WHS for Health and Safety Committees – WA Edition
Lesson 4 – Topic 4: Occupational Health and Safety Systems (OHSMS)
Definition – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS)
“That part of the overall management system which includes organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing and maintaining the OH&S policy, and so managing the WHS risks associated with the business of the organization.”
(From: Australian/New Zealand Standard 4804 General guidelines on principles, systems and supporting techniques)
There are many different OHSMS templates available. Some of them are formulated by regulatory bodies, others by WHS consultants.
An OHSMS aims to support the achievement of the highest level of WHS performance through systematic elimination or control of workplace risks. It sets an agenda for action (e.g. policies and procedures) to fulfill an organization’s duty of care in work health and safety.
There are a couple of industry standards that deal with and OHSMS, for example:
ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety or
the now superseded but still used AS/NZS 4801 Occupational health and safety management systems – Specification with guidance for use
are used as the benchmark to assess (audit) Occupational Health & Safety Management systems for organizations.
Why have an OHSMS?
- a systematic approach to managing safety can contribute to optimal safety outcomes
- a concern from interested parties about WHS matters
- a desire to improve WHS performance
- requirements by external bodies
- to assist in meeting legal requirements
- meet the organization’s policy requirements
Elements of ISO45001:2018
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ISO45001 elements
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OHSMS – A Simple Way To Get Started
The above can be quite overwhelming for small companies or those who have no OHSMS in place. The following template could be an easy start.
Below is a different but simple example of an OHSMS. It has 5 elements. The text in italics indicate procedures and policies that could be considered for each element. The procedures would with the process for managing the various topics within each element.
1) Policy, Programs & Management Responsibility
WHS Policy design, review and authorization
Define safety responsibility and accountability for all workers
Safety plans & programs
2) WHS Consultation
Consultation mechanisms such as a health and safety committee, staff meetings, toolbox talks
3) Training & information
Training Needs Analysis
Dissemination of WHS information
Safe work procedures
4) Risk Management
Workplace safety inspections
Document control
Contractor management
Hazard identification, assessment, control & review processes
Statistical information
Corrective action process
Safety reporting process
Emergency preparedness
5) Review, maintain and improve
WHS internal and third party audits
Management review
Testing and monitoring activities
Safety feedback processes.
