ISO 45001 Audit Prep

An ISO 45001 audit is a systematic, independent process to evaluate an organization's Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) against the requirements of the ISO 45001 standard, ensuring it's effective and compliant, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting a safer workplace. These audits can be internal, conducted by the organization itself, or external, performed by independent certification bodies to verify compliance and potentially grant ISO 45001 certification. 

Purpose of an ISO 45001 Audit

  • Ensures Compliance:

    Verifies that the OHSMS meets the requirements of the ISO 45001 standard and applicable legal requirements. 

  • Identifies Improvement Areas:

    Helps uncover hazards, risks, and non-conformities within the OHSMS, providing opportunities for corrective actions and continuous improvement. 

  • Boosts Stakeholder Confidence:

    Demonstrates a commitment to occupational health and safety, enhancing the organization's credibility and reputation with employees, customers, and regulatory bodies. 

  • Promotes a Positive Safety Culture:

    Fosters a proactive approach to safety, leading to a healthier and safer work environment. 

Types of ISO 45001 Audits

  • Internal Audits:

    Conducted by the organization's own qualified personnel to assess their OHSMS's effectiveness and compliance before external audits or to monitor progress. 

  • External Audits:

    Performed by external parties to provide an impartial evaluation of the OHSMS. 

  • Certification Audits:

    Conducted by accredited, independent certification bodies to determine if the organization's OHSMS meets the ISO 45001 standard and to grant certification. 

Key Components of the Audit Process

  • Planning:

    Establishing an audit program and using tools like an ISO 45001 audit checklist to guide the process. 

  • Conducting the Audit:

    Gathering evidence and evaluating the OHSMS against the standard's requirements and the organization's own OHS policy and objectives. 

  • Reporting:

    Documenting findings, including areas of non-conformance and opportunities for improvement. 

  • Corrective Actions:

    Implementing actions to address any identified issues and monitoring their effectiveness. 

  • Recertification Audits:

    Similar to initial certification, but also includes an evaluation of internal audits and management reviews from the previous certification cycle.