ISO 50001:2018 is the newly revised international standard for Energy Management providing the most robust framework for optimizing energy efficiency in public and private sector organizations.
ISO 50001 certification demonstrates an organization’s commitment to continual improvement in energy management, allowing them to lead by example within their respective industries and ensure related legislative and regulatory requirements are met.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle, Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 50001.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-50001
This document will present an overview of the key changes between OHSAS 18001:2007 and the 2018 version of ISO 45001.
A Gap Analysis with guidance is also included in this gap guide to help you and your organization understand the change between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001 when you migrate.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-45001
ISO/IEC 27701:2019 is a data privacy extension to ISO 27001. This newly published information security standard provides guidance for organizations looking to put in place systems to support compliance with GDPR and other data privacy requirements.
ISO 27701, also abbreviated as PIMS (Privacy Information Management System) outlines a framework for Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Controllers and PII Processors to manage data privacy. Privacy information management systems are sometimes referred to as personal information management systems.
This mini implementation guide will help you understand what ISO 27701 is, why you and your organizational might need it and an overview of the extension in the clauses between ISO 27001 and ISO 27701.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-27701
ISO 27001:2013 is the international standard that provides a framework for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) to provide continued confidentiality, integrity and availability of information as well as legal compliance.
ISO 27001 certification is essential for protecting your most vital assets like employee and client information, brand image and other private information. The ISO standard includes a process-based approach to initiating, implementing, operating and maintaining your ISMS.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle and Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 27001.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-27001
ISO 22000:2018 is the newly revised International Food Safety standard, designed to harmonize on a global scale the requirements for food safety management for businesses within the food chain.
ISO 22000 combines and supplements the core elements of ISO 9001 and HACCP to provide an effective framework for the development, implementation, monitorization and continual improvement of a documented Food Safety Management System (FSMS) within the context of the organization’s overall business risks.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle and 10 clauses in detail for implementing ISO 22000.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-22000
ISO 9001 (Quality Management) is the most widely used QMS standard in the world, with over 1 million certificates issued to organizations in 178 countries.
The key to any successful business is strong quality control. If you want your operation to thrive, your consumer base must be confident that the goods or services you offer meet or exceed standards.
This implementation guide will help you run through the benefits, PDCA Cycle and Annex SL structure in detail for implementing ISO 9001.
To learn more on ISO 9001:2015 visit our page here - https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/certification/standards/iso-9001
With the help and expertise of our team at NQA, you needn’t be confused by the processes that go into getting certification for your management systems.
In this document, we show your journey to certification in detail starting from submitting a quote form to getting your certification awarded.
This document provides a 10 step guide to approaching Integrated Management Systems.
What are Integrated Management Systems?
An integrated management system is a single system designed to manage multiple aspects of an organization’s operations in line with multiple standards, such as those for quality, environmental and health and safety management.
NQA Can Help Integrate Your Management Systems
NQA has the expertise to help give you the skills to integrate management systems in your organization that will enable you to operate with greater efficiency. Unlike many other certification bodies, we believe in providing our customers with the best value for their money, while delivering impeccable service. Contact us for more information.
Find out more or get a quote for certification here – www.nqa.com
This document provides an overview of the key changes between the 2005 and 2018 version of ISO 22000 – there are several new requirements in addition to changes to key definitions. You will need to prepare for these changes and adapt your food safety management system to meet the new requirements within the transition timeline.
From May 2017, NQA is able to carry out transition audits to the revised medical device standard as a part of your next assessment.
Every organization which wishes to maintain certification to this standard must undergo a transition audit before March 2019 including resolution of any/all non-conformances raised during
the transition audit. To help get you started, the helpful annexes in the new standard have been expanded to give you more detail on where to focus your attention to understand and implement the
required changes. The work required will of course depend on your products/services and the nonapplicable cause specific to your QMS.
ISO 27001:2013 the Information Security Management Standard is one of the fastest growing standards right now; partly due to the ever evolving digital landscape and the recent introduction of the new GDPR.
Similarly to ISO 9001, ISO 27001 is the internationally recognized standard for information security management. It is the most widely used ISMS standard in the world, with over 35k certificates issued to organizations in 178 countries.
What do these standards have in common? And if you have one management system can you have the other?
Characterization and the Kinetics of drying at the drying oven and with micro...Open Access Research Paper
The objective of this work is to contribute to valorization de Nephelium lappaceum by the characterization of kinetics of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum. The seeds were dehydrated until a constant mass respectively in a drying oven and a microwawe oven. The temperatures and the powers of drying are respectively: 50, 60 and 70°C and 140, 280 and 420 W. The results show that the curves of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum do not present a phase of constant kinetics. The coefficients of diffusion vary between 2.09.10-8 to 2.98. 10-8m-2/s in the interval of 50°C at 70°C and between 4.83×10-07 at 9.04×10-07 m-8/s for the powers going of 140 W with 420 W the relation between Arrhenius and a value of energy of activation of 16.49 kJ. mol-1 expressed the effect of the temperature on effective diffusivity.
Diabetes is a rapidly and serious health problem in Pakistan. This chronic condition is associated with serious long-term complications, including higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Aggressive treatment of hypertension and hyperlipideamia can result in a substantial reduction in cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes 1. Consequently pharmacist-led diabetes cardiovascular risk (DCVR) clinics have been established in both primary and secondary care sites in NHS Lothian during the past five years. An audit of the pharmaceutical care delivery at the clinics was conducted in order to evaluate practice and to standardize the pharmacists’ documentation of outcomes. Pharmaceutical care issues (PCI) and patient details were collected both prospectively and retrospectively from three DCVR clinics. The PCI`s were categorized according to a triangularised system consisting of multiple categories. These were ‘checks’, ‘changes’ (‘change in drug therapy process’ and ‘change in drug therapy’), ‘drug therapy problems’ and ‘quality assurance descriptors’ (‘timer perspective’ and ‘degree of change’). A verified medication assessment tool (MAT) for patients with chronic cardiovascular disease was applied to the patients from one of the clinics. The tool was used to quantify PCI`s and pharmacist actions that were centered on implementing or enforcing clinical guideline standards. A database was developed to be used as an assessment tool and to standardize the documentation of achievement of outcomes. Feedback on the audit of the pharmaceutical care delivery and the database was received from the DCVR clinic pharmacist at a focus group meeting.
Willie Nelson Net Worth: A Journey Through Music, Movies, and Business Venturesgreendigital
Willie Nelson is a name that resonates within the world of music and entertainment. Known for his unique voice, and masterful guitar skills. and an extraordinary career spanning several decades. Nelson has become a legend in the country music scene. But, his influence extends far beyond the realm of music. with ventures in acting, writing, activism, and business. This comprehensive article delves into Willie Nelson net worth. exploring the various facets of his career that have contributed to his large fortune.
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Introduction
Willie Nelson net worth is a testament to his enduring influence and success in many fields. Born on April 29, 1933, in Abbott, Texas. Nelson's journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most iconic figures in American music is nothing short of inspirational. His net worth, which estimated to be around $25 million as of 2024. reflects a career that is as diverse as it is prolific.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Humble Origins
Willie Hugh Nelson was born during the Great Depression. a time of significant economic hardship in the United States. Raised by his grandparents. Nelson found solace and inspiration in music from an early age. His grandmother taught him to play the guitar. setting the stage for what would become an illustrious career.
First Steps in Music
Nelson's initial foray into the music industry was fraught with challenges. He moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue his dreams, but success did not come . Working as a songwriter, Nelson penned hits for other artists. which helped him gain a foothold in the competitive music scene. His songwriting skills contributed to his early earnings. laying the foundation for his net worth.
Rise to Stardom
Breakthrough Albums
The 1970s marked a turning point in Willie Nelson's career. His albums "Shotgun Willie" (1973), "Red Headed Stranger" (1975). and "Stardust" (1978) received critical acclaim and commercial success. These albums not only solidified his position in the country music genre. but also introduced his music to a broader audience. The success of these albums played a crucial role in boosting Willie Nelson net worth.
Iconic Songs
Willie Nelson net worth is also attributed to his extensive catalog of hit songs. Tracks like "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," "On the Road Again," and "Always on My Mind" have become timeless classics. These songs have not only earned Nelson large royalties but have also ensured his continued relevance in the music industry.
Acting and Film Career
Hollywood Ventures
In addition to his music career, Willie Nelson has also made a mark in Hollywood. His distinctive personality and on-screen presence have landed him roles in several films and television shows. Notable appearances include roles in "The Electric Horseman" (1979), "Honeysuckle Rose" (1980), and "Barbarosa" (1982). These acting gigs have added a significant amount to Willie Nelson net worth.
Television Appearances
Nelson's char
UNDERSTANDING WHAT GREEN WASHING IS!.pdfJulietMogola
Many companies today use green washing to lure the public into thinking they are conserving the environment but in real sense they are doing more harm. There have been such several cases from very big companies here in Kenya and also globally. This ranges from various sectors from manufacturing and goes to consumer products. Educating people on greenwashing will enable people to make better choices based on their analysis and not on what they see on marketing sites.
Natural farming @ Dr. Siddhartha S. Jena.pptxsidjena70
A brief about organic farming/ Natural farming/ Zero budget natural farming/ Subash Palekar Natural farming which keeps us and environment safe and healthy. Next gen Agricultural practices of chemical free farming.
Artificial Reefs by Kuddle Life Foundation - May 2024punit537210
Situated in Pondicherry, India, Kuddle Life Foundation is a charitable, non-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the living standards of coastal communities and simultaneously placing a strong emphasis on the protection of marine ecosystems.
One of the key areas we work in is Artificial Reefs. This presentation captures our journey so far and our learnings. We hope you get as excited about marine conservation and artificial reefs as we are.
Please visit our website: https://kuddlelife.org
Our Instagram channel:
@kuddlelifefoundation
Our Linkedin Page:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/kuddlelifefoundation/
and write to us if you have any questions:
info@kuddlelife.org
Micro RNA genes and their likely influence in rice (Oryza sativa L.) dynamic ...Open Access Research Paper
Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs molecules having approximately 18-25 nucleotides, they are present in both plants and animals genomes. MiRNAs have diverse spatial expression patterns and regulate various developmental metabolisms, stress responses and other physiological processes. The dynamic gene expression playing major roles in phenotypic differences in organisms are believed to be controlled by miRNAs. Mutations in regions of regulatory factors, such as miRNA genes or transcription factors (TF) necessitated by dynamic environmental factors or pathogen infections, have tremendous effects on structure and expression of genes. The resultant novel gene products presents potential explanations for constant evolving desirable traits that have long been bred using conventional means, biotechnology or genetic engineering. Rice grain quality, yield, disease tolerance, climate-resilience and palatability properties are not exceptional to miRN Asmutations effects. There are new insights courtesy of high-throughput sequencing and improved proteomic techniques that organisms’ complexity and adaptations are highly contributed by miRNAs containing regulatory networks. This article aims to expound on how rice miRNAs could be driving evolution of traits and highlight the latest miRNA research progress. Moreover, the review accentuates miRNAs grey areas to be addressed and gives recommendations for further studies.
2. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE2
> ISO 14001:2015
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE
*UK and Ireland only
3. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 3ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 3
Contents
Introduction to the Standard P04
Benefits of implementation P06
PDCA cycle P07
Risk based thinking / audits P08
Annex SL P10
SECTION 1: Scope P11
SECTION 2: Normative references P12
SECTION 3: Terms of definition P13
SECTION 4: Context of organization P14
SECTION 5: Leadership P16
SECTION 6: Planning P18
SECTION 7: Support P20
SECTION 8: Operation P22
SECTION 9: Performance evaluation P24
SECTION 10: Improvement P28
Get the most from your management P30
Next steps once implemented P32
How else can we assist P33
4. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE4
INTRODUCTION
TO THE STANDARD
ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE4
The International Standard ISO 14001:2015
defines criteria for an Environmental
Management System (EMS); which if
implemented and maintained effectively,
can provide an organization with
reassurance that environmental risk is
being managed and improved.
ISO 14001 is applicable to any organization
regardless of size, sector or geographical location.
Whilst the Standard sets out a framework for
environmental management, it has been devised
to give flexibility to apply to all companies and
organizations.
ISO 14001 requires effective demonstration that
a systematic approach has been taken to prevent
pollution and to have processes in order to manage
environmental risk. Once a policy framework has
been put into place along with processes to facilitate
the organizations’ commitment, the Standard then
asks an organization to audit, review and improve
the system to affirm that a commitment to continuous
improvement is being achieved.
The Standard fundamentally comes in two parts;
“The Standard” and then “Annexes” which provide
help and explanation.
5. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 5
Back in the 1970’s, ‘80’s and ‘90’s,
an ever increasing worldwide
concern for protecting the
environment was emerging.
As a result of this, a number
of international treaties and
country specific “codes of
practice” were published to
provide organizations with a
framework for environmental
pollution mitigation. In 1992,
the British Standards Institute
published BS 7750 (based on the
then quality Standard BS 5750
– now ISO 9001). This provided
the foundations and template
as to what became ISO 14001-
Environmental management
systems - Specification with
guidance for use.
The ISO 14001 Standard has been
through a number of revisions since
it was first published in 1996. ISO
Standards are reviewed every five years
to establish if a revision is required in
order to keep them current and relevant.
The current Standard, ISO 14001:2015,
responds to the increasing need for
management systems to be integrated
by using “Annex SL”, a common format
for management ISO’s. Other key
improvements in the 2015 Standard
include:
• Asking for an appreciation of
external and internal elements that
may influence how environmental
management is conducted.
• Understanding the needs of internal
and external parties who may interact
with the organization and the EMS.
• Strengthening of the leadership
commitment from “Top Management”.
• Environmental management to
be more aligned with the strategic
direction of the organization.
• Clearer and effective communication,
driven through a communications
plan.
• A life-cycle perspective of the
organization.
A Brief history of ISO 14001
6. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE6
BENEFITS OF
IMPLEMENTATION
ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE6
Whilst there other numerous benefits to achieving ISO 14001
(and some will be more appropriate depending upon what
sector an organization operates) the following benefits are
likely in most cases:
1. Demonstration of Leadership
By testing environmental controls against the internationally
recognized environmental Standard, an organization
demonstrates ethical environmental leadership to their
Stakeholders which includes customers, employees and
Regulators. The achievement of 14001 also provides
assurance to a Board of Directors, Trustees or owners that
there is management control regarding environmental risks
inherent within an organization.
2. Economic benefit
In a global market place where all sectors have to compete in
some form or other, demonstration of ethical environmental
leadership through “good environmental stewardship”, can
be the deciding factor for being selected to supply the goods
or services that an organization provides. Having ISO 14001
also may give a Unique Selling Point (USP) that increasingly
provides one of the fundamentals when promoting an
organization.
A fundamental part of the Standard is conformance
to appropriate environmental regulatory requirements
or other obligations that are deemed as important as
a regulatory requirement. A system which checks on
adherence to legislation mitigates the risk of environmental
liability prosecution. Whilst this is not a direct saving to
an organization, the outcome of unregulated activities
that deleteriously affect the environment will result in ever
increasing fines.
Most organizations or businesses consume resources of
one form or another. Whilst the Standard doesn’t direct an
organization to measure something specifically, examining
the resources that are consumed, for example energy,
together with waste produced can lead to changes in use and
fundamental savings.
3. Internal audit and Management Review
ISO 14001 provides the framework to check what controls
have been put into place through the use of internal audit
and provides a way in which to monitor and improve. A
Management Review process then allows Top Management
to take a “step back” and determine how well the system is
working within the context of the organization and whether
it requires modification to meet future changes in a process,
resources or regulatory framework. Internal audits and
Management Reviews when combined with an audit from a
certification body, such as NQA, provide assurance that the
EMS is meeting the requirements of the organization and the
ISO 14001 Standard.
All “management ISO’s” have a similar fundamental benefit. They provide a framework of
action that; if implemented appropriately, provides internal control. In the case of ISO 14001
the execution of the standard provides control for an organization’s activities, products or
services and the interaction with the environment. This, in turn can increase the long term
viability of the organization and where appropriate a higher regard for its asset value.
7. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 7ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 7
PDCA CYCLE
Plan:
Understand the context of the organization,
establish environmental objectives and
processes necessary to deliver results
in accordance with the organization’s
environmental policy, understand risk and
opportunities and determine the support
required to achieve the outcomes required.
Do:
Implement the
processes as planned
to include operational
planning and control
and emergency
preparedness and
response.
Check:
Monitor, measure and
evaluate environmental
performance to include
internal audit and
Management Review.
Act:
Take actions
to continually
improve to include
addressing non
conformity.
Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) is an iterative, four-stage approach for achieving continual
improvement. It involves systematically testing possible solutions, assessing the results, and
implementing the ones that are shown to work.
At the “heart” of this approach is leadership. The importance of leadership at all levels, but particularly by Top Management,
cannot be underestimated to operate an EMS successfully, to achieve performance levels required and generate
continual improvement.
In the context of an EMS, PDCA is translated into the following:
SUPPORT
OPERATION
LEADERSHIP
IMPROVEMENT
PLANNING PERFORMANCE
EVALUATION
Plan Do
Act Check
SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
INTERNAL
EXTERNAL ISSUES
INTENDED OUTCOMES OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
NEEDS AND
EXPECTATIONS
OF RELEVANT
INTERESTED
PARTIES
CONTEXT OF THE ORGANIZATION
8. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE8
RISK BASED
THINKING/AUDITS
Context:
The first step of implementing an EMS, as described below, is
to gain an understanding the “context” of the organization or,
paraphrasing, the macro issues that affect and are affected by
an organization. As an organization is subject to a variety of
influences, which can change, this can lead to risks in the form
of potential threats and opportunities. Determining the risks
that derive from this drives an organization to consider such
changes or events, analyse their impacts and chances of an
event occurring and then encouraging a planning or mitigation
strategy.
Environmental aspects and
operational control:
Following the determination of the macro issues, 14001 asks an
organization to determine the aspects and impacts of activities,
products and services in some form of risk assessment process.
This analysis informs an organization where there are significant
issues (risks or opportunities) that need careful management,
where objectives need setting, controls that need designing or
where and to what frequency internal audits need carrying out.
Planning – compliance
obligations:
Surrounding the determination of aspects and impacts is the
assessment of whether an organization is complying with
their legal framework. The concept of maintaining knowledge
and understanding of its compliance status has built in risk
assessment principles so that an organization can determine
its compliance status and, per se, understand where it is not
complying and therefore devise strategies to minimise the risk.
Planning – risk and
opportunities:
Those organizations that need further assistance in ensuring
that their risk assessment process is comprehensive can
look towards ISO 31000 Risk management - Principles and
guidelines. This provides generic guidelines although it is not
intended to promote uniformity of risk management across
organizations. Of course, the design and implementation of
risk management plans and frameworks will need to take
into account the varying needs of a specific organization, its
particular objectives, context, structure, operations, processes,
functions, projects, products, services, or assets and specific
practices employed.
Continual improvement:
A risk based philosophy means that an organization can be
better prepared for the impacts of uncertainty, which in turn
means greater resilience. Moreover, risk-based thinking implicitly
results in continual improvement, as an organization is always
examining potential influences and changes.
The Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle for process improvement, as described above,
corresponds to proven risk management approaches. Many organizations have the process of
risk management as a fundamental process particularly around information technology, finance
and occupational health and safety.
9. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 9
PROCESS BASED
THINKING/AUDIT
The ISO 9001 requirements for a QMS are founded on seven
quality management principles, and one of these is the
“process approach”. It is explained fully in the introduction of
ISO 9001:2015, but as a paraphrased summation; a process
approach is where more consistent results can be attained when
consideration and management of activities are carried out as
interrelated processes, which together, make up a system.
The process approach applies to an EMS because a
comprehensive appreciation of an organizations processes and
their interrelation needs to be known. The following are the main
areas in an EMS where process thinking is attributable:
• Context:
A comprehensive appreciation of processes needs to be
understood when considering the macro environmental
issues which interrelate between the organization and the
environment.
• Environmental aspects and operational controls:
In order to determine environmental aspects and impacts,
risks and opportunities, an analysis of the inputs, activities
and outputs needs to be determined. As part of the analysis
the interactivity of one or more of the processes may need
to be taken into account. If it is not, this environmental risk
assessment may omit environmental aspects and impacts
which in turn would result in no controls being devised. This
could result in a deleterious impact upon the environment.
• Performance and monitoring:
In order to determine how successful a process is the result of
the process (good/bad) needs to be evaluated.
• Support/competence:
In order to undertake a process, or a number of processes
effectively, a person needs to be competent. When
determining environmental competence needs, competence
will need to be obtained or matched to the needs of the
particular processes. If competence is not proven or
appropriate to a particular process this could result in adverse
environmental impact.
• Internal audit:
The processes which comprise the EMS need to be
systematically audited over a time and frequency to determine
whether they perform effectively.
• Corrective action:
A corrective action is an opportunity to correct a problem
identified in an EMS. A process approach to this will start
at root cause and finish at an appropriate and satisfactory
sustainable solution.
Some organizations that implement an EMS will look to integrate it with their Quality
Management System (QMS). If this is the case, they will have heard of “process based”
thinking. However, if not, it might be less understood how the process approach is
applicable to the EMS requirements in ISO 14001:2015.
£
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10. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE10
ANNEX SL
Annex SL takes the principles within Guide 83 and creates a
universal high-level structure, identical core text, and common
terms and definitions for all management system Standards
which make the integration of management systems when
according to a particular Standard easier.
Note: the “SL” in Annex SL doesn’t stand for anything – it’s just
the way that ISO numbers things!
Annex SL provides the new common architecture for ISO Management System Standards.
It replaces ISO’s Guide 83, which provided a structure and text for management system
Standards. Guide 83 started to address the issues that many organizations had when
integrating such Standards as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 27001.
High Level Structure
Annex SL high level structure comprises
the following:
1. Scope
2. Normative References
3. Terms and Definitions
4. Context of the Organization
5. Leadership
6. Planning
7. Support
8. Operation
9. Performance Evaluation
10. Improvement
Numbers 1 to 3 provide a background to the Standard
itself and it is not until number 4 that the requirements
or “clauses/sections” of the Standard are set out.
Whilst clauses 4 to 10 are common to all Management
System Standards, ISO 14001 specifically relates to
environmental topics. So, whilst there is commonality,
there are processes to be established, implemented
and maintained such as an organizations’
understanding of a policy framework around
protection of the environment or “aspects and
impacts” and “life cycle perspective” which are unique
requirements to ISO 14001.
A good use of Annex SL and an example of an
integrated management system (IMS) is one that
simultaneously handles the requirements of ISO 9001
and ISO 14001.Typically, the processes required
in each Standard for document control, internal
audits, dealing with nonconformities, corrective
actions, or management review are shared, so that
the requirements of each Standard are met without
duplicating effort i.e. having two processes - one for
ISO 9001 and one for ISO 14001.
11. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 11ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 11
SECTION 1:
SCOPE
There are no specific requirements
for an organization to adhere to
within this section. However, it
sets out the parameters within
which ISO 14001 can be used
and provides the overall intended
outcome of an EMS as being:
• Providing value for the environment,
the organization itself and interested
parties,
• Enhancement of environmental
performance;
• Fulfilment of compliance
obligations;
• Achievement of environmental
objectives
The section also sets out that
the Standard is applicable to any
organization, regardless of size, type
and nature.
ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 11
12. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE12
SECTION 2:
NORMATIVE
REFERENCES
In other words, by citing something as a normative reference,
it is considered as indispensable to the application of that
particular Standard. However, unlike ISO 9001, there are no
normative references in ISO 14001.
ISO/IEC Directives, Part two, Section 6.2.2, defines the inclusion of a normative reference
as, “This conditional element [of the Standard] shall give a list of the referenced
documents… in such a way as to make them indispensable for the application of
the document.”
13. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 13
They are listed according to the hierarchy of the concepts
(reflecting the sequencing of their introduction in the
Standard). Terms are grouped by major clause title (i.e.
Context of the Organization, Leadership, Planning, etc.). ISO/
TC 207/SC 1/WG 5 agreed to order terms within the groupings
such that:
i. discipline-specified terms are presented consecutively
after its generic form, and to the extent possible.
ii. present terms in the order in which they appear in the
text. WG5 inserted an “Alphabetical index of terms”,
which may be modified to reflect alphabetical listings in
another language.
In addition to the term or definition there are also notes that
seek to provide further information and clarity.
If an electronic version of the Standard has been purchased
the definitions are hyperlinked to other definitions so that there
interrelationship can be seen.
The following sections, 4 to 10, provide the requirements of
the Standard. When reading the Standard it is important that
as with past ISO 14001 versions, the word “shall” indicates
the mandatory requirements that an organization must meet
and external auditors, such as NQA, are required to verify
conformance and effectiveness against.
In order to understand how each of the following clauses
applies to each other the remaining text applies to the
following diagram:
SECTION 3:
TERMS AND
DEFINITIONS
This section sets out the terms and definitions that are used in the Standard which may
need further clarification in order to apply the Standard to a particular organization.
7.1 Resources
7.2 Competence
7.3 Awareness
7.4
Communication
7.5 Documented
information
4.1
Understanding
the organization
and its context
4.2
Understanding
the needs and
expectations of
interested parties
4.3
Determining
the scope of
the EMS
4.4 EMS
5.1 Leadership
commitment
5.2
Environmental
policy
6.1 Actions to
address risks
opportunities
(inc. Aspects,
impacts
compliance
obligations
5.3
Organizational
roles,
responsibilities
and authorities
6.2
Environmental
objectives and
planning to
achieve them
8.1 Operational
planning and
control
8.2 Emergency
Preparedness
response
9.1 Monitoring,
measurement,
analysis and
evaluation
9.2
Internal audit
9.3
Management
review
10.1
Nonconformity
and corrective
action
10.2 Continual
improvement
PLAN DO CHECK ACT
4
Context of the
organization
5
Leadership
6
Planning
7
Support
8
Operation
9
Performance
evaluation
10
Improvement
14. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE14
SECTION 4:
CONTEXT OF THE
ORGANIZATION
The clause is sequential as there is need to understand the organization and context (4.1), prior to identifying interested parties
and understanding their needs and expectations (4.2), the output of both 4.1 and 4.2 allows determination of scope (4.3), and then
ultimately designing the EMS (4.4):
This is a new concept in terms of ISO 14001:2015. Some organizations, prior to the introduction of
“context” had performed a “baseline review”, which in some cases, provided a broad understanding
of an organization prior to working out the “nuts and bolts” of trying to manage (in some form) the
environmental impacts.
4.1 Understanding of the organization and context
The intent of “Context” is to provide a high-level, conceptual understanding of the important issues that can affect, either positively
or negatively, the way an organization manages its environmental responsibilities. To put it another way, it is a comprehensive
appreciation of the macro processes (and their interrelation) which can affect or be affected by an organization. From ISO
14001:2015 Annex A, it suggests that the following are also appreciated when understanding “context”:
• environmental conditions related to climate, air quality, water quality, land use, existing contamination, natural resource
availability and biodiversity
• external cultural, social, political, legal, technological, economic, competitive circumstances, where it operates
• internal characteristics or conditions of the organization, and its capabilities
There are a number of methodologies that can be used to determine context. A good way of achieving this is to formulate a matrix
setting out the requirements of the Standard (and Annex A) and then perform a series of interviews with appropriate employees,
so that the knowledge of an organization can be harnessed. Where appropriate, this could be turned into a report. The benefit of
this is that it provides a cohesive explanation and a good reference to support present and future business strategy. (It can also be
reflected upon when undertaking a Management Review (See Section 9 Performance evaluation below).
4.3
Determining
the scope of
the EMS
4.1
Understanding of
the organization
and context
4.2
Understanding the
needs expectations
of interested parties
4.4
Environmental
management
system
15. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 15
4.3 Determining the scope of
the EMS
From an understanding of the context, interested parties and
the interested parties needs and expectations, the scope of the
EMS can be determined. The “scope” sets out a description
of the extent and breadth of the EMS. Sometimes, at the
initial stages of an implementation, it can be problematic to
finalise the scope because sometimes there needs to be more
knowledge of the organization through implementation of
the remainder of the Standard (particularly when determining
environmental aspects and impacts from the activities,
products and services of an organization).
However, the scope should be documented in some form
within the EMS. Where a scope is particularly complicated,
perhaps because certain parts of a business are excluded
from the EMS because of legitimate reasons, then a clear
description in a manual or other document should be
undertaken. Where, the scope is relatively straight forward
then a good place to have it is in the Environmental Policy
Statement. As a publically facing document, the Environmental
Policy Statement may provide a good location for describing
scope. A clear description of the scope within the Policy
Statement can inform the reader succinctly of who the
company is, what it does and what the remainder of the policy
relates to. Of course you may choose to have scope defined
in both places but if the scope changes, both statements will
have to be changed!
4.4 Environmental
management system
The final section in clause 4 sets out that as a result of the
above, an organization then has to determine, implement and
continually improve an EMS. The remainder of this document
will look at the how this is to take place.
4.2 Understanding
the needs and
expectations of
workers and other
interested parties
Whilst the term “interested parties”
may not be new within ISO 14001,
most organizations will probably
understand the term “Stakeholder”
better. From an understanding of the
context i.e. the conceptual or macro
important issues in the organization,
determination of the stakeholders
or interested parties will provide an
understanding of who can be affected
by the environmental impacts of the
organization.
Determination of interested parties
can be formulated by creating
a “Map” i.e. those internal and
external parties who interact with an
organization in some way:
AN
ORGANIZATION
REGULATORY
BODIES
CUSTOMERS
SUPPLIERS AND
DISTRIBUTORS
TRADE
ASSOCIATIONS
THE PUBLIC
CERTIFIERS EMPLOYEES
Once this has been created then the interested parties relevant needs and expectations need to be
determined. There again, this can just be an iterative process, listing the interested parties needs and
expectations e.g. as customer may require ISO 14001. What is important though is the drawing out of
issues from interested parties that an organization may consider to become compliance obligations
(see later for a description of compliance obligations).
16. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE16
SECTION 5:
LEADERSHIP
It’s overall success and environmental performance level
will depend upon the extent to which top management
are committed in most aspects of the establishment,
implementation and continual improvement of the EMS.
The following examples are how leadership can be
demonstrated within an EMS:
• Ensuring that the strategic plans of the organization and the
EMS objectives are compatible and integrated within the
organization.
• Provision of appropriate resources.
• Considering and integrating environmental concerns in
business planning and strategy.
• Understanding what good environmental performance is or
“looks-like” and then responding appropriately.
• Facilitating the culture of continual improvement.
• Communicating appropriately amongst interested parties.
One potentially “public facing” example of demonstration
of leadership is of course Top Management signing the
Environmental Policy Statement, to say that as a Leader of
the organization, “this is what we are going to achieve”...or...
“these are our intentions”. Whilst this alone cannot solely been
seen as a demonstration of leadership, it provides a framework
so that the actions as described above can be implemented.
The Standard states that top management must demonstrate leadership, commitment and
take accountability for the “effectiveness of the EMS.” This sets the tone for Section 5 and the
operation of the whole of the EMS.
Whilst the main thrust of leadership requirements
is within Section 5, as the Standard is holistic, there
are other implied “leadership” requirements in the
following sections:
Planning:
An appropriate understanding of the environmental
aspects, actions, and compliance obligations and the
corresponding risks and opportunities, require strategic
guidance from Top Management.
Support:
There are many instances where it is Top
Management’s role to provide a steer or “sign off” in
order to support the aims of the EMS. This includes
provision of resources, gaining competence, ensuring
awareness, effective communication, and appropriate
documented information.
Operation:
Certain operational control and emergency planning
need in many cases Top Management’s insight and
strategy.
Performance evaluation:
Top Management need to understand the output of
internal audit, measurement and monitoring results
and be actively involved in the Management Review
process.
Improvement:
Top Management influences the culture of continual
improvement and has the power to enable effective
continual improvement and ultimately have the final say
on how poor results are dealt with. For example, this
could be approval of monies for additional resources or
realigning the organizational strategy.
17. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 17ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 17
18. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE18
SECTION 6:
PLANNING
a) Aspects, impacts, risk, opportunities
and compliance obligations
This is a fundamental part of the EMS, as without
understanding the environmental implications of an
organization’s activities, products and services there can be
no plans to either minimise, mitigate or manage environmental
impact.
A good approach to understanding the environmental
implications of an organization is by starting to understand
the business itself. The parameters of the organization have
already been understood in the determination of scope.
Therefore, it is a matter of “filling in the gaps” with the detailed
activities, products and services (processes) which comprise
the organization.
Assembling this information together into a matrix allows
consistency and the data to be presented logically. If
appropriate this information could be referenced to a location
plan of the organization so that referencing to physical location
can be achieved.
From determination of activities, products and services the
environmental aspects and impacts need to be determined.
Environmental aspects are defined as “element of an
organization’s activities or products or services that interacts or
can interact with the environment”. Environmental impacts are
defined as the “change to the environment whether adverse or
beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organization’s
environmental aspects”. This process should take into account
potential emergency situations.
An example of an interaction of a process causing an
aspects and impact:
After generating a list of aspects, the aspects need to
be “sieved” to determine which can have a significant
environmental impact. The principal reason for doing this is to
work out which are the most important and need either control/
management or need their impact reducing to an acceptable
level.
The Standard says that in order to determine significance an
organization should use “...established criteria”. In assessing
the significance it is suggested though that the following are
considered:
• The likelihood of the impact occurring
• The scale of the environmental damage
• The level of concern within interested parties
• The requirements of appropriate compliance obligations
(legal and other requirements).
Each of the above can be quantified in some way and scored.
At the end of this process it is important to sense check that
what has been scored as significant - is significant!
This section sets out a framework that asks an organization to analyse itself to determine the
aspects, impacts, risks and opportunities of its activities, products and services and then how
to manage the result of this analysis.
Process:
Heating
Aspect:
Emissions
from boiler
Impact:
Air pollution
Potential Severity Rating
Minor Moderate Significant Catastrophic
Very Likely Moderate High Extreme Extreme
Likely Low Moderate High Extreme
Unlikely Very Low Low Moderate High
Rare Very Low Very Low Low Moderate
Likelihoodseverityoccurs
19. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 19
In order to determine the appropriate compliance obligations
and how they apply to the organizations processes
and aspects a great deal of research may be needed,
particularly if the organization is complex or highly potentially
environmentally damaging. This is sometimes where
organizations need specialist help. However, from the list of
compliance obligations there may be areas where lack of
compliance or non-compliance is a risk to an organization and
it is important to identify this and put into place appropriate
plans to bring the process into compliance.
From the aspects and impacts analysis, “risks” will
be produced (as defined in the Standard as “effect of
uncertainty”). However, there may also be opportunities
i.e. where there is an activity that gives rise to significant
environmental impact there may be an opportunity to reduce
environmental impact. Whilst this appears to be a process
that is undertaken just once, in reality it needs to be proactive
and reactive. It needs to be proactive in order to determine the
environmental implications of planned or new developments.
It also needs to be reactive; to determine when a process
changes or when a compliance obligation changes.
b) Environmental objectives and
planning to achieve them
The Standard says that an organization has to “establish
environmental objectives at relevant functions and levels
taking into account...significant environmental aspects and
associated compliance obligations and considering...risks and
opportunities”. If the analysis (above) has been undertaken
comprehensively, it should be obvious what needs to be worked
on and where an objective needs to be set to bring about
change. Of course, an organization’s objectives do not need to
derive from the above analysis – but it’s a good place to start!
The Standard sets out explicitly the framework it requires for
achieving objectives and a good way of depicting this, meeting
the Standard and having an “Action plan” to manage the
objectives is to form a table of the Standards’ requirements:
The latter column in the table above - “How will result be
evaluated?” is an interesting requirement that is worthy of
consideration. The Standard directs an organization into
including indicators for monitoring progress towards achieving
its objectives. Whilst the intimation is that there needs to be a
quantitative measure, it is quite reasonable for the evaluation to
be qualitative e.g. if an organization had set an objective to say
produce a report – an organization will know when the objective
has been met if the report is produced!
The overall theme of ensuring that the EMS is integrated within
the business is inherent within this part of the Standard. The
best objectives will, of course, be meaningful to the business
and therefore be integrated into the organizations’ processes.
What will
be done?
What
resources will
be required?
Who will be
responsible?
When
will it be
completed?
How will the
results be
evaluated?
20. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE20
SECTION 7:
SUPPORT
a) Resources including competence
and awareness
In order to operate an EMS there are a variety of resources
required which can include financial resources, inventory,
human skills, production resources and information/computer
technology. As considered in Section 5, “buy-in” from
Top Management is essential, as ultimately they have the
decision to deploy or invest in the resources for the EMS.
An organization also has to identify the correct resources it
requires. As part of identifying resources, an organization
needs to look at the information produced within Section 6 to
acknowledge the risks/opportunities and resulting objectives
that have been identified and need deployment of resources to
mitigate or manage them.
Usually, the greatest challenge is to provide competent and
knowledgeable personnel to support the requirements of
the EMS. This is especially so when an EMS is first being
implemented. Creating a “training-needs” matrix based
upon what competency or awareness is required amongst
organizations’ personnel will highlight when competency
has been achieved or is required. For example, if it has been
identified that there is a spill risk, then there needs to be
appropriate competency and materials to deal with such
a situation.
b) Communication
Effective and efficient internal and external communication is
“key” to running an EMS. The Standard is helpful in providing
a framework in order to depict the communication process
within an organization. By turning this into a table and with
reference to the “interested parties” or “stakeholder” analysis
undertaken in 4.2 a communications “plan” can be formed:
Of course, the columns can be re-arranged if necessary!
One important stakeholder, particularly in connection with
compliance obligations, are Regulators. If an organization
is heavily regulated and perhaps has a permit or discharge
consent then there may be a communications plan between
organization and Regulator solely for the discharge of the
conditions – and to remain in compliance.
One area that is often forgotten is communication with
“persons doing work under the organization’s control”.
As a “rule of thumb” it is advisable to treat contractors or
outsourced operations as if they were “direct” employees
and communicate in a manner that is effective and so that
the communication is two-way. By adopting this philosophy it
ensures that the “persons doing work under the organization’s
control” can contribute to continual improvement.
This section looks at the resource, communication and documentation of an EMS. The
requirements really underpin an EMS and ensure that it runs effectively.
What will be
communicated?
When will it be
communicated?
With whom
will it be
communicated?
How will it be
communicated?
21. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 21
c) Documentation
The Standard gives clear direction as to what documentation it requires. The 2015 Standard is less prescriptive than other
iterations although it still requires the following:
Clause Documentation Requirement
4.3 (Scope) The scope shall be maintained as documented information and be available to interested parties.
5.2 (Policy) The environmental policy shall be maintained as documented information.
6.1.1 (General) The organization shall maintain documented information of its:
• risks and opportunities that need to be addressed;
• processes needed in 6.1.1 to 6.1.4, to the extent necessary to have confidence they are carried out as
planned.
6.1.2 (Environmental aspects) The organization shall maintain documented information of its:
• environmental aspects and associated environmental impacts;
• criteria used to determine its significant environmental aspects;
• significant environmental aspects
6.1.3 (Compliance obligations) The organization shall maintain documented information of its compliance obligations.
6.2.1 (Environmental objectives) The organization shall retain documented information on the environmental objectives.
7.2 (Competence) The organization shall retain appropriate documented information as evidence of competence.
7.4.1 (Communication - General) The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of its communications, as appropriate.
7.5.1 (Documented information –
General)
The organization’s environmental management system shall include: a) documented information required
by this International Standard; b) documented information determined by the organization as being
necessary for the effectiveness of the environmental management system.
NOTE: The extent of documented information for an environmental management system can differ from
one organization to another due to:
• the size of organization and its type of activities, processes, products and services;
• the need to demonstrate fulfilment of its compliance obligations
• the complexity of processes and their interactions;
• the competence of persons.
8.1 (Operational planning and
control)
The organization shall maintain documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that
the processes have been carried out as planned.
8.2 (Emergency preparedness
and response)
The organization shall maintain documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that
the process(es) is carried out as planned.
9.1.1 (Monitoring, measurement,
analysis and evaluation –
General)
The organization shall retain appropriate documented information as evidence of the monitoring,
measurement, analysis and evaluation results.
9.1.2 (Evaluation of compliance) The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of the compliance evaluation result(s).
9.2.2 (Internal audit programme) The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of the implementation of the audit
programme and the audit results.
9.3 (Management review) The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of the results of management reviews.
10.1 (Non-conformity and
corrective action)
The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of:
• the nature of the nonconformities and any subsequent actions taken;
• the results of any corrective action.
After these mandatory requirements, it is up to the organization to decide whether it requires further documentation. ISO
14001 says that the organization should determine appropriate documentation “as being necessary for the effectiveness of the
environmental management system”. Therefore, it is up to the organization to decide when and where they need documentation
and of course what form that should take, whether it be a procedure, flow chart or some other way of describing and managing the
way in which a particular process is carried out.
Where documented information is produced it needs to be created, updated and controlled consistently. An organization should
look to do this in as simple a way as they can as the greater degree of complexity - the more it can go wrong! As a minimum, a
version number, date and page numbers should be on each document.
22. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE22
SECTION 8:
OPERATION
One of the foundations of the Standard is mitigation, management and control of an
organization’s environmental impact and that is why designing, implementing and continually
improving the way in which processes or operations occur is essential to an effective EMS.
a) Operational planning and control
The extent of operational control will be dependent on the
organization’s activities, products and services and specific
compliance obligations. Also factored into this is the analysis
described earlier to determine significant aspects. An
organization would want to look at controlling its significant
aspects as a minimum so that they do not increase in magnitude
(or potentially cause pollution). This could be undertaken by
writing a procedure and ensuring that people are competent.
Operational control and competency go hand in hand and
whatever form operational control takes the people operating in
that process should be able to carry it out effectively.
Operational control should also cover those activities that
are outsourced. The Standard acknowledges that in some
circumstances an organization will be able to control the
outsourced activities e.g. when say a contractor is working
directly on the organizations site but in some circumstances the
influence of the organization will be limited.
When devising operational control, ISO 14001 states that an
organization should have a “life cycle perspective”. A life cycle
perspective includes consideration of the environmental aspects
of an organization’s activities, products, and services that it
can control or influence. Typical stages in a life cycle include
acquisition of raw materials, design, production, transportation/
delivery, use, end of life treatment, and final disposal. The
organization should consider those stages, from an operational
control perspective, in the life cycle over which it has the
greatest control or influence as these may offer the greatest
opportunity to reduce resource use and minimise pollution
or waste.
b) Emergency preparedness
and response
Planning for unexpected events is a good all-round
organizational discipline. In ISO 14001, the aspects and impacts
analysis will have highlighted potential emergency situations
where a negative environmental impact potentially could take
place. It is up to an organization, therefore, to determine the
plans that can be put in place in order to avoid or minimise
environmental damage.
Typical emergency preparedness includes having a good
understanding of what may go wrong and then the measures
in place to mitigate the impacts. A good example is that within
the aspects and impacts analysis a particular activity may have
been identified as having the potential for spills. Emergency
preparedness knows what to do if there is a spill; people are
competent (have the appropriate experience/training) in dealing
with a spill; there is the right equipment e.g. spill kits and that
there has been a test (where practicable) to ensure that the
process will work! As best practice there should also be process
in place that if an emergency situation has taken place a post
mortem occurs so that if appropriate the emergency process
can be improved.
Once again, the Standard, says that documented information
is required only to the extent necessary to have confidence
that the emergency preparedness and response process is
carried out.
There are different types of operational
control, including:
• Electronic or mechanical technology to
reduce emissions
• Routine preventive maintenance programs to
reduce wear and breakdown of equipment
• Monitoring and observation of equipment
performance
• Procedures • Signs • Log Books
• Check lists • Flow charts
The Standard also states, in line with only having
appropriate and relevant documentation that:
“The organization shall maintain documented
information to the extent necessary to have
confidence that the processes have been
carried out as planned.” This, in itself, is a
judgement call for the organization but one that
is important to make to ensure that an EMS is
not overloaded with ineffective “paperwork”.
24. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE24
SECTION 9:
PERFORMANCE
EVALUATION
Performance evaluation comprises; measuring and evaluating an EMS to ensure that it is
effective and it helps continual improvement.
a) Monitoring, measurement, analysis
and evaluation
An organization should check, review, inspect and observe its
planned activities to ensure that they are occurring as intended.
An organization must make sure they have determined the
appropriate processes so that they can evaluate how well they
are performing. Monitoring generally indicates a process or
processes that can check whether something is occurring as
intended or planned.
For example, a monitoring process may comprise checks
for good housekeeping at a frequency of say once a week.
Measurement tends to mean that the size or magnitude of
a particular process is measured i.e. calculated with the
assignment of a numerical value. The type of measuring and
monitoring will differ from organization to organization. In high
energy use organizations, how much electricity and gas and
related carbon dioxide output may be critical to the business
operation. In other organizations the amount of potable
process water used may be more appropriate. In administrative
environments how much paper is consumed per person may be
an appropriate indicator. It is up to the particular organization to
decide.
Additionally, any equipment used to determine the
measurement “indicator” should be calibrated so that a high
level of confidence is gained that the numbers are indeed a true
representation of the facts.
In practice, this means referring to the list of compliance
obligations (see Section 6) and determining if compliance
is being achieved. In many organizations this will entail “an
audit(s)”, perhaps annually or more depending upon the type
of organization to determine that the specific legal and other
requirements are being met for each and every activity, product
or service.
The result of such an audit will establish the “compliance
status”. If this can be translated into say a Pie chart, so that
an organization can see their percentage of compliance, this
can be very powerful in provoking change. This can lead to
prevention of prosecution due to breach of environmental law.
The Standard also asks an organization to determine
a process to “evaluate the fulfilment of its compliance
obligations”. In so doing, the organization has to:
• determine the frequency that compliance will
be evaluated;
• evaluate compliance and take action if
needed;
• maintain knowledge and understanding of its
compliance status.
25. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 2525
b) Internal audit
Therefore, an organization needs to check “are we doing - what
we say we are doing?” To carry an internal audit out effectively
an auditor should use ISO 19011:2011 guidelines for auditing
management systems as a framework. This sets the Standard
for carrying out an audit and should be part of the competency
requirements of internal auditors.
An audit should check that an organization is meeting the
requirements of ISO 14001. Some organizations mistakenly
think that this can be carried out as part of certification activities
that companies such as NQA carry out. This is not the case;
an organization should determine, through internal audit,
that they are meeting the requirements of the Standard (at a
suitable frequency). Many organizations undertake this kind of
audit on a yearly basis and do so by turning the Standard into
a questionnaire and then systematically going through each
part of the EMS to determine if particular requirement within
the Standard is being met. In a similar way to evaluation of
compliance obligations, where this is turned into percentage
compliance (with the Standard) this can be an effective way of
demonstrating performance and reporting upon it.
As explained previously, the principal of plan, do, check and
act is inherent within ISO 14001. The same is true within
this section. The Standard asks an organization to produce
documented information as evidence of the implementation of
an audit programme and audit results. An audit programme in
its simplest form sets out when and what is going to be carried
out over a period of time. Organizations may have programmes
which cover many years (or perhaps a certification cycle) but
as a suggestion a minimum of a programme covering twelve
months should be produced.
The Standard also says that auditors should conduct audits to
ensure objectivity and the impartiality of the audit process. This
is sometimes inherently difficult as internal auditors (by their
name) have a close relationship with the organization being
audited. However, sensible guidelines so that internal auditors
do not audit their own processes should be strived for.
When an audit has been carried out and the results of that
audit produced (in a documented form e.g. an audit report) it is
important that they are efficiently communicated to appropriate
stakeholders including appropriate management. Some of the
best performing organization ensures that the results (which can
include non-conformities – see section 10 below) are fed also
into “Top Management”. This can be important, especially where
an audit has found deficiencies within the system and resources
are needed to rectify the situation.
A fundamental to continual improvement and a
dynamic EMS is an effective internal audit process.
The expectation of internal auditing by organizations
should be to determine whether the performance of the
organization conforms to the:
• organization’s own requirements
• requirements of ISO 14001.
26. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE26
Excerpt from 9.3 of ISO 14001 Comment
a) the status of actions from
previous management reviews;
This should be a summary to what extent previous management review actions have been
carried out or not carried out and the reasons why. Some organizations produce a comparative
table.
b) changes in:
1) external and internal issues that
are relevant to the environmental
management system;
This is a review of the context review detailed in section 4. Changes in relation to external and
internal issues should be explained.
2) the needs and expectations of
interested parties, including
compliance obligations;
Again, this is a review of the context review detailed in section 4. Changes in relation to the
needs and expectations of interested parties, including compliance obligations will need to be
noted.
3) its significant environmental
aspects;
If there have been any changes to significant aspect they should be explained. This will of
course depend realistically if there have been any changes to processes.
4) risks and opportunities; If there are any different or changes to the risks within the EMS these should be noted and
explained. Any opportunities should also be brought out although this can be brought out in g)
below.
c) the extent to which environmental
objectives have been achieved;
Reviewing whether environmental objectives have been achieved needs to be carried out. It is
suggested that the formulation of a table to show the extent of objective realisation is included
within the Management Review. This will allow a review of performance and the extent of
continual improvement achieved.
d) information on the organization’s
environmental performance,
including trends in:
1) nonconformities and corrective
actions;
This should be a review of the non-conformities and corrective actions that have taken place
since the last management review. If there have been particular trends in either corrective
actions or non-conformities they should be brought out as there may be decisions needed to be
taken to mitigate there occurrence.
2) monitoring and measurement
results;
As detailed earlier in this section, a depiction should be created to determine whether the
monitoring and measurement that is carried out is meeting the expectations of the organization.
Where the information that is provided shows underperformance then the Management Review
process can provoke change.
3) fulfilment of its compliance
obligations;
Whether an organization is meeting its compliance obligations is fundamental to an EMS. To
satisfy this part of the Standard, it can be as simple as saying that the organization is “meeting
its compliance obligations”. However, if an organization has decided to depict (as detailed
above) a pie chart to show its “compliance status” then inserting this into the documented
information will meet this requirement. On a practical level, if a particular compliance obligation
is proving tricky to comply with then this should be highlighted too.
4) audit results; The results of audits carried out since the last Management Review should be appraised. To
cover this comprehensively it should include both internal and external audits. The depth to
which this is carried out will differ from organization to organization and the quantity of audits
carried out.
e) adequacy of resources; A review as to whether resources are adequate to run the EMS broadly or resources to carry out
individual process should be appraised. Very often “Top Management” need to informed about
inadequacy of resources (in whatever form) so that change can be provoked.
f) relevant communication(s) from
interested parties, including
complaints;
There may have been comments, complaints or other communications from interested parties.
By reviewing them this may give an external perspective as to how well the EMS is performing.
If there is a particular issue that needs resolving that has been highlighted by an interested party
“Top Managements” assistance to resolve it may be required.
g) opportunities for continual
improvement.
Opportunities for continual improvement may have been brought out of other sections of the
Management Review although any other opportunities for improved environmental performance
should be reflected upon.
c) Management Review
The most wide ranging and strategic evaluation of performance is the management review process. The management review must
be carried out by Top Management and should essentially be based upon factual input (generated by the system) in order to make
recommendations and improvements going forward (outputs).
The Standard is helpful in providing a framework of what a management review should entail and it is suggested that these headings
are used in the documented information that is produced by an organization:
Note: comments on each section have been included to provide guidance when carrying out the Management Review.
27. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 27ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 27
The outputs of the management review shall include:
- conclusions on the continuing suitability, adequacy and
effectiveness of the environmental management system;
This should be a wide ranging appraisal whether the EMS
is suitable, adequate and effective.
- decisions related to continual improvement opportunities; This can include changes to the EMS in its entirety, or
specific parts of the EMS.
- decisions related to any need for changes to the environmental
management system, including resources;
From the appraisal above it should be obvious what
decisions need taking.
- actions, if needed, when environmental objectives have not
been achieved;
Where environmental objectives have not been met,
decisions whether they were too hard, or whether they
could not be achieved for specific legitimate reasons need
to be brought out where appropriate.
- opportunities to improve integration of the environmental
management system with other business processes, if needed;
This should be an appraisal as to whether the EMS is
integrated within the organization or whether further
integration is required. To be an effective EMS the closer
the integration is to the organization and its processes the
more environmental benefit is likely to be achieved.
- any implications for the strategic direction of the organization. Finally, really as a “catch-all” an organization should
provide whether there are any implications as to the
strategic direction. This can be far ranging in realigning
the business say for greater environmental protection
or perhaps removing a process which is say particularly
environmental damaging.
Following the review, the Standard asks for the following “outputs”:
28. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE28
SECTION 10:
IMPROVEMENT
ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE28
If the EMS has been designed well, continuous improvement
opportunities should arise, be captured and actioned in
a timely manner. Key to this is pulling into an appropriate
location those actions that provide continual improvement.
Some organizations use their environmental programme
framework to keep their continual improvement actions
managed and so that they can be reviewed as part of
this process.
a) Non conformity and corrective action
The audit process, whilst evaluating the performance of an
organization, can bring about non conformities and resulting
correction actions.
A non-conformity can occur in an organization at any time
whilst undertaking its processes. A methodology to capture,
manage and resolve needs to be undertaken and the Standard
asks for the following:
• React to the nonconformity and, as applicable:
1) take action to control and correct it;
2) deal with the consequences, including mitigating
adverse environmental impacts;
• Evaluate the need for action to eliminate the causes of
the nonconformity, in order that it does not recur or occur
elsewhere, by:
1) reviewing the nonconformity;
2) determining the causes of the nonconformity;
3) determining if similar nonconformities exist, or
could potentially occur;
• Implement any action needed;
• Review the effectiveness of any corrective action taken;
• Make changes to the environmental management system,
if necessary”.
The Standard says that this process should be documented.
There are various ways to achieve this but usually this
comprises a “Corrective Action Request” (CAR) for each
corrective action and a “log” which is essential to record and
manage the CAR’s. This is especially useful where numerous
corrective actions are raised.
The “log” can be as simple as:
More complex systems can “code” different types of non-
conformity. This can then be used to generate trend data that
can be useful in on-going performance appraisal of the EMS
and the Management Review process.
b) Continual Improvement
The Standard says that:
In practice, if all the above sections are established and
implemented then continual improvement will occur.
This section draws together
the fundamentals for achieving
continual improvement i.e.:
• Those items within section 9 in relation to the results
from analysis and evaluation of environmental
performance, evaluation of compliance, internal audits
and management review.
• Non conformity and corrective action.
Audit
date:
Non
conformity
description:
Responsibility:
When
due:
Action
taken:
Date non
conformity
closed:
“The organization shall continually
improve the suitability, adequacy and
effectiveness of the environmental
management system to enhance
environmental performance.”
30. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE30
GET THE MOST
FROM YOUR
MANAGEMENT
SYSTEMS
Top tips to get the most out of your health and safety
management system:
1. To have an effective EMS ensure that
“Top Management” is committed to
its establishment, implementation and
continual improvement.
2. Use the Standard to help bring
environmental management to
the boardroom.
3. Use “Context” to understand the
environmental impacts affecting the
organization and how the organization
affects the environment on a
macro level.
4. Integrate the EMS into your work
processes so that it is not another
thing to do – it’s just what you do!
5. Be prepared to be flexible in
approach to achieve the outcomes
of your EMS.
6. Use the data that is captured
through your EMS to see if you
are improving.
7. Use the ISO 14001 Standard
as a means to design
your EMS.
8. Have a robust methodology for
assessment of aspects, impacts, risks
and opportunities as this underpins
the EMS.
9. Ensure you have a good process
in place to determine and assess
your compliance obligations.
10. Use the EMS to provide a
sustainable approach to
organizational work processes.
11. See audits as a measure and
means in which to improve
performance.
12. Use management review
to provide strategic direction.
ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE30
31. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 31ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 31
AQUATERRA
ENERGY CASE
STUDY
Operating across the UK, Egypt and Norway, the company
currently employs 67 full-time members of staff, along with an
established team of on and offshore contractors that support
the delivery of projects as required.
Working in highly volatile marine environments, Aquaterra
Energy’s customers understandably demand the highest
Standards in safety, quality, project delivery and responsive
customer service. This is why they turned to NQA to audit
and provide them with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management
System), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management
System) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Health Safety
Management System) certifications.
NQA AND AQUATERRA
ENERGY GROW TOGETHER
“It has been a long-standing commitment of the business to
ensure our systems and provisions have been checked and
verified by a credible body. When considering the platforms,
riser systems and associated systems that we supply to the
offshore industry, a UKAS accredited NQA certificate provides
assurance to our clients that our systems enable us to provide
to the highest level of quality.”
Aquaterra Energy achieved certification to ISO 9001 in 2006,
and followed this shortly with ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001.
Their integrated system, as well as their relationship with NQA
is longstanding and has enabled them to develop and improve
their operations as the business has evolved and grown.
Interested in creating a case study for your certification
achievements, get in touch: marketing@nqa.com
From seabed to surface, Aquaterra Energy is the oil and gas industry’s first choice for
offshore products, systems, and projects around the world. Swift, flexible, and responsive,
Aquaterra Energy’s engineers and analysts create the solutions that customers need, while
delivering operational improvements and efficiency gains.
Their expert in-house teams of analysts, designers and
engineers cover:
• Design: conceptual, FEED, analysis,
3D modelling.
• Procurement: specification, manufacturing, inspection,
construction, FAT/SIT.
• Installation: procedures, supervision, commissioning,
testing, handover.
Simon Hatson, Aquaterra Energy’s Head of QHSE
Business Improvement explains the benefits for
implementing their management systems and gaining
certification within their company:
Many of the team involved use the
process as a genuine opportunity
to review how we are performing
against our own requirements as
well as identifying opportunities to
improve. We like to keep the wider
team involved to show that audits
are not something to be afraid of,
but rather an opportunity to share
what we are doing.
32. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE32 ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE32
NEXT STEPS ONCE
IMPLEMENTED
AWARENESS TRAINING
• Your organization should raise awareness about
various Standards covered under IMS.
• You should hold separate training meetings for top
management, middle management and junior level
management, which will help to create a motivating
environment, ready for implementation.
POLICY AND OBJECTIVES
• Your organization should develop an Integrated
Quality Policy/Environment Policy/Health Safety
Policy/Information Security Policy and relevant
objectives to help meet the requirements.
• By working with top level management your company
should hold workshops with all levels of management
staff to outline the integrated objectives.
INTERNAL GAP ANALYSIS
• Your organization should identify and compare the
level of compliance of existing systems against
requirements of the Standards under your new IMS.
• Relevant staff should all understand the operations of
the organization and develop a process map for the
activities within the business.
DOCUMENTATION / PROCESS DESIGN
• The organization should create documentation
of the processes as per requirements of relevant
Standard(s).
• You should write and implement a manual, functional
procedures booklet, work instructions, system
procedures and provide associated terms.
DOCUMENTATION / PROCESS
IMPLEMENTATION
• Processes / Documents developed in step 4, should
be implemented across the organization covering all
the departments and activities.
• The organization should hold a workshop on the
implementation as per applicable for the ISO
Standard requirements.
5
4
3
2
1
INTERNAL AUDIT
• A robust internal audit system for the organization is
essential. Internal Auditor Training is recommended
and NQA can provide Internal Auditor Training for the
Standard(s) that you are implementing.
• It is important to implement corrective actions for
improvements, in each of the audited documents, in
order to bridge gaps and ensure effectiveness of IMS.
ORGANISE A MANAGEMENT ‘SYSTEM’
REVIEW MEETING
• Top level management must review various official
business aspects of the organization, which are
relevant to the Standards being implemented.
• Review the policy, objectives, results of internal
audit, results of process performance, results of
complaints/feedback/legal compliance, results of risk
assessment/incidents and develop an action plan
following the meeting - which must be minuted.
THOROUGH GAP ANALYSIS OF
IMPLEMENTED SYSTEMS
• A formal pre-certification gap analysis should be
conducted to assess effectiveness and compliance of
system implementation in the organization.
• This final gap analysis will prepare your organization
for the final certification audit.
CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
• Organization should be ready for final certification
audit, providing that the gap analysis audit conducted
in the last step and all the non-conformities (NC)
have been assigned corrective actions.
• Check that all the significant NCs are closed and the
organization is ready for the final certification audit.
FINAL CERTIFICATION AUDIT
• Once completed, your organization is hopefully
recommended for registration to
ISO 9001/14001/ISO 45001.
• CONGRATULATIONS!10
9
8
7
6
33. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 33ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 33
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT
TRAINING
Using ISO 14001:2015 as a framework, learn how to implement, audit and improve your
environmental management system and reduce impacts. Our courses suit the needs of
new environmental managers implementing ISO 14001 for the first time through to auditors
and professionals.
COURSE DETAILS LEVEL DURATION PRICE
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) E-Learning Introduction Training 1 0.5 Days £150.00
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Introduction Training 1 1 Day £399.00
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental)
Transition and Implementation Training
2 1 Days £399.00
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Implementation Training 2 1 Days £399.00
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Internal Auditor Training 2 1 Days £399.00
CQI IRCA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Internal Auditor Training 2 2 Days £699.00
NQA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) New Manager Training 2 2 Days £699.00
CQI IRCA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Lead Auditor
Conversion Training
2 3 Days £950.00
CQI IRCA ISO 14001:2015 EMS (Environmental) Lead Auditor Training 3 5 Days £1350.00
ISO 14001 ISO 5001
Once you hold certification to ISO 14001, the ‘basic framework’ is already
there and the benefits of ISO 50001 are also within reach. Including
compliance to ESOS in the UK.
NEXT STEPS FOR
FURTHER ACCREDITATION
34. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE34 ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE34
NOTES
35. ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 35ISO 14001:2015 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE 35
NOTES
36. USEFUL LINKS
IEMA – Transforming the world sustainability
https://www.iema.net/
edie.net
https://www.edie.net/
Environmental Management Training
https://www.nqa.com/en-gb/training/environmental-management
ISO - International Organization for Standardization
https://www.iso.org/home.html
Authored on behalf of NQA by: Andrew C Fletcher
www.nqa.com