BS 8555 STEMS (Steps to Environmental Management Systems)

BS 8555 is the phased approach to implementing an Environmental Management System. The standard makes particular reference to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) but is applicable to any organisation, regardless of the nature of the business activity undertaken, location or level of maturity.

It outlines an implementation process that can be undertaken in up to six separate phases and allows for phased acknowledgement of progress towards full EMS implementation. At the end of the six phases, the EMS will be compliant to ISO 14001.
It also includes advice on the integration and use of environmental performance evaluation techniques during the implementation process and the co-ordination of an EMS with other management systems.

BS 8555 will help all organizations improve their environmental performance and their supply chain relationships with the following guidance:

• Describes a six-phase incremental approach to implementing an EMS using environmental performance evaluation
• Provides information to organizations on environmental performance management and the use of environmental performance indicators
• Helps organizations satisfy the environmental criteria increasingly being set in contract tenders by new and existing major clients
• Can be used by organizations who may wish to self-declare or seek voluntary phased recognition throughout the implementation process.

Beyond this, those using the standard can:

• Choose to engage in environmental performance management to the level commensurate with the risks they face
• Identify and maximize the areas of greatest potential return on investment
• Demonstrate to interested parties that progress is being made towards the target level of environmental management

For further information on courses, including dates and costs, please contact 01462 731242 or email enquiries@bqms.co.uk

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