ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems

ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems

The primary aim of an Environmental Management System is to protect our increasingly fragile environment, but it does much more besides.

What is ISO 14001?

ISO 14001 is the internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems. It enables any company to review and improve its environmental management in a structured and effective way. 

Organisations that take environmental issues seriously are less likely to incur significant liabilities or expose themselves to damaging publicity. Compliance with ISO 14001 helps you to identify problems before they happen and demonstrate to all stakeholders that you are an environmentally responsible organisation. 

Environmental policies are good for business. Properly practiced and clearly communicated, they improve customer and public relations. Better use of energy, careful selection of raw materials and controlled recycling of waste products all contribute to the bottom line, securing vital competitive advantage.

Proof of a responsible approach is fast becoming a key purchasing criteria. Environmentally aware organisations prefer to do business with like-minded companies including those who demonstrate their commitment through internationally recognised standards such as ISO 14001.

Benefits of ISO 14001

When you are ISO 14001 certified, you will know that your business is complying with environmental legislation. Your organisation will be making a powerful statement about its environmental credentials.

Other benefits of ISO 14001 certification include:

1. Better management of environmental risks, now and in the future
2. Increased access to new customers and business partners
3. Demonstration of legal and regulatory compliance
4. Potential for reduced public liability insurance costs
5. Overall cost savings: in terms of consumption, waste and recycling

In addition, ISO 14001 is designed to be compatible with other management system standards such as ISO 9001 (Quality), OHSAS 18001 (Health and Safety) and ISO 27001 (Information Security). All or any combination of these complementary standards can be integrated seamlessly. They share many principles, so choosing an integrated management system can provide you with outstanding value for money.

If you would like an integrated management system, comprising all or a combination of ISO management standards, simply let us know your requirements and we will work with you to develop the right solution for your needs.

YOUR JOURNEY TO ISO 14001 CERTIFICATION

STEP 1: Preparation

Realistically, if you are new to the ISO 14001 standard, then you are going to need some guidance. Once contact is made, we'll discuss your requirements with you and suggest the solution that best suits your needs. After assessing your needs we will give you a fixed price quotation so that you know exactly how much your registration will cost. Your quotation will be based upon your company profile and an assessment of your needs.

STEP 2: Application

Once you decide to go-ahead, we'll assign a Lead Consultant to you. He or she will be your principal contact throughout the registration process and beyond. They will build-up detailed knowledge of your business and will offer you the support you need.

STEP 3: Pre-Audit Assessment

Your Environmental Management Consultant will visit you to explain the standard and ensure you are prepared for your Audit Assessment. He or she will facilitate an environmental review with you, leading to a documented environmental policy and action plan. Together, you will then determine the appropriate timetable for your Audit Assessment. Many organisations benefit from a pre-assessment "dry run" and your consultant will be able to advise you on this.

STEP 4: Audit Assessment

Once you are ready for your formal Audit Assessment, your Consultant will make the required arrangements for you. On completion, you will be informed of the Auditor's recommendation before he or she leaves your premises.

STEP 5: Registration & Certificate

Following the independent Auditor's recommendation, your registration will be formally confirmed by an accredited certification body. Soon after, your certificate of conformity to the ISO 14001:2004 standard will be issued and sent to you.

STEP 6: Continual Assessment

Having achieved certification, you'll want to maintain your registration and your Consultant will remain on hand to facilitate improvements and ensure that you continue to meet the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.

WHAT WILL ISO 14001 CERTIFICATION COST?

We like to provide our clients with a fixed price because we know that day rates have a habit of going over budget!

We will calculate the cost of your pre-assessment based on the size of your organisation; e.g. annual turnover, the number of sites you have and the complexity of your operation, etc. In all cases, we will provide you with a fixed price quotation.

Treat 'em green, make 'em keen!!

If you would like to speak to one of our consultants to discuss our fixed price structure why not use our quick contact form selecting Environmental Management Systems and we will be in touch as soon as we can.