The U.S. healthcare industry has only barely noticed ISO or similar internationally recognized EHS management approaches.  Reports are that only a handful of these facilities are accredited to the ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) or the OHSAS 18001 (occupational safety and health) standards.  This is an industry that would benefit greatly from what the rest of us already know — that good environmental, health and safety management systems work, and much better than traditional “catch and release” compliance audits and inspections.

On page 11 of this ASSE Newsletter, (healthbeat-newsletter-20091) there is an excellent article (“An Ever-Changing Environment”) comparing the “management system versus inspection” approach.  The author, who sits on the ASSE Healthcare Practice Speciality Committee, makes a strong case for the use of a reliable EMS.

DNV looks to be the new major player in healthcare accreditation, and already is a big player in the ISO world.  Can they bring the two closer together?  We will see, but the concept is sound and the likely results are positive for all involved, particularly patients who benefit from stronger, more consistent management systems.  Let us know what you think about this.

Dr. Scott Harris is the Senior Risk Manager for IESO, LLC.  His experience covers over 27 years of Environmental, Health and Safety Management in Federal and State government, consulting, general industry and University instruction.  He received his Ph.D. in Environmental Science, with a specialization in Disaster and Emergency Management, from Oklahoma State University, and holds degrees in Geology (B.S.) and Public Health (MPH) from Western Kentucky University.  Before joining IESO, Scott was a Federal On-Scene Coordinator for EPA Region 6 and a member of their Emergency Readiness Team.  He held DOD “Top Secret” and DOE “Q” security clearances, and directed multi-agency emergency response, planning and recovery activities for chemical, biological and radiological releases and exercises within the five-state region.

Last 6 posts by admin

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