ISO 9001 is among the most common standards the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) has set. The objective of the ISO 9000 series is to offer a set of requirements that, if implemented, your organisation will consistently produce goods and services that meet the expectations and needs of all stakeholders. It emphasises creating an effective quality management system (QMS).
What is ISO 9001 All About?
The international standard relies on several quality management principles that include; a strong customer focus, commitment to continually improving, and the implication and dedication of top-level management. Meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 means that your customers can get quality products and services consistently, which brings several benefits to your company.
Where Do Health and Safety and ISO 9001 intersect?
When we talk about ISO 9001: 2015 or Quality Management Systems and the debate moves to health and safety, many people wonder how the two can be interlinked. Generally, not all organisations are required to have a quality management system, but an ISO 45001: 2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management System is essential to maintain a conducive work environment. However, the QMS should not conflict with an organisation’s efforts to meet OHSAS 18001 requirements.
It is essential to note that ISO 9001:2015 does not entirely address health and safety. Still, the management and other stakeholders must identify risks and opportunities to achieve a conducive work environment.
In clause 6.4 of ISO 9001, organisations must identify and manage the work environment required to produce quality products and services. Physical factors such as hygiene, noise, and human factors such as employee supervision are some of the areas to be considered.
A Quality Management System is the foundation of an Occupational Health and Safety Management System. The ISO 9001 establishes processes and procedures like data analysis, corrective actions, internal audits, and management reviews. These processes are also required in establishing a health and safety management system.
The two management systems have similar core elements. They Include:
- Management Commitment – Executives should be committed to guaranteeing the production of quality and safe products and services.
- Continuous Improvement – Organisations should regularly assess the effectiveness of the Quality Management System and their health and safety hazard controls.
- Communication – There should be a unified program to communicate policies and objectives across all organisation levels.
Although Occupational Health and Safety Management and Quality Management focus on different aspects, they work together to achieve the set objectives for health and safety.
How Best Practice Can Help
ISO 45001:2018 and ISO 9001:2015 are highly complementary, so your best bet is to seek ISO training and certification from a JAS-ANZ accredited institution like Best Practice Biz. Before you get your ISO 9001 certification, we will audit your organisation to ensure you provide a safe working environment to guarantee product conformity. Call us today at +61 1300 402 602 to learn more about how you can benefit from our ISO certification services.
