At Spencer-SHE, we know that workplace safety is the foundation of a strong, responsible business. Whether you’re managing a construction site, a manufacturing facility, or an office environment, creating safe, healthy conditions for your employees protects lives, reduces risk, and builds long-term success. ISO 45001, the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, provides the framework to help organizations do exactly that.
What is ISO 45001 and Why Does it Matter?
ISO 45001 is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management Systems. It provides a proven framework for organizations to systematically manage risks, reduce workplace incidents, and promote a culture of safety at every level.
Simply put: ISO 45001 helps businesses create safer work environments, demonstrate compliance, and protect their most valuable asset – their people.
For companies bidding on projects, working with large corporations, or aiming to meet regulatory requirements, ISO 45001 certification is increasingly expected. Beyond compliance, it also improves operational efficiency, reduces downtime, and strengthens your reputation.
Who Requires ISO 45001?
While ISO 45001 certification is voluntary, many industries and organizations require or strongly expect it as part of doing business, especially where safety risks are high or supplier requirements are strict. Here’s who typically requires or expects ISO 45001:
✔ Large Corporations and Prime Contractors – Many require their suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers to be ISO 45001 certified to ensure consistent health and safety standards across projects.
✔ Government Contracts and Public Sector Projects – Health and safety compliance is a prerequisite for bidding on many government contracts, particularly in construction, manufacturing, utilities, and infrastructure.
✔ Global Supply Chains – Companies operating internationally or supplying global brands often need ISO 45001 to meet contractual requirements and demonstrate alignment with global best practices.
✔ High-Risk Industries – Sectors like construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and mining often require or prioritize ISO 45001 certification due to their elevated health and safety risks.
✔ Insurance and Liability Purposes – Certification can sometimes reduce insurance premiums or support defense against liability claims by showing a commitment to recognized safety standards.
✔ Internal Risk Management – Some organizations adopt ISO 45001 proactively to reduce incidents, downtime, and legal exposure—even if not contractually required.
Bottom line: Whether it’s required by a customer, mandated by a contract, or adopted as a best practice, ISO 45001 positions your business as a safety-focused, responsible partner.
ISO 45001 vs. OHSAS 18001—What Changed?
If your organization previously followed OHSAS 18001, you’ll need to transition to ISO 45001 to stay current. But this isn’t just a name change, the new standard raises the bar:
✔ Stronger focus on leadership engagement
✔ Better integration with other ISO management systems (like ISO 14001)
✔ Emphasis on risk-based thinking, not just hazard identification
✔ Proactive approach to identifying opportunities for improvement
✔ More involvement of employees at all levels
The deadline to transition from OHSAS 18001 has passed, so organizations that haven’t yet adopted ISO 45001 are exposed to gaps in their safety management approach and potential non-compliance.
How Spencer-SHE Supports Your ISO 45001 Journey
Implementing ISO 45001 can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team at Spencer-SHE provides experienced guidance to help your business:
✔ Assess your current OH&S program
✔ Identify gaps and opportunities for improvement
✔ Develop and document compliant policies and procedures
✔ Train leadership and employees on their roles and responsibilities
✔ Prepare for third-party certification audits
✔ Ensure seamless integration with existing management systems
We meet you where you are, whether you’re starting from scratch or building on an existing program, and guide you every step of the way.
Next Steps for Compliance
If your organization is ready to take the next step toward ISO 45001 compliance, here’s where to start:
1. Conduct a Gap Assessment — Understand where your current safety program stands.
2. Engage Leadership — Commitment from the top is key to a successful OH&S program.
3. Develop a Roadmap — Create a practical plan to close gaps and align with ISO 45001.
4. Involve Your Team — Build a culture of safety through training and participation.
5. Prepare for Certification — We’ll help you get audit-ready and maintain compliance long-term.
Spencer-SHE has been providing Safety, Health, and Environmental Compliance Guidance since 1980. Our team is poised and ready to guide you through the maze of standards and compliance interpretations to streamline your comprehensive records.
We support you in each step of the compliance process, from documentation to program development. Help is available when you need to prepare for scheduled inspections and we’re also ready to assist you on short notice for unannounced visits from OSHA or other regulatory agencies. Spencer-SHE is always by your side when you need us!
Contact us for assistance in building and maintaining a safe, healthy, and compliant workplace.