ISO 14001:2015 Clause 7.3 Awareness

ISO 14001:2015 Requirements

The organization shall ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of:
a) the environmental policy;
b) the significant environmental aspects and related actual or potential environmental impacts associated with their work;
c) their contribution to the effectiveness of the environmental management system, including the benefits of enhanced environmental performance;
d) the implications of not conforming with the environmental management system requirements, including not fulfilling the organization’s compliance obligations.

As per Annex A (Guidance on the use of ISO 14001:2015 standard) of ISO 14001:2015 standard it further explains:

Awareness of the environmental policy should not be taken to mean that the commitments need to be memorized or that persons doing work under the organization’s control have a copy of the documented environmental policy. Rather, these persons should be aware of its existence, its purpose and their role in achieving the commitments, including how their work can affect the organization’s ability to fulfil its compliance obligations.

The organization shall ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the environmental policy;

Ensuring that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the environmental policy is a crucial element of effective Environmental Management System (EMS) implementation. Here are steps an organization can take to ensure awareness of the environmental policy:

1. Clearly Communicate the Environmental Policy: Begin by developing a clear and concise environmental policy that outlines the organization’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The policy should be aligned with the organization’s objectives and easy to understand.
2. Document the Environmental Policy: Document the environmental policy in written form, and ensure it is readily accessible to all employees and relevant parties. It can be included in the organization’s EMS documentation.
3. Incorporate the Policy in Orientation and Training: During the orientation process for new employees and in regular training programs, include a dedicated section that introduces the organization’s environmental policy. Explain its importance and relevance to their roles.
4. Environmental Policy Awareness Training: Conduct specific training sessions or workshops focused on the environmental policy for employees who have direct responsibilities for environmental aspects and impacts. This training can provide more in-depth understanding.
5. Distribution of the Policy: Share the environmental policy with all employees and relevant external parties, such as contractors, suppliers, and visitors. Ensure that copies of the policy are distributed both digitally and in print.
6. Display in Common Areas: Display the environmental policy prominently in common areas, such as break rooms, bulletin boards, and employee entrances, to ensure visibility.
7. Regular Communication: Use various communication channels, such as newsletters, emails, intranet, or team meetings, to regularly reinforce the importance of the environmental policy and remind employees of their roles in achieving it.
8. Leadership Commitment: Ensure that top management demonstrates a strong commitment to the environmental policy and sets an example for all employees. Their leadership reinforces the importance of the policy.
9. Environmental Objectives and Targets Alignment: Connect the environmental policy with specific environmental objectives and targets. Highlight how achieving these objectives contributes to fulfilling the policy’s commitments.
10. Employee Engagement: Encourage employee involvement in environmental initiatives and decision-making processes related to the EMS. Employees who feel engaged are more likely to be aware of and committed to the environmental policy.
11. Feedback Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for employees to provide feedback or ask questions related to the environmental policy. This can include suggestion boxes or designated contacts for inquiries.
12. Regular Review and Reinforcement: Conduct periodic reviews and assessments to ensure that awareness of the environmental policy is maintained over time. Adjust communication and training efforts as needed.
13. Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintain records of training sessions, communication efforts, and any actions taken to reinforce awareness of the environmental policy.
14. Contractual Agreements: Include clauses related to adherence to the organization’s environmental policy in contracts with suppliers, contractors, and other external parties working under the organization’s control.

By implementing these measures, an organization can promote awareness and understanding of its environmental policy among all relevant stakeholders. This ensures that everyone working under the organization’s control is aligned with its environmental commitments and contributes to achieving the environmental objectives and targets set in the EMS.

The organization shall ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the significant environmental aspects and related actual or potential environmental impacts associated with their work;

Ensuring that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the significant environmental aspects and related actual or potential environmental impacts associated with their work is a fundamental aspect of effective environmental management. Here’s how an organization can ensure awareness of these environmental aspects and impacts:

1. Environmental Aspect and Impact Identification: Begin by identifying and assessing the significant environmental aspects and impacts associated with the organization’s operations, products, and services. This is a fundamental step in understanding the environmental context.
2. Documentation: Document the identified significant environmental aspects and impacts in a clear and concise manner. Ensure that this documentation is part of the organization’s EMS.
3. Environmental Aspects Register: Develop an environmental aspects register or similar document that lists the significant aspects and their associated impacts. Make this register easily accessible to employees and other relevant parties.
4. Employee Training and Awareness: Provide training and awareness programs for employees and contractors, emphasizing the importance of identifying and understanding the significant environmental aspects and impacts associated with their work.
5. Incorporate into Job Descriptions: Include references to environmental aspects and impacts in job descriptions and role profiles, so employees understand how their roles relate to environmental performance.
6. Customized Training: Customize training programs to address specific environmental aspects and impacts relevant to each job role or department. Use real-world examples to illustrate potential impacts.
7. Regular Communication: Maintain open and regular communication channels to discuss environmental aspects and impacts with employees. Share information on changes, updates, and lessons learned.
8. Visual Aids and Signage: Use visual aids, posters, signage, and labels in work areas where significant environmental aspects and impacts are present to remind employees of their importance.
9. Environmental Induction: Include environmental aspects and impacts as part of the induction process for new employees and contractors. Highlight their responsibilities in managing these aspects.
10. Review and Update: Regularly review and update the list of significant environmental aspects and impacts as conditions change or new information becomes available.
11. Employee Engagement: Encourage employees to participate in environmental improvement initiatives and provide opportunities for them to contribute to the identification and mitigation of environmental impacts.
12. Feedback Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for employees to report and communicate potential environmental concerns or incidents related to their work. Encourage employees to raise environmental awareness through feedback.
13. Incident Reporting and Investigation: Ensure that procedures for reporting and investigating environmental incidents are well-defined and communicated. Employees should be aware of the process to report incidents and near misses.
14. Performance Appraisals: Include assessments of employees’ awareness and understanding of environmental aspects and impacts in performance appraisals.
15. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that employees are aware of their responsibilities to comply with environmental laws, regulations, and permits related to their work.
16. Supervision and Leadership: Promote leadership involvement in reinforcing awareness of environmental aspects and impacts. Supervisors should lead by example and prioritize environmental responsibility.
17. Contractual Agreements: Include clauses in contracts with suppliers, contractors, and other external parties working under the organization’s control that require them to be aware of and consider significant environmental aspects and impacts.
18. Audit and Verification: Conduct audits or assessments to verify that employees and contractors are aware of and are addressing significant environmental aspects and impacts in their work.

By implementing these measures, organizations can enhance the awareness and understanding of significant environmental aspects and impacts among all relevant stakeholders, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and contributing to effective environmental management and sustainability.

The organization shall ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of their contribution to the effectiveness of the environmental management system, including the benefits of enhanced environmental performance;

To ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of their contribution to the effectiveness of the Environmental Management System (EMS) and the benefits of enhanced environmental performance, organizations can take several proactive steps:

1. Incorporate EMS Awareness into Training Programs: Include EMS awareness as a core component of employee training and orientation programs. Ensure that all employees, including contractors and new hires, receive training on the EMS and their role in it.
2. EMS Documentation Access: Provide easy access to EMS documentation, including the environmental policy, objectives, procedures, and any relevant performance data. Ensure that employees can readily access these documents.
3. Customized Training for Roles: Tailor training programs to address the specific roles and responsibilities of individuals. Explain how their actions and decisions impact environmental performance and overall effectiveness.
4. Regular Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication channels to regularly share information about the EMS’s performance and improvements achieved. Use various platforms such as newsletters, emails, team meetings, or bulletin boards.
5. Leadership Involvement: Encourage leaders and managers to actively engage in discussions about the EMS and its benefits. Leaders should demonstrate their commitment to environmental performance through their actions.
6. Environmental Objectives and Targets: Clearly communicate the environmental objectives and targets that the organization has set. Explain how achieving these goals contributes to enhanced environmental performance and benefits the organization.
7. Recognition and Rewards: Implement a recognition and rewards program that acknowledges employees and teams for their contributions to environmental improvements. Publicly recognize achievements related to the EMS.
8. Feedback and Suggestions: Encourage employees to provide feedback and suggestions for improving the EMS. Create mechanisms for them to contribute ideas for enhancing environmental performance.
9. Training on Benefits: Offer training sessions specifically focused on the benefits of enhanced environmental performance. Explain how it positively impacts the organization, its reputation, and stakeholders.
10. Case Studies and Success Stories: Share case studies and success stories within the organization to highlight how specific actions and initiatives have led to improved environmental performance and associated benefits.
11. Performance Metrics and Dashboards: Develop visual dashboards or performance metrics that clearly illustrate the positive impacts of the EMS, such as reductions in resource consumption, emissions, waste, or cost savings.
12. Regular Review Meetings: Hold periodic EMS review meetings that involve employees and contractors. Discuss progress, challenges, and the collective contributions to environmental performance.
13. Employee Engagement Initiatives: Promote employee engagement in environmental initiatives and projects, allowing them to directly participate in activities that enhance the EMS’s effectiveness.
14. Continuous Improvement Culture: Foster a culture of continuous improvement where employees are encouraged to seek ways to improve environmental performance and suggest changes to EMS processes.
15. Training on Environmental Benefits to Stakeholders: Educate employees on how enhanced environmental performance benefits not only the organization but also its customers, suppliers, local communities, and the broader environment.
16. Transparency in Reporting: Provide transparent reports on environmental performance, showing progress toward objectives and targets. Share this information with employees and stakeholders.
17. Performance Recognition and Awards: Consider participating in industry-specific environmental awards or certifications and promote the recognition received for outstanding environmental performance.
18. Employee Involvement in EMS Planning: Involve employees in the planning and development of EMS initiatives, strategies, and goals to foster a sense of ownership and commitment.

By implementing these strategies, organizations can raise awareness among individuals working under their control about their vital roles in the EMS and the direct and indirect benefits of enhanced environmental performance. This awareness can lead to increased engagement, better adherence to EMS procedures, and continuous efforts to improve environmental sustainability.

The organization shall ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the implications of not conforming with the environmental management system requirements, including not fulfilling the organization’s compliance obligations.

To ensure that persons doing work under the organization’s control are aware of the implications of not conforming with the Environmental Management System (EMS) requirements, including not fulfilling the organization’s compliance obligations, organizations can take the following steps:

1. Incorporate EMS Non-Conformance Awareness into Training: Include training on EMS non-conformance, compliance obligations, and the associated implications in employee orientation and ongoing training programs.
2. Clear Communication of EMS Requirements: Clearly communicate EMS requirements, procedures, and compliance obligations to all employees, contractors, and relevant stakeholders. Use accessible and easy-to-understand language.
3. Emphasize Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Ensure that all personnel are aware of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to their work and the organization. Provide training on the consequences of non-compliance.
4. Consequence of Non-Conformance: Clearly explain the consequences of non-conformance with EMS requirements, including potential environmental incidents, regulatory fines, legal actions, damage to reputation, and financial losses.
5. Examples and Case Studies: Share real-world examples or case studies that illustrate the implications of non-conformance. Describe how similar incidents have resulted in negative consequences for organizations.
6. Audits and Inspections: Conduct regular EMS audits and inspections to identify non-conformities and areas of non-compliance. Use these findings as teaching points to illustrate the importance of adherence.
7. Corrective and Preventive Actions: Ensure that employees understand the process of identifying, reporting, and addressing non-conformities. Emphasize the importance of taking corrective and preventive actions promptly.
8. Legal and Regulatory Consequences: Educate employees about the potential legal and regulatory consequences of non-compliance, including fines, penalties, and legal actions taken against individuals and the organization.
9. Environmental Impact Awareness: Raise awareness about the environmental impact of non-conformance, emphasizing the potential harm to ecosystems, wildlife, and communities.
10. Financial Implications: Explain how non-conformance can lead to financial losses, including cleanup costs, fines, legal fees, and increased insurance premiums.
11. Reputation Damage: Discuss how incidents related to non-conformance can harm the organization’s reputation, affecting customer trust, investor confidence, and stakeholder relationships.
12. Employee Accountability: Make it clear that all employees are accountable for their actions and responsibilities under the EMS, and that non-conformance may have consequences for job security and advancement.
13. Performance Appraisals: Include assessments of compliance with EMS requirements in performance appraisals, and discuss the implications of non-conformance during these reviews.
14. Reporting Channels: Establish clear reporting channels for employees and contractors to report non-conformances, potential violations, or ethical concerns, ensuring that they feel safe and supported when doing so.
15. Continuous Improvement Culture: Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging employees to actively participate in identifying and addressing non-conformities and compliance issues.
16. Documentation and Records: Maintain records of EMS non-conformities, corrective actions taken, and their outcomes. Use these records for training and continuous improvement.
17. Legal Compliance Training: Provide specific training on legal compliance related to environmental regulations and permit requirements for employees in roles with significant compliance responsibilities.
18. Consequence Simulation: Conduct training exercises or simulations that simulate the consequences of environmental incidents resulting from non-conformance. This can help employees understand the seriousness of the matter.
19. Regular Updates: Keep employees informed about changes in regulations, standards, or EMS procedures to ensure ongoing awareness of compliance obligations.

By implementing these measures, organizations can create a culture of compliance and accountability, making sure that everyone working under their control is fully aware of the implications of non-conformance with EMS requirements and compliance obligations. This awareness can help mitigate risks and contribute to improved environmental performance and regulatory compliance.

Documented Information required

There is no mandatory requirement for Documented Information. Here are the key documents and records typically associated with Clause 7.3 of ISO 14001:2015:

1. Environmental Policy Document: A documented environmental policy that clearly states the organization’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. This document should be easily accessible to all employees and relevant parties.
2. EMS Manual: An EMS manual or equivalent document that outlines the structure, scope, and key elements of the EMS, including the roles and responsibilities of personnel.
3. Environmental Aspects and Impacts Register: Documentation of the significant environmental aspects and impacts associated with the organization’s activities, products, and services. This register should be maintained and updated as needed.
4. Environmental Objectives and Targets: A document that specifies the organization’s environmental objectives and targets. This should include information about what is being pursued, deadlines, and responsible individuals or departments.
5. Job Descriptions and Roles: Job descriptions or role profiles that clearly define the responsibilities of individuals and departments in relation to the EMS. This includes roles related to environmental management and compliance.
6. Training Plans: Training plans that outline the specific training needs of employees and contractors related to the EMS and their roles within it. These plans should be periodically reviewed and updated.
7. Training Records: Documentation of completed training sessions, including details such as the date of training, the content covered, the names of participants, and any certifications or qualifications earned.
8. Orientation Materials: Materials used during employee orientation and onboarding that introduce new hires to the EMS, the environmental policy, and their roles in supporting environmental objectives.
9. Communication Records: Records of communication efforts used to raise awareness and understanding of the EMS, such as emails, newsletters, intranet announcements, and presentations.
10. Performance Appraisal Records: Records of performance appraisals that include assessments of employees’ understanding of the EMS and their roles in achieving environmental objectives.
11. Feedback and Suggestions Documentation: Records of employee feedback, suggestions, or inquiries related to the EMS, its policies, or environmental performance. This includes records of actions taken in response to feedback.
12. Audit and Assessment Records: Records of EMS audits and assessments, including findings related to employee awareness and compliance with EMS requirements.
13. Management Review Records: Documentation of discussions and decisions related to EMS awareness and performance during management review meetings.
14. Legal Compliance Records: Records demonstrating that employees are aware of and trained in legal and regulatory requirements relevant to their work within the EMS.
15. Records of Awareness Programs: Documentation of awareness programs and initiatives implemented to educate employees and contractors about the EMS and its importance.
16. Records of Environmental Performance: Records of environmental performance metrics and data that illustrate progress toward environmental objectives and targets. This helps employees understand the outcomes of their efforts.
17. Incident and Non-Conformance Reports: Records of environmental incidents, non-conformances, or violations, along with related corrective and preventive actions taken.

These documents and records are essential for demonstrating compliance with ISO 14001:2015 requirements related to awareness and for maintaining an effective EMS that encourages the active involvement and understanding of all persons working under the organization’s control.

Example of Procedure for Awareness of Environmental Management System (EMS)

Objective: This procedure aims to ensure that all persons working under the organization’s control are aware of the Environmental Management System (EMS), its requirements, and their individual roles and responsibilities within the EMS.

Responsibility: The responsibility for implementing and maintaining this procedure rests with the [Name or Department] responsible for environmental management.

Procedure:

1. Environmental Policy Awareness:

a. Environmental Policy Distribution: Ensure that the organization’s environmental policy is documented and widely distributed to all employees, contractors, and relevant stakeholders.

b. Communication of Policy: Communicate the environmental policy to all employees during orientation and regularly through internal communication channels, such as emails, intranet, or bulletin boards.

2. Employee Orientation:

a. EMS Introduction: Include an introduction to the EMS as part of the employee orientation program. Explain the organization’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

b. Policy Review: During orientation, review the organization’s environmental policy with new employees and explain its significance.

3. Role-Specific Awareness:

a. Job Role Descriptions: Maintain up-to-date job role descriptions or profiles that clearly outline the roles and responsibilities of employees within the EMS.

b. Training Plans: Develop training plans that are customized for each job role, emphasizing EMS-related responsibilities.

4. EMS Training:

a. EMS Training Sessions: Conduct EMS training sessions for employees to provide in-depth knowledge about the EMS, including its objectives, aspects, and compliance obligations.

b. Regular Training Updates: Periodically review and update training materials to ensure that they remain relevant and aligned with the organization’s EMS.

5. Communication Channels:

a. Regular EMS Updates: Use various communication channels (e.g., emails, newsletters, meetings) to provide regular updates on EMS-related matters, performance achievements, and goals.

b. Feedback Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for employees to provide feedback, ask questions, or seek clarification on EMS-related topics.

6. Environmental Aspects and Impacts:

a. Documentation: Maintain a register or documentation of significant environmental aspects and impacts associated with the organization’s activities, products, and services.

b. Awareness of Aspects: Communicate information about these aspects and impacts to relevant personnel, so they understand their connection to environmental performance.

7. Legal Compliance:

a. Legal Awareness: Educate employees about the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to their work and the organization’s obligations to comply with these requirements.

8. Performance Appraisals:

a. EMS Assessment: Include assessments of employees’ understanding and adherence to EMS requirements in performance appraisals.

9. Documentation:

a. Record-Keeping: Maintain records of EMS awareness efforts, including training sessions, communication, and employee feedback.

10. Continuous Improvement:

a. Feedback Analysis: Regularly analyze feedback and suggestions from employees to identify areas for improvement in EMS awareness efforts.

b. Periodic Review: Periodically review and update this procedure to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with the organization’s EMS goals.