Environmental responsibility is a growing priority for organisations around the world. As sustainability standards continue to evolve, businesses must demonstrate their commitment to environmental management through robust systems and compliance practices. The OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course is designed to prepare professionals to lead environmental audits in accordance with internationally recognised standards. This 40-hour intensive course provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to audit Environmental Management Systems (EMS) effectively and professionally.
ISO 14001:2015 is the internationally accepted standard for Environmental Management Systems. It offers a structured framework for organisations to manage their environmental responsibilities and reduce their ecological footprint. By adopting ISO 14001, businesses demonstrate their commitment to sustainable development, regulatory compliance, and continual environmental improvement. The standard is applicable to organisations of all sizes and industries, making it a key credential for professionals involved in environmental management or auditing.
The OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course is a vital step for professionals aiming to lead environmental audits with confidence and competence. This 40-hour training not only strengthens your understanding of ISO 14001 but also equips you with the auditing skills needed to drive environmental performance and compliance.
All About OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course 40 Hours
Course Overview
The OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course is a comprehensive 40-hour training programme designed to equip environmental professionals with the skills and knowledge required to audit Environmental Management Systems (EMS) in line with ISO 14001:2015. This internationally recognised course provides a thorough understanding of the standard’s requirements, combined with practical auditing techniques that align with ISO 19011:2018 and ISO/IEC 17021-1 guidelines. It is ideal for those looking to conduct internal or external audits, support certification processes, or enhance their organisation’s environmental performance.
Participants will learn how to plan, conduct, report, and follow up on EMS audits effectively and professionally. Through a mix of tutor-led instruction, real-world case studies, and role-play exercises, delegates gain the confidence and competence to assess compliance and drive continual improvement. The course also covers key environmental legislation and risk management strategies, ensuring learners are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to sustainable practices in any sector.
This lead auditor training is suitable for environmental managers, internal auditors, sustainability consultants, compliance officers, and anyone involved in ISO 14001 implementation or certification. On successful completion of the course and final assessment, participants will receive a globally recognised certificate that supports professional advancement and registration with recognised auditing bodies.
Study Units
- Introduction to Environmental Management Systems and ISO 14001:2015 (4 Hours)
- Understanding ISO 14001:2015 Requirements (6 Hours)
- Auditing Principles and Techniques (8 Hours)
- Audit Planning and Preparation (6 Hours)
- Conducting the Audit – On-site Activities (6 Hours)
- Reporting Audit Findings and Non-Conformities (5 Hours)
- Corrective Actions and Follow-Up Audits (5 Hours)
To ensure participants can engage effectively with the training content and achieve successful outcomes, the following entry requirements apply for the OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course:
Minimum Age
Delegates must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
A minimum of secondary education (GCSE level or equivalent) is required. However, a background in environmental science, engineering, sustainability, or a related discipline is advantageous.
Work Experience
While prior auditing experience is not mandatory, it is recommended that participants have a basic understanding of environmental management systems or experience in a relevant operational or compliance role.
Language Proficiency
The course is delivered in English. Participants must have sufficient proficiency in both spoken and written English to follow the course content, participate in discussions, and complete the assessment. An English level equivalent to IELTS 5.5 (CEFR Level B2) is advisable.
The OSHAA ISO 14001:2015 EMS Lead Auditor Course is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and auditing capabilities within environmental management systems. This course is particularly suited for:
- Environmental managers and officers responsible for ISO 14001 implementation and compliance
- Internal auditors looking to expand their skillset to include environmental management systems
- Sustainability consultants advising clients on environmental standards and certification
- Health, safety, and environmental (HSE) professionals involved in integrated management systems
- Compliance and risk management professionals seeking formal EMS audit training
- Individuals pursuing a career as a certified lead auditor for third-party certification bodies
- Quality and integrated systems auditors aiming to broaden their scope to include ISO 14001
- Professionals responsible for supplier audits or environmental performance evaluation
This course is designed for both in-house professionals and independent consultants looking to develop formal auditing competence and support organisations in achieving ISO 14001 certification.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Environmental Management Systems and ISO 14001:2015 (4 Hours)
- Understand the purpose and benefits of implementing an Environmental Management System (EMS)
- Recognise the structure and key components of ISO 14001:2015
- Identify the relationship between ISO 14001 and other international standards
- Gain awareness of the importance of environmental management in achieving sustainability and compliance
Understanding ISO 14001:2015 Requirements (6 Hours)
- Interpret the clauses and requirements of ISO 14001:2015
- Understand the context of the organisation and leadership requirements within the EMS
- Describe how to identify environmental risks, objectives, and compliance obligations
- Explain the planning processes, operational controls, and continual improvement practices in ISO 14001
Auditing Principles and Techniques (8 Hours)
- Apply the principles of auditing as outlined in ISO 19011:2018
- Develop the skills to assess the effectiveness of EMS implementations
- Learn how to collect objective evidence through interviews, observations, and document reviews
- Understand different types of audits, including first, second, and third-party audits
- Cultivate communication and interpersonal skills necessary for conducting effective audits
Audit Planning and Preparation (6 Hours)
- Develop a comprehensive audit plan, including audit scope, objectives, and criteria
- Identify and assess risks associated with audit activities
- Learn how to create audit checklists and prepare for on-site audit activities
- Understand the roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Recognise the importance of audit sampling and resource management
Conducting the Audit – On-site Activities (6 Hours)
- Execute an on-site audit by managing opening meetings, site walkthroughs, and interviews
- Gather objective evidence to assess the conformity of the EMS against ISO 14001:2015 requirements
- Evaluate the implementation of environmental controls and identify areas for improvement
- Manage the audit team effectively and maintain professional conduct during the audit process
Reporting Audit Findings and Non-Conformities (5 Hours)
- Document audit findings clearly and objectively, with appropriate evidence
- Classify and report non-conformities, deviations, and opportunities for improvement
- Prepare audit reports that meet ISO 14001 standards and are clear, concise, and actionable
- Conduct a closing meeting with key stakeholders to communicate audit results and findings
Corrective Actions and Follow-Up Audits (5 Hours)
- Understand the process for recommending and verifying corrective actions in response to audit findings
- Evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions through follow-up audits
- Recognise the role of audits in driving continual improvement in environmental performance
- Maintain audit records and contribute to the integrity of the EMS
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