ISO 14001 certification meaning- These are a set of quality standards or parameters recognized by The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to achieve the intended outcomes of the Environmental Management System. ISO 14001 certification can enhance an organization’s Environmental Management System (EMS) or mechanism. It facilitates compliance and achievement of environmental obligations and boosts environmental performance.
If you are looking to obtain ISO 14001 certification for your business, you’re taking a major step toward demonstrating your commitment to environmental sustainability and management. ISO 14001 certification is an internationally recognized standard that outlines the requirements for an EMS. With this, you can show your customers and stakeholders that you are reducing your environmental impact. This will ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
ISO Certifications are always useful when it comes to the trust and credibility of your enterprise. Certification of ISO 14001 version 2015 helps you build that.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain ISO 14001 certification for your business.
· Identify the scope of your certification
The first step in obtaining ISO 14001 certification is determining the scope of certification. This includes identifying the activities, products, and services included in the certification. It also helps to understand its limitations and focus on the areas of your business that are most relevant from an environmental point of view.
· Develop an Environmental Management System (EMS).
The next step is to develop an Environmental Management System (EMS) that meets the ISO 14001 standard requirements. EMS is a systematic approach that includes policies, procedures, and processes that address the environmental impacts and risks associated with your business activities.
· Conduct an environmental review
The next step is to conduct a review to identify the potential environmental impacts of your business activities. This review should include an evaluation of your current environmental performance. This step will help you identify areas where you can make improvements and take action to reduce your environmental impact.
· Develop an environmental policy
The next step is to develop a policy that outlines your commitment to environmental sustainability. This policy should be communicated to all employees, stakeholders, and interested parties. The policy should include measures to prevent pollution, and continuously improve environmental performance.
· Implement the EMS
The next step is to implement EMS and ensure its effective integration into your business operations. This includes training employees, monitoring environmental performance, and building communication channels with stakeholders. You should also establish clear measures to improve your environmental performance.
· Conduct internal audits
The next step is to conduct internal audits to ensure your EMS is effectively implemented and maintained. Internal audits should be conducted regularly to ensure the effectiveness of your EMS as per the ISO 14001 requirements. This will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your EMS is compliant with the ISO 14001 standard.
· Select an accredited certification body
The next step is to select an accredited certification body that will evaluate your EMS and issue a certificate if it meets the ISO 14001 standard. Choosing an authorized body is important to ensure international recognition of your certification.
· Schedule a certification audit
EMS, paperwork, and procedures are reviewed as part of the certification audit to ensure they meet ISO 14001 standards. These certification audits are done by independent trained and qualified auditors.
· Address any non-conformities
Any non-conformities identified during the certification audit must be resolved before certification can be granted. This may include EMS changes and corrective actions to address these issues.
· Receive certification
If your EMS meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard, you will receive certification. This certification is valid for three years, after which you must re-audit it.
URS provides you with ISO 14001 certification in UAE for seamless and easy implementation of these standards. But, why is ISO 14001 certification relevant to an organization and what are the benefits of ISO 14001 certification?
Here are some pointers that encourage more and more organizations to opt for them:
· Sorts your compliance requirements
· Establishes brand value and equity among customers
· Gives your organization an edge over competitors
· Enables efficient resource utilization
· Exhibits environmental commitment