ISO 14001 is a standard that provides a framework for Environmental Management System (EMS). An EMS is a management approach that enables an organization to identify, manage, monitor, and control its environmental impact. ISO 14001 certification is a process by which an organization's EMS is audited by an independent third-party to verify that it meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.
The certification process typically involves the following steps:
Gap analysis: The organization conducts a review of its existing environmental management practices to identify any gaps between its current practices and the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.
Implementation: The organization develops and implements an EMS that meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.
Internal audit: The organization conducts an internal audit of its EMS to ensure that it is functioning effectively and meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.
Certification audit: An independent third-party auditor conducts a certification audit of the organization's EMS to verify that it meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.
Certification: If the organization's EMS meets the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard, it is awarded ISO 14001 certification.
ISO 14001 certification is valid for three years, after which the organization must undergo a recertification audit to maintain its certification.