Environmental Management System ISO 14001 Introduction for Use Manual

Purpose and Use of This Manual

This manual has been developed and organized to assist allinterested organizations in the development of an Environmental Management System (EMS) that is consistent
with the ISO 14001 Standard, achieves Environmental Management System Registration, and improves the overall environmental performance of the organization. Because each organization is different, NCEDR has tried to create a document that is specific enough to givethe tools needed to set up and implement an EMS, but generalenough to allow the flexibility for addressing unique characteristics.
The various sections of the manual describe each element ofthe ISO 14001 standard and provide step-by-step procedures,sample documents or templates, and tips for developing and implementing an Environmental Management System that is appropriate to the organizationand its operations. Please remember that this is a guidance document and not a rigid instruction manual. All of the ISO elements must be addressed in your program and meet the ISO requirements, but you will notice there is much flexibility allowed in meeting the requirements. There are some procedures that should be followed “to the letter”. These procedures should be self evident, but for your convenience, each one of these pertinent procedures will be identified appropriately.

Who Should Read This Manual

Internal Environmental Management System program developers should use this manual. It isdesigned to supply guidance regarding the intent of an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System. The form and procedural contents of the Environmental Management System are very specific, and any attempt to generalize those items would lead to an Environmental Management System that will not effectively “fit” the organization. If the basic form the Environmental Management System should have is questioned, your organization may need support to effectively generate and implement an Environmental Management System. Please utilize this document as tool and a resource in developing your Environmental Management System, but seek expert advice as necessary. The development of an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System is a complex and critical process. 

Organization of this Manual

Most environmental management systems are built on the “Plan, Do, Check, Act” model. In the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Standard, these steps have been expanded to encompass seventeen elements. These seventeen elements are grouped into five phases that are similar to “plan, do, check, act”. The
phases are called Environmental Policy, Planning, Implementation and Operation, Checking and Corrective Action, and Management Review. This manual is organized in the same manner as the ISO 14001 program elements. For each element of ISO 14001 you will find the text of the actual ISO 14001 standard, step-bystep procedures, tips for developing and implementing the Environmental Management System; and sample documents or templates that can be used as is or customized to the organization.
The diagram at left will be used throughout this manual to help you identify the phase being discussed. Look for the highlighted phase at the top of each page.