In this episode of Lead The Standard, Kelly Taylor and Jackie Stapleton discuss the challenges and best practices for auditing ISO 14001:2015. Using a plumbing analogy to simplify concepts, they provide insights on where to start, what questions to ask, and how to make sense of the environmental management system (EMS) standard in a real business context. Emphasizing a conversational approach over formal interrogation, they walk through five key areas: context, environmental aspects, compliance, operations, and performance evaluation. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the importance of curiosity and practical understanding to generate the best audit outcomes.
Notable timestamps:
• 00:00 Introduction to EMS Audits
• 00:25 Meet the Hosts and Episode Setup
• 00:39 Addressing Technical Issues and Episode Delay
• 01:42 Overcoming the Overwhelm of ISO 14001 Audits
• 03:31 The Plumbing Analogy for EMS Audits
• 07:25 Introducing the EMS Flow Check Model
• 10:18 Key Areas of the EMS Flow Check: Context
• 14:34 Key Areas of the EMS Flow Check: Environmental Aspects
• 20:39 Key Areas of the EMS Flow Check: Compliance
• 21:41 Understanding Legal and Other Requirements
• 22:16 Tracking and Reviewing Compliance
• 22:38 The Water Filter Analogy
• 23:52 Softening the Conversation
• 24:53 Key Areas in EMS Flow Check
• 25:41 Operations: Implementing Strategies
• 30:16 Performance Evaluation: Turning the Tap
• 35:31 Recap and Final Thoughts
• 40:34 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview
Links we promised:
• LTS Newsletter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/auditing-iso-140012015-where-start-what-ask-auditor-training-online-uhxac
• Jackie Stapletons LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiestapleton/
• Kelly Taylors LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellytaylor-au/
• Check out this episode LTS 2015.14 “Get Clause 6.1.2 Environmental Aspects Right or Nothing Else Works – ISO 14001:2015: https://open.spotify.com/episode/22sJGwFfEIJyaz2QQqBV45?si=Ex1yUqsnRoqagzpfqgRung
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for guidance purposes only. This episode is based on ISO 14001:2015, information relating to clause names and numbers was correct at the time of recording and publication. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the recommendations given should be considered as suggestions rather than definitive advice. Auditor Training Online (ATOL) cannot be held responsible for any decisions made based on this guidance. Always consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to your business circumstances.
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