Carry out an EMS management review
What the management review stage of an environmental management system is and what you should aim to cover
A management review is the final element of the environmental management system (EMS) process. It involves a formal evaluation of the adequacy of your business' EMS - taking into account any new environmental issues, legislation, changing circumstances and continual improvement.
Management review meetings should be attended by individuals with either executive or specialist responsibility, for example:
- the site director
- the management representative
- line managers with specific environmental responsibilities
In these meetings, the management representative should give the results of any recent audits to senior management and present a written report detailing audit findings.
The management review should cover:
- environmental performance and progress in achieving objectives and targets
- compliance with legislation
- results of internal audits and reports
- actions required as a result of non-conformances
- new processes and any changes to known environmental issues
- any changes in circumstances - for example changes in legislation or new technology
- the effectiveness of training
- the need for any revisions to your environmental policy, objectives and targets
- follow-up actions from previous management reviews
- recommendations for improvement
The management review meetings are a vital part of your business' EMS as they show commitment at the highest level - allowing those with authority and specialist knowledge to put forward ideas and solutions to problems. They should be minuted and you must ensure that any agreed actions are carried out.