ISO 45001:2018 Requirements with Instructions for Use provides a robust and effective set of processes for improving workplace safety in global supply chains. The application of this new international standard, designed to assist organizations of all sizes and industrial sectors, is expected to reduce the number of workplace injuries and illnesses worldwide.

The purpose of ISO 45001 is to provide an organization with a high level of understanding of significant issues that can positively or negatively impact it, as well as how it manages its responsibilities regarding occupational health and safety towards its employees.

This new standard clearly defines requirements for occupational health and safety management responsibilities. The aim is to ensure that ultimate accountability cannot be transferred to health and safety managers or other managers within the organization.

The organization must encourage employees at all levels to report hazardous situations in order to establish preventive and corrective measures. Employees should also be able to report and suggest areas for improvement without fear of dismissal or other disciplinary action.

The standard requires the organization to ensure that subcontracted processes affecting the OHSMS are defined and controlled. When subcontracted products and/or services are under the organization's control, effective management of suppliers and subcontractors is necessary.

The term "documented information" is used instead of "documents" and "records," which were present in OHSAS 18001. Evidence from processed information not stored in a formal documentation system, such as electronic information on phones and tablets, will now be accepted.