As your company develops and demonstrates increased growth, you may consider expanding abroad for a larger market share. You must then evaluate the procedures for establishing a company in each and every country. Your approach to local regulatory EHS compliance will also need to be taken into account, as the rules and their interpretations could differ from one country to the next.
Create your ideal EHS compliance framework at Group level
Even if you believe you’ve ticked all the correct boxes in terms of EHS compliance, you may be overlooking one important factor: your employees. Even the most advanced PPE won’t keep them safe if they aren’t willing to adhere to the rules consistently. It is vital to have a system in place to ensure that staff understand and then follow work safety regulations.
You must therefore create an EHS compliance framework at group level and ensure it is implemented.
Understand local EHS compliance
Not all EHS compliance regulations will apply to your business specifically. EHS compliance is costly in terms of both time and money, so it is critical to identify applicable regulations, to avoid missing significant requirements, and fully comprehend the applicability of all regulatory obligations.
Partner with international EHS experts
Because regulations are written in legalese with references to other documents, tables, and charts, understanding the requirements can be quite a difficult task. Even the most experienced EHS managers find it difficult to grasp the meaning of the law and its practical implications. Governments frequently produce guidance documents to assist you in understanding the requirements. These documents are important in wrapping your head around the government’s interpretation of its own legislation and how it will be implemented.
It might therefore also be a good idea to partner with an international EHS compliance expert.
Leverage local, in-country expertise
The problem with in-country compliance management is that you’ll have to keep track of modifications, in addition to your regular responsibilities. There are however organisations with which you can collaborate: Global Professional Employer Organisations (PEOs), for example, can help you ensure international compliance.
PEOs know everything there is to know about worldwide EHS compliance standards and issues, so you can avoid risk during your expansion. They ensure that your personnel are compliant during the growth process.
Provide training and reporting guidelines
Appropriate tools, information, and training guidelines must be provided to your employees. By offering technical support, information, training programmes and reporting guidelines, EHS compliance experts can provide the resources needed to maintain a safe learning, living, and working environment.
EHS software makes the job easier
EHS software makes the job easier because it aids in the health and safety of all employees in the workplace… but only if it is used! Modern EHS software can assist in ensuring that your company meets EHS compliance and legal obligations.