Compatibility and application of ISO 31000:2018 AND ISO 45001:2018

The increasing complexity of internal and external environment exposes organisations to a multitude of risks. ISO 31000:2018 aims to outline an effective and efficient risk management framework, to comply with the environmental changes in which organisations operate, with the aim to increase the possibility of achieving the objectives established by the business. ISO 31000 promotes the integration of risk management and corporate governance, the consistency with the organisation’s principles and values, strategies, policies and management operations and controls.

In occupational health and safety, it is necessary to establish an effective management system, as of ISO 45001:2018, which aims to systematically limit the occupational risks that may endanger the safety and health of all persons affected by activities, products or services of the organisation. Systematic approach to management in the field of health and safety at work, ensures the implementation of all measures necessary for the safe operation hence protecting both the stakeholders and the organisation.

ISO 45001:2018 places greater emphasis on the risk management and the ongoing assessment of risks and opportunities to prevent or reduce side effects based on the participation of workers and interested parties. The management standard provides for active participation of management in all processes of health and safety at work and tends to promote decentralised management practices.

Both management standards, stress the importance of establishing the context in which occupational health and safety and risk management frameworks intend to apply. Enhancing the safety and health in organisations and at the same time control the likelihood of adverse event or the consequences of the particular event in case of occurrence, have significant economic importance and fosters prosperity for the organisation and the society in general.

The prevailing health and safety culture within a business has a positive impact on occupational health and safety in reducing the potential for injuries, incidents or fatalities, ensuring business continuity and reputational integrity.

The main objective of this thesis is, through the integration of ISO 45001:2018 and ISO 31000:2018, to determine the maturity of the current safety culture in Synergas Ltd with the aim to obtain related progress towards the desired ‘interdependent’ state and also create a risk management culture with the participation of workers and interested parties, ideal to enhance stakeholders’ trust and faith to corporate values.

The thesis is examining the similarities and controversies of both management systems giving emphasis on the key mutually inclusive attributes deemed to obtain a uniformity of ISO 31000: 2018 and ISO 45001: 2018 to the best interest not only of Synergas but of any organisation with sensitivity in occupational health and safety and risk management competences.