The TQM Journal · 2014 · 111 citations · 27 references
ManagementQuality ManagementSustainability ManagementQuality AssuranceQuality EngineeringTotal Quality ManagementQuality Management SystemsQuality ObjectivesQuality StandardsSafety ManagementSafety Management SystemsSafety SystemsAuditsIntegrated Management SystemsIso 14001 AuditsIso 9001 Quality Management SystemsOccupational Health And Safety IntegrationSafety IntegrationSafety Management Systems ImplementationSafety Management Systems Integration
The paper proposes a generic, adaptable Integrated Management System (IMS‑QES) that combines ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 standards. The model was developed and tested in a Portuguese organization with 160 employees, using a survey-based design and a first‑phase implementation to integrate the three management systems. The study achieved an 86 % response rate and demonstrated that the IMS‑QES eliminates system conflicts, optimizes resources, reduces waste and audits, adds business value, and improves supplier partnerships, marking it as one of the first Portuguese empirical investigations of such integration.
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a generic model of Integrated Management System of Quality, Environment and Safety (IMS-QES) that can be adapted and progressively to assimilate various Management Systems, of which highlights: ISO 9001 for Quality; ISO 14001 for Environment; OHSAS 18001 for Occupational Health and Safety. Design/methodology/approach – The model was designed in the real environment of a Portuguese Organization and 160 employees were surveyed. The rate response was equal to 86 percent. The conceived model was implemented in a first phase for the integration of Quality, Environment and Safety Management Systems. Findings – Among the main findings of the survey the paper highlights: the elimination of conflicts between individual systems with resources optimization; creation of added value to the business by eliminating several types of wastes; the integrated management of sustainability components in a global market; the improvement of partnerships with suppliers of goods and services; reducing the number of internal and external audits. Originality/value – This case study is one of the first Portuguese empirical researches about IMS-QES and the paper believes that it can be useful in the creation of a Portuguese guideline for integration, namely the Quality Management Systems; Environmental Management Systems and Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems among others.
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