EMS Primer - Key Elements
This Section has been updated to reflect the required EMS Elements in the ISO 14001-2004 Standard.
The ISO 14001-2004 Standard defines certain required elements that an organization must
conform to; these required elements are discussed in detail in the table below. It is not necessary to
implement these elements in the order presented by the ISO Standard. For suggestions on a systemic and
sequential approach to EMS implementation, see the
Roadmap For Successful Environmental Management System (EMS) Implementation, and
the
Where to Start: Key Decisions for Successful EMS Implementation sections of the EMS Library.
The figure below shows the EMS Continual Improvement Model
with the EMS elements added to the five EMS principles. Even though the EMS elements listed are those of the
ISO 14001-1996 Standard, the figure still illustrates how each basic element of an EMS is related to a
specific principle.
After May 15, 2005, organizations are expected to audit against the 2004 Standard. Your installation
can demonstrate conformity with the ISO 14001-2004 Standard by:
- Making a self-determination and self-declaration, or
- Seeking confirmation of its conformance by parties having an interest in the organization, such as customers, or
- Seeking confirmation of its self-declaration by a party external to the organization, or
- Seeking certification/registration of its environmental management system by an external organization.
Federal facilities are approaching EMS implementation according to their missions and their
agency-specific policies and directives. Using the elements listed below, each federal facility,
military installation, and/or regional complex can structure an EMS that conforms to the ISO 14001
Standard, while addressing its specific activities and practices, budgets, missions, and goals.
TABLE OF ISO 14001-2004 REQUIRED EMS ELEMENTS
What is EMS? | Benefits
| Mandates | P2 and EMS | Standards |
Principles | Key Elements | Gap Analyses |
Success Factors
