How ISO 45001 Plays a Role in Workplace Safety in the Manufacturing Industry

Workplace safety is a critical concern for the manufacturing industry, where workers are exposed to numerous hazards and risks daily. ISO 45001, an international standard for occupational health and safety, can provide a framework for manufacturing businesses to identify and manage workplace hazards, prevent injuries and illnesses, and promote employee well-being. In this article, we'll explore how ISO 45001 plays a vital role in workplace safety in the manufacturing industry, and how companies can use this standard to protect their workers and enhance their performance.

What Is ISO 45001?

ISO 45001 is an occupational health and safety (OHS) standard set out by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Companies can establish and improve their workplace safety protocols by obtaining the ISO 45001 certification. By doing so, businesses will elevate their in-house safety, potentially reducing workplace risks, and meet regulatory health and safety requirements.

Why Is ISO 45001 Important in the Manufacturing Industry?

Workplace accidents and injuries can occur in any business; however, the manufacturing sector is inherently dangerous due to the risks workers encounter on a day-to-day basis. For example, manufacturing plants typically use heavy equipment, which can cause catastrophic injuries if misused or malfunctions unexpectedly. In addition, many manufacturing environments rely on chemical processes or extreme temperatures, which can pose a safety risk to staff on site.

Due to this, ISO 45001 is an essential ISO certification for manufacturing companies. Not only will ISO 45001 certification help you create a safer working environment, but it can also help you know what you need to comply with and whether or not you are complying. 

ISO Certification Requirements for Manufacturing Company

Understanding the ISO 45001 requirements from the outset will indicate what you will need to do to achieve certification and what steps you need to go through to ensure your organization achieves ISO 45001 certification on its first attempt.

ISO 45001 is an extensive framework that incorporates many factors and requirements but splits into various clauses that can be worked through strategically:

• Clause 4 – Context of the Organization
• Clause 5 – Leadership
• Clause 6 – Planning
• Clause 7 – Support
• Clause 8 – Operation
• Clause 9 – Performance Evaluation
• Clause 10 - Improvement

Within each clause, there are various actions you will need to take to ensure your organization meets the requirements of ISO 45001. For clause four, for example, you will need to show that you have identified the external and internal factors relevant to your organization's health and safety, as well as all parties affected by the health and safety of your business.

By splitting ISO 45001 into clauses and then into smaller segments, it becomes far easier to implement and, therefore, far easier to achieve certification! As you can see, working through each clause provides opportunities to build, test and roll out a workable and effective occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) that optimizes workplace safety and prioritizes the well-being of all stakeholders.

What Are the Benefits of ISO 45001 Certification?

Before you decide whether to initiate the certification process, you will want to know what ISO 45001 can offer to companies operating in the manufacturing sector. Fortunately, there are many benefits associated with ISO 45001 certification, including:

Fewer Accidents and Injuries

First and foremost, ISO 45001 helps create a safer working environment and reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. In itself, this is valuable as it prevents people from being harmed by your operations and has a positive financial impact on your business.

Reduced Costs

When workers are injured, they may need to take time off to seek medical treatment and recuperate. You can avoid this negatively affecting your operations by reducing the risk of injuries at work. Furthermore, if anyone is injured due to your operations, they may decide to take legal action against your firm. By implementing an ISO 45001-compliant occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS0, however, you can potentially reduce the possibility of an accident. 

Enhanced Company Reputation

A poor record of workplace safety can have a significant and negative impact on your company's reputation. Not only will it dissuade potential employees from joining your firm, but it may prevent potential partners, customers and investors from engaging with you.

Conversely, ISO 45001 certification reinforces your commitment to workplace safety and confirms that you have an optimal and international recognition OHS system in place to reduce the risk of workplace accidents.

Competitive Advantage

In today's competitive marketplace, it's vital to set yourself apart from your competitors however possible, and ISO 45001 can enable you to do just that. When competing with other companies that don't have ISO 45001 certification, you can differentiate your organization based on your enhanced OHSMS.

Many companies will only partner with firms with ISO 45001 certification, so obtaining ISO 45001 could also mean you're eligible to bid for additional tenders and contracts.

Increased Employee Satisfaction

Companies that genuinely care about their employees tend to have a happier workforce and, in turn, more loyal staff. Of course, providing a safe working environment is the basis of ensuring your employees' well-being, and it should always be a top priority.

However, achieving and showcasing your ISO 45001 certification will reinforce your commitment to workplace safety and employee well-being, which will signal that you are authentically invested in your workforce, thus leading to higher employee satisfaction.

Are You Ready for ISO 45001 Certification?

The range of benefits available via ISO 45001 certification means that many businesses are updating their processes and practices in preparation for an audit and certification. However, working with an established certification body, like QAS International, can simplify and accelerate the process.

To learn more about obtaining ISO 45001 certification, contact our team today and discover how we can support you.