OHSAS 18001: 2007 IN THE PRACTICE OF BULGARIAN ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

Using appropriate methods and management tools is a prerequisite for the effective functioning of any organization. Staff are particularly sensitive to the conditions under which they have to work, so employers should ensure compliance with specific rules and procedures, depending on the characteristics of the particular field of activity. In this regard, the implementation and certification of OHSAS 18001 is of great importance as the possession of a certificate can be considered as a guarantee of compliance with the relevant requirements. Therefore, in this paper we aim to present the main features of OHSAS 18001: 2007 currently in force as well as the peculiarities of the standard for a safe and healthy working environment which has been preparing since 2013 by the International Organization for Standardization under the name ISO 45001 Occupational health and safety management systems - Requirements with guidance for use. Currently, ISO 45001 is waiting for its completion and final publication, after which the process of transition from OHSAS 18001: 2007 to ISO 45001 will start, providing three years as a grace period for implementing the new requirements throughout organizations. We are also interested in the extent of the OHSAS 18001 standard dissemination among Bulgarian organizations, which is monitored in the sectorial and regional directions.