ISO 14001 is a standard for environmental management systems (EMS) that helps businesses reduce their impact on the environment. An ISO 14001 auditor works with organizations to develop an EMS and certify compliance with the standard. ISO 14001 certification is voluntary but can increase marketability and help avoid fines. The auditor is typically an independent consultant with training and experience in environmental engineering and ISO certification. Companies must be audited and certified every three years to maintain compliance. The auditor oversees implementation, verifies compliance, trains employees, and registers certification with ISO and other governing bodies.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops standards that help businesses and organizations around the world operate safely and efficiently. ISO 14001 deals with how these entities can reduce their impact on the environment through the use of an environmental management system (EMS). An effective EMS allows the company to conduct its normal operations while also working towards internationally agreed environmental objectives. This includes reducing waste, minimizing pollution, and reducing reliance on harsh chemicals or limited resources. An ISO 14001 auditor works with these organizations to help them develop an EMS, then certifies that the company is fully compliant with this international standard.
ISO standards are largely voluntary, but many companies and organizations still work with an ISO 14001 auditor to certify that they meet this standard. Some countries have adopted this standard as law, while others incorporate it into their legal codes. Some manufacturers require their suppliers to be ISO 14001 certified, while others undergo certification simply to increase marketability with the buying public. A successful ISO 14001 audit can also help companies avoid fines and legal problems in some cases.
In general, the ISO 14001 auditor is an independent consultant. May have training in environmental engineering or a related field, as well as experience with ISO certification. Some countries require organizations to hire an ISO 14001 auditor who has been accredited by ISO, while others allow any third-party auditor. In the United States and England, companies must be certified by a designated supervisory board.
An internal auditor is typically unable to perform ISO 14001 certification, but can help a company prepare for this certification. In-house consultants plan the EMS and help implement it based on their knowledge of both the company and ISO standards. Once the organization is ready to undergo certification, it needs to hire an external auditor. Every company must be audited and certified every three years in order to maintain compliance.
No matter which type of ISO 14001 auditor you select, they can work with your business to create an effective EMS. Oversees implementation of EMS, then verifies compliance. It can also train employees on how to best carry out these plans. Finally, it certifies that the company meets all required standards and registers this certification with ISO and other governing bodies. If the company is not ready for certification, they can work in a troubleshooting capacity to remedy any issues before retesting.
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