Occupational health and safety needs careful attention to reduce the risks. We explain a standard that may help.

Factfile

  • OHSAS 1800: 1999 is a management system standard for occupational health and safety

  • The standard was developed in response to customer demand for a occupational health and safety management systems standard against which their management systems could be assessed

  • The specification takes a structured approach to safety management

  • The emphasis is placed on practices being pro-active and preventive by the identification of hazards and the evaluation and control of work-related risks

  • The five basic components of the standard are policy, planning, implementation, checking and a review

  • The standard is compatible with ISO 9001: 2000 and ISO 14001: 1996

  • OHSAS 18001 can be a standalone specification or integrated into quality and environmental management system

    • Source

    Electrical and Mechanical Contractor

    Postscript

    Chris Ottaway manages the ECA's free management systems helpline for members (tel: 01277 363653). He is md of Ottaway & Associates.