Standards in this area foster preparedness for both natural and human-made disasters, and help ensure accident and fire prevention is built into products and processes. ISO standards assist organizations and communities in reducing risks, implementing robust emergency response and recovery plans, and ensuring swift, coordinated actions during crises. Ultimately, these standards protect lives, property, and the environment.
In my three decades of responding to catastrophic events around the world, I have often observed a curious human tendency to overlook the invisible foundations of our safety. We are meticulous about the visible – the aesthetic finish, convenience and efficiency of our cities – while neglecting the invisible resilience required to keep our societies functioning when disaster strikes.
The next workplace emergency isn’t a question of if but when – and that unassuming emergency exit sign you walk past daily could one day be your lifeline.
Organizations everywhere are under pressure to operate responsibly while staying competitive, and the most effective way to do both is through an environmental management system.