Implementing an EMS will generate a variety of related environmental records, such as corrective action reports, and audit reports. These records must be kept in an orderly manner to enable the EMS to be audited and reviewed. Records (paper and computer-based) that arise from the EMS implementation include:

• Environmental Training Records
• Environmental Communications File (environmental complaints, requests for the environmental policy)
• Monitoring Data Spreadsheet (noise, emissions, effluent and energy consumption data held on the computer, etc.)
• Environmental Non-conformance Forms (details of incidents, failure to comply with the policy, remediation action taken)
• Audit Report Form (results of internal audits)
• Management Review Minutes

Other records may arise depending on tasks defined in the procedures.

When generating records keep in mind the following:

• Build on quality system documentation and methods
• Keep numbered records to a minimum
• Generate a 'map' of where records are kept and who has responsibility.
• Include the 'map' in the EMS manual
• Records are an 'easy hit' for auditors