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Getting ISO accreditation is crucial for businesses and organizations. The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) sets out guidelines for best practices, ranging from quality control to environmental management, which include ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications. In the UK, businesses can also pursue OHSAS 18001 certification for general health and safety, aiming to enhance compliance with industry standards, attract more customers, and establish key performance indicators for ongoing review.
ISO standards are based on international guidelines and are evaluated by UKAS-accredited certification bodies. These standards apply to various aspects such as facilities, staff training, and environmental practices. ISO 9001 is particularly focused on quality management systems, assessing how customer-focused an organization is and its commitment to continuous improvement.
This ISO 9001 certification also evaluates customer service levels and the quality of materials used. Regular audits determine if businesses meet these standards, how well managers communicate them to staff, and if there are systems in place for setting and upgrading targets.
On the environmental front, ISO 14001 standards evaluate how well businesses manage their environmental policies. This includes using eco-friendly materials, systems to reduce harmful product effects, and having recycling plans. Compliance also involves having emergency plans for potential environmental damage, such as fires or flooding.
Businesses can also seek OHSAS 18001 certification, which, although separate from ISO, complements ISO 14001 by focusing on workplace health and safety. Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems adhere to international and UK standards, covering everything from office safety to risk management.
To get accredited, businesses need to engage third-party auditors to evaluate their compliance. This includes checking if all safety measures are in place and if staff understand and follow policies. It’s beneficial to compare various accreditation firms and see if they offer consultancy services and improvement plans to meet ISO and OHSAS standards. Health and safety services can analyze current compliance levels before a third-party audit and suggest necessary improvements.