ISO 14001

What is DIN EN ISO 14001?

ISO 14001 is an international standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It defines the criteria for an EMS and is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) model, which promotes continuous improvement and integration of environmental aspects in business processes.

The standard is based on the High Level Structure (HLS) and therefore shares its structure with standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety), ISO 50001 (energy management) and ISO 22301 (business continuity management). This facilitates the combination and integration of these standards into a common management system.

Who is it for?

The standard is designed for organisations of all sizes and from all sectors that want to consciously regulate and improve their environmental impact. It covers both manufacturing and service organisations and is suitable for small businesses as well as multinational corporations.

How is the ISO 14001 standard structured?

ISO 14001 describes the framework for environmental management systems. It begins with an explanation of its objectives and defines its scope. Relevant terms are clarified and the context of the organisation is analysed. Management plays a central role, with the planning of environmental aspects and risks taking centre stage. The standard emphasises the provision of resources, the effective implementation of processes, regular performance evaluations and continuous improvement.

Overview of the structure of the standard::

• Introduction: Explanation of the background and objectives of the standard.

• Scope: Defines the scope of the standard.

• Normative references: Reference to other relevant standards.

• Terms and definitions: Clarification of key terms.

• Context of the organisation: Understanding the external and internal issues that affect the organisation.

• Leadership: Role of leadership and commitment.

• Planning: Identifying risks, opportunities and environmental aspects.

• Support: resources, competences, awareness and communication.

• Operations: Planning, control and implementation of processes.

• Performance assessment: monitoring, measuring, analysing and evaluating.

• Improvement: non-conformities and corrective actions, continual improvement.

Fundamentals of ISO 14001:

• The standard emphasises the importance of a "process-oriented" approach.

• It requires organisations to consider legal and other requirements.

• It promotes the integration of environmental management into the business strategy.

What is ISO 14001 EMS certification?

ISO 14001 EMS certification refers to the certification of an environmental management system (EMS) in accordance with the requirements of the international standard ISO 14001.

Here is a brief explanation:

• Environmental Management System (EMS): an EMS is a framework that an organisation implements to identify, manage, reduce and continuously improve the environmental impacts of its activities, products and services.

• ISO 14001: This is the international standard that defines the requirements for an EMS. It is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, which promotes continuous improvement.

• Certification: If an organisation believes that its EMS meets the requirements of ISO 14001, it can commission an external certification body to audit the system. Following a successful audit, the organisation will be issued with a certificate confirming that its EMS meets the requirements of ISO 14001.

ISO 14001 EMS certification demonstrates to stakeholders, customers and the public that the organisation is committed to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement. It can also help to fulfil regulatory requirements, reduce operating costs and improve the company's image.

How does ISO 14001 certification work?

• Preparation: The organisation should understand the requirements of ISO 14001 and implement an EMS.

• Selection of a certifier

• On-site audit: The certifier carries out an audit to check the conformity of the EMS with ISO 14001.

• Issue of certificate: If the audit is successful, a certificate is issued.

• Surveillance audits: Regular audits to ensure ongoing conformity.

• Re-certification: Normally every three years to confirm ongoing compliance and effectiveness of the EMS.

BFMT experts have the necessary qualifications to certify your EMS to ISO 14001.