June 2004
Implementing an Environmental Management System
The article below is an extract from a major article written by Aneeta Patel, Senior Project Manager at Pro Enviro, for LRQA. The full article can be seen on the LRQA website. This element of the article focuses on the importance of training and awareness.
When implementing an EMS, it is important that employees at all levels are aware of their responsibilities. The more involved employees are and the more they understand why the company is implementing an EMS, the easier it will be to implement the system effectively.
Team briefings and the use of an environmental notice board are good methods of communicating that can be used to convey the benefits of environmental management and make employees feel they are participating in the company strategy.
Employees can be trained in various methods depending on their role within the system. Operators will need to know the practical procedures on site, such as how to deal with spillages and where to dispose of waste. Design engineers will need to be aware of alternative materials and production processes. The environmental representative will need to be aware of the management side of the EMS and will need a comprehensive knowledge of the company’s environmental impacts. The environmental team(s) may need to know about energy efficiency and waste minimisation in order to be able to identify opportunities for environmental improvement and cost savings. Senior management will need an overview of the costs and benefits of environmental management.
The environmental representative can spend time training employees, or your consultant or environmental training organisation can assist in holding briefings and presentations throughout the company.
Those personnel chosen to be internal environmental auditors need to be trained specifically in auditing an EMS. It cannot be presumed for example that a quality manager will automatically be able to audit an EMS even though he/she is familiar with the audit process. It is wise to shop around when seeking auditor training – be aware of the credibility of the training provider, and capability of the person who will be training your team.
For more information on training and awareness and our online suite of training support products and materials please contact Aneeta Patel or phone on 024 76 279 004.
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