Occupational Health and Safety | ISO 45001

Creating Safer Workplaces Through Structured Health & Safety Systems

ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems. It provides a framework for identifying hazards, managing risks, and improving overall safety performance in any organization. Implementing ISO 45001 is not only about meeting legal requirements—it’s about creating a safer, more resilient workplace where people can thrive.

What Is ISO 45001?

ISO 45001 replaces OHSAS 18001 and is designed to help organizations reduce workplace injuries, protect mental and physical health, and foster a culture of proactive safety. It aligns with other ISO management system standards, making it easier to integrate with ISO 9001 (Quality) or ISO 14001 (Environmental).

Why It Matters

Work-related accidents, illnesses, and stress-related absenteeism are costly—both financially and culturally. ISO 45001 helps organizations:

  • Identify health and safety hazards before incidents occur

  • Establish controls and clear responsibilities

  • Comply with OH&S legal and regulatory requirements

  • Foster a culture of employee engagement and well-being

  • Reduce downtime and insurance costs

What Certification Involves

  1. Context and Risk Assessment: Identify internal and external issues, interested parties, and OH&S risks and opportunities.

  2. System Design: Define your OH&S policy, objectives, responsibilities, and operational controls.

  3. Participation and Consultation: Involve workers in decisions that affect health and safety.

  4. Emergency Preparedness and Response: Prepare for unplanned incidents with documented plans and drills.

  5. Internal Audit and Management Review: Evaluate performance and ensure continual improvement.

  6. Third-Party Certification Audit: Engage an accredited certification body to audit and certify your system.

Who Should Consider ISO 45001?

Any organization with employees, contractors, or stakeholders affected by workplace risks should consider certification. It's especially beneficial for:

  • Manufacturers and production facilities

  • Construction and engineering firms

  • Healthcare providers and laboratories

  • Public service and municipal operations

  • Companies seeking to enhance ESG performance

Wintersmith Advisory: Your Partner in ISO 45001 Implementation

At Wintersmith Advisory, we offer hands-on support for every phase of your ISO 45001 journey. From initial gap assessments to system development, training, internal auditing, and readiness for third-party certification, our consulting is grounded in real-world experience and regulatory insight.

We understand that a one-size-fits-all system won’t deliver real safety improvements. That’s why we focus on designing practical, integrated systems that reflect your operations, risks, and workforce.

Let's Make Safety Systematic

If you're ready to strengthen your health and safety culture and move toward ISO 45001 certification, Wintersmith Advisory brings the structure, knowledge, and flexibility to help you succeed.

Previous
Previous

How to Get ISO Certified

Next
Next

Environmental Management System Consultant Services