What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard that sets out how you can go about putting in place an effective Environmental Management System (EMS). The standard is designed to address the delicate balance between maintaining profitability and reducing environmental impact; with the commitment of your entire organization, it can enable you to achieve both objectives.
Why implement ISO 14001?
Environmental issues are very topical at present with energy efficiency, environmental impact and carbon footprints being discussed throughout the construction industry. Implementing an Environmental Management System will allow you to assess the environmental impact your company is currently making, and where you can reduce that impact. Being ISO14001 certificated allows you to prove the environmental credibility of your company with an internationally recognised certificate.
What are the requirements?
To meet the requirements of ISO14001:2004, manufacturers must:
- Have an Environmental Policy
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Plan the following points
- Environmental aspects
- Legal requirements
- Objectives, targets and programmes
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Implementation & Operation
- Resources, roles, responsibilities and authorities
- Competence, training and awareness
- Communications
- Documentation
- Control of documents
- Operational Control
- Emergency preparedness & response
-
Checking
- Monitoring & Measurement
- Evaluation of Compliance
- Nonconformity, corrective action and preventive action
- Control of records
- Internal Audits
- Management Review
Having an Environmental Management System certificated to ISO14001:2004 involves the formation of work practises and procedures that must be implemented, maintained and reviewed. All staff in the company need to be aware of the practices and procedures and will have a role in ensuring they are maintained. The system must be certificated by a UKAS approved certification body which will include a yearly Audit.
How can BWF help?
The BWF will provide a template manual is a completed environmental manual produced for a fictitious company (The BWF Joinery Company Ltd.) that can be adjusted to fit your company. The manual comes complete with written guidance notes on turning the basic manual into a completed manual for your business. As part of the basic package you will receive a hard copy and an electronic file of the quality manual, plus a copy of ISO14001:2004 and a 1/2 day visit by our consulting partners to answer your questions and get you started.
During the initial half day visit included in the purchase of the template manual, our consulting partner will discuss with you the steps that you will need to take to complete the manual, and implement the procedures into your company. If you feel that you require assistance in completing any of the steps required, you can purchase further visits from the consultant on a half or full day basis to assist you through them.
The BWF has negotiated an exclusive audit for companies taking up the BWF service. The audits will be undertaken by the BSI who are the leading certification body for ISO14001 in the UK.
Click here for further information, costings, and an application form.
