How does certification according to ISO 45001 work?
In certification, an independent expert — the certification body — assesses whether the management system complies with a clearly defined standard. If that is indeed the case, a certificate is issued. The assessment is carried out on the basis of rules, which are laid down in the ISO 45001 certification scheme. These have been approved by the Central Board of Experts (CCvD), in which all stakeholders are represented.
Certification audit
A certification body (CB) issues a certificate when it has confidence that an organization complies with all the requirements of the standard and can continue to do so. At least once a year, the CB checks whether the organization still complies with the standard. If not, the certificate can be withdrawn. A certificate is issued for three years. In the third year, a complete reassessment takes place.
During the certification audit, the CB assesses whether all elements of the OH&S management system have actually been implemented in accordance with the standard. It then checks whether the system also works in practice. A condition for certification is that the organization complies with all requirements of OH&S legislation and regulations. The certification audit pays close attention to the organization’s own assessment of OH&S performance and the functioning of procedures for taking corrective action. In that context, procedures for reporting accidents to the authorities are also assessed.
Certification requirements
An important requirement for certification is also that the organization demonstrates that there is continuous improvement in OHS performance and communication of this to employees. This includes a culture that supports the intended OHS performance, provides insight into opportunities to reduce hazards and risks, and incorporates these opportunities into the formulation of OHS objectives.
Reassessment
A certificate is issued for a period of three years. In the second and third year there is a surveillance audit, after which the entire system is assessed again in a reassessment. This is further elaborated in the certification scheme.