The specific requirements of ISO standards can seem daunting or overwhelming, particularly when presented in official language frameworks. At Mark1, we are experts in making the ISO certification process accessible for our clients. In this blog, we will explain ISO 14001.
What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is the standard for environmental management systems, most recently published in 2015. It includes how to design your environmental management system (or EMS). Additionally, the records and practices you should maintain, and the implementation process. Your EMS should be tailored to the specifics of your organisation, supporting you to have the most environmentally-friendly processes possible. This signals to both existing and potential customers that your business is eco-conscious, and committed to best practices.
Controls
A key aspect of the Environmental standard is documentation. This is required to record and prove that you have met the required standards. A complete list of documents and goals are available to you. As is the help of experts like the Mark1 team, who can streamline the process and offer as much support as you need. Your EMS will require a defined scope, policies, and continuous evaluation.
The Journey to ISO 14001 Certification
It generally takes around a year to become ISO 14001 certified, going through the two required assessment stages, but this timeline can vary depending on the specifics of your business. Once achieved, your certification is valid for three years, and can be maintained with an annual assessment and a recertification every three years. This system enables you to improve constantly, assess your progress, and ensure that your business is operating in the most environmentally-friendly way possible.
For more information on becoming certified in ISO 14001, you can contact the Mark1 team here.
