In a rapidly evolving business environment, standing out can be challenging. For companies aiming to not just survive but thrive in the UK market, achieving ISO certification can provide a competitive advantage. At Critical Path, we understand the dynamics of the market, and we are committed to helping businesses leverage ISO certification for growth and success.
The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) develops international standards across various industries. Achieving ISO certification ensures that a company adheres to recognised standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. This adherence is not only a sign of commitment to excellence but also an edge in the competitive market.
Critical Path is dedicated to guiding businesses through the complex process of obtaining ISO standards. Our experienced team of experts is well-versed in the various standards, offering tailored support to help your business achieve and maintain certification.
Enhancing Credibility and Trust: ISO is a globally recognised mark of quality. It reassures customers that your products or services meet international standards. This enhances credibility, fosters trust, and can lead to increased customer retention and loyalty.
Facilitating Access to New Markets: Whether it's tapping into international markets or expanding within the UK, ISO certification can act as a key that unlocks doors. It often fulfils regulatory requirements in many countries and provides an edge over competitors in tenders and contracts.
Improving Operational Efficiency: ISO standards are designed to streamline operations and foster continuous improvement. By adopting these standards, companies can operate more efficiently, reducing costs and enhancing profitability.
Enhancing Product and Service Quality: ISO compliance signifies that a company is committed to maintaining a high level of quality. This can lead to more satisfied customers and increased referrals, strengthening the competitive position in the market.
At Critical Path, we provide an end-to-end solution for ISO certification. Our expert consultants will assess your current operations, identify areas for improvement, and guide you through the entire certification process.
Proper understanding and implementation of ISO standards require training. Our team offers comprehensive training sessions tailored to your industry and certification needs.
ISO certification is not a one-time achievement. Regular audits and updates are essential. Critical Path offers ongoing support to ensure that your business remains compliant and continues to leverage the competitive advantage of ISO certification.
ISO 9001 Quality Management: Enhance customer satisfaction and streamline processes with the ISO 9001 standard. Critical Path's specialists will guide you through the implementation, achieving a system that truly benefits your business.
ISO 14001 Environmental Management: Demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability with ISO 14001. We assist you in implementing practices that minimise harm to the environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management: Promote a safe and healthy working environment with ISO 45001. Our expert guidance ensures that your business meets the standards required for occupational health and safety.
ISO 22301 Business Continuity Management: Ensure your organisation's resilience to unforeseen disruptions with ISO 22301. Our experts support you in establishing a robust continuity plan, ensuring uninterrupted business operations.
ISO 27001 Information Security Management: Protect sensitive data and maintain stakeholder trust with ISO 27001. We offer comprehensive guidance to ensure that your information security management systems are up to the mark and safeguarded against potential threats.
ISO certification is more than a badge of quality; it's a strategic tool that can transform your business. From enhancing credibility and efficiency to facilitating market expansion, the benefits are endless.
In the competitive UK market, aligning with a trusted partner like Critical Path can make the journey towards ISO compliance smoother and more rewarding. With our expertise, commitment, and comprehensive approach, we enable your business to harness the full potential of ISO.
Interested in exploring how ISO standards can provide a competitive edge for your business? Contact Critical Path today, and let's start the process together.
Late last year, a replacement of ISO 27001 was announced, designed to help businesses improve their cybersecurity, information security, and privacy protection. All organisations who wish to remain ISO 27001 certified will need to transition to the ISO 27001:2022 update before the end of the transition period in October 2025.
What exactly is the ISO 27001:22 update, though, and what are the requirements businesses need to follow to ensure they remain certified? In this latest blog, we thought we would take a closer look…
The ISO 27001:2022 certification is the leading international standard for information security. It was published in partnership between the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and forms part of a set of standards that outline how businesses need to handle information security.
The framework is designed to be used by any organisation, no matter their size or the industry they work in. The aim of the certification is to ensure companies have clear guidance on how to establish, implement, maintain and improve their information management system.
With the threat of cybercrime on the rise, ISO 27001 is a vital certification for any organisation. Although it is most commonly adopted by businesses within the Information Technology (IT) sector, any company that achieves the certification will be able to showcase to their customers that they care about their data and have taken steps to keep it safe.
The standard is an important part of an Information Security Management System (ISMS), which is a set of policies and procedures designed to systematically manage all sensitive data. An ISMS are able to address everything from employee behaviour through to data processes and the technology you use.
There are many benefits to achieving the ISO 27001:2022 certification, including:
One of the biggest benefits of having ISO 27001 certification is that it will give you a clear overview of your current information security. Maintaining the certification requires regular audits and reviews to ensure businesses are continually improving their security against the ever-changing threats posed by cybercriminals.
As your business grows and new technology gets adopted, it can quickly become a confusing landscape. ISO 27001:2022 helps to clearly outline the responsibilities that organisations need to follow. This can help to increase productivity by ensuring everyone understands who is responsible for information management, while it can also help to improve decision-making by helping businesses understand the risks and how to best manage them.
With the threat of cyber attacks on the rise, ISO 27001:2022 certification helps to protect your business from these risks, demonstrating to your customers that you have taken steps to protect their data. This is a very important step in improving your reputation, helping you to take your brand to the next level.
Finally, ISO 27001 certification ensures that your business is complying with all legal, contractual and regulatory requirements around GDPR and NIS.
The announced update of the ISO 27001 certification is in response to the rapidly changing environment. The 2022 version features several important improvements and updates alongside new guidance and requirements around the governance of data, keeping the supply chain secure, and how to use cloud services.
One of the biggest changes in the 2022 update is the addition of a new risk assessment process. The process is based on the same risk management standards found in ISO 31000, creating a more flexible and adaptable process for risk assessment. This allows organisations to better tailor the strategies to their specific circumstances and needs.
The update also saw a number of new controls added, including
Alongside announcing the details of the update, when ISO 27001:2022 was released a transition period was also launched. This means that in order to remain certified, businesses will need to implement these changes within this time period. Some key dates to remember:
31st October 2022
This was the date that the transition period began.
1st May 2024
This is an important date as it is from the 1st of May that all new certifications should be created to the ISO 27001:2022 standards. It is also from this date that all recertification audits will need to utilise the criteria set out in the 2022 update.
Until then, though, organisations can still submit certification applications under the original 2013 criteria.
21st July 2025
This is the date that all ISO 27001 transition audits should be completed.
31st October 2025
The end of October 2025 is when the ISO 27001 transition period comes to an end, and all certificates for ISO/IEC 27001:2013 will no longer be valid.
In order to remain compliant, all organisations will need to implement the required changes within the ISO 27001 transition period. The first step to preparing for the transition is to ensure that your management system is updated so that it is in line with the requirements set out in the new guidelines. This will need to be done before the audit is undertaken, and you will need to showcase things such as documentation changes as well as any changes or additions to process requirements.
Ahead of the formal audit, businesses will also need to undertake their own internal audit and management review to ensure that all of the new changes have been implemented. If you are unsure if you are meeting all of the required changes, then you should consider having an ISO 27001 transition audit undertaken to ensure that you are able to maintain your certification.
The ISO 27001 transition audit will confirm that all of the required revisions have been implemented. It can be conducted in conjunction with an existing audit or as a standalone option, with the duration dependent on the option you select.
In this fast-paced digital world, ensuring that your business is keeping client data safe and secure from the growing threat of cybercriminals is essential. Here at Critical Path, our mission is to help our clients to plan, monitor and control their projects effectively, ensuring they can reach their goals and overcome any obstacles they may face.
We can help you with your ISO 27001 transition, supporting you every step of the way to ensure that you are fully compliant. Get in touch today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.
Here at Critical Path, our mission has always been to help our clients plan, monitor and control their projects as effectively as possible. In this fast-paced technology-led world, cybercriminals are one of the biggest threats to businesses, with 69% of large organisations suffering some form of cyber attack or breach in the last year.
That is why we are very proud to announce that we have achieved Cyber Essentials certification. This not only ensures that we are able to protect ourselves, but it also means we can help our clients achieve their own Cyber Essentials certification.
Cyber Essentials is a unique scheme created by the government to help businesses and organisations protect themselves against the ever-growing threat of cybercriminals. The scheme outlines a set of basic technical controls that companies should implement in order to protect themselves against some of the most common online security threats.
The Cyber Essentials Certification is suitable for all organisations, no matter their size or the sector they work in. The accreditation is not just about helping businesses with their cybersecurity, but it is also a great way for them to demonstrate to customers their commitment to keeping data secure.
When answering the question, “what is cyber essentials certification?” it is also important to remember that the government requires all suppliers who are going to be bidding for contracts that will involve sensitive or personal data to have an up to date Cyber Essentials Certification.
First launched in 2014 with wide industry backing from the likes of the Confederation of British Industry, various insurance organisations, and the Federation of Small Businesses, over 120,000 certificates have since been awarded to a variety of organisations, charities, and businesses.
In addition to the foundation level Cyber Essentials certification, there is also a higher level called Cyber Essentials Plus which is a rigorous test of an organisation’s entire security system. This will see the Cyber Essentials security experts undertake various vulnerability tests to ensure a business is protected against phishing attacks and other types of hacking.
Cyber threats are one of the biggest risks that businesses face in the modern world. As our reliance on technology continues to grow, so does the risk of a cyberattack, and the Cyber Essentials Certification is designed to help keep organisations like our team here at Critical Path or your business protected.
We understand the importance of protecting data, and there were a number of reasons why we opted to become certified:
The biggest reason for us to become certified was to ensure that we could continue to protect our systems and data against the ever-growing threat from cybercriminals. These attacks are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, so this not only gives us the confidence that we are protected but will also showcase to our clients that we care about their requirements.
We have noticed that an increasing number of customers are asking for IT safeguards, so Cyber Essentials Certification is a natural next step to protect our data and ensures our customers are able to keep their cyber systems secure.
Becoming certified also gave us an opportunity to understand our current IT systems and gave us a clear picture of our organisation’s security systems.
This is an important aspect for businesses and is a widely recognised government scheme, and achieving the certification should be an essential consideration for any organisation, no matter your size or the sector you work in.
The first step in achieving your certification is to purchase either the Cyber Essentials Basic package or the Cyber Essentials Plus package. This will give you access to the member’s area, which contains all the information you need to keep your IT systems secure.
The next step to achieving it for your company is to complete the self-assessment form. This can be done via the online platform and does not need to be completed in one go, allowing you to leave and return as required.
The information that you submit will then be reviewed by BiP specialists, and once approved, the IASME consortium (the awarding body) will send you your Cyber Essentials Certification.
We will explore the undeniable benefits that come with achieving Cyber Essentials certification. We will delve into how this proactive approach to cybersecurity can empower your business, foster customer trust, and provide a competitive advantage in today's digital landscape.
The biggest benefit of achieving the Cyber Essentials Certification is that it will give you the peace of mind that your IT security is working to protect you. Once you have been accredited, you will be protected against 98.5% of the most common cybersecurity threats.
Another major benefit of achieving it for your organisation is that it will help you to build trust with your customers. With many high-profile and highly damaging cyberattacks in recent years, many customers are nervous about the security of their data.
Having a government-backed accreditation showcases to customers that you are focused on cybersecurity and reassures them that their data is kept safe.
Having the certification is a requirement for any government work, so achieving yours will open the door for any contracts that involve the public sector.
When your certification is approved, your name will be listed on the NCSC website, allowing potential clients to check your cybersecurity credentials.
Finally, achieving the Cyber Essentials Certification is a great way to improve your relationships with your entire supply chain. When your partners, suppliers, and stakeholders can see that you have the accreditation, they will have confidence in your operations and will be more willing to work with you.
Are you ready to secure your Cyber Essentials Certification? Here at Critical Path, we have partnered with Cyber Essentials to offer this vital certification to all of our clients. This ensures that you can protect your IT systems and keep your business safe from the threats being posed by cybercriminals.
Our team will work with you every step of the way, helping you to improve your systems and implement the latest techniques and security features. Want to find out more about how our experienced team can help you? Get in touch today!
At Critical Path, we are continuously reviewing our services to ensure that we are able to offer our customers the very best experience possible. That is why we are very proud to announce that our United Arab Emirates office has achieved ISO 9001 certification.
Achieving this certification not only cements our commitment to our clients but it also means that we truly practice what we preach by complying with the same standards that we sell. What exactly is ISO 9001 accreditation, though, and what are some of the biggest benefits? We thought we would take a closer look.
ISO 9001 is considered the benchmark standard for quality management. It is a vital tool in helping to take your business to the next level, helping to improve your profitability and market potential. The certification clearly sets out the required steps organisations need to take in order to adopt a clear quality management system (QMS).
A Quality Management System is a formal system that outlines the processes, procedures, and responsibilities required for an organisation to achieve its objectives and quality policies. Implementing a QMS ensures a business can coordinate its activities to ensure that they are meeting all regulatory and customer requirements.
The standard is designed to help ensure that organisations are able to meet the expectations of their customers as well as all other interested parties. Since its launch, it has become of the most widely utilised management tools in the world, with over a million companies now certified.
The comprehensive ISO 9001:2015 standard covers a wide range of methodology and information that covers an extensive range of areas, including:
The ISO 9001:2015 standard is based on the seven core principles of customer focus, leadership, engagement of people, process approach, improvement, evidence-based decision making, and relationship management. The importance of these seven principles will depend on the organisation, and they can also change over time in response to market influence.
Now we have explored the question, “what is ISO 9001 certification?”, the next question is what are the benefits that it brings? For us here at Critical Path, it is an important milestone in our business and demonstrates our commitment to our clients. However, achieving the ISO 9001 certification can also provide your business with a wide range of benefits, including:
A big advantage of the ISO 9001 certification is that it can help your business to boost your income. Organisations can leverage the prestigious reputation of the standard for potential customers, allowing them to stand out from their competitors and win more tenders and contracts. The ISO 9001:2015 standard can also help you to increase retention rates among your existing clients.
When organisations start looking for new suppliers, having the ISO 9001:2015 standard as part of your pitch proposal will ensure you are able to meet their expectations. For businesses operating within the public sector, then having an ISO 9001 QMS is often an essential requirement.
Another significant advantage of having the ISO 9001:2015 standard is that it can help you to improve your customer satisfaction levels. The standard will help you to truly understand their needs while having strict processes in place will also reduce the risk of errors that can damage client confidence in your abilities.
Being able to implement an ISO 9001:2015 standard quality management system means you are implementing the industry best practices. Alongside helping you to focus on quality, these practices will also help to maximise the efficiency of your team.
Having your entire team working towards the same goals and agenda will also help to enhance their overall communication and engagement with your business. This will help them to feel a core part of the company, ensuring they are happier and more productive.
The ISO 9001:2015 standard is focused on delivering a clear set of practices for your entire team to follow. By following these procedures, you will be able to gain a vast understanding of your operations and can use that information to make more informed decisions.
An ISO 9001:2015 standard quality management system is about creating a systematic approach that helps you to provide the very best experience possible for your customers. This involves regular auditing and reviewing to ensure you are meeting the ever-changing demands of your clients, so adopting the practices for your business will help to create a company-wide culture of development.
Of course, ISO 9001:2015 is not just about improving your own actions. By incorporating the best practices into your business, you will be able to create more efficient relationships with your supply chain as well as other stakeholders.
Now we have explored what is ISO 9001 certification and the benefits it brings, the final step is to explore how you can achieve this for your business. To help you, we have taken a look at some of the key steps that you need to consider:
The first step to achieving your ISO 9001 certification is to make sure that you are well prepared. The more time you spend in getting yourself ready, the smoother the entire process will be. You will also need to nominate a dedicated person to be the main point of contact throughout the application process.
The next step is to gather all of the required documentation required that showcases your quality policy, quality objectives, scope statement, procedures, work instructions, forms, and process maps. When filling these out, it is important to remember that these need to be adapted to your specific business requirements.
Implementing the required changes for the ISO 9001 certification requires almost every employee to change how they work. When making these changes, you need to make sure that they are user-friendly and non-bureaucratic; otherwise, you could face challenges in getting buy-in from your team.
Once you have been able to implement the required changes, conduct a thorough audit of your company to ensure you are fully compliant with all of the required ISO 9001 criteria.
The final stage is to undergo a certification audit by an independent auditor. This will review your entire business, and if you have fully complied with the required points, then you will be issued with an ISO 9001 certificate that is valid for three years.
We are incredibly proud that our UAE office has achieved ISO 9001 certification, and if you want to discover how you can get your business certified, our team is here to help you. We pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to help them transform their operations and achieve their objectives.
Want to learn more about our services and how we can help you? Get in touch with our friendly team today!
Occupational health and safety is a critical facet of any business landscape. Ensuring the well-being of employees and visitors isn't merely an ethical choice; it's a legal necessity. However, the labyrinth of legislation and the intricate management of policies can become overwhelming and time-intensive.
In the 2021/2022 period, sobering statistics revealed that more than 200 individuals lost their lives in work-related accidents, and a staggering 1.8 million individuals battled with a work-related illness. Such figures accentuate the vital role of health and safety management, though creating a tailored workplace policy can be a complex task.
At Critical Path, our team of professional health and safety specialists provides the assurance that you are not only compliant with regulations but also nurturing a safe environment for everyone within your premises.
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) are governed by laws, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This encompasses a broad spectrum, from employers and government offices to self-employed individuals, ensuring responsibility for the safety of employees and the public.
Critical Path's team recognises the gravity of health and safety, thus forming strong collaborations with our clients. We support and guide them in adherence to all relevant regulations, minimising not only risks but also the potential financial burdens of legal disputes.
Bespoke Solutions: We understand the unique nature of each business. Our health and safety consultancy packages are tailor-made to your specific needs, fostering a workplace that's both compliant and secure.
Full Control: Our seasoned team will manage every aspect of occupational health and safety, identifying risks and providing comprehensive support, thereby alleviating stress and conserving your valuable time.
Flexibility: With the dynamic nature of businesses, our flexible and pay-as-you-go packages assure no contractual entanglements. We are competent to work with various business sizes and sectors across the UK.
Your “Competent Person”: We can act as your delegated “competent person”, adept at identifying hazards and implementing full control measures to maintain safety.
Time Savings: Managing occupational health and safety in-house can be time-consuming. Outsourcing to professionals frees you to focus on expanding your business.
Financial Savings: With the average cost of a Health and Safety Manager at £42,500 per annum, our bespoke solutions provide an economical alternative.
Litigation Avoidance: Expert guidance in health and safety can significantly reduce the risk of legal confrontations and associated costs.
Regulatory Compliance: Our mastery ensures that your business aligns with all current standards and legislation.
Peace of Mind: Ultimately, our expertise guarantees a secure environment for both employees and customers.
Critical Path stands prepared to elevate your workplace's health and safety standards. Our multifaceted offerings encompass:
Our mission aligns with your ambition for a safer workplace. With our vast experience, we mitigate your concerns, enabling you to concentrate on running your business.
Interested in fortifying your company's occupational health and safety? Contact Critical Path today, and let's shape a safer future together.
Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment Management (QHSE) are vital facets of numerous businesses. QHSE involves formulating a corporate management approach and system to enhance employee safety and company efficiency.
For many brands, this can prove to be a time-consuming task, necessitating the hiring of a dedicated QHSE Manager to take on these responsibilities. However, in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, is this the most cost-effective and efficient approach?
At Critical Path, our distinctive online management system, Oscar, provides businesses with an alternative for managing their ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 requirements.
Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment Management involves a dedicated approach to ensuring employee safety in the workplace. A significant majority of accidents stem from human error, and a QHSE system can aid in lessening and managing accidents by instituting compatible health and safety strategies. It also contributes to businesses adopting environmentally friendly practices.
QHSE is built upon three core standards: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. Each of these standards is formulated to assist businesses in enhancing workplace safety, service quality for customers, and minimising their environmental impact.
Incorporating a QHSE program yields various benefits:
Enhanced Transparency for Employees: Providing visibility into company actions, fostering a sense of clarity.
Establishing a Clear Structure: Clear frameworks facilitate cohesive business operations.
Improved Communication: Enhanced communication channels lead to better information flow.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Access to accurate data enables precise decision-making.
Reduced Accidents and Subsequent Claims: QHSE efforts contribute to minimising accidents and related costly claims.
At Critical Path, we comprehend the significance of a robust QHSE strategy. This is why we've partnered with Oscar Compliance Software to present an outsourced system designed to ensure complete compliance while simplifying management. Opting for an in-house ISO Manager can prove financially burdensome. In comparison, the Oscar Compliance system commences at just £2,000 per annum, presenting a cost-efficient solution in today's economic scenario.
Our package encompasses a modest connection fee, followed by a monthly fee starting at £150. Collaborating with diverse auditing bodies streamlines the process, conserving both time and money from the initial consultation to the final audit.
As a leading ISO consultancy, our online management system adheres to both UKAS and non-UKAS standards. Clients have the flexibility to choose their desired certification level. We provide a pre-audit as part of our package, boasting a 100% certification pass rate. Our commitment to customer service is evident in our provision of unlimited remote support, accessible 24/7.
The Oscar Compliance Online Management System seamlessly integrates ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018, enabling businesses to harness the advantages of a QHSE Manager without the need for internal hiring complexities.
At Critical Path, our mission encompasses not only cost savings and compliance but also sustainability enhancement. We operate as a paperless company, embracing digital practices to minimise our environmental footprint. Our remote support empowers swift responses through screen sharing, phone support, email, and web chat. This approach ensures rapid assistance while also reducing fuel consumption, aligning with our commitment to environmental responsibility.
The global pandemic has been an incredibly challenging time for everyone. As social distancing and restrictions became commonplace, it placed immense pressure on businesses across the UK. However, with those restrictions now lifting and life beginning to return to some semblance of normality, many companies are now looking towards the future and their recovery.
Here at Critical Path International (CPI), we know how important a fast recovery is to the success of your business. That is why our entire team is dedicated to helping you to implement, achieve and manage internationally recognised standards, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
These three standards cover Quality Management, Environmental Management and Healthy and Safety and are going to become even more important in the post-coronavirus world.
The global pandemic tossed us into a whirlwind of challenges. Social distancing and restrictions shook up businesses across the UK. But, as the fog begins to lift and normalcy creeps back in, companies are shifting their gaze towards recovery.
At Critical Path International, we understand the urgency of a swift rebound. That's why our team is committed to guiding you through the world of internationally recognised standards – ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
These standards aren't just badges; they're pillars of Quality Management, Environmental Management, and Health and Safety. And in the post-coronavirus era, they're set to play an even more vital role.
ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 are keystones of a holistic approach to Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment Management. Designed to keep employees safe and nurture sustainability, these international standards craft clear health and safety strategies while fostering eco-friendliness.
These standards aren't just for the top brass; they create transparency and improve communication between employers and employees. They're also like a roadmap for businesses, aiding in informed decision-making.
Securing these standards should be your priority in the post-coronavirus world. One major advantage? They're your secret weapon when bidding for a project or tackling a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ).
A PQQ is your ticket to tender success. It digs deep into your suitability for a project. ISO 9001 is often a prerequisite, and lacking it can put you on shaky ground.
But it's not just about PQQs. Showcasing ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 strengthens your tender game. Tenders often require proof of past success and how you manage environmental and safety matters. These standards provide that proof in a neat package.
The benefits? Beyond boosting your company's image, these standards save time during the tender process. A well-documented management system helps you swiftly answer questions, handle complaints, and meet legal requirements.
And when it's time to compile case studies, having these standards ensures you've got the necessary documentation, streamlining the process.
At Critical Path, we get it. Standards matter, especially now. But we also get the uncertainty of long-term contracts. That's why our tailored consultancy package fits your needs.
Our on-site consultancy day rates at £750 are transparent – no hidden costs or travel expenses, no matter your location. We also offer a remote consultancy package at just £450, and we can customise a blend of on-site and remote consultancy.
Our experienced team will help you achieve and uphold ISO accreditations that reshape your business. As life inches towards normal, if you're eyeing post-COVID-19 recovery and want your organisation in top shape, reach out to our team today.
Every business is looking for ways to reduce its impact on the environment and become a more sustainable organisation. However, this can be a challenging and complex process to undertake. When it comes to operating a truly effective Environmental Management System (EMS), achieving ISO 14001 can help transform your business.
However, what is ISO 14001, and how can it help you? So, we thought we would take a closer look…
Achieving ISO 14001 is incredibly important, and it is often considered the primary ISO standard in relation to your Environmental Management System. This family of standards are entirely related to your EMS and have been created to help organisations of all sizes to reduce their impact on the environment. As with all ISO systems, 14001 focuses on a high-level structure, allowing it to be easily integrated into a wide range of existing ISO management systems.
The standards examine the entire organisation and how your operations could negatively impact the environment. It also helps to ensure that they are complying with all applicable regulations, environmental requirements and laws.
First introduced in 1996, the ISO 14001 family has been continuously adapted over the years, evolving to the changing standards and practices across the globe. The current framework was introduced in 2015, designed to provide businesses with the tools and guidance to significantly reduce their environmental impact.
The early iterations of ISO 14001 focused predominantly on the management of adverse environmental impacts and pollution control. However, the latest standard introduced in 2015 focuses more on a risk-based approach. This allows organisations to better plan their approach to sustainability, prioritising those risks and opportunities that are most relevant to their operations.
ISO 14001 examines the entire structure of your organisation and the practices that your implement, helping you to identify core areas for improvement in every aspect of your business. As the importance of sustainability becomes more of a focus, it can help to transform any organisation's approach.
ISO 14001 is effectively a four-point process for businesses, requiring them to:
By understanding the impact your organisation is having on the environment and implementing strategies to minimise and monitor this, it can significantly enhance your green credentials.
But, of course, implementing ISO 14001 is not just a great way to help you improve your sustainability. It can also provide a wide range of benefits:
Reduce Cost
An effective EMS will help businesses to reduce their outgoings by allowing them to conserve energy and input materials.
Boost profits
Alongside reducing costs, implementing ISO 14001 can also help to boost profits by reducing wastage and improving efficiency.
Safer
ISO 14001 helps organisations to become safer places, focusing on implementing the best practices, significantly reducing the risk of liable accidents in the process.
Develop stronger relationships
Being able to showcase ISO 14001 compliance demonstrates that a business is environmentally conscious. This, in turn, makes them more attractive to suppliers, clients and stakeholders alike. It is also a globally recognised certificate, allowing organisations to branch out into new sectors.
Being able to demonstrate your organisation has achieved ISO 14001 can provide a wide range of benefits and help you to become far more sustainable.
Here at Critical Path International, our mission is to help our clients achieve these certifications, allowing them to implement the most effective EMS possible.
Our dedicated team will visit your premises to determine your overall environmental aspects, alongside helping you develop clear targets and objectives.
We will then help you create and implement the processes and procedures required to help ensure you conform to ISO 14001. We can also create bespoke documents to help you ‘fill in the gaps’ in areas where you might need further support.
With this complete, you will then be required to operate as per your EMS for a short while in order for certification to be completed. A third-party auditing body conducts this final stage, but our experienced team will be able to ensure you are meeting all requirements.
Want to find out more about how we can help you? Get in touch with our team today for your free, no-obligation quote.
In today's ever-evolving business landscape, having a rock-solid plan for the unexpected is no longer a luxury – it's a necessity. Enter the realm of Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS), designed to safeguard your operations when the going gets tough. From natural disasters to unforeseen crises, a well-crafted BCMS can be your shield against disruptions that could potentially derail your business. This is where ISO 22301 steps onto the stage, not just as a standard but as a game-changer in resilience planning.
In 2012, a groundbreaking international standard emerged – ISO 22301. Unlike its predecessors, ISO 22301 wasn't just another guideline; it was continuity-focused. Picture it as your trusty companion in creating a robust Business Continuity Management System. The objective? To empower businesses to withstand the impact of the unforeseen, whatever form it takes. Whether a man-made catastrophe or a natural calamity, ISO 22301 equips you with the tools to brace against disruptions and ensures you're back on your feet in no time.
ISO 22301 isn't just about paperwork and plans; it's about resilience in action. With a well-crafted BCMS in place, your organisation gains the ability to confront and conquer challenges head-on. How? By developing a comprehensive strategy that's ready to kick into gear the moment chaos knocks on your door. This strategy includes a recovery program designed to swiftly restore your operations, functions, and services.
Versatility is a hallmark of ISO 22301. It's not limited by industry or sector. Whether you're in manufacturing, technology, healthcare, or any other field, ISO 22301's principles can be woven into the fabric of your operations. However, ensuring effective implementation demands expertise. This is where a seasoned consultant steps in to ensure every requirement and standard is met.
The emergence of COVID-19 turned the spotlight on the importance of preparedness. The pandemic's unexpected arrival left businesses grappling with unprecedented challenges – lockdowns, remote work, and supply chain disruptions. Overnight, what seemed implausible in 2019 became a reality in 2020.
As businesses grappled with uncertainty, the demand for ISO 22301 implementation soared. Organisations saw the need to fortify themselves against the unexpected, to build a shield against the unknown.
At Critical Path, we're not just consultants; we're your partners in building resilience. If you're considering implementing a Business Continuity Management System, we're here to guide you every step of the way. With our expert team by your side, achieving ISO 22301 compliance within six months is not just a goal – it's a reality.
We're not limited by industry boundaries. Our experience spans a wide array of sectors, ensuring a tailored approach that suits your unique needs. Worried about audits? Our highly experienced team can help you prepare for a UKAS audit, ensuring your compliance stands strong.
What's more, ISO 22301 doesn't operate in isolation. We seamlessly integrate its standards with other management systems, such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management). We're always aligned with the latest ISO revisions, ensuring you're ahead of the curve.
So, if you're ready to enhance your business's resilience, it's time to take action. Get in touch with us today, and let's embark on a journey to a more resilient, prepared, and secure future. The path to ISO 22301 and heightened resilience begins here.
