Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OHSMS): What is it?

 You're not alone if establishing an OHSMS seems overwhelming. We can help with that. Our specialty at Health and Safety Advisors is assisting Toronto-based and other construction organizations in creating and putting into practice OHSMS frameworks such as ISO 45001 and COR 2020. We can help you whether you're just starting out or need assistance improving your system.

An Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OHSMS) is a structured framework that organizations use to proactively manage workplace health and safety risks. Its main goal is to prevent injuries, illnesses, and fatalities by creating safer working environments through systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation of safety practices.


🔍 Key Components of an OHSMS

  1. Policy

    • A clear statement from top management showing commitment to health and safety.

  2. Planning

    • Identifying hazards and assessing risks

    • Setting safety goals and objectives

    • Developing procedures to control risks

  3. Implementation and Operation

    • Assigning roles and responsibilities

    • Providing training and awareness

    • Ensuring communication and proper documentation

  4. Evaluation and Monitoring

    • Conducting regular audits and inspections

    • Monitoring performance and incident reports

  5. Review and Improvement

    • Reviewing the system regularly

    • Making improvements based on performance, incidents, and audits


Benefits of an OHSMS

  • Reduces workplace incidents and downtime

  • Ensures compliance with local laws and regulations

  • Builds a safety-first culture

  • Boosts employee morale and productivity

  • Can lead to lower insurance premiums and fewer legal issues


📘 Common Standards and Frameworks

  • ISO 45001 – The international standard for occupational health and safety management systems

  • OHSAS 18001 (phased out and replaced by ISO 45001)

  • CSA Z1000 – Canadian standard for OHSMS

  • ANSI/ASSP Z10 – U.S. safety management system standard


🔁 Who Should Use an OHSMS?

Any organization, regardless of size or industry, especially those in high-risk sectors like:

  • Construction

  • Manufacturing

  • Healthcare

  • Mining

  • Transportation

 

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