What is BS8555?

BS 8555 is a British standard that provides guidelines for phased implementation of an environmental management system (EMS). It is designed to assist organizations, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in implementing environmental management practices in a structured and manageable manner. BS 8555 consists of six phases, each focusing on different aspects of EMS implementation, from initial commitment and establishing environmental policy to monitoring performance and achieving continual improvement. By following the phased approach outlined in BS 8555, organizations can systematically develop and integrate environmental management practices into their operations, leading to improved environmental performance and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Why should you use this standard?

It provides guidance on the phased implementation of an EMS allowing organizations to implement and maintain an EMS via a staged approach. Users have the option to stop at any stage or to continue and attain a level suitable for ISO 14001 certification.

It includes advice on the integration and use of environmental performance evaluation (EPE) techniques during the implementation process and on coordinating an EMS with other management systems, where appropriate.

Guidance for Companies

BS 8555 provides guidance for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in implementing environmental management systems (EMS) in a phased and manageable manner. The standard offers a structured approach to EMS implementation, consisting of six phases:

Phase 1: Initial Review and CommitmentIn this phase, organizations assess their current environmental performance, establish environmental objectives, and commit to implementing an EMS.

Phase 2: Legal and Other RequirementsOrganizations identify and understand relevant legal and regulatory requirements, as well as other obligations related to environmental performance.

Phase 3: Policy and PlanningOrganizations develop an environmental policy and associated action plans to address identified environmental aspects and impacts.

Phase 4: Implementation and OperationOrganizations implement their environmental management plans, including the allocation of resources, training of personnel, and establishment of communication processes.

Phase 5: Checking and Corrective ActionOrganizations monitor and measure their environmental performance, conduct internal audits, and take corrective actions to address non-conformities and improve performance.

Phase 6: Management ReviewOrganizations review the effectiveness of their EMS, evaluate progress towards environmental objectives, and identify opportunities for improvement.

Resources

Environmental management systems phased implementation guide