In a factory environment ISO 14001 requires monitoring of key environmental parameters, measurement through audits and reviews, and correct data quality.
Monitoring the Right Things
ISO 14001 requires monitoring of key environmental parameters.
Common metrics include:
1. Energy consumption
2. Waste volumes and disposal routes
3. Water usage
4. Emissions where relevant
Manufacturers often discover that:
1. Data quality is inconsistent
2. Energy data lacks granularity
3. Opportunities for improvement are hidden
Improving measurement is frequently the first real benefit delivered by ISO
14001 and lays the groundwork for later ISO 50001 certification.
Internal Audits and Management Review
ISO 14001 requires:
1. Planned internal audits
2. Periodic management review
Effective audits:
1. Focus on real operational risks
2. Identify improvement opportunities
3. Engage production and facilities teams
Management reviews should:
1. Evaluate performance against objectives
2. Review compliance status
3. Consider resource needs and investments
This formal review process is often where energy consumption and carbon projects gain senior level support.
Common Non-Conformities in Manufacturing Audits
Typical ISO 14001 audit issues in factories include:
1. Outdated aspect – impact registers
2. Poor tracking of legal compliance
3. Weak evidence of continual improvement
4. Objectives that exist on paper but not in practice
Most issues arise from:
1. Static documentation
2. Lack of ownership
3. Insufficient integration with operations
Addressing these weaknesses increases both compliance and commercial benefit.
Available Resources
If you’d like to learn more about ISO 14001, and how it can help you with a documented environmental policy, operational control, energy consumption and carbon reduction, please request a complimentary copy of our factory accreditations and standards guide book – Planet meets Profit.
