Integrated management system: towards a new approach and a new model

Abstract

This study will aim to expose the methodological (mobilisation and implementation), structural (coherence and synergy) and economical (control the costs and improvement of performance) difficulties that companies face when adopting one or several standards of management systems required to acquire national or international recognition. Samples of companies were selected for the purpose of the interview, which allowed for a critical analyses of existing models. The research obtained also confirmed the usefulness and scope for the potential development and adoption of a unique and integrated model. The proposed integrated management system collates four aspects and observes the following key standards: quality (ISO 9001), environment (ISO 14001), occupational health and safety (OHSAS 18001) and food safety (ISO 22000). The integration selected is based on a logical conceptual model governed by a simple and coherent form of generic processes, and their requirements to constitute a model adaptable to all types of organisations and sectors.