ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems. Published in 2018, it replaced the earlier OHSAS 18001 standard and provides a framework for organisations to proactively improve worker safety, reduce workplace risks, and create safer working conditions.
Core Principles of ISO 45001
The standard is built on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle and emphasises leadership commitment, worker participation, hazard identification, risk assessment, and continual improvement. It requires top management to take direct responsibility for the health and safety management system and ensure that adequate resources — including PPE — are provided.
PPE Within the ISO 45001 Framework
ISO 45001 positions PPE at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls — it is the last resort when engineering controls, substitution, and administrative controls cannot adequately manage a risk. However, this does not diminish its importance. The standard requires organisations to document their PPE selection process, demonstrate that PPE is appropriate for the identified hazards, ensure workers are trained in its use, and maintain inspection and replacement records.
Benefits for UAE Companies
Many UAE government and semi-government organisations require ISO 45001 certification from their contractors and suppliers. Achieving certification demonstrates a genuine commitment to worker safety, can reduce insurance premiums, improves tender competitiveness, and provides a structured framework for managing the complex safety challenges of UAE mega projects.
TexiExp Technologies supports ISO 45001-aligned PPE programmes with documented product specifications, certificates of conformity, and traceability records.