Preparing for an OH&S MS certification audit
Domain 7 - Preparing for an OH&S MS certification audit
This domain tests how certification works and how to prepare credible evidence. Certification is a third-party, sample-based verification against ISO 45001, not a guarantee of zero harm.
Core rules
- Choose an accredited certification body operating to ISO/IEC 17021-1 with ISO 45001 in its accredited scope.
- Stage 1 reviews readiness: scope, context, documented information, internal audit and management review, legal compliance arrangements and site-specific conditions. It decides whether Stage 2 can proceed.
- Stage 2 verifies implementation and effectiveness through interviews, site walks and records. Findings include major nonconformities, minor nonconformities, observations and opportunities for improvement.
- A major nonconformity generally requires correction and follow-up verification before certification; minor nonconformities are closed through accepted corrective action.
- Certification is valid for three years, with surveillance audits at least annually and recertification before expiry. Audit duration depends on effective personnel, complexity and scope.
- Readiness requires completed internal audit and management review, controlled documented information, evidence of worker participation, contractor control, compliance evaluation, incident investigation and top management availability.
Worked example
Two weeks before Stage 2, the EHS manager discovers that she audited her own department and that management review did not consider legal compliance. The audit is repeated by an independent competent auditor, and a supplementary management review addresses compliance. The reasoning: Stage 2 tests effectiveness of clauses 9.2 and 9.3, so missing impartiality or incomplete inputs cannot be fixed by a presentation.
Traps
Treating Stage 1 as a formality; hiding incidents; coaching interviewees with scripted answers; assuming zero nonconformities is the goal; and leaving corrective action until the closing meeting.