OHSAS 18001 Certification in Malaysia (Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series) was a globally recognized standard for occupational health and safety management systems, aimed at helping organizations improve employee safety, reduce workplace risks, and create better, safer working conditions. Although it was replaced by ISO 45001 in 2018, OHSAS 18001 remains relevant in contexts where the transition to ISO 45001 may still be in progress or referenced. In Malaysia, the OHSAS 18001 certification played a significant role in helping companies enhance their safety standards, particularly in industries like manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas.
Key Objectives of OHSAS 18001
The primary goal of OHSAS 18001 certification was to help organizations establish, implement, and maintain a robust occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system. This system aimed to minimize accidents, injuries, and illnesses in the workplace by identifying potential hazards, evaluating risks, and taking preventive or corrective actions. The certification also helped businesses comply with local health and safety laws and regulations, which in Malaysia include the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA 1994) and the Factories and Machinery Act 1967.
The Certification Process
To obtain OHSAS 18001 Consulting Services in Malaysia, companies had to go through a structured process that involved several key steps:
Gap Analysis: Organizations would first conduct a gap analysis to identify areas where their current OH&S practices did not meet OHSAS 18001 requirements.
Implementation: The next step involved integrating the OHSAS 18001 standards into the organization’s daily operations. This included setting safety objectives, creating new procedures, and training employees on safety practices.
Internal Audit: An internal audit was then conducted to ensure that the newly implemented processes were being followed.
External Audit and Certification: Finally, an external audit by a certified third-party auditor would assess the company’s OH&S management system. If it met the OHSAS 18001 standards, the company would be awarded certification.
Benefits for Malaysian Organizations
OHSAS 18001 certification offered several advantages for businesses in Malaysia:
Improved Workplace Safety: By systematically addressing potential hazards, organizations could reduce workplace accidents and injuries, thus fostering a safer environment.
Regulatory Compliance: It helped businesses ensure compliance with Malaysian health and safety laws.
Enhanced Reputation: Certification demonstrated a company's commitment to safety, potentially improving relationships with clients, employees, and regulators.
Operational Efficiency: By reducing workplace disruptions caused by accidents or illnesses, businesses could maintain higher levels of productivity.
Though Malaysia has transitioned to ISO 45001,OHSAS 18001 Certification cost in Malaysia was an essential stepping stone in developing a culture of safety in the workplace. Organizations that were OHSAS 18001 certified are now expected to upgrade to ISO 45001 to stay in line with international safety standards.
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