Occupational health and safety is a critical component of responsible business operations. Protecting workers, preventing workplace incidents, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are not just ethical imperatives—they're business necessities. That's why ISO 45001, the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) , was developed to replace the older OHSAS 18001 framework.

For auditors and professionals responsible for assessing and implementing safety systems, this shift demands a thorough understanding of the new standard. ISO 45001 Migration Lead Auditor Training bridges this gap. It is specifically designed to help experienced auditors transition from OHSAS 18001 or other legacy frameworks to the updated ISO 45001:2018 standard, equipping them with the tools needed to lead audits effectively under the new requirements.

In this article, we'll explore what ISO 45001 is, the importance of the migration, what migration lead auditor training involves, and how it enhances both professional capability and organizational compliance.

Understanding ISO 45001: A New Era in Occupational Health and Safety

ISO 45001:2018 is the first international standard developed by ISO for occupational health and safety management. It provides a robust, risk-based framework that helps organizations prevent work-related injury and ill health, and promote safe and healthy workplaces.

Key Features of ISO 45001:

• Aligns with the Annex SL structure for easier integration with other ISO standards like ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management).

• Emphasizes leadership commitment and worker participation .

• Focuses on risk management , not just hazard control.

• Encourages proactive measures rather than reactive responses.

• Requires greater involvement from top management and a focus on organizational context.

Why Migrate from OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001?

1. OHSAS 18001 Has Been Withdrawn

The transition deadline from OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001 has passed (originally set in 2021), and OHSAS 18001 is no longer recognized. Organizations that have not migrated risk of losing certification, non-compliance penalties, or reputational damage.

2. Stronger Integration with Other Standards

ISO 45001 follows the Annex SL high-level structure, allowing better integration with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 27001 systems—ideal for organizations running integrated management systems (IMS).

3. Focus on Organizational Strategy and Worker Involvement

ISO 45001 introduces the idea of ​​incorporating health and safety into the core business strategy and demands active participation from employees at all levels.

What Is ISO 45001 Migration Lead Auditor Training?

ISO 45001 Migration Lead Auditor Training is a specialized course for individuals who are already trained or experienced in auditing OHSAS 18001 or other safety management systems and want to upgrade their knowledge and qualifications to ISO 45001.

This course covers both the technical differences between the two standards and the enhanced skills required to lead audits under the ISO 45001 framework.

Who Should Attend This Training?

This migration course is intended for:

• Existing OHSAS 18001 Lead Auditors

• Internal Auditors and Compliance Officers

• HSE Managers and Safety Consultants

• Management System Implementers

• Third-Party Auditors and Body Certification Personnel

It is especially relevant for those conducting external certification audits or internal audits within ISO-certified organizations.

Objectives of ISO 45001 Migration Lead Auditor Training

Participants will:

• Understand the key differences between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001.

• Learn how to interpret and apply the ISO 45001 requirements .

• Understand how to assess compliance in light of the new high-level structure (Annex SL) .

• Refresh and refine auditing techniques aligned with ISO 19011 and ISO 17021.

• Gain the ability to lead an audit team in planning, executing, reporting, and following up on audits under ISO 45001.

• Learn how to address the context of the organization , risk and opportunity management , and worker consultation .