ISO 45001 gap analysis
An ISO 45001 gap analysis shows how your occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system compares with the standard, with special attention to worker consultation and participation, which auditors check closely.
01What ISO 45001 covers
ISO 45001:2018 sets requirements for preventing work-related injury and ill health and providing safe and healthy workplaces. Beyond hazard identification and risk control, it requires leadership commitment, consultation and participation of workers, legal compliance, incident investigation and continual improvement. A 2024 amendment asks organisations to consider whether climate change is a relevant issue.
02How to run the gap analysis
- Define the scope and the workers it covers, including contractors.
- Review hazard identification and risk assessment for routine and non-routine work.
- Check how workers are consulted and how they participate (clause 5.4).
- Rate each clause with evidence.
- Turn gaps into actions with owners and dates.
03Common gaps
- 5.4: consultation exists informally but isn’t recorded.
- 6.1.2: hazards for non-routine work and contractors missed.
- 8.1.4: procurement and contractor controls weak.
- 10.2: incidents investigated without root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Does ISO 45001 replace OHSAS 18001?
Yes. OHSAS 18001 was withdrawn; ISO 45001 is the current standard.
Is worker participation mandatory?
Yes. Clause 5.4 requires consultation and participation of non-managerial workers.