Programs and Systems

This chapter discusses the typical purpose and content of an occupational safety and health program, procedures, or plans in contrast to the typical content of an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS). Safety and health programs, procedures, and plans are usually developed in response to regulatory requirements, higher-level company policies, or contractual requirements. These are often prepared as stand-alone documents or requirements, with some reference to other documents to address specific types of issues. In contrast, an OHSMS provides management and workers with a more comprehensive and systematic approach to safety and health management. An OHSMS provides a framework for how different pieces of the organization’s safety requirements (policies, procedures, and processes) fit together. Not all organizations are of a size or type for which the development and implementation of an OHSMS will be necessary or feasible. However, there are cases where the use of an OHSMS can be very appropriate, helpful, and add value. There are consensus standard models for OHSMSs that an organization may choose to use based upon an organization’s needs and opportunities. These include ANSI/ASSP Z10.0 and ISO 45001, both titled Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.