Occupational Health & Safety Standard
ISO 45001 is the new ISO standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S). It has become one of the most eagerly awaited standards in the world, and is set to drastically improve levels of workplace safety. It aims to provide a safe and healthy workplace for employees and visitors.

Why is Health & Safety important
According to 2017 calculations by the International Labour Organization (ILO), 2.78 million fatal accidents and some 374 million non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses each year.This paints a sober picture of the modern workplace – one where workers can suffer serious consequences as a result of simply “doing their job”.

Improve productivity through improved safety
Whether you are an employee, a manager or a business owner, you share a common goal – you don’t want anyone to get hurt on the job. Improved productivity stems from ensuring people operate in workplaces that provide transparency and build trust throughout their operation and supply chain. In addition, responsible practices are becoming increasingly important to brands and reputations.

Major differences between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001
1. ISO 45001 is process-based – OHSAS 18001 is procedure-based
2. ISO 45001 is dynamic in all clauses – OHSAS 18001 is not
3. ISO 45001 considers both risk and opportunities – OHSAS 18001 deals exclusively with risk
4. ISO 45001 includes the views of interested parties – OHSAS 18001 does not

Benefits
The benefits of ISO 45001 are endless when implemented correctly. While the standard requires that OH&S risks be addressed and controlled, it also takes a risk-based approach to the OH&S management system itself, to ensure that it is effective and that it is being continually improved to meet an organization’s ever-changing “context”. Moreover, it ensures compliance with current legislation worldwide. All these measures combined can establish an organization’s reputation as a “safe place to work”, bringing a host of corollary benefits, from reducing insurance costs to improving employee morale – all while continuing to meet your strategic targets.