What is BS EN 62013-4:2018?

BS EN 62013-4:2018, also known as "Product Safety Assessment - Part 4: Guidelines for the independent third party certification and auditing of environmental management systems," is a technical standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). It provides guidelines for the evaluation and certification of environmental management systems in compliance with ISO 14001:2015. These guidelines are aimed at organizations seeking to implement effective environmental management systems and demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Scope and Objective

The primary aim of BS EN 62013-4:2018 is to provide a framework for the assessment and certification of environmental management systems. The standard outlines the requirements for establishments such as certification bodies, auditors, and organizations seeking certification. It incorporates various aspects of environmental management, including guidance on establishing policies, setting objectives, implementing action plans, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement.

The Benefits of Certification

Obtaining certification in accordance with BS EN 62013-4:2018 brings several benefits to the certified organization. Firstly, it enhances the organization's reputation by demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship. It also allows organizations to adhere to legal and regulatory requirements related to environmental conservation. Furthermore, certification can lead to increased operational efficiency and cost savings through improved resource utilization, waste reduction, and energy conservation. Finally, certification facilitates access to new markets, as many customers and stakeholders consider it an important criterion when selecting business partners.

The Certification Process

The certification process involves several steps, starting with the establishment of an environmental management system compliant with ISO 14001:2015. After this, an organization may engage with an accredited certification body that operates in accordance with BS EN 62013-4:2018. The certification body will review the organization's environmental management system through audits and assessments to ensure compliance with the standard's requirements. Once all obligations are met, the certification body will issue a certificate of compliance, which is typically valid for three years. Periodic surveillance audits are conducted during this period to verify ongoing compliance.