Implementing a management system of any kind is a significant undertaking for any organization. However, there are some common tools you can use and a common process to follow during implementation and the route towards certification.

We offer a comprehensive range of services to help businesses understand and implement the internationally recognized environmental standard ISO 14001. These build on the requirements of ISO 14001 by breaking down the requirements into manageable steps:

1. Choose the standardInitially you should read ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management Systems - Specification with guidance for use.Download our free guidance document for your immediate reference.

Talk to us - we can provide you with information and support in finding the right solution for your company.

2. Develop your environmental policyYour environmental policy will state your commitment to compliance with legal and regulatory demands, continual improvement and the prevention of pollution. You should make this policy available to your customers and the public.

3. Review and produce objectivesAt this stage you should identify the elements of your business that impact on the environment, establish access to relevant environmental legislation and regulations and produce objectives and targets for environmental improvement and a management programme to achieve them.

4. TrainingOnce you have assembled a team and agreed your strategy it’s crucial to get understanding and involvement from the top down. Our training offers a comprehensive programme of training courses for each key step, which can be tailored to a company’s size and needs. Read more about training.

5. Implementation and assessmentAs an accredited certification body our Client Managers can check in with you at key stages to ensure your implementation is running smoothly and to identify any gaps or areas for improvement. The initial registration to ISO 14001 involves a two-stage assessment process, including a document review and a site visit.

You should arrange the initial assessment with your registrar.  It's often a good idea to include a pre-assessment, designed to act as a practice assessment. Following the two-stage

initial assessment, the assessor will determine whether you should be recommended for registration.

6. Certification and beyondOnce the assessment has been successfully completed, we’ll issue a certificate of registration, clearly explaining the scope of your management system. The certificate is valid for three years, and your assessor will visit you regularly to help you make sure you remain compliant, and support you in the continual improvement of your systems. 

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