IMSM - International Management Systems Marketing

HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK - BS OHSAS 18001

Now businesses can adopt a pro-active approach, by developing their risk assessment and risk management systems to conform to the BS OHSAS 18001 international standard. Information Leaflet

Corporate Manslaughter:

Managers Face Wake-Up Call Over Health
The new Corporate Manslaughter Act, effective from 6th April 2008, deems that “the way in which its activities are managed or organised by its senior management is a substantial element in the breach.”

Managers can no longer afford to ignore health and safety, even down to the company car policy being scrutinised for occupational road risk. Penalties include heavy fines based on turnover, remedial and publicity orders.

The new definition of “Senior Management” is a radical departure from the concept of a “Controlling Mind”, and policies and procedures may need to be adapted or updated as a result.

Health and safety issues can be very costly to businesses in terms of time, money and trouble. For instance, in 2006/07, there were 241 fatal workplace injuries in the UK –while some 30 million working days were lost as a result of work-related illnesses in 2005/06.

So how can a business improve its health and safety performance without the expense outweighing the benefits? One effective solution is BS OHSAS 18001 certification. Developed by some of the world’s leading certification and standards bodies, and compatible with ISO 9001 and ISO 140001 standards, this provides a powerful framework for the development of an effective OHS management system.

By implementing BS OHSAS 18001:2007 through International Standards experts IMSM, businesses can:
• Comply fully with legal and regulatory requirements
• Reduce costly disruption and delays
• Provide an infrastructure for training and communication
• Reduce Insurance premiums
• Demonstrate a positive safety culture
• Quickly prove health and safety compliance

Accidents can happen at any time- with long term consequences, and the new Act is designed to make businesses take health & safety seriously. BS OHSAS 18001 therefore makes excellent commercial sense. Contact the experts, IMSM, now on 01666 826065 or www.imsm.com to find out more.

IMSM Newsletter:

IMSM specialises in helping companies to improve efficiency and gain competitive advantage, through practical and documented management systems, leading to international standard ISO 9001:2000 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environment). Achieving these standards opens doors to more valuable customers and improves efficiency.

As each company is different, fees are dependent on the type, size and turnover of your organisation.

Leaner and Fitter - ISO 14001 & 9001

Plastics businesses face a whole new set of challenges over the next few years, especially as a result of supply chain pressure from larger organisations, according to International Standards experts IMSM, who have recently exhibited at PDM.

“It’s not just about delivering innovative products or services at the right price- the businesses that will be winners are also

concentrating on quality management and environmental responsibilities,” declares IMSM’s Managing Director, Michael Bright.

He continues, “Contracts between the more specialised supplier and their larger corporate customers are always negotiated on price – it’s an important factor but it’s not the only one. These days more and more manufacturers are investing in improvements to their internal management systems to ensure that they are meeting changing demands for ‘lean’ production. And that can cover quality and green issues ranging from sustainability and recyclability, through to logistics, production and energy efficiencies. These important factors are also being taken into account when the buying decision is made.”

Obtaining ISO certification, in terms of quality management systems (ISO9001) and environmental management systems (ISO 14001), provides an assurance that a business is working hard to improve its operations in a well-planned and sensible framework. These improvements can also save hard cash and strengthen the bottom line - giving the operator an extra competitive edge that can make the difference in winning that all important key contract.

IMSM provides structured quality and environmental management support, so that businesses can put in place sensible management procedures based on the internationally recognized ISO standards. IMSM also makes sure that the appropriate management systems are introduced simply and effectively – all at an agreed fixed price.

“By being able to demonstrate through the externally audited quality and environmental standards that they have put in place plans, communications, and systems, our clients find that they save a lot of time when tendering for contracts, as well as the direct benefits of improving the way they do things. They tell us that they can now win more business, from more valuable long term customers, as a result” added Michael Bright.

Developing business and saving the planet - ISO 14001

“The environment has no borders, so we all need to show that we are acting responsibly for the future of the planet,” says International Standards experts IMSM’s Michael Bright.

Effective environmental management is becoming ever more critical to business success, and the plastics sector is both highlighted, and misunderstood.

Taking environmental responsibilities seriously can contribute to a positive reputation, improved business efficiencies and better financial performance, especially through more effective use of materials and energy. It is apparent that the combination of business benefits coupled to ever-more stringent legislation, both at home and overseas, is driving subcontracting businesses to take their environmental responsibilities very seriously – and this is contributing to a more sustainable approach in the commercial world.

Michael Bright continued, “In the global economy, many manufacturers are sourcing products and parts from around the world, which is also their new marketplace. It is no longer possible to ignore the emerging economies of China and India, the impact of technologies that allow faster communication and world wide networks, or the increasing strength and demands of the customer, wherever they are located. With more than 10 years’ experience of helping businesses achieve ISO standards, we are finding, both at home and in export markets, that these standards provide an effective mechanism for developing business”.

“As supply chains become more complex and fragmented, businesses need to have a documented system of operating procedures, such as ISO9001 (Quality Management) and ISO14001 (Environmental Management). This tells customers that a business has documented what they do, follows that set of procedures, reviews them regularly, and can prove it by external auditing. It is one way to demonstrate efficiency, and build up trust with customers, wherever in the world they are.”

A well conceived, Environmental Management System (EMS) can provide an integrated approach to managing environmental performance and meet environmental regulations. ISO Certification recognises a commitment to environmental standards. Add to this the benefits of a host of energy and other incidental savings that come as a direct result of a sensible EMS, and ISO certification provides a very persuasive package.

“For large organisations it is, perhaps, easier to adopt environmental standards, like those set out in ISO 14001. However, most of the businesses we deal with need expertise which provides the benefits at an affordable price, with the minimum of disruption, and within an agreed time period” he continued. “We are seeing increasing pressure as national legislation is tightened. For example, minimum recycling targets for packaging waste are being raised, and the recovery target for packaging waste is also under review.”

It is just this combination of environmental expertise, ISO knowledge and both UK and overseas experience that can really deliver total environmental control and compliance for smaller companies. The introduction of a structured approach also contributes to a more efficient business, and IMSM clients have been able to meet stringent environmental standards, as well as improve their bottom line.

As a recent customer noted, “ISO 14001 brings us a distinct competitive advantage. We are a small business with a vision of continued and sustainable growth. We want to be viewed by our customers and our own suppliers as different, and as a company that can help deliver service excellence and deliver value.”

Food safety- in everyone’s interests - ISO 22000

In the UK today, there had never been such intense scrutiny of the food we eat, where it came from, how it got there, how it was packaged, prepared, cooked and presented. Everyone wants to know- the whole supply chain, the press, and especially the consumer.

Concerns for food safety, and increasingly food security, have resulted in legal action on a scale not previously seen. Recent headlines have reported tough prison sentences for directors and massive fines for businesses, both of which can, directly or indirectly, affect the whole food chain.

The cost of rectifying the processes as a result of such cases can run into millions, while the loss of the production facility, or the reputation of the supplier, is harder to quantify. Every business, large or small, can be affected, whether local produce or sourced from around the world, through the processing and packaging, to final cooking and presentation.

Roderick Hogarth from International Standards experts, IMSM, explains. “It’s not as if the industry is completely unregulated- on the contrary, there are many different regulations and controls which aim to provide a framework to help the industry comply and ensure safety throughout the process. However, one of these, the international standard on food safety, ISO 22000:2005, is intended to define the requirements for companies that want to go further.”

Based on the universally recognized ISO standards, including ISO9001 (Quality Management Systems), this standard brings together the acknowledged key elements of food safety throughout the food chain. These include putting in place interactive communications, management of systems and processes, control of food safety hazards through pre-requisite programmes and HACCP plans, and continual improvement and updating of the management system. Where a business already holds ISO9001, processes are in place which can be readily integrated with ISO22000:2005.

Roderick Hogarth continues, “Wherever your business is in the global food chain, certifying to the requirements of ISO 22000 brings quantifiable benefits. Customers and suppliers, whether wholesale or retail, all recognize that holding the standard means your business has been externally audited to an international standard, and complies with the Codex HACCP principles. By a pro-active approach, planning each set of processes carefully, and ensuring they are fully documented and regularly communicated to staff, you can set up the right systems. A good assessor will have experience in the food sector, and help anticipate problems before they arise, then work with you to find the best solutions. “

As a global standard, ISO22000 provides marketing opportunities in both developed and emerging markets, and proof that your organisation is serious about food safety. Process efficiencies can lead to real cost savings, while documentation is improved, and helps with training staff. Achieving ISO22000 doesn’t need to be disruptive, either, and it can save time when completing supplier questionnaires- they know that your business works to a recognised and sustained standard.

With scores of different schemes in various countries worldwide relating to food safety and the supply chain, each providing for various levels of checks, balances and procedures, ISO22000 helps make it easier for organisations to implement a practical, management driven system for food hygiene in a harmonised way.

When the Time Comes To Sell - ISO 9001

When a business wants to sell, the largest influence on the price achieved is the fundamental economic law of supply & demand. Generally, people do not buy a business for what it is; they will buy for what the business does for them - earn them enough money to repay their investment, provide them with a lifestyle, and build for the future. EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) is an accountancy term that represents the sustainable cash profits of the business, assuming nil borrowing costs.

The decision to sell is always complex: timing is essential; there may be family or succession factors to consider, while emotional ties can prompt an over-valuation. For many employers, there is a strong feeling of loyalty to staff, and a desire to see them help the new owner, and work together for a rewarding future. “Work-out periods” are common, and need to be valued and planned. So any action that can be taken in advance to help the process go smoothly, retain customers, and support the key skills within the organization, needs to be put in place at the earliest opportunity.

In the global economy of the 21st century, businesses need to consider not only investors from the UK, but also from overseas, particularly in Europe, the USA, the Far East, and the Indian sub-continent. Many expanding corporations are looking for a foothold in the UK, as well as acquiring British management and marketing knowledge.

Being able to demonstrate financial strength, working with a skilled and experienced team, identified Unique Selling Points (USPs), and holding a sound customer base are all recognized critical success factors. Conforming to recognized international standards, such as ISO (International Standards Organization) can add significant value, and demonstrate confidence and efficiency in systems and processes.

Two such standards are ISO9001 (quality) and ISO14001 (environment). When a company holds ISO 9001, it is telling its customers, prospects and suppliers worldwide that it has a logical and documented management system. Good quality systems improve efficiency and open up market opportunities.

ISO 14001 is an international standard that recognizes the actions of responsible businesses in management and control of their environment. ISO 14001 leads to lower distribution costs, reduced waste, and identifies savings in energy and materials.

“Achieving ISO standards adds value by differentiating from the competition, improving efficiency and attracting new clients. A set of manuals, detailing the process from beginning to end, and a carefully thought out environmental policy, with action stages, can increase the valuation. However, many businesses feel that conforming to these standards is time consuming and costly, and therefore are reluctant to proceed. Using a supplier who will simplify the process, by providing a fixed fee, fixed timescale, integrated solution, with qualified assessors who have specialist industry experience, can really save a lot of headaches,” notes IMSM’s Managing Director, Michael Bright.

When a business goes through the process of becoming ISO9001:2000 Certified, it takes an objective look at its systems and processes, then streamlines and documents them. The manuals add value to both the company and the staff, which will better understand how the organization works. Certification is an added bonus, helping a company to work with more valuable customers, and get onto many preferred supplier lists.

ISO 14001 looks at current practices in an Environmental Audit, and then helps the company develop an Environmental Policy and action plan. Simple elements include using natural light to reduce the need for artificial light, recycling or reducing the usage of photocopier paper, and reviewing packaging requirements.

“The environment has no borders, so we all need to show that we are acting responsibly for the future of the planet.” he continues. “We are seeing increasing pressure as national legislation is tightened. For example, minimum recycling targets for all types of waste are being raised, and the recovery target for packaging waste is also under review. It is just this combination of environmental expertise, ISO knowledge and both UK and overseas experience that can really deliver total environmental control and compliance for smaller companies."

Ultimately, any business is only worth what you can get for it, at the time you sell it. A mathematical calculation of value is simply an indication of potential worth, used during the negotiation process. By careful planning, and implementing internationally recognized standards, a company can attract more buyers, locally, domestically and internationally. Holding ISO standards gives both buyers and sellers increased confidence, while customers can be assured of a continuation of the relationship, with “business as usual”.

EFQM award for IMSM

BSN member IMSM has been awarded the “Committed to Excellence” standard from EFQM, for a further 2 years. This follows an in-depth programme developed and implemented by the EFQM working party, comprising representatives from sales, marketing, operations, finance, call centre, and administration. Building on previous achievements, it targeted sales and exhibitions, the call centre, and improving the procedures to validate re-issue of certificates.

The Wiltshire based business, which operates in more than 10 countries, had grown organically, and some processes were less effective as a result. The EFQM approach involved taking an objective look at how things were done, and getting input from all parts of the business on how they could be improved. Benchmarks were agreed at the outset, and targets set, so that changes could be measured and quantified.

“We wanted to improve on all 3 areas, and thanks to everyone’s willingness to help us increase efficiency and be more accountable, we succeeded. The benefits are now part of our culture. We identified procedures to ensure jobs are done on time, using the technology we already had, but more effectively. We have increased communications between sites, and with our external sales teams. Everyone knows what part they play, and the impact on other people in the organisation. It was a very inclusive process” commented Michael Bright, Managing Director. “With these procedures in place, we have a program for continuing improvements. Based on the results so far, it will bring real benefits in increased sales and cost-savings.”

How IMSM Will Benefit Companies in the Plastics Industry?

Our Qualified Assessors will:

Examine your company's key activities in relation to your clients' quality requirements
Help you to establish a programme to deal with any areas that do not comply
Produce Quality and Procedures Manuals based on your business systems
Help your staff understand and implement quality controls on those systems
Conduct a training programme with your staff
Conduct an audit of your quality systems to monitor conformance
Once confirmed that your systems conform to the relevant standard, your company can obtain certification through QAS or another certification body.

Our fully committed team of more than 50 qualified, specialist assessors has already helped some 6,500 businesses achieve ISO 9001 and other standards.

IMSM keeps abreast of the latest ISO developments, as a Key Member of the British Quality Foundation (BQF).

Call now for a no obligation explanatory meeting and see how we can help you achieve the standard, with an exclusive discount for BPF members.

Call 01666 826 065 Or contact: sales@imsm.com - www.imsm.com

Adding value to your business
Our Business Managers will quote you a Fixed Fee, so that you can control your costs accurately. With your help, we can lead you to Certification within 60-90 days, so that you can reap the benefits of ISO9000:2000 or ISO14000 more quickly.

Ongoing Costs
Both ISO 9000: 2000 and ISO14000 Certification are valid for 3 years, subject to satisfactory annual surveillance visits by QAS.
For a firm quotation contact us

Training
IMSM run a suite of Quality and Environmental Systems Training Courses:

ISO9001:2000 requires that only trained personnel can verify a company's quality procedures. Now you can book the following FIXED COST TRAINING courses to run when and where it suits your business.

ISO 9001:2000 Internal Auditing
ISO9001:2000 Upgrade
ISO14001 Environmental Management
ISO9000:2000 Changes to Standard

You can send a maximum of 10 delegates, which ensures you always have cover in your organisation. You decide the dates and venue. We provide an experienced trainer, with more than 20 years' experience of management in a variety of industries, from manufacturing to services.

Contact Details:
IMSM Limited
The Gig House
Oxford Street
Malmesbury
Wiltshire,
SN16 9AX

Tel: +44 (0)1666 826065
Fax: +44 (0)1666 826050
E-Mail: sales@imsm.com
Website: www.imsm.com

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