Picking the right 18001 course for you

There are a number of OHSAS 18001 training courses on offer ranging from a single day in duration to five full days. But how can you tell, which is going to be the best course for you to invest in? Read on for the low down on what the courses are designed to do, so you can make an informed decision on your OHSAS 18001 training. 

One and two day OHSAS 18001 training courses 

One or two day courses, are usually either introductions to the 18001 system or internal auditor courses. The introductory courses, provide basic information for those just starting to work with the system. Topics covered include the benefits of the system, why it is needed, an overview of the 18001:2007 framework, what the system requires of businesses, an introduction to the documents involved in 18001 and a brief overview of the certification process. 

Internal auditor courses, are designed to foster the confidence in the delegate so they can complete a audit of their own workplace in line with the 18001 system. The content of an internal auditor course covers planning for, performing and reporting on an audit, a working definition of auditing, how people skills are important in auditing, the requirements of 18001 and how to plan an effective audit. 

Five day OHSAS 18001 training courses 

The five day courses are designed for those candidates that wish to become lead auditors. There are several reasons why, delegates may choose to become lead auditors. The first is that they may wish to head an internal team and could benefit from the additional informational and experience. The second is that they may wish to audit their subcontractors, where again this additional skill is useful. The third reason is that they may wish to become accredited as an IRCA OHS MS auditor and this course will assist them in that goal, although additional requirements will apply to receive accreditation. The lead auditor course is assessed by an exam at the end of the course and it covers in detail, the following aspects: 

• OHSAS standards 

• Relevant legislation 

• Codes of practice

• Hazard and risk assessment

• Planning an audit 

• Using checklists

• Interviewing

• Evaluating information 

• Non conformance procedures

• After the audit - corrections and follow ups

• Accreditation and certification information

Three day OHSAS 18001 training courses 

The other OHSAS 18001 option is the three day course. The aim of this course is to provide an express option for those candidates that already have some experience as an internal auditor to become lead auditors. Less frequent that the one or five day courses, these conversion courses specifically rely on the delegates previous’ experience of the OHSAS system and are designed to build on this. 

Such courses cover writing effective corrective actions, integrated process based auditing, plan, prepare and perform auditing steps, the right questions to ask in an audit and using OHSAS to improve you businesses performance. 

Make sure whichever course you pick, you first consider you experience with the 18001 regulations and which role you need to complete, then you can be sure of picking the right course for you.