In today’s rapidly evolving global marketplace, environmental accountability is more than a regulatory requirement; it is a corporate responsibility and a strategic advantage. The LICQual ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System (EMS) Lead Auditor course stands as a critical qualification for professionals seeking to demonstrate competence in auditing EMS against international standards.
ISO 14001:2015 is the international standard that specifies requirements for an effective Environmental Management System. It provides a framework that an organisation can follow to enhance its environmental performance, meet legal obligations, and achieve sustainability goals.
LICQual is a globally recognised certification body offering accredited professional qualifications. The ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor course by LICQual is designed to equip professionals with the skills required to plan, conduct, report, and follow up an environmental management system audit in accordance with ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021-1 standards.
The LICQual ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor qualification offers a strategic advantage for professionals committed to environmental excellence. It builds essential skills that not only support individual career progression but also contribute to an organisation’s sustainable success.
All About LICQual ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor
Course Overview
The LICQual ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor course is a comprehensive training programme designed to develop the knowledge and practical auditing skills required to assess Environmental Management Systems against the ISO 14001:2015 standard. This internationally recognised qualification equips professionals with the tools and methodologies necessary to lead and conduct both internal and external EMS audits in accordance with ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021-1 guidelines. The course is ideal for environmental professionals, compliance officers, sustainability consultants, and individuals aspiring to become certified third-party auditors.
Through a combination of theoretical instruction, real-world case studies, and hands-on audit simulations, delegates gain a deep understanding of environmental management principles, legal and regulatory frameworks, and best auditing practices. The training not only enhances audit competencies but also supports organisations in achieving continual improvement, legal compliance, and reduced environmental impact. Upon successful completion, participants are awarded the LICQual Certified ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor certificate, validating their ability to lead EMS audits with confidence and integrity.
Study Units
- Introduction to Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and ISO 14001:2015
- Environmental Context and Organizational Requirements
- Planning and Implementing an EMS
- Audit Principles and Methodology
- Conducting Internal and External EMS Audits
- Corrective Actions, Non-Conformities, and Reporting
To ensure participants can fully engage with the course content and meet the expected learning outcomes, the following entry requirements apply:
Minimum Age
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
A minimum of a secondary school education (GCSE level or equivalent) is required. While a higher-level qualification in environmental science, engineering, or a related field is advantageous, it is not mandatory.
Work Experience
It is recommended that participants have some prior experience working within an Environmental Management System (EMS) framework or in a relevant compliance, auditing, or environmental role. This experience will support the practical understanding and application of audit principles.
Language Proficiency
As the course is delivered in English, participants must have a proficient command of the English language, both written and spoken. This is essential for understanding technical content, participating in discussions, and completing assessments effectively.
The LICQual ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor course is ideally suited for professionals who are involved in environmental management, compliance, or auditing roles. It is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to advance their careers in environmental auditing and sustainability.
This course is suitable for:
- Environmental professionals aiming to become certified lead auditors
- Internal auditors responsible for assessing Environmental Management Systems
- Compliance officers and environmental managers seeking to strengthen EMS knowledge
- Consultants providing guidance on ISO 14001:2015 implementation and audits
- Individuals preparing for third-party or certification body auditor roles
- Professionals looking to expand their qualifications in environmental risk and sustainability
This training is designed for both individuals with some prior EMS experience and those aiming to formalise their auditing capabilities in line with international standards.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and ISO 14001:2015
- Understand the purpose, structure, and benefits of an Environmental Management System
- Explain the key principles and requirements of ISO 14001:2015
- Recognise the importance of continual improvement and compliance within EMS frameworks
- Identify the relationship between EMS and other management system standards
Environmental Context and Organisational Requirements
- Analyse how external and internal issues influence EMS planning and performance
- Identify stakeholders and understand their expectations in relation to environmental obligations
- Evaluate the organisation’s compliance obligations and environmental aspects
- Understand leadership responsibilities and the role of top management in EMS
Planning and Implementing an EMS
- Apply the requirements of planning within ISO 14001:2015 including risk-based thinking
- Develop and implement environmental objectives and action plans
- Understand operational control, emergency preparedness, and response mechanisms
- Integrate EMS into business processes for effective implementation
Audit Principles and Methodology
- Understand the principles and purpose of environmental auditing
- Apply audit methodologies in line with ISO 19011
- Plan and prepare audit activities including audit scope, criteria, and objectives
- Recognise the auditor’s responsibilities, ethics, and impartiality
Conducting Internal and External EMS Audits
- Conduct all stages of an audit from opening meeting to audit reporting
- Gather and evaluate audit evidence effectively through interviews, observation, and documentation
- Identify and assess non-conformities against ISO 14001:2015 requirements
- Collaborate effectively with audit teams and auditees during the audit process
Corrective Actions, Non-Conformities, and Reporting
- Accurately document audit findings, including non-conformities and opportunities for improvement
- Evaluate root causes and recommend appropriate corrective actions
- Prepare clear, objective, and concise audit reports in line with ISO guidelines
- Monitor follow-up actions to ensure effectiveness and closure of non-conformities
FAQs LICQual ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor
