Training Your Personnel: Level 4

Appendix 7.24

Environmental policy

A second mandatory requirement appears here: ...Top management shall define the organisation s environmental policy...

Top management means directors and senior managers. The involvement of senior personnel gives the policy some weight and authority, and shows other employees that the company is committed to the requirements of the policy. It also means that the policy document will not be ignored, as employees know they will have to answer to a higher authority. With top management s commitment it will also be easier to get resources allocated for ensuring the policy requirements are met.

The policy must also be relevant to the size and nature of the company, and the impacts it has on the environment. It must state that continuous improvement is one of the company, and that the company will comply with all relevant environmental legislation and any other requirements that it subscribes to. It is important not to forget this last section. Other requirements could include industry codes of practice or non-regulatory guidelines. The policy must also state how and when the company will review the EMS, and the stated objectives and targets. All employees have to be aware of the policy and it has to be publicly available. This means that a copy of the policy must be given to those who request it. This should not be thought of as a burden but as a good marketing opportunity.



HEAT TREATMENT LTD

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

Heat Treatment Ltd is committed to a programme of continuous environmental improvements to reduce the environmental impacts of its operations and activities to a minimum.

Our specific aims are:

To introduce and maintain a comprehensive environmental management system which will form an integral part of the existing company culture of commitment to continuous quality improvement.

To commit to continual improvement of its environmental performance, and to comply fully with all relevant legislation, regulations and other requirements to which the company subscribe.

To minimise the impact of its operations on the environment by means of a programme of continuous improvement. Company environmental performance will be regularly reviewed by Senior Management.

In line with its proactive attitude to staff training and development, it will educate and motivate all employees to behave in an environmentally responsible manner.

It will endeavour to minimise the environmental effects of all processes and to ensure that materials are recycled wherever possible. It will also ensure that energy and water are used responsibly and efficiently by the company.

To prevent pollution in all parts of the company, and to develop and maintain contingency plans where significant environmental hazards exist.

To promote its commitment to environmental responsibility with its clients and suppliers.

A. Smith
Managing Director

Document No.: EP1
Issue No.:1
Date: 19/09/98


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