ISO 14001:2015 Clause 8.1 Operational planning and control

The organization shall establish, implement, control and maintain the processes needed to meet environmental management system requirements, and to implement the actions identified in 6.1 and 6.2, by:
— establishing operating criteria for the process(es);
— implementing control of the process(es), in accordance with the operating criteria.
NOTE Controls can include engineering controls and procedures. Controls can be implemented following a hierarchy (e.g. elimination, substitution, administrative) and can be used individually or in combination.
The organization shall control planned changes and review the consequences of unintended changes, taking action to mitigate any adverse effects, as necessary.
The organization shall ensure that outsourced processes are controlled or influenced. The type and extent of control or influence to be applied to the process(es) shall be defined within the environmental management system.
Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall:
a) establish controls, as appropriate, to ensure that its environmental requirement(s) is (are) addressed in the design and development process for the product or service, considering each life cycle stage;
b) determine its environmental requirement(s) for the procurement of products and services, as appropriate;
c) communicate its relevant environmental requirement(s) to external providers, including contractors;
d) consider the need to provide information about potential significant environmental impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and final disposal of its products and services.
The organization shall maintain documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that the processes have been carried out as planned.

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

The type and extent of operational control(s) depend on the nature of the operations, the risks and opportunities, significant environmental aspects and compliance obligations. An organization has the flexibility to select the type of operational control methods, individually or in combination, that are necessary to make sure the process(es) is (are) effective and achieve(s) the desired results. Such methods can include:
a) designing (a) process(es) in such a way as to prevent error and ensure consistent results;
b) using technology to control (a) process(es) and prevent adverse results (i.e. engineering controls);
c) using competent personnel to ensure the desired results;
d) performing (a) process(es) in a specified way;
e) monitoring or measuring (a) process(es) to check the results;
f) determining the use and amount of documented information necessary.
The organization decides the extent of control needed within its own business processes (e.g. procurement process) to control or influence (an) outsourced process(es) or (a) provider(s) of products and services. Its decision should be based upon factors such as:
— knowledge, competence and resources, including:
— the competence of the external provider to meet the organization’s environmental management system requirements;
— the technical competence of the organization to define appropriate controls or assess the adequacy of controls;
— the importance and potential effect the product and service will have on the organization’s ability to achieve the intended outcome of its environmental management system;
— the extent to which control of the process is shared;
— the capability of achieving the necessary control through the application of its general procurement process;
— improvement opportunities available.
When a process is outsourced, or when products and services are supplied by (an) external provider(s), the organization’s ability to exert control or influence can vary from direct control to limited or no influence. In some cases, an outsourced process performed onsite might be under the direct control of an organization; in other cases, an organization’s ability to influence an outsourced process or external supplier might be limited. When determining the type and extent of operational controls related to external providers, including contractors, the organization may consider one or more factors such as:
— environmental aspects and associated environmental impacts;
— risks and opportunities associated with the manufacturing of its products or the provision of its services;
— the organization’s compliance obligations.

An outsourced process is one that fulfils all of the following:
— it is within the scope of the environmental management system;
— it is integral to the organization’s functioning;
— it is needed for the environmental management system to achieve its intended outcome;
— liability for conforming to requirements is retained by the organization;
— the organization and the external provider have a relationship where the process is perceived by interested parties as being carried out by the organization.
Environmental requirements are the organization’s environmentally-related needs and expectations that it establishes for, and communicates to, its interested parties (e.g. an internal function, such as procurement; a customer; an external provider). Some of the organization’s significant environmental impacts can occur during the transportation, delivery, use, end-of-life treatment or final disposal of its product or service. By providing information, an organization can potentially prevent or mitigate adverse environmental impacts during these life cycle stages.

1) The organization shall establish, implement, control and maintain the processes needed to meet environmental management system requirements, and to implement the actions identified in 6.1 and 6.2

Establishing effective operational planning and control within an Environmental Management System (EMS) involves a systematic approach to ensure that activities, products, and services are carried out in alignment with environmental objectives, legal requirements, and the organization’s environmental policy. Here are steps an organization can follow to establish EMS operational planning and control:

• Ensure that senior management demonstrates a commitment to environmental management and actively supports the establishment of operational planning and control processes.
• Appoint a designated Environmental Management Representative (EMR) or a team responsible for overseeing and coordinating EMS operational planning and control activities.
• Identify and assess all environmental aspects and impacts associated with the organization’s activities, products, and services. Consider their significance and potential risks.
• Identify and document all applicable environmental laws, regulations, permits, and other legal requirements relevant to the organization’s operations.
• Establish clear, measurable, and time-bound environmental objectives and targets based on the identified aspects and impacts. Ensure that objectives align with the organization’s environmental policy.
• Create environmental management programs and plans that outline specific actions, responsibilities, resources, and timelines needed to achieve the established objectives and targets.
• Develop and document emergency response plans and procedures to address potential environmental incidents or accidents. Ensure that employees are trained and aware of these plans.
• Implement controls and procedures to manage and mitigate significant environmental risks. These controls may include process modifications, equipment maintenance, and monitoring protocols.
• Ensure that adequate resources, including personnel, technology, and materials, are allocated to support environmental management and achieve EMS objectives.
• Provide training and awareness programs for employees to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities related to environmental management and operational controls.
• Establish clear communication processes for sharing environmental information, objectives, and progress both internally and externally. Engage with stakeholders as appropriate.
• Develop a structured system for maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation of environmental procedures, policies, objectives, and other relevant EMS information.
• Implement a monitoring and measurement system to track environmental performance indicators, such as energy consumption, waste generation, and emissions.
• Conduct internal audits and inspections at regular intervals to evaluate the effectiveness of operational controls and identify areas for improvement.
• Engage with suppliers and contractors to ensure they adhere to environmental requirements and align with the organization’s objectives.
• Establish a process for assessing the environmental impact of proposed changes in operations, products, or services. Ensure that controls are in place before implementing changes.
• Develop procedures for identifying, reporting, and addressing nonconformities related to environmental management. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrences.
• Regularly review environmental performance and progress toward objectives and targets. Use this information to drive continual improvement in the EMS.
• Conduct periodic management reviews of the EMS to assess its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
• Document all processes related to operational planning and control, including procedures, guidelines, and records.
• Encourage and involve employees in the establishment and improvement of operational planning and control processes. Seek their input and ideas.
• Promote a culture of continual improvement within the organization, where EMS processes are regularly reviewed and enhanced.

By following these steps and maintaining a proactive and systematic approach, an organization can establish robust EMS operational planning and control processes that contribute to improved environmental performance and regulatory compliance. Clause 6.1 and Clause 6.2 of ISO 14001 outline important requirements related to the establishment, implementation, control, and maintenance of processes within an Environmental Management System (EMS). These processes are essential for achieving the EMS’s objectives and enhancing environmental performance. Here’s how an organization can meet these requirements:

Clause 6.1: Actions to Address Risks and Opportunities

1. Identification of Risks and Opportunities: Begin by identifying environmental risks and opportunities that could affect the achievement of the organization’s environmental objectives. This includes considering internal and external factors.
2. Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to determine the significance of identified risks and opportunities. Prioritize them based on their potential impact on the environment.
3. Action Planning: Develop action plans that specify how the organization will address these risks and opportunities. These plans should include clear objectives, targets, and actions to mitigate or leverage them.
4. Integration with EMS: Ensure that the action plans are integrated into the overall EMS. Align them with the organization’s environmental policy, objectives, and other EMS processes.
5. Resource Allocation: Allocate the necessary resources, including personnel, budget, and time, to implement the action plans effectively.
6. Implementation and Monitoring: Implement the actions as outlined in the plans. Monitor progress regularly and adjust the plans as needed.
7. Documentation: Document the actions taken, including the rationale, timelines, responsible parties, and expected outcomes.

Clause 6.2: Environmental Objectives and Planning to Achieve Them

1. Establishing Objectives: Define clear and measurable environmental objectives that align with the organization’s environmental policy and commitment.
2. Relevance and Significance: Ensure that the objectives are relevant to the organization’s environmental aspects, significant environmental impacts, and the identified risks and opportunities.
3. Targets and Performance Indicators: Set specific targets and performance indicators for each objective. These should be measurable and time-bound.
4. Action Plans: Develop action plans for achieving the objectives and targets. These plans should outline the steps, responsibilities, and resources required.
5. Integration with EMS: Integrate the objectives and targets into the EMS processes, ensuring alignment with other elements such as legal compliance, training, and communication.
6. Communication: Communicate the objectives and targets to relevant stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, and interested parties.
7. Monitoring and Measurement: Implement a system for monitoring and measuring progress toward the objectives and targets. Use data and metrics to track performance.
8. Periodic Review: Review the objectives and targets regularly, typically during management review meetings. Assess their continued relevance and effectiveness.
9. Documentation: Document the environmental objectives, targets, action plans, and related performance data for record-keeping and audit purposes.

By following these steps and integrating the processes into the EMS, the organization can effectively address the requirements of Clause 6.1 and Clause 6.2 of ISO 14001, leading to improved environmental performance and compliance with the standard.

2) The organization must establishing operating criteria for EMS Operational planning and control

Establishing operating criteria is a crucial step in the process of EMS (Environmental Management System) operational planning and control. These criteria provide clear guidelines and standards that help ensure that processes are carried out consistently, in accordance with environmental objectives, legal requirements, and the organization’s environmental policy. Here’s how an organization can establish operating criteria:

• Identify the specific processes within your organization that are relevant to environmental management and operational planning and control. These could include processes related to energy management, waste reduction, emissions control, and more.
• Carefully review and understand the applicable environmental laws, regulations, permits, and other legal requirements relevant to your organization’s operations. Identify the specific requirements that pertain to each process.
• Consider the environmental aspects and impacts associated with each process. These aspects should have been identified during your environmental aspects assessment. Understanding these impacts is crucial for setting appropriate operating criteria.
• Based on legal requirements, environmental aspects, and your organization’s environmental objectives and targets, establish clear and measurable performance standards or criteria for each process. These criteria should define the acceptable level of environmental performance.
• Develop procedures and controls that outline how each process will operate in line with the established criteria. These procedures should detail steps, responsibilities, and actions to be taken to ensure compliance.
• Consider incorporating key performance indicators into your operating criteria. KPIs can help measure and monitor the performance of each process over time and track progress toward environmental objectives and targets.
• Ensure that employees involved in each process are trained and aware of the established operating criteria. They should understand their roles in meeting these criteria and maintaining environmental compliance.
• Document the operating criteria, procedures, controls, and KPIs for each process. This documentation serves as a reference and supports transparency and accountability.
• Implement a monitoring and measurement system to regularly assess the performance of each process against the established criteria. Record and track the data over time.
• Conduct regular internal audits to verify that each process is operating in compliance with the established criteria. Identify any nonconformities and take corrective actions if necessary.
• Periodically review the operating criteria and procedures to ensure they remain relevant and effective. Make necessary updates and improvements as circumstances change.
• Include the review of operating criteria and the performance of each process in management review meetings. Senior management should be involved in evaluating the effectiveness of operational planning and control.
• Communicate the operating criteria and performance expectations to employees, suppliers, contractors, and other relevant stakeholders. Ensure that everyone involved is aware of and aligned with these criteria.
• :Foster a culture of continual improvement in which the organization strives to enhance environmental performance and exceed established criteria whenever possible.

By establishing and consistently applying operating criteria for each relevant process, an organization can ensure that its operations align with environmental goals, legal requirements, and its commitment to sustainable practices outlined in the EMS. The operating criteria for EMS (Environmental Management System) operational planning and control will vary depending on the specific processes, activities, and objectives of your organization. These criteria should be tailored to address your organization’s environmental aspects, risks, and opportunities, as well as legal requirements. However, here are some common categories of operating criteria that you may consider as a starting point:

• Ensure that objectives and targets are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, reduce energy consumption by 10% by the end of the fiscal year.
• Clearly define compliance requirements and establish criteria for adhering to relevant environmental laws, regulations, permits, and reporting obligations.
• Set criteria for identifying, assessing, and evaluating environmental aspects and impacts associated with each process.
• Establish criteria for allocating resources (e.g., budget, personnel, time) to support environmental initiatives and operational controls effectively.
• Criteria for reducing waste generation, increasing recycling rates, and properly managing hazardous waste, if applicable.
• Criteria for improving energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and optimizing energy consumption in relevant processes.
• Criteria for controlling emissions of pollutants, such as air emissions, water discharges, and hazardous substances.
• Criteria for minimizing water use, preventing water pollution, and ensuring the efficient use of water resources.
• Criteria for sustainable product design, including eco-friendly materials, recyclability, and reduced environmental impact throughout the product life cycle.
• Establish criteria for emergency response procedures, including response times, communication protocols, and the effectiveness of response actions.
• Criteria for employee training and awareness programs, including the frequency of training sessions and the assessment of employee knowledge.
• Criteria for maintaining comprehensive records, including data accuracy, storage, and accessibility.
• Criteria for monitoring environmental performance indicators, including data collection frequency, accuracy, and reporting requirements.
• Criteria for evaluating and selecting suppliers and contractors based on their environmental performance and alignment with your organization’s criteria.
• Criteria for assessing the environmental impact of proposed changes, including risk assessment and control measures.
• Criteria for identifying, reporting, and addressing nonconformities, as well as the effectiveness of corrective actions.
• Criteria for effective internal and external communication, including response times for addressing stakeholder concerns and feedback.
• Criteria for conducting internal audits and inspections, including audit frequency, scope, and reporting requirements.
• Criteria for reviewing environmental performance, including the frequency and scope of performance reviews.
• Criteria for management review meetings, including the agenda, frequency, and actions resulting from reviews.
• Criteria for fostering a culture of continual improvement, including specific improvement targets and KPIs.

Remember that these criteria should be tailored to your organization’s unique circumstances, environmental aspects, and objectives. Regular reviews and updates to your operating criteria are essential to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

3) The organization must implementing control of the processes, in accordance with the operating criteria

Implementing control of processes in accordance with established operating criteria is a fundamental aspect of managing an Environmental Management System (EMS) effectively. Here’s how an organization can implement control of processes in alignment with the operating criteria:

1. Process Documentation: Start by documenting the processes within your organization that are relevant to environmental management and operational planning. This documentation should outline the steps, procedures, and key responsibilities involved in each process.
2. Operating Criteria Integration: Review the established operating criteria for each process. Ensure that the documented processes are designed to meet these criteria. This might involve revising existing processes or creating new ones.
3. Assign Responsibilities: Clearly define roles and responsibilities for each process, specifying who is accountable for ensuring that the process adheres to the established operating criteria.
4. Training and Awareness: Provide training to employees involved in each process to ensure they understand their roles in meeting the operating criteria. Raise awareness about the importance of compliance with environmental objectives.
5. Control Measures: Implement control measures and procedures within each process to ensure compliance with the operating criteria. These controls may include equipment maintenance, process changes, and monitoring protocols.
6. Resource Allocation: Allocate the necessary resources, such as budget, personnel, and technology, to support the implementation of control measures and the achievement of operating criteria.
7. Monitoring and Measurement: Establish a system for monitoring and measuring the performance of each process against the operating criteria. This includes collecting data and analyzing it to assess compliance.
8. Internal Auditing: Conduct internal audits or inspections at regular intervals to evaluate the effectiveness of the control measures and the process’s alignment with the operating criteria.
9. Documentation and Records: Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of each process, including records of monitoring and measurement results, audits, and corrective actions taken when deviations from the operating criteria occur.
10. Corrective Actions: Develop procedures for addressing nonconformities or deviations from the established operating criteria. Implement corrective actions promptly to prevent recurrences.
11. Management Review: Include the performance of each process and its compliance with operating criteria in regular management review meetings. Senior management should assess the effectiveness of controls and the organization’s overall environmental performance.
12. Communication: Establish communication channels to ensure that employees and stakeholders are informed about the processes, their controls, and the importance of adhering to the operating criteria.
13. Continuous Improvement: Encourage a culture of continual improvement within the organization, where processes are regularly reviewed and enhanced to improve environmental performance and meet or exceed operating criteria.
14. Supplier and Contractor Management: If relevant to your processes, ensure that suppliers and contractors also adhere to the established operating criteria by including environmental expectations in contracts and agreements.
15. Emergency Preparedness and Response: Ensure that processes related to emergency response and environmental incidents align with the operating criteria, including response times and procedures.
16. Change Management: When changes to processes are proposed, assess their impact on compliance with operating criteria and implement necessary controls before making changes.

By following these steps, an organization can effectively implement control of processes in accordance with the operating criteria, leading to improved environmental performance and a well-managed EMS. This approach also helps maintain alignment with environmental objectives and legal requirements.

4) Controls can include engineering controls and procedures.

EMS (Environmental Management System) operational controls can encompass a range of measures, including engineering controls and procedures, to manage and mitigate environmental risks, reduce impacts, and ensure compliance with environmental objectives and legal requirements. Here’s an explanation of both types of controls:

1. Engineering Controls: Engineering controls involve physical modifications or engineering solutions to processes, equipment, or facilities aimed at reducing or eliminating environmental impacts. These controls are typically preventive measures that address environmental aspects and risks directly at their source. Examples include:
   • Waste Treatment Systems: Installing treatment systems to treat and manage wastewater or hazardous waste before disposal.
   • Emission Control Equipment: Installing air pollution control devices like scrubbers, filters, or catalytic converters to reduce emissions of pollutants.
   • Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Implementing energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting or energy-efficient HVAC systems, to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
   • Noise Barriers: Installing physical barriers or soundproofing materials to reduce noise pollution.
   • Stormwater Management Systems: Creating engineered systems to manage and treat stormwater runoff to prevent pollution of natural water bodies.
   • Ventilation Systems: Implementing ventilation controls to capture and control harmful airborne substances in industrial processes.
2. Procedural Controls: Procedural controls involve the development and implementation of documented procedures, guidelines, and protocols to govern how specific tasks or processes are conducted to minimize environmental risks and ensure compliance. These controls often focus on human behavior, training, and standard operating procedures. Examples include:
   • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Documented step-by-step procedures that employees follow to perform tasks safely and environmentally responsibly.
   • Training Programs: Developing training modules and programs to educate employees on environmental responsibilities, safety protocols, and compliance with operating criteria.
   • Emergency Response Plans: Establishing procedures for responding to environmental incidents or emergencies, including spill response, fire response, and evacuation plans.
   • Waste Handling Procedures: Outlining how waste should be sorted, stored, and disposed of properly, including hazardous waste handling guidelines.
   • Energy Management Plans: Implementing plans to manage energy use efficiently, including guidelines for turning off equipment when not in use or optimizing production schedules.
   • Environmental Monitoring Protocols: Defining procedures for collecting and analyzing environmental data, such as emissions data, water quality data, or waste generation data.
   • Change Management Procedures: Outlining processes for assessing and managing changes that could impact environmental performance or compliance.

Organizations typically use a combination of engineering controls and procedural controls to address environmental concerns effectively. The choice of controls depends on the specific processes, risks, and environmental aspects associated with the organization’s operations. These controls help ensure that operations align with environmental objectives and legal requirements, reducing environmental impacts and enhancing overall environmental performance.

5) Controls can be implemented following a hierarchy (e.g. elimination, substitution, administrative) and can be used individually or in combination.

EMS (Environmental Management System) operational controls can be implemented following a hierarchy known as the “hierarchy of controls.” This hierarchy provides a structured approach to managing and reducing environmental risks and impacts, and it includes various levels of control measures. These controls can be used individually or in combination, depending on the nature of the environmental aspects and the specific risks involved. The hierarchy of controls typically includes the following levels:

1. Elimination: At the top of the hierarchy is the complete elimination of the environmental risk or impact. This involves finding ways to redesign processes or activities in a way that eliminates the environmental aspect entirely. While it’s not always feasible, when possible, it is the most effective control measure.
2. Substitution: If elimination is not achievable, substitution involves replacing a hazardous or environmentally harmful substance, process, or activity with a safer or more environmentally friendly alternative. This approach aims to reduce the risk or impact.
3. Engineering Controls: Engineering controls involve modifying processes, equipment, or facilities to minimize environmental risks and impacts. This may include the installation of pollution control devices, redesigning equipment for energy efficiency, or implementing wastewater treatment systems.
4. Administrative Controls: Administrative controls focus on establishing and enforcing policies, procedures, and guidelines to manage and reduce environmental risks. These controls often rely on human behavior and include measures such as employee training, safe work practices, and environmental management programs.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is the last resort in the hierarchy and involves providing individuals with protective gear to reduce their exposure to environmental risks. While PPE can be effective, it is considered the least desirable control measure because it relies on individual compliance and does not address the source of the risk.

Organizations should prioritize control measures based on this hierarchy, starting with elimination and working down through substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and, if necessary, PPE. The goal is to select the most effective and sustainable control measures while considering factors like cost, feasibility, and overall environmental performance. Additionally, organizations often use a combination of control measures to address complex environmental issues comprehensively. By implementing controls following the hierarchy and using them individually or in combination, organizations can effectively manage their environmental aspects and improve their environmental performance, which is a fundamental aspect of ISO 14001 and other EMS frameworks.

6) The organization shall control planned changes and review the consequences of unintended changes, taking action to mitigate any adverse effects, as necessary.

Controlling planned changes and reviewing the consequences of unintended changes are essential components of an effective Environmental Management System (EMS). These processes help organizations ensure that any modifications to their operations, processes, or activities are carried out with consideration for environmental impacts and objectives. Here’s how an organization can control planned changes and address unintended changes:

Controlling Planned Changes:

1. Develop a change management procedure as part of your EMS. This procedure should outline the steps to be followed when planning and implementing changes that could impact the environment.
2. Establish a process for identifying and categorizing planned changes based on their potential environmental impact. This includes changes to processes, equipment, materials, and technology.
3. Conduct an environmental impact assessment for each planned change. Evaluate how the change may affect environmental aspects, objectives, and compliance with legal requirements.
4. Perform a risk assessment to identify potential risks and hazards associated with the planned change. Assess the significance of these risks to determine the level of control needed.
5. Define roles and responsibilities for approving and authorizing planned changes. Ensure that relevant stakeholders, including environmental management personnel, are involved in the decision-making process.
6. Document the details of planned changes, including the rationale, objectives, anticipated environmental impacts, and the controls to be implemented.
7. Implement the planned change with the specified controls in place. Monitor the change’s progress and its impact on environmental performance.
8. Periodically review the planned change to ensure it is progressing as intended. Assess the effectiveness of the controls in place.
9. Communicate information about planned changes to employees, suppliers, contractors, and relevant stakeholders, ensuring that they understand their roles and responsibilities.

Reviewing Unintended Changes:

1. Establish a system to monitor and identify unintended changes or deviations from established procedures or controls that could impact the environment.
2. When unintended changes are identified, promptly assess their potential environmental consequences. Determine the significance of the unintended change and its potential impact on environmental aspects and objectives.
3. Conduct root cause analysis to understand why the unintended change occurred. Identify the underlying causes and contributing factors.
4. Implement corrective actions to address the unintended change and its environmental consequences. These actions should aim to prevent recurrences and mitigate adverse effects.
5. Document the details of unintended changes, the consequences, root cause analysis, and corrective actions taken. Maintain records for auditing and compliance purposes.
6. Review the effectiveness of corrective actions and preventive measures to ensure that similar unintended changes do not occur in the future.

By implementing a robust change management process and actively monitoring and addressing unintended changes, organizations can maintain the integrity of their EMS, prevent environmental incidents, and continue to improve their environmental performance.

7)The organization shall ensure that outsourced processes are controlled or influenced.

Ensuring that outsourced processes are controlled or influenced is a critical aspect of managing an effective Environmental Management System (EMS). When an organization outsources processes or activities that have the potential to impact the environment, it remains responsible for ensuring that environmental objectives are met and that environmental performance is in compliance with its EMS. Here are steps an organization can take to control or influence outsourced processes effectively:

1. Begin by identifying the processes or activities that are outsourced and could have environmental implications. This includes processes related to suppliers, contractors, service providers, or any other external entities.
2. Conduct an assessment of the environmental impacts associated with the outsourced processes. Consider how these processes may affect the organization’s environmental aspects, objectives, and legal compliance.
3. When selecting suppliers or service providers, consider their environmental performance and commitment to environmental responsibility. Evaluate their environmental management practices and track record.
4. Establish clear contractual agreements and requirements with outsourced parties. These contracts should include environmental expectations, objectives, and compliance with the organization’s EMS.
5. Define specific environmental criteria that outsourced parties must meet, such as waste reduction targets, emissions limits, or sustainability goals. Ensure that these criteria align with the organization’s environmental policy and objectives.
6. Implement monitoring and reporting mechanisms to track the environmental performance of outsourced processes. Require suppliers to provide regular environmental performance data and reports.
7. Conduct audits or assessments of outsourced processes to verify compliance with environmental criteria and contractual obligations. Consider both on-site audits and document reviews.
8. Establish procedures for addressing non-conformities or deviations from environmental requirements by outsourced parties. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrences.
9. Communicate your organization’s environmental expectations and policies to outsourced parties. Provide training or guidance on environmental requirements and compliance as needed.
10. Encourage continuous improvement in the environmental performance of outsourced processes. Collaborate with suppliers and service providers to identify opportunities for sustainability and environmental impact reduction.
11. Maintain documentation of contractual agreements, environmental criteria, monitoring results, audits, corrective actions, and communication with outsourced parties for record-keeping and audit purposes.
12. Ensure that outsourced parties are aware of and prepared to respond to environmental emergencies or incidents that may arise from their processes.
13. Periodically review the performance of outsourced processes and the effectiveness of your control measures. Adjust contractual agreements and requirements as needed.

By taking these steps, organizations can exert control or influence over outsourced processes to ensure that environmental objectives are met, environmental impacts are minimized, and compliance with EMS requirements and legal obligations is maintained. This approach helps integrate environmental considerations throughout the supply chain and supports the organization’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

8)The type and extent of control or influence to be applied to the process(es) shall be defined within the environmental management system.

The type and extent of control or influence to be applied to outsourced processes should be clearly defined within the organization’s Environmental Management System (EMS). This definition is essential for ensuring that outsourced processes align with the organization’s environmental objectives, policies, and legal obligations. Here’s how organizations can define and specify the control or influence they will apply to outsourced processes within their EMS:

• Start by establishing clear environmental policies and objectives within your EMS. These should outline the organization’s commitment to environmental responsibility and its specific goals for environmental performance.
• Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify the potential environmental risks and impacts associated with outsourced processes. This should include evaluating the significance of these risks to the organization’s EMS objectives and compliance requirements.
• Clearly define the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to the organization’s operations, including any regulations related to outsourced processes. Ensure that these requirements are communicated to external parties.
• Define specific environmental criteria, standards, or expectations that outsourced parties must meet. These criteria may include emissions limits, waste reduction targets, sustainability goals, or any other relevant environmental parameters.
• Develop well-structured contractual agreements that include environmental clauses and requirements. Specify the organization’s expectations regarding environmental performance, compliance, reporting, and audits.
• Establish a system for monitoring and reporting on the environmental performance of outsourced processes. Determine the frequency and scope of monitoring, and outline reporting requirements.
• Include provisions for auditing or assessing outsourced processes to verify compliance with environmental criteria and contractual obligations. Define the audit scope, frequency, and procedures.
• Define procedures for identifying and addressing nonconformities or deviations from environmental requirements by outsourced parties. Specify corrective actions to be taken to prevent recurrences.
• Clearly communicate your organization’s environmental expectations, policies, and objectives to outsourced parties. Provide training or guidance on environmental requirements and compliance as needed.
• Ensure that outsourced parties are aware of and prepared to respond to environmental emergencies or incidents that may occur as a result of their processes.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation of contractual agreements, environmental criteria, monitoring results, audits, corrective actions, and communication with outsourced parties for record-keeping and audit purposes.
• Encourage and collaborate with outsourced parties to identify opportunities for continuous improvement in environmental performance, sustainability, and impact reduction.
• Periodically review the performance of outsourced processes and assess the effectiveness of your control measures. Adjust contractual agreements and requirements as needed based on the outcomes of these reviews.

By clearly defining the type and extent of control or influence to be applied to outsourced processes within the EMS, organizations can ensure that these processes are managed in a manner consistent with their environmental goals and legal obligations. This proactive approach helps minimize environmental risks and promotes responsible environmental stewardship throughout the supply chain.

9) Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall establish controls, as appropriate, to ensure that its environmental requirement(s) is (are) addressed in the design and development process for the product or service, considering each life cycle stage

Adopting a life cycle perspective in environmental management is a fundamental principle outlined in ISO 14001, and it involves considering the environmental aspects and impacts of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle. This includes the design and development stage, production, use, end-of-life, and any associated supply chains. To ensure that environmental requirements are addressed in the design and development process for a product or service, considering each life cycle stage, an organization can follow these steps:

• Begin by identifying and analyzing the environmental aspects and impacts associated with the product or service. Consider factors such as raw materials, manufacturing processes, transportation, product use, and disposal.
• Based on the identified aspects and impacts, establish clear environmental objectives and targets that align with the organization’s environmental policy and goals.
• Define specific environmental criteria that must be met during the design and development process. These criteria should reflect the organization’s environmental objectives and address environmental aspects at each life cycle stage.
• Promote collaboration among cross-functional teams, including design, engineering, production, and environmental management, to ensure that environmental requirements are integrated into the product or service design.
• Conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment for each design option or product/service configuration. Evaluate the potential environmental consequences at various life cycle stages.
• Consider the environmental impact of materials used in the product or service. Opt for materials that have a lower environmental footprint, are recyclable, or meet other sustainability criteria.
• Focus on energy efficiency in product design to reduce energy consumption during manufacturing, use, and disposal. Explore ways to minimize resource use and waste generation.
• Apply ecodesign principles, which involve designing products or services with environmental considerations in mind from the outset. This can lead to innovative solutions that reduce environmental impacts.
• Use Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies to quantitatively assess the environmental impact of different design options. This helps in making informed decisions.
• Engage with suppliers and subcontractors early in the design process to ensure that they understand and can meet the organization’s environmental criteria.
• Test and validate design choices to confirm that they align with environmental requirements and objectives. This may involve environmental testing, simulations, or prototypes.
• Document the design and development process, including the consideration of environmental requirements and criteria. Maintain records of design decisions, assessments, and any changes made.
• Continuously review and improve the design and development process to enhance environmental performance and align with evolving environmental objectives and regulations.
• Provide training and raise awareness among design and development teams regarding the importance of integrating environmental considerations into their work.

By establishing controls and procedures to address environmental requirements in the design and development process while considering each life cycle stage, organizations can create products and services that are more environmentally sustainable, reduce environmental impacts, and meet the expectations of stakeholders and customers concerned about sustainability and environmental responsibility.

10) Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall determine its environmental requirements for the procurement of products and services, as appropriate

Determining environmental requirements for the procurement of products and services is a crucial step in implementing an environmentally responsible supply chain management approach. This process ensures that the organization considers the environmental impact of its purchases and encourages suppliers to meet specified environmental criteria. Here’s how an organization can determine its environmental requirements for procurement, consistent with a life cycle perspective:

1. Begin by identifying the products and services your organization needs for its operations. Consider all aspects of your business, including production, services, and administrative needs.
2. Conduct an assessment of the environmental aspects associated with the products and services you intend to procure. This assessment should consider the entire life cycle, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, and disposal.
3. Determine the applicable environmental regulations and legal requirements that pertain to the products and services you are procuring. These may include environmental standards, labeling requirements, and import/export regulations.
4. Align your procurement requirements with your organization’s environmental policy, objectives, and sustainability goals. Ensure that your procurement practices support your environmental commitments.
5. Define specific environmental criteria that suppliers must meet when providing products or services. These criteria may relate to energy efficiency, waste reduction, emissions limits, recyclability, and other relevant aspects.
6. Engage with current and potential suppliers to communicate your organization’s environmental requirements and expectations. Collaborate with suppliers to find environmentally responsible solutions.
7. Take a life cycle perspective when defining environmental requirements. Consider the entire product life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal or recycling.
8. Develop processes for assessing and auditing suppliers’ environmental performance to ensure they are meeting your defined criteria. Consider both on-site assessments and document reviews.
9. Include clear and enforceable environmental requirements in contractual agreements with suppliers. Specify expectations related to environmental performance, compliance, reporting, and audits.
10. Implement a system to monitor and report on the environmental performance of your suppliers. This may involve collecting data on energy use, emissions, waste generation, and other relevant metrics.
11. Define procedures for addressing nonconformities or deviations from environmental requirements by suppliers. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrences.
12. Encourage continuous improvement in supplier environmental performance. Collaborate with suppliers to identify opportunities for sustainability and environmental impact reduction.
13. Provide training to procurement personnel and suppliers on environmental requirements, sustainability goals, and the importance of environmental responsibility in the supply chain.
14. Maintain records of supplier assessments, audit findings, corrective actions, and communications related to environmental requirements for procurement.

By determining and implementing environmental requirements for procurement, organizations can make informed and responsible choices when selecting suppliers and products or services. This not only reduces the environmental impact of the organization’s operations but also contributes to sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility to stakeholders and customers.

11) Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall communicate its relevant environmental requirements to external providers, including contractors

Communicating relevant environmental requirements to external providers, including contractors, is an essential part of ensuring that these providers align with the organization’s environmental objectives and commitments throughout the entire life cycle of products and services. Here’s how an organization can effectively communicate its environmental requirements to external providers:

• Begin by identifying the specific environmental requirements that are relevant to the products, services, or activities that external providers will be involved in. This includes any legal, regulatory, or organization-specific requirements.
• Document the identified environmental requirements clearly and comprehensively. This documentation should specify the standards, criteria, and expectations that external providers must meet.
• When entering into contracts or agreements with external providers, ensure that the environmental requirements are explicitly included as contract terms. This may involve creating clauses or sections within the contract dedicated to environmental performance and compliance.
• During the supplier evaluation and selection process, prioritize suppliers and contractors that demonstrate a commitment to meeting environmental requirements. Consider their environmental track record and willingness to comply with your organization’s criteria.
• Engage in pre-contract discussions with potential external providers to review and clarify the environmental requirements. Address any questions or concerns they may have and ensure mutual understanding.
• Provide training and awareness programs to external providers, particularly contractors, to educate them about your organization’s environmental requirements, policies, and expectations.
• Clearly communicate your organization’s expectations regarding environmental performance. This may include energy efficiency, waste reduction, emissions control, and other relevant performance indicators.
• Establish processes for monitoring and verifying external providers’ compliance with the environmental requirements outlined in the contract. This may involve regular inspections, audits, or data reporting.
• Maintain open and effective communication channels with external providers. Encourage them to report any environmental incidents, nonconformities, or deviations promptly.
• Define procedures for addressing nonconformities or deviations from environmental requirements by external providers. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrences.
• Provide feedback to external providers on their environmental performance. Recognize and reward excellent performance, and address areas that need improvement.
• Collaborate with external providers to identify opportunities for continuous improvement in environmental performance. Share best practices and work together to reduce environmental impacts.
• Maintain records of communications, contracts, training, compliance assessments, corrective actions, and any other relevant documentation related to the communication of environmental requirements to external providers.
• Periodically review the effectiveness of your communication processes and the alignment of external providers with your organization’s environmental requirements. Adjust contractual agreements and communication strategies as needed.

By consistently and effectively communicating environmental requirements to external providers, organizations can promote responsible environmental stewardship throughout their supply chains and contractor relationships. This helps ensure that environmental objectives are met, legal obligations are fulfilled, and environmental impacts are minimized throughout the life cycle of products and services.

12) Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall consider the need to provide information about potential significant environmental impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and final disposal of its products and services.

Considering the potential significant environmental impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment, and final disposal of products and services is essential for organizations seeking to adopt a comprehensive life cycle perspective. To fulfill this requirement effectively, organizations should take the following steps:

• Begin by identifying and assessing the potential significant environmental impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment, and final disposal of your products and services. Consider factors such as energy consumption, emissions, waste generation, and resource use.
• Consider conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) or a simplified life cycle analysis for your products and services. An LCA can provide a comprehensive evaluation of environmental impacts at each life cycle stage.
• Engage with stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and regulatory authorities, to understand their concerns and expectations regarding the environmental impacts associated with your products and services.
• Document the significant environmental impacts identified at each life cycle stage. This documentation should include data, analyses, and relevant information.
• Conduct a risk assessment to determine the potential consequences of significant environmental impacts. Assess the likelihood and severity of these impacts to prioritize mitigation efforts.
• Develop clear and transparent communication materials that provide information about the significant environmental impacts of your products and services throughout their life cycle. This information should be easily accessible to stakeholders.
• Consider labeling products or providing user manuals and information that highlight the environmental impact considerations associated with the use, maintenance, and disposal of products. This helps customers make informed choices.
• Integrate sustainable design principles into the development of new products and services. This includes considering ways to minimize environmental impacts at every stage of the product life cycle.
• Work with suppliers and partners to improve transportation and delivery processes, reduce packaging waste, and promote responsible end-of-life treatment and disposal options.
• Educate customers and end-users about the environmental aspects of your products and services. Provide guidance on sustainable use, recycling, and proper disposal.
• Establish systems for monitoring and measuring the environmental performance of your products and services throughout their life cycle. Use this data to track progress and make improvements.
• Continuously evaluate and improve your processes, products, and services based on the information gathered regarding their environmental impacts. Seek innovative solutions to reduce negative effects.
• Ensure that your products and services comply with relevant environmental regulations and standards at all stages of their life cycle.
• Create mechanisms for receiving feedback from customers and stakeholders regarding the environmental aspects and impacts of your products and services. Use this feedback to refine your approaches.
• Periodically audit and verify the accuracy of your environmental impact assessments and the effectiveness of your efforts to address significant impacts.

By considering and addressing potential significant environmental impacts associated with the entire life cycle of their products and services, organizations can make more informed decisions, reduce environmental risks, meet customer expectations, and contribute to sustainable and responsible business practices.

13) The organization shall maintain documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that the processes have been carried out as planned.

Maintaining documented information related to operational planning and control is crucial for ensuring that an organization can have confidence that these activities have been carried out as planned. Documented information provides a record of what was planned, how it was executed, and any deviations or adjustments made during the process. Here’s how organizations can effectively maintain such documentation:

Documents:

1. Environmental Aspects and Impacts Register: A documented list of the organization’s identified environmental aspects and their associated environmental impacts. This register is used to prioritize aspects for control and mitigation.
2. Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Documentation of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the organization’s activities, products, and services. This includes permits, licenses, and environmental laws and regulations.
3. Environmental Objectives and Targets: Documents outlining the organization’s environmental objectives and targets, including the methods and timeframes for achieving them.
4. Operational Control Procedures: Documented procedures that describe how specific operational activities will be controlled to minimize their environmental impact. This can include procedures for waste management, energy conservation, emissions control, and more.
5. Emergency Response Plans: Documentation of emergency response plans and procedures, which outline the organization’s response to environmental emergencies such as spills, accidents, or natural disasters.
6. Resource Allocation Plans: Documents specifying the allocation of resources, including personnel, equipment, and financial resources, for operational planning and control activities.
7. Training and Competence Plans: Documentation of training plans and programs for employees involved in operational planning and control, including records of training sessions and employee competence assessments.

Records:

1. Records of Environmental Aspects and Impacts: Records that provide details of the organization’s environmental aspects and impacts, including their significance and the control measures in place.
2. Compliance Records: Records demonstrating the organization’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, such as permits, compliance assessments, and reports submitted to regulatory authorities.
3. Operational Control Records: Records of activities related to operational control, including maintenance logs, inspection reports, and records of equipment calibration.
4. Monitoring and Measurement Records: Records of monitoring and measurement activities related to environmental performance, such as air and water quality data, energy consumption records, and waste generation data.
5. Incident and Nonconformity Reports: Records of incidents, accidents, and nonconformities related to operational activities, along with documented corrective and preventive actions taken.
6. Audit Reports: Records of internal and external environmental audits and assessments, including findings, recommendations, and corrective action plans.
7. Management Review Records: Records of management reviews related to operational planning and control, including minutes of meetings, decisions made, and action items.
8. Communication Records: Records of communication related to environmental aspects and impacts, including communication with employees, suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders.
9. Training Records: Records of employee training and competence assessments related to operational planning and control activities.
10. Emergency Response Records: Records of emergency response drills, exercises, and actual emergency responses, including lessons learned and improvements made.

Ecodesign principles

Ecodesign, also known as sustainable design or green design, is an approach to design that aims to minimize the environmental impact of products, services, buildings, or systems throughout their entire life cycle. Ecodesign principles integrate environmental considerations into the design process, with the goal of reducing resource consumption, energy use, pollution, and waste generation while promoting sustainability and long-term viability. Here are some key ecodesign principles:

1. Life Cycle Thinking: Consider the entire life cycle of a product or system, from raw material extraction and production to transportation, use, and end-of-life disposal or recycling. Identify opportunities for environmental improvement at each stage.
2. Minimize Resource Use: Strive to use fewer natural resources and materials in the design process. Select materials that have a lower environmental impact, are renewable, or can be recycled or reused.
3. Energy Efficiency: Design products and systems to be energy-efficient. This includes minimizing energy consumption during manufacturing, use, and disposal phases. Use energy-efficient technologies and incorporate renewable energy sources when possible.
4. Waste Reduction: Aim to minimize waste generation by designing products that are durable, repairable, and upgradeable. Promote reuse and recycling by using recyclable materials and designing for disassembly.
5. Pollution Prevention: Implement pollution prevention measures by minimizing or eliminating hazardous materials and substances in the design. Use non-toxic or less toxic alternatives when feasible.
6. Circular Economy: Design products with the principles of a circular economy in mind, where materials and products are reused, remanufactured, or recycled at the end of their life cycle, reducing the need for new resources.
7. Durability and Longevity: Design products and systems to have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and the associated resource consumption.
8. Modularity: Use modular design principles to allow for easy repair, maintenance, and upgrades. This extends the life of products and reduces waste.
9. Local Sourcing: Whenever possible, source materials and components locally to reduce transportation-related emissions and support local economies.
10. User-Centered Design: Consider user needs and preferences in the design process to ensure that products are functional, efficient, and appealing to users. This promotes the longevity of products and encourages responsible use.
11. Design for Disassembly: Make it easy to disassemble products at the end of their life cycle to facilitate recycling and the recovery of valuable materials.
12. Environmental Impact Assessment: Conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs) or environmental impact assessments to quantitatively evaluate the environmental impact of design choices and identify areas for improvement.
13. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with suppliers, stakeholders, and experts to gather input, share knowledge, and find innovative solutions that enhance the sustainability of the design.
14. Continuous Improvement: Adopt a mindset of continuous improvement in which design processes and products are regularly evaluated and refined to reduce environmental impacts further.
15. Transparency and Certification: Communicate the environmental attributes of products through eco-labeling or environmental product declarations (EPDs) to help consumers make informed choices.

By incorporating these ecodesign principles into the design process, organizations can create products and systems that are not only environmentally responsible but also more competitive in a world increasingly focused on sustainability and resource efficiency. Ecodesign benefits the environment, reduces operating costs, and enhances the reputation of organizations committed to sustainable practices.

Examples of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a comprehensive and systematic methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. There are several established LCA methodologies and approaches that can be applied depending on the specific goals and context of the assessment. Here are some examples of LCA methodologies and approaches:

1. Cradle-to-Grave LCA: This is the most common and comprehensive form of LCA, considering the environmental impacts of a product or service from raw material extraction to final disposal.
2. Cradle-to-Gate LCA: Focuses on the environmental impacts of a product or service from raw material extraction to the point where it leaves the manufacturer’s gate. It excludes the use and disposal stages.
3. Cradle-to-Cradle LCA: This approach goes beyond environmental impact assessment and considers the potential for recycling and reusing materials, thus aiming for a closed-loop, sustainable system.
4. Attributional LCA: Calculates the current or historical environmental impacts of a product or process. It provides a snapshot of the environmental performance based on current conditions and data.
5. Consequential LCA: Examines the potential environmental impacts that result from changes in consumption or production patterns. It takes into account the broader systemic effects of decisions and actions.
6. Environmental Product Declaration (EPD): EPDs provide standardized and transparent information about the environmental performance of a product. They are based on LCA methodologies and follow specific standards (e.g., ISO 14025).
7. Input-Output LCA (IO-LCA): Utilizes economic input-output models to estimate the environmental impacts associated with the production and consumption of goods and services within an economy. It’s suitable for analyzing large-scale systems.
8. Prospective LCA: Focuses on predicting the future environmental impacts of a product or service, often used for strategic planning and decision-making.
9. Hotspot Analysis: A specialized LCA method that identifies and focuses on the most environmentally significant stages or components of a product’s life cycle, helping prioritize improvement efforts.
10. Simplified LCA: A streamlined LCA approach that uses simplified models and data to provide a quick assessment of a product or process’s environmental impacts. It’s often used for screening or preliminary analyses.
11. Sectoral LCA: Evaluates the environmental performance of an entire industry sector, such as the automotive or construction industry, to identify opportunities for improvement at a broader scale.
12. Social LCA (S-LCA): Expands the scope of LCA to include social and socio-economic aspects, such as labor conditions, human rights, and community impacts.
13. Water Footprint Assessment: Focuses specifically on the assessment of water-related impacts associated with a product or process. It considers both the quantity and quality of water used.

These LCA methodologies and approaches are tools that can be adapted and tailored to the specific needs of an organization or project. The choice of methodology depends on factors such as the scope of the assessment, available data, objectives, and the desired level of detail and accuracy.

Example of procedure of Operational planning and control of EMS

Objective: To plan, implement, and control operational activities to minimize environmental impacts, comply with legal and regulatory requirements, and achieve environmental objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Environmental Manager: Overall responsibility for overseeing operational planning and control.
• Department Managers and Supervisors: Responsible for implementing and monitoring operational control measures within their respective departments.
• Employees: Responsible for adhering to operational control procedures and reporting any nonconformities or environmental incidents.

Procedure:

1. Identification of Environmental Aspects:

1. The Environmental Manager, in collaboration with relevant department managers, identifies and assesses environmental aspects associated with each operational activity. This includes:
   • Raw material use
   • Energy consumption
   • Emissions
   • Waste generation
   • Water usage, etc.
2. Environmental aspects are documented in the Environmental Aspects and Impacts Register.

2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

1. The Environmental Manager maintains an up-to-date list of applicable environmental laws, regulations, and permits relevant to the organization’s operations.
2. Department managers and supervisors are responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant environmental laws and regulations within their areas of responsibility.

3. Environmental Objectives and Targets:

1. The Environmental Manager, in consultation with top management, sets environmental objectives and targets that align with the organization’s environmental policy and legal obligations.
2. These objectives and targets are communicated to relevant departments and personnel.

4. Operational Control Measures:

1. Department managers and supervisors develop and implement specific operational control measures to minimize environmental impacts and achieve environmental objectives. These measures may include:
   • Work instructions
   • Procedures
   • Checklists
   • Training programs
   • Maintenance schedules
   • Emergency response plans, etc.
2. These operational control measures are documented and maintained within each department.

5. Training and Competence:

1. The Environmental Manager ensures that relevant employees receive training on operational control measures and their environmental responsibilities.
2. Records of training and competence assessments are maintained.

6. Communication:

1. The organization communicates environmental responsibilities, objectives, and targets to all employees and ensures that they are aware of their role in operational control.
2. Communication channels are established for employees to report environmental incidents, nonconformities, and improvement suggestions.

7. Monitoring and Measurement:

1. Relevant personnel conduct regular monitoring and measurement of operational activities to assess compliance with operational control measures and track progress toward environmental objectives.
2. Monitoring data is recorded and analyzed.

8. Nonconformities and Corrective Actions: In case of nonconformities, incidents, or deviations from operational control measures, employees are responsible for reporting them to their supervisors.Supervisors initiate corrective actions to address nonconformities and prevent recurrence.

9. Emergency Preparedness: The organization maintains and tests emergency response plans to address potential environmental emergencies and incidents.

10. Review and Improvement:

1. The Environmental Manager conducts regular management reviews to assess the effectiveness of operational planning and control measures and to identify opportunities for improvement.
2. Based on the review, necessary adjustments and improvements to operational control measures are identified and implemented.

11. Documentation and Records: All documentation and records related to operational planning and control are maintained, including:

• Environmental Aspects and Impacts Register
• Legal and regulatory compliance records
• Environmental objectives and targets
• Operational control measures
• Training records
• Monitoring and measurement data
• Corrective action records
• Emergency response plans
• Management review records