Draft Version of ISO 45001:2027 Released
ISO 45001 Standard Undergoes Revision Process
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is currently in the process of revising its occupational health and safety management system standard, ISO 45001. This revision, the first since its initial release in 2018, aims to bring about moderate yet significant changes to the standard. The revision process, which began in 2024, has now advanced to the Draft International Standard (DIS) stage.
Maintaining Relevance and Addressing Emerging Challenges
One of the primary objectives of the revision is to ensure that ISO 45001 remains a forward-looking standard that reflects evolving best practices in managing occupational health and safety. It also seeks to address the emerging issues and challenges faced by organizations in today’s dynamic work environment.
Proposed Changes and Enhancements
Among the key proposed changes in the revised standard are a heightened focus on work-related well-being, increased consideration of workforce diversity, and expanded requirements for hazard identification to align with modern work practices. Additionally, new requirements related to occupational health, return-to-work processes following injury or illness, and enhanced controls for externally provided products and services are introduced in the draft standard.
Anticipated Publication and Transition Period
The publication of the revised ISO 45001 standard is expected in 2027. While the specifics of the transition period for companies certified to ISO 45001 have not been finalized, it is anticipated that it may align with the three-year transition periods established for ISO 14001 and ISO 9001.
Expert Insights
Global Service Manager for Management Systems at DNV, Tor Gunnar Tollefsen, emphasized the importance of the proposed changes in reflecting relevant trends and challenges in occupational health and safety management. Tollefsen noted that these revisions are crucial to ensuring the continued relevance of the standard for its users.
As organizations continue to prioritize the health and safety of their workforce, the forthcoming revisions to ISO 45001 are poised to provide updated guidance and requirements to address the evolving landscape of occupational health and safety management. Stay tuned for further updates as the revision process progresses.
