Integrating Climate Change Considerations into Management System Standards: A Critical Update
In a proactive response to the escalating concerns of climate change, i-LICS is poised to integrate a vital clarification into management system standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, and ISO 22301. This amendment, stemming from the ISO’s Guide 83 Harmonized Structure for Management System Standards (MSS) with guidance for use, issued on February 23, 2024, underscores the imperative to incorporate climate change considerations into organizational strategies.
Understanding the Climate Change Clarification
The clarification introduces adjustments to two crucial clauses:
- Understanding the Organization and Its Context: Organizations are now required to evaluate the relevance of climate change within their operational context.
- Understanding the Needs and Expectations of Interested Parties: An additional note emphasizes that stakeholders may possess climate change-related requirements.
This update is born out of a recognition by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) that, while the foundational aims of clauses 4.1 and 4.2 remain intact, there is a pressing need for organizations to acknowledge and address climate change as a significant external factor impacting management systems.
Auditing the New Requirement
Given that this amendment serves as a clarification, rather than a novel requirement, it will be woven into the auditing processes seamlessly. During forthcoming audits, i-LICS auditors will meticulously examine the organization’s adherence to clauses 4.1 and 4.2, ensuring that climate change considerations are aptly integrated. Non-compliance or inadequate evidence could lead to pertinent findings.
Adapting Your Management System
In anticipation of your next i-LICS certification audit, it is prudent for organizations to revisit and refine their management systems, incorporating these essential climate change considerations. This proactive review ensures not only compliance with the updated standards but also reinforces your organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
It’s crucial to note that while i-LICS provides the framework and certification for compliance, direct consultancy on how to meet these updated requirements falls outside our scope. Organizations are encouraged to seek external expertise for guidance on integrating these climate change considerations into their management systems effectively.
This initiative by i-LICS signifies a pivotal step towards fostering environmentally conscious practices within the translation industry, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. It exemplifies our dedication to promoting sustainability and resilience, ensuring that our certified organizations are not only compliant but also contributors to a more sustainable future.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our auditors, accompanied by a free quotation, without any commitment on your part.
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