Navigating through ISO45001 Clause 8: Operation - Ensuring Safety at Every Step

Introduction

Clause 8 of ISO45001, aptly titled "Operation," centers on the indispensable aspect of implementing and managing operational controls to ensure workplace safety. This clause is the linchpin of the standard, emphasizing planning, implementation, testing, and documentation of processes, all geared towards mitigating hazards and risks.

Layered Approach to Addressing Hazards

To navigate through a myriad of workplace hazards, organizations adopt a prioritized approach:

1. 1. Elimination of Hazards:

   • Explanation: The most effective way to ensure safety is to completely eliminate the hazard.

   • Examples: Removing trip hazards on the floor or discontinuing the use of a harmful chemical.

2. 2. Substitution:

   • Explanation: This involves replacing a hazard with a less dangerous alternative.

   • Examples: Substituting a toxic cleaning agent with an eco-friendly one, or replacing a noisy machine with a quieter model.

3. 3. Equipment Controls:

   • Explanation: This includes modifying or installing equipment to reduce risks.

   • Examples: Installing machine guards to prevent contact with moving parts, or implementing ventilation systems to manage airborne contaminants.

4. 4. Administrative Controls:

   • Explanation: These are changes in work policies or procedures to reduce or manage exposure to hazards.

   • Examples: Rotating workers to limit exposure to a hazardous environment, or implementing training programs to enhance worker knowledge on handling risks.

5. 5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Explanation: When other controls are not feasible, PPE serves as the last line of defense against hazards.

   • Examples: Wearing safety goggles to prevent eye injury, or using earplugs to protect against hearing loss in a noisy environment.

Procurement: Aligning with Safety Goals

Compliance with ISO45001 extends into the procurement process, demanding a meticulous approach to identifying the hazards associated with procured items and services. A robust procurement process is paramount, ensuring alignment with safety goals and considering the potential impact on people and products. This systematic application of safety compliance must be ingrained in all procurement activities to foster a culture of safety across the organization.

Emergency Response and Planning

ISO45001 mandates organizations to be well-prepared for the unexpected, outlining specific requirements for addressing various types of emergencies:

• Fire:
  

  • Policy Response: Implementing evacuation procedures, regular fire drills, installing fire extinguishers, and training employees on using them effectively.

• Chemical Spills:
  

  • Policy Response: Establishing spill response procedures, training staff on containment measures, and providing spill kits at accessible locations.

• Tornado:
  

  • Policy Response: Developing shelter-in-place procedures, conducting tornado drills, and ensuring clear communication channels during the event.

• Flood:
  

  • Policy Response: Establishing flood evacuation routes, securing vital equipment, and training employees on flood safety.

Each response must be meticulously designed, documented, and communicated, with employees undergoing regular training to ensure preparedness.

Conclusion

Clause 8 of ISO45001 is the bedrock upon which organizations build and maintain a safe working environment. By systematically addressing and eliminating hazards, ensuring safety in procurement, and meticulously planning for emergencies, organizations can foster a resilient safety culture. This comprehensive approach to operational safety serves as a testament to ISO45001’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the workforce.