Does ISO 9001 cover health & safety?

ISO 9001 is one of the most common standards set by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). The objective of the ISO 9000 series is to provide a set of requirements that, if implemented, will enable your organisation to 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, including a strong customer focus, commitment to continual improvement, and the involvement and dedication of top-level management. Meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 ensures that your customers consistently receive quality products and services, bringing several benefits to your company.

Where do health and safety and ISO 9001 intersect?

When discussing ISO 9001:2015 or Quality Management Systems and the topic of health and safety arises, many people wonder how the two are 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 for maintaining 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. 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.