Navigating ISO 14001 Requirements for Coated Fabrics and Benefits of Compliance
International Standards, Production, SustainabilityApr 12, 2023In today’s world, businesses are under increasing pressure to take responsibility for their impact on the environment. One effective way that manufacturers can meet this challenge is by complying with the ISO 14001 requirements. This international standard provides comprehensive guidelines for environmental management systems, and while it is not mandatory, many manufacturers choose to comply with it voluntarily. Why? The advantages of ISO 14001 compliance are numerous and far-reaching, ranging from improved environmental performance to cost savings and increased stakeholder trust. But what does it take for a manufacturer to meet the ISO 14001 requirements?
In this blog post, we will explore the critical role that manufacturers can play in promoting environmental sustainability by complying with ISO 14001, what the requirements of the standard entail, and what manufacturers must do to meet them, specifically in the context of products that use coated fabrics.
ISO 14001 Requirements in a Nutshell
Complying with the ISO 14001 standard requires manufacturers to take a comprehensive approach to environmental management. While the specifics of ISO 14001 compliance can vary depending on the industry and the individual organization, there are some key ISO 14001 requirements that all manufacturers must meet. In this section, we’ll provide a brief overview of the ISO 14001 requirements, so you can understand what it takes to achieve this important certification. Whether you’re just starting your journey towards compliance or you’re looking for ways Co improve your existing environmental management system, this list of requirements will provide a brief overview:
- Efficient and effective execution of the processes at a professional level, striving for excellence and continuous improvement.
- Full coordination to the customer’s requirements according to sales specifications and his satisfaction in receiving the final product. Performing services and selling products in an optimal and reliable manner while providing efficient and quality service.
- To constantly reduce and prevent the risks, hazards, and pollution to natural resources, the environment, and the community, for the mutual benefit of all involved.
- Compliance with applicable laws, orders, and regulations for the protection of the environment and the safety of all employees and subcontractors.
- Collaborate with the company’s customers and suppliers to help them improve the impact of their business activities on the environment especially at the interface points with the company’s activities.
- Develop services and processes that will enable the reduction of the consumption of consumable resources and raw materials that have an impact on the environment and strive to eliminate dangerous impacts on the environment as a result of the Company’s activities.
- Act to increase awareness of the need for protection and improvement of the environment.
- Work with the community for protection, to improve the environment.
- Conducting management surveys and setting annual goals for improving the integrated quality system, its suitability, and efficiency.
- Ensuring the availability of necessary resources for the management and control of the quality system and the training of the human resource.
- Continuous improvement in all company systems and the development of products and services.
- A good system for managing the environment both in business development and streamlining savings.
The process for Erez in obtaining this certification
Erez has been in the thermoplastic technical textile market for many years and remains committed to providing the best quality materials to its customers. From the start, Erez’s standards have been extremely strict and that helped it during the certification process.
There were little to no major challenges for Erez from a quality or sustainability standpoint. All Erez had to do was to revamp the existing processes and bring them in line with the requirements of ISO 14001 standards. To do that, Erez enlisted the services of an external consultant specializing in the ISO 14001 standards to seamlessly navigate through the requirements.
The consultant accompanied Erez from the beginning and helped prepare the plant. It all started with an in-depth understanding of the environmental issues that stem from the ongoing processes. After a thorough understanding, the next step was to create strict work procedures and SOPs that minimize the identified issues and are in accordance with international standards.
It’s never enough to simply come up with new rules and procedures and expect a difference. Erez also took the necessary steps to embed all these processes within the organization. All employees were given the necessary training for quality and sustainability to become second nature for the organization.
Finally, the process for Erez doesn’t just stop here. The Erez team consistently aims towards optimizing its processes and saving resources. From production to waste treatment and logistics, Erez is continually improving all aspects of its operations to create the perfect balance between profitability and sustainability.
The Benefits of Choosing ISO 14001 Compliant Suppliers
The whole world is moving towards sustainable technologies and processes because of increased awareness among both customers and businesses.
For businesses, sustainability is a question of moral and ethical responsibilities and meeting the expectations of their customers. Moreover, many governments and agencies, especially in the developed world, have also created new regulations and processes to ensure minimum damage to the environment.
Choosing suppliers that comply with the ISO 14001 standard can have numerous benefits for manufacturers. By working with suppliers that prioritize environmental management and sustainability, manufacturers can reduce their own environmental impact and improve their brand image. Here are just a few of the ways that working with ISO 14001 compliant suppliers can benefit manufacturers:
- Improved environmental performance
When manufacturers work with suppliers that comply with ISO 14001, they can be confident that their suppliers are committed to reducing their environmental impact. This can help manufacturers achieve their own sustainability goals and improve their environmental performance.
- Reduced risk
Working with ISO 14001 compliant suppliers can help manufacturers reduce their risk of environmental incidents and regulatory non-compliance. By ensuring that their suppliers are following best practices for environmental management, manufacturers can minimize the risk of costly fines and legal action.
- Enhanced reputation
Consumers and stakeholders are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of businesses, and many are actively seeking out environmentally responsible companies. By working with ISO 14001 compliant suppliers, manufacturers can enhance their reputation and attract customers who value sustainability.
- Cost savings
ISO 14001 compliance often involves identifying opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency, which can ultimately result in cost savings for both the supplier and the manufacturer. By working with suppliers that are committed to sustainability, manufacturers can benefit from these cost savings as well.
Choosing suppliers that comply with the ISO 14001 standard can have numerous benefits for manufacturers. By prioritizing environmental management and sustainability throughout their supply chain, manufacturers can reduce their environmental impact, improve their reputation, and achieve their sustainability goals.
Erez Thermoplastics – Your Go To ISO 14001 Compliant Supplier
At Erez, we know that our customers demand the highest quality products and services, and that’s why we’re committed to delivering unparalleled value. We’re proud to be a leader in the thermoplastic market, and we believe that our focus on innovation, sustainability, and ISO 14001 compliance sets us apart from the competition. By continuously optimizing our processes, maintaining strict quality standards, and prioritizing sustainability at every turn, we’re able to deliver products that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. Our commitment to quality and sustainability has allowed us to maintain our ISO 14001 compliance for the second year in a row, a testament to our unwavering dedication to excellence. Whether you’re in need of technical textiles for industrial, agricultural, or commercial use, you can trust Erez to deliver the value you need to succeed.
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