Successful implementation of an EMS relies on the workforce being able to implement the changes required.

If staff do not have the right skills and knowledge, changes will not happen.

Managers need to undertake an analysis of training needs to reveal the gaps in peoples abilities to help the company to meets its goals.

Problems with implementation can occur when people in the same organisation do not receive the same message.

Personnel planning environmental improvements can be obstructed by those who appear not to know about the plans.

To avoid this situation, all personnel should be given a consistent message.

Top managements own approach to change can effect EMS implementation.

Some senior managers have less awareness of the impacts of a process than the process operators. These Managers may not want to encourage change because they think it will compromise their authority, even though they know mprovements can be made.

Fear of the unknown and of failure can affect an organisations ability to implement change.

Managers need to encourage staff to make changes happen by giving them the confidence and knowledge they need.