Effective Transition to ISO 14001:2004

For organisations using ISO 14001 for their EMS, including those with certification to ISO14001: 1996, a detailed summary of the changes is provided.

More emphasis on the internal audit of significant environmental aspects.

Organisations can clarify the requirements that result from the standard revision.

ISO 14001 provides a sound framework for the continued improvement of environmental performance within forward-thinking organisations.

2. Overview : ISO 14001:1996 to ISO 14001:2004 - why the update?

3. How to gain value from an Environmental Management System.

NB: the revised standard has resulted in new clause numbering, therefore care needs to be taken to ensure that the right clause is referenced in ISO14001:2004.

Key changes in the update:

4.1 General requirements
4.2 Environmental policy
4.3.1 Environmental aspects
4.3.2 Legal and other requirements
4.3.3 Objectives, targets and programmes
4.4.1 Resources, roles, responsibility and authority
4.4.2 Competence, training and awareness
4.4.3 Communication
4.4.6 Operational control
4.4.7 Emergency preparedness and response
4.5.1 Monitoring and measurement
4.5.2 Evaluation of compliance
4.5.5 Internal audit
4.6 Management review

Formal examination of the Standard is supplemented throughout the day by interactive practical exercises and open forum discussion.
Transition dates for the updated standard and existing certificated environmental management systems are examined
An 'Environmental Healthcheck' will enable any organisation to ascertain if it is truly obtaining value from its Environmental Management System

• Iain Talbot