ISO 45001: A Global Framework for Safer Workplaces
ISO 45001 is the world’s first international standard for occupational health and safety (OHS) management systems. It helps organisations of all sizes and industries reduce workplace risks, improve employee well-being, and foster a proactive safety culture.
This guide explains the origins of ISO 45001, the benefits of certification, how it differs from older standards like OHSAS 18001 and AS 4801, and the steps required to transition.
What Is ISO 45001?
ISO 45001 is a structured framework developed by ISO to systematically manage OHS risks and improve safety performance. Launched in 2018, it replaced OHSAS 18001 and Australia’s AS 4801 as the global benchmark.
Key features:
● Focus on proactive risk prevention
● Global applicability
● Integration-ready with ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environment)
It introduces the High-Level Structure (HLS) for easier integration across management systems, improving operational alignment and reducing compliance complexity.
Why ISO 45001 Matters
Every year, millions of workers are injured or die due to unsafe working conditions. ISO 45001 provides a consistent, globally recognised approach to identifying and managing health and safety risks across supply chains, regions, and industries.
Benefits include:
● Reduced incidents, absenteeism, and insurance costs
● Improved legal and regulatory compliance
● Enhanced employee morale and engagement
● Stronger reputation and stakeholder trust
● Integration with quality and environmental standards
Who Should Use ISO 45001?
ISO 45001 is designed for organisations of any size, in any industry from construction firms to hospitals to manufacturers. Whether you have in-house teams or rely heavily on contractors, the standard applies.
Organisations already certified to ISO 9001 or 14001 will find it easier to adopt ISO 45001 thanks to its aligned structure.
Key Differences Between ISO 45001, OHSAS 18001, and AS 4801
| Feature | ISO 45001 | OHSAS 18001 / AS 4801 |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Active international standard | Obsolete (phased out) |
| Structure | High-Level Structure (10 clauses) | Legacy structure |
| Worker Involvement | Strong emphasis on participation | Limited emphasis |
| Top Management Role | Strategic leadership involvement | Delegated responsibility |
| Preventive Action | Built-in via risk-based thinking | Separate clause |
| Integration with ISO 9001/14001 | Seamless | Requires separate systems |
| Terminology | Modern terms like “documented information” | Older terms like “documents” |
Understanding the ISO 45001 Structure
ISO 45001 follows a 10-clause structure aligned with other ISO standards:
1. Scope – Applicability and purpose
2. Normative References: Key documents referred
3. Terms and Definitions: Definitions used throughout the standard
4. Context of the Organisation: Internal/external factors and stakeholders
5. Leadership & Worker Participation: Top-level commitment and involvement
6. Planning: Risk assessment, objectives, compliance obligations
7. Support: Resources, training, awareness, documentation
8. Operation: Controls, procedures, emergency response
9. Performance EvaluationL Monitoring, auditing, reviews
10. Improvement: Incidents, non-conformance, continual improvement
Transitioning from OHSAS 18001 or AS 4801 to ISO 45001
OHSAS 18001: Organisations had a 3-year window (ending 2021) to migrate. Certification is now void.
AS 4801: No formal transition scheme. Organisations must undergo a fresh ISO 45001 certification process.
Steps to transition:
1. Conduct a gap analysis.
2. Identify new documentation and evidence required.
3. Train leadership and engage workers.
4. Implement controls and review effectiveness.
5. Undergo an external audit for certification.
Common Challenges (and Solutions)
Challenge: Involving top management
Solution: ISO 45001 requires leadership to take ownership, not just delegate safety to managers.
Challenge: Worker participation
Solution: Create consultation mechanisms like safety committees and open feedback channels.
Challenge: Understanding new terminology
Solution: Map old document controls to new “documented information” frameworks.
Get Certified with Confidence
Our expert auditors and consultants at Sustainable Certification have helped hundreds of organisations upgrade from older standards or gain fresh ISO 45001 certification.
We’ll support you every step of the way from readiness assessment to certification audit.
Gap analysis
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Final Thoughts
ISO 45001 isn’t just a new standard, it’s a transformative approach to safety that places people and leadership at the centre. For organisations serious about employee well-being, ISO 45001 is a must-have.