The transition from OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001:2018 has been one of the most significant changes in occupational health and safety management system certification in recent years. While the formal transition deadline has passed, a number of organisations across the UAE and the wider Gulf region are still in the process of completing their transition — and some remain on legacy OHSAS 18001 certificates that are no longer valid with accredited certification bodies.
What Happened to OHSAS 18001?
OHSAS 18001 was the de facto international standard for occupational health and safety management systems for nearly two decades. In March 2018, ISO published ISO 45001:2018 as its official replacement. Following a three-year transition period, OHSAS 18001 certificates were officially withdrawn by accredited certification bodies in March 2021.
Any organisation claiming to hold a valid OHSAS 18001 certificate after March 2021 does not hold an accredited certificate. Procurement teams and HSE regulators should be aware that such certificates no longer carry any formal recognition.
Key Differences Between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001
ISO 45001 represents a significant evolution from OHSAS 18001, not merely an update. Key differences include:
- High Level Structure (HLS) alignment enabling easier integration with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001
- Greater emphasis on the context of the organisation and the needs of interested parties
- Stronger focus on worker participation and consultation at all levels
- Explicit requirements for leadership commitment at the top management level
- Proactive risk-based approach rather than solely reactive hazard identification
- Broader scope encompassing supply chain and contractor OH&S management
How QRS Can Help Your Transition
QRS has supported hundreds of organisations through the OHSAS 18001 to ISO 45001 transition. Our transition audit programme begins with a gap analysis to identify where your existing management system already meets ISO 45001 requirements and where development work is needed. This targeted approach minimises disruption to your operations while ensuring you achieve certification efficiently.
For organisations that have not yet transitioned, there is no time to lose. Regulatory bodies, major clients, and tender requirements across the Gulf increasingly specify ISO 45001 certification specifically. Contact the QRS team today to discuss a fast-track transition programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I still use my OHSAS 18001 certificate? — No. Accredited OHSAS 18001 certificates were withdrawn in March 2021 and are no longer valid.
- How long does the ISO 45001 transition audit take? — Typically 1–2 audit days depending on the size and complexity of your organisation.
- Will I need to rewrite all my documentation? — Not necessarily. Much of your existing OHSAS 18001 documentation can be adapted rather than replaced.
- Can QRS certify us to ISO 45001 quickly? — Yes. For organisations with a mature OH&S management system, transition can often be completed within 4–6 weeks.