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First thing first, be noted in context with integrated management systems, that less is better and small is beautiful. An integrated management system (IMS) combines all the related components of a business into one system for easier management and operations. Quality (QMS), Environmental (EMS), and Health & Safety (OHSAS) management systems are often combined and managed as an IMS. These are not separate systems joined together, rather they are an integrated management system with linkages so that similar processes are seamlessly managed and executed without duplication. IMS components common to all the systems include the resources (people, facilities & equipment, etc.) and processes (documented in the QMS/EMS/OHSAS and applied throughout the organization).
The integrated management systems share many common requirements and the continual improvement goal. They could differ in their approach and degree of prescription, but the ISO 9001, the ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 standards are compatible in content, terminology & many of the requirements. Keneth, If your organization wants to have one comprehensive management systems covering Health & Safety, Environmental, and Quality there are many common requirements which do not need to be repeated. It is often more efficient to combine the three systems (QMS, EMS and OHSAS) into one and sharing the common clauses and procedures. Rather than have parallel (duplicate) Manuals and other documentation we note where the user can just add OHSAS and EMS requirements to the common QMS Manual, procedures and instructions.
Few Advantaged of IMS are:- Consistent objectives, planning, and document management. Implementation and Operation of the system cost less. Easier internal audits. No Redundancies, reducing the chance of conflict.
