Scenario: GreenFab Inc. Develops an EMS
Check Phase Steps 18-22
- Monitor/Measure and Document
- They compare data month-by-month: VOC emission trends, solvent usage, heavy metals in discharge, energy use, waste volumes. They plot charts to look for upward or downward trends.
- They check whether results meet or exceed the set targets (e.g. 25% VOC reduction) or are lagging.
- Conduct Internal EMS Audits
- Quarterly audits verify filter use, booth sealing, SOP adherence, and chemical management.
- Audits ensure EMS procedures align with organizational goals.
- They perform an EMS audit (separate from operational audits) to check whether the EMS itself is effective: whether roles are working, communication is functioning, procedures are being followed, the EMS is integrated into business processes.
- They audit whether the policy, objectives, and procedures remain relevant, whether the EMS is still aligned with the organization’s strategy, and whether the team is receiving necessary resources.
- Evaluate Compliance
- They review permit reports, compliance inspections by regulators, notice of violations, changes in environmental laws, or local ordinances about odor and emissions.
- If a new regulation reduces allowable metal concentrations in discharge, they evaluate whether their EMS meets the new requirement or needs change.
- Hold an Emergency Drill
- GreenFab conducts semi-annual drills for spills, fires, and pump failures.
- Drills evaluate response times and revise procedures if issues arise.
- Review EMS Policies and Procedures
- The EMS team assesses policy relevance and procedure effectiveness.
- They prepare a report summarizing audit results, performance vs targets, nonconformances, corrective actions taken, resource adequacy, and recommendations.
- They distribute it to department heads, the EMS team, and top management. They hold a review meeting to walk through the findings.
- Findings are documented for management review.