OHSAS 18001 – Health and Safety Quality Management Systems

The benefits of improved Health & Safety performance of enterprises are generally accepted and can include cost reduction, improved image (especially on the international market), and employee motivation.

Increasing expectations on work safety

With the globalization of world economy, manufacturers and traders are confronted with new issues, including compliance with health and safety standards presented by the International Labor Organization (ILO). Labor safety and disease prevention are regarded as the legal and moral obligation of the employer.

Additionally, a modern society also promotes the health of employees in the workplace and a comfortable working environment. Therefore, more and more enterprises prepare and implement their own policies and objectives for Occupational Health & Safety.

Typical focus areas for control are:

• Air quality (e.g. concentration of dust particles, dangerous substances, ventilation)

• Ambient environmental conditions (e.g. noise, heat, vibrations, lighting, radiation)

• Handling of objects (e.g. heavy, falling objects or dangerous goods)

• Personal Protective Equipment

• Emergency response including fire safety

• Personal and food hygiene (e.g. in canteen and dormitory)