
ISO 45001
In brief
ISO 45001 is the international standard for management systems for occupational health and safety. It describes how a company systematically identifies hazards, reduces risks and continually improves occupational safety. When choosing an IT service provider, an ISO 45001 certification shows that occupational safety – for example when handling heavy equipment or batteries – is organized according to a verified system.
What does ISO 45001 regulate?
The standard appeared in 2018 and replaced the former British standard OHSAS 18001. It follows the same basic structure as ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environment). This makes it easier to combine several management systems into one integrated system. Key points:
- Management's responsibility for safety and health
- Participation and consultation of employees
- Identification of hazards and assessment of risks
- Compliance with legal requirements
- Objectives, indicators, internal audits and continual improvement
Certification is carried out by an independent body. After the initial certification, annual surveillance audits follow and a recertification every three years.
Why occupational safety matters in IT decommissioning
There are real hazards in dismantling, transporting and refurbishing IT hardware: heavy servers and racks, pallets, cutting tools, shredders and damaged lithium batteries. A service provider with functioning occupational safety works more safely and reliably – also on your premises. Second IT has been certified to ISO 45001 since March 2020, and additionally to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO/IEC 27001. Which proof you should check with service providers is shown by the checklist Choosing an ITAD provider.
Frequently asked questions about ISO 45001
What is the difference between ISO 45001 and OHSAS 18001?
ISO 45001 replaced OHSAS 18001. The new standard is internationally harmonized, uses the common structure of the ISO management standards and places more emphasis on leadership and employee participation.
Is ISO 45001 mandatory?
No. Certification is voluntary. The statutory occupational safety obligations apply regardless. ISO 45001 helps to fulfill and demonstrate them systematically.
How long is an ISO 45001 certificate valid?
Usually three years. Annual surveillance audits take place in between. A recertification is then required.
What does ISO 45001 say about the quality of an IT service provider?
An ISO 45001 certificate shows that occupational safety is organized according to a verified system. This is important in dismantling, transporting and refurbishing IT hardware, for example because of heavy equipment and damaged batteries. It does not replace checking other proof.
Can ISO 45001 be combined with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001?
Yes. ISO 45001 follows the same basic structure as ISO 9001 for quality and ISO 14001 for environment. This allows several management systems to be combined into one integrated system. Certification is carried out by an independent body.
Related terms
Decommissioning with a partner holding multiple ISO certifications.
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