The industries are required to grow to satisfy the need of the society but at the same time they need to do all this in an occupation, Health and safety acceptable manner. Of late, industries have been reactive towards OHSAS management and follow up of safe production practices. In this scenario, the concept of OHSMS through plan approach of system implementation for occupational, health and safety issues are taking shape.
OHSAS Management System (OHSMS) refers to a system used by an Organisation to manage its activities, product or services in such a way to minimize or eliminate the adverse impacts on Occupation, Health and safety of workers. More explicitly, the OHSMS is that part of the overall management system viz. organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources which are necessary for developing, implementing, reviewing and maintaining the organisation's OHSAS policy.
Unlike the Quality Management System which concentrate only on customers satisfaction, the OHSMS is required to satisfy different stakeholder e.g. employees, shareholders, regulatory authorities, customers and general public as well. Also, quality can be defined by technical specification and so satisfying the customers is relatively easier. Whereas in case of OHSMS it is dependent on diverse interest of the Stakeholders In addition, the OHSMS is required to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations. Thus the scope of application and operation of OHSMS is wider than that of QMS.
Evidently, OHSAS Management System is not a Hi- Tech mechanism to address Occupation, health and Safety issues of an organisation. Basically OHSMS is a manual system consisting of three components namely:
* Design or development of elements of OHSMS
* Documentation and
* Implementation
The need of OHSMS :
Occupation, Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) certification is
one such opportunity that can enable the companies acquires the label
of sound enterprises and improves their economic performance at the same
time.
Global trade henceforth would reinforce flow of safer goods and
services, in which only OHSAS complying companies shall be able to
retain and enhance their share of growing international market.
With the growing Health and safety awareness, compulsions and competition, it is becoming imperative to not only manufacture but source raw materials and sell products in manner that is taking care of OHSAS issues.
While all industrial enterprises are required to comply with growing number of OHSAS regulation, it is only those, who proactively seek to demonstrate OHSMS performance far beyond compliance, would be the market leaders.
Credibility comes in only when an independent, well respected, internationally recognized third party speaks of these OHSAS achievements. Then it not only carries conviction but also impacts the consumer mind favourably.
Why implement OHSMS?
* Systematic approach
* Improved communication
* Improved compliance
* Improved profitability
* Reduction in liability and risk
* Improved internal management
* Confidence with stakeholders
* Improved employee confidence / faith
* Market credibility / image
* Improved emergency preparedness