In increasingly environmental management practices? You may have heard about the ISO 14001 environmental management systems standard worldwide. But the internal auditor is vital in leading your organization to attain its sustainability goals and conformity with environmental standards. Let's discover whether your organization is ready for an ISO 14001 internal auditor or not.
Role of an Internal Auditor?
Their role is generally the main actor in assuring the EMS operates efficiently and is compliant with ISO 14001. They would conduct an internal audit, determine areas that need improvement, and assess the company's compliance to environmental regulations. Internal audits are essentially conducted as preemptive measures in identifying gaps or even weaknesses in your EMS. Failure to have regular assessments permits unnoticed issues that could endanger your organization by causing it to fall into noncompliance.
Why do You Need an ISO Internal Auditor?
Adding these auditors to your team has several advantages. It helps reveal weaknesses in your EMS. Some might be concealed from regular audits, which may let them remain undetected and cause inefficiencies or failure for any non-compliance. Furthermore, internal audits ensure that your organization meets its environmental objectives and improves both sustainability and operational efficiency.
This is especially relevant for companies that are already working with their management standards like ISO 9001. A well-trained auditor, especially someone who is thoroughly versed in ISO 9001 version 2015 internal auditor training, can streamline all audits across various certifications and remain consistent with your management systems.
Advantages of an Internal Auditor
There are so many benefits that come along with having an ISO 14001 internal auditor in the organization:
1. Increased Efficiency
An internal audit goes a long way in revealing inefficiencies in processes such as waste management and resource utilization. An efficient auditor may recommend areas of improvement that will translate into cost reduction and operational efficiency.
2. Improved Compliance
Environmental laws are so convoluted that it is almost impossible for a layman to comply with them all. An internal auditor periodically assures that your EMS keeps abreast of day-to-day local regulations and rules set forth by ISO 14001, thus protecting your firm from any legal backlash.
3. Continual Improvement
An internal audit fosters a culture of ongoing improvement. By fixing potential problems before they become major issues, your company will be staying true to its commitment to the environment while keeping stakeholders content. This type of proactive approach can even contribute to a more engaged workforce and improved morale.
How to Know If Your Company is Ready for an ISO 14001 Internal Auditor
Before you appoint an internal auditor for ISO 14001, assess the current environmental management practice of your company. If your EMS is well documented but left unattended for occasional reviews, having an internal auditor would be perfect. On the other hand, if your company is unsure of its own compliance or has seen areas where the EMS is showing signs of inefficiency, it might be time to call in an external auditor.
Training is another factor to consider. If your staff does not have the knowledge of the ISO 14001 standards, or if your auditors require further expertise, Management Systems International MSI training can provide them with the required competencies. Furthermore, if your organization already deals with ISO 9001 standards, registering your auditors in ISO 9001 version 2015 internal auditor training will enable them to conduct audits for both certifications.
Getting Your Team Prepared for Internal Audits
Effective internal audits can only be possible when the audit team is prepared. The goals of the audits should be communicated to employees, making them members of the process. Specifying the scope of an audit and its goals leads your teams to remain proactive and engaged in making things work.
Conclusion
Having an ISO 14001 internal auditor, indeed, brings your company to a new level in terms of establishing environmental management practices. They are responsible for ensuring that your EMS is compliant, efficient, and always improving. It involves evaluating current systems, preparing and educating the team for audit, putting the company on a path towards good environmental management. This can be the moment to add an internal auditor to the team in order to create a more sustainable and compliant future if you have not already.