The RC14001® Technical Specification (2008 edition) combines the elements of the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Responsible Care® initiative with those of the Environmental Management Systems--Specifications With Guidance for Use Standard, ISO 14001, adopted by the International Organization For Standardization ("ISO") in 1996 and amended in 2004. It enables a company to obtain, through an application and audit process, a certification that its management system conforms to both the ISO 14001 and RC14001 requirements.
This updated version of the Technical Specification includes enhanced language on product and product stewardship issues, more efficient placement of outreach and dialogue requirements and additional requirements under operational control activities. A Comparison Table highlighting the changes from the RC14001:2005 version to the RC14001:2008 version is included.
The Technical Specification has two components. The first is the actual text of ISO 14001, which specifies requirements for an environmental management system to enable an organization to develop and implement a policy and objectives which take into account legal and other requirements to which the organization subscribes. The second component contained in corresponding boxed areas are the additional Responsible Care elements required under RC14001 scope.
RC14001 is one option that ACC members and Responsible Care Partners may select to meet their Responsible Care management systems certification requirements. RC14001 is also available to non-ACC organizations that are interested in certifying a comprehensive management system covering environmental, health, safety, security, product stewardship and outreach activities. RC14001 audits are conducted by certification bodies accredited by the ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board.
| Number of Pages : | 25 |
| Published : | 02/29/2008 |
