The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has launched a new institute aimed at certifying workplace health and safety processes.
The ASSP Certification and Accreditation Institute LLC will review a company's policies and prcoedures with a certification mark, which confirms adherence to specific standards, reflects a company’s investment in occupational safety and health management and is expected to provide a competitive advantage in the industry.
“As the market for workplace safety and health systems becomes more global, certifications become more valuable and are more frequently pursued,” said ASSP President Rixio Medina, CSP, CPP, in a statement. “ASSP has led the evolution of workplace safety for more than 100 years, so it makes sense to leverage our experience and create a seal of approval that identifies a strong commitment to safety and health.”
The fee-based program certifies an applying organization based on recognized voluntary national and international consensus standards. Board of directors approved the initiative in April, and the institute launched its web page in August.
The institute is partnering with an accredited third-party registrar, Orion Registrar Inc., to carry out the audits, verify the results of the assessment and issue a certification mark when all requirements are met, according to the ASSP.
“The institute’s certification mark demonstrates an environment built around quality-driven standards that are geared to reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities,” Medina said. “Investors and customers gain confidence in knowing that.”
One of many certifications provided by the institute is on the new ISO 45001 standard published in March. The standard offers a framework that enables companies to increase employee safety, reduce workplace risks and improve business outcomes. The practical solutions for worker safety in ISO 45001 can be used within global supply chains in all industries, applying to contractors and subcontractors in every country.