What is ISO/PAS 45005 Certification?
ISO/PAS 45005 provides general guidelines for safe working during the COVID-19 pandemic. This certification is a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased risk this disease presents to the health, safety, and well-being of people in all settings, including those working at home or in mobile settings, and workers and other interested parties in physical workplaces.
This guidance includes practical recommendations to organizations and workers on how to manage these risks and is suitable for organizations resuming operations, those that have been operational throughout the pandemic, and those that are starting operations.
The guidance is generic and applicable to organizations regardless of the nature of business, service provision, size, or complexity. It recognizes that many smaller organizations do not have dedicated departments for functions such as Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), facilities management, or human resources. More detailed information for specific functions is available from professional bodies and a wide range of national and international standards.
How can organisations benefit from ISO/PAS 45005?
- Enhanced Workplace Safety: By following ISO/PAS 45005 guidelines, organizations can create safer work environments, reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission among employees.
- Regulatory Compliance: The specification helps organizations comply with local and international health and safety regulations related to COVID-19, avoiding legal and compliance issues.
- Employee Confidence: Implementing ISO/PAS 45005 can boost employee confidence and morale by demonstrating a commitment to their health and safety during the pandemic.
- Business Continuity: The guidance supports business continuity by minimizing disruptions caused by COVID-19, allowing organizations to operate effectively while protecting their workforce.
- Preparedness for Future Health Crises: The specification provides a framework for responding to pandemics and similar health crises, helping organizations develop resilience and preparedness for future challenges.
The guideline ISO/PAS 45005 is applicable to organizations that already have ISO 45001 certification, to integrate their management system with a systemic approach that facilitates management during the COVID-19 epidemic.
Key Aspects of ISO/PAS 45005
- COVID-19 Workplace Safety: ISO/PAS 45005 provides practical recommendations for managing health and safety risks related to COVID-19. It addresses various aspects of workplace safety, including risk assessment, hygiene practices, physical distancing, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Guidance for All Workplaces: The specification is designed to be applicable to all organizations, regardless of size or sector. It offers flexible guidance that can be adapted to different work environments, including office settings, manufacturing facilities, and remote working arrangements.
- Supporting Business Continuity: ISO/PAS 45005 helps organizations maintain business continuity by ensuring safe working conditions during the pandemic. It provides strategies for minimizing disruptions while protecting employees' health and well-being.
- Alignment with Other Standards: The specification aligns with other ISO standards, particularly ISO 45001, which focuses on occupational health and safety management systems. This ensures that organizations can integrate COVID-19 safety measures into their existing OH&S frameworks.