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ISO 18001 Certification in Saudi Arabia: Benefits, Process & Compliance Guide
In the context of the growing industry in Saudi Arabia, from oil and gas to construction and manufacturing, occupational health and safety (OHS) has emerged as a primary area of focus. Businesses are now facing heightened scrutiny from regulators, investors, and sponsors, which necessitates a demonstrable commitment to safe and compliant working conditions.
This is where ISO 18001 Certification, now being referred to as OHSAS 18001, has historically provided great value by assisting organizations in the creation of a systematic Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS). Although transitional arrangements are in place in the Kingdom, and many organizations are still in the process of switching to the updated standard, OHSAS 18001 is still widely searched and referred to.
In this guide, we will interrogate the importance, value, and process of ISO 18001, uncovering the benefits for Saudi companies along Popularcert’s assistance in achieving and upgrading certifications.
What is ISO 18001?
Established by a consortium of national standard organizations and bodies, OHSAS 18001 (now more popularly known as ISO 18001) was once recognized as a standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. Its implementation lacked a comprehensive framework enabling businesses to mitigate and manage health and safety risks.
Even though it wasn’t created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), it was recognized and adopted globally, inclusive of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Currently, ISO 18001 has been replaced with ISO 45001; this change was made to preserve the International Standard’s (ISO) adopted framework (Annex SL) and shifts to a more proactive, risk-based approach to health and safety precautions.
ISO 18001 vs. ISO 45001: What's the Difference?
While both standards aim to ensure workplace safety, ISO 45001 introduces key enhancements:
- Integrated Structure: ISO 45001 uses a structure aligned with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, therefore making it simpler to incorporate into the organization’s management system.
- Risk Management Focus: ISO 45001 emphasizes preventive risk management over mere compliance.
- Employee Involvement: There is a greater emphasis placed on the consultation and participation of employees in issues regarding safety.
- Strategic Alignment: There is a stronger encouragement to align the operational health strategies with the overarching corporate objectives.
In spite of these enhancements, a large number of businesses in Saudi Arabia continue to reference or possess ISO 18001 certificates, which makes it crucial to grasp both the legacy and the evolution.
Why ISO 18001 Still Matters in Saudi Arabia
Even though ISO 18001 is obsolete for new certification, it retains importance for a number of purposes:
- Legacy Systems: Numerous businesses continue to maintain ISO 18001 certification and are in the process of strategizing their transition to ISO 45001.
- Tender Requirements: In some legacy projects, public procurement documents or tenders may still mention ISO 18001.
- Training and Record Keeping: Some organizations continue to use ISO 18001 documents to train personnel and to maintain self-regulatory compliance frameworks.
- Transition Path: The upgrade to ISO 45001 is smoother with a background knowledge of ISO 18001.
For Saudi companies and especially those operating in oil and gas, petrochemicals, and construction, adherence to international safety benchmarks is a matter of critical business necessity.
Benefits of ISO 18001 Certification for Saudi Businesses
The strategic advantages offered by ISO 18001 certification are still relevant today and continue to support compliance with Saudi Arabia’s regulatory and industry expectations.
- Enhanced Workplace Safety
- Reduction of accidents, injuries, and incidents
- Safer worksites for employees and contractors
- Legal & Regulatory Compliance
- Alignment with Saudi Labor Law and MHRSD safety provisions
- GOSI and SFDA inspection readiness
1.Stronger Reputation
- Increased trust and confidence among clients, investors, and international stakeholders
- Improved bid competitiveness, especially for international companies operating in the Kingdom
2.Streamlined Business Operations
- Cuts down any downtime due to incidents
- Avoids wasting valuable resources and time because of illness-related issues
3.Reduced Chances of Facing Penalties
- Safeguards proactive resolution of safety non-compliance issues
- Minimizes the chance of being sued or fined by the government.
Types Of Certification
- ISO Certification
- ISO 9001 Certification
- ISO 14001 Certification
- ISO 45001 Certification
- ISO 22000 Certification
- ISO 27001 Certification
- ISO 17025 Certification
- ISO 13485 Certification
- ISO 20000-1 Certification
- ISO 22301 Certification
- ISO 50001 Certification
- ISO 37001 Certification
- IATF 16949 Certification
- ISO 29001 Certification
- ISO 31000 Certification
- ISO 20121 Certification
- ISO 10002 Certification
- ISO 41001 Certification
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ISO 18001 Certification Process in Saudi Arabia
While new certifications of ISO 18001 are no longer being issued, understanding the lifecycle of the certification will be beneficial to companies wanting to sustain, renew, or evolve their OHSMS.
- Gap Analysis: Evaluate current OHS policies and practices against ISO 18001 standards to determine what needs to be improved.
- Documentation: Create and capture the OHS policies in safety manuals, procedures and manuals as the OHS management system architecture documents.
- Implementation: Ensure the policies are being upheld by your employees. Educate your workers and enforce compliance through daily operations.
- Internal Audit: Evaluate the efficacy of the system through internal audits and determine the necessary corrective measures to be undertaken.
- Management Review: The senior management reviews the operations and the safety output to ensure they are in alignment with the organizational objectives.
- Certification Audit: This involves a two-stage audit by a certification body external to the organization.
Stage 1 – Reviewing the documents to make sure they are aligned with the objectives and the organization is ready for the audit
Stage 2 – Evaluation of the documents and collection of the evidences
Following the audit, the company was granted ISO 18001 certification, which is usually held for three years with ongoing annual surveillance audits.
Transitioning from ISO 18001 to ISO 45001
For organizations still accredited with ISO 18001, the shift to ISO 45001 has now become urgent.
Popularcert offers expert assistance to make this change easy through:
- Readiness assessments and gap analysis
- Claus’ gap mapping, existing ISO 18001 clauses against ISO 45001
- Corrective documentation to meet ISO 45001 standards
- Training and awareness programs for all levels of staff
- Comprehensive audit assistance and preparation
With the assistance of Popularcert, organizations are able to achieve uninterrupted operations while ensuring compliance and gaining the advantage of extensive health and safety compliance.
Popularcert: Your ISO Certification Partner in Saudi Arabia
Popularcert, as a trustworthy provider for ISO certification consulting services, has a strong footing in the Saudi Arabian market. From Riyadh to Dammam and Jeddah to Al Khobar, we are able to reach all industry sectors in providing and assisting in world-class standards.
Our Services Include:
- Implementation and transition of ISO 18001 and ISO 45001
- Internal audits and documentation assistance
- Readiness for Saudi labor and safety compliance
- Liaison with accredited certification bodies
- Support after certification and assist in surveillance
Based in Saudi Arabia, Popularcert caters to the Oil and Gas, logistics, construction, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, ensuring the OHSMS for the organizations is in line with international best practices as well as local requirements.
Who Should Be ISO 18001 or ISO 45001 Certified in Saudi Arabia?
Certification applies to companies where health and safety risks are palpable. This includes:
- Construction companies operating under high-risk conditions
- Oil and gas firms dealing with hazardous materials
- Logistics and warehousing companies concerned with driver and cargo safety
- Healthcare providers and hospitals with potential infection and injury risks
- Manufacturing industries dealing with production and machinery hazards
Take the Next Step Toward Safety and Compliance
Occupational health and safety is no longer only a compliance issue. It is a matter of your company’s ethos and her values. Actions today, whether you are ISO 18001 certified or strategizing to upgrade to ISO 45001, will improve your workforce and secure your business.
Reach out to Popularcert for booking a free consultation. Request your ISO 18001 Gap Assessment. Safeguard your personnel. Safeguard your reputation. Collaborate with Popularcert today.
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FAQs
Is ISO 18001 certification still valid in Saudi Arabia?
Only old ISO 18001-certified companies would be able to retain their certifications. New certifications are issued under ISO 45001.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with OHS in Saudi Arabia?
Violations can attract penalties like fines, a legal suit, or even loss of license for controlled industries like oil and gas or construction.
Can I change to ISO 45001 from ISO 18001 using the same documentation?
Some paper works could be retained, however, ISO 45001 demands additional engagement and participatory thinking, and risk-based strategies.
What is the average time frame to complete the change?
Usually, 2 to 4 months, depending on the organization’s size and complexity, their current OHSMS standing, and infrastructure.
What role does Popularcert play in Saudi Arabia with respect to ISO 45001?
Popularcert aids with complete implementation from gap analysis and documentation to training and audit preparedness to ensure compliance and a seamless transition.