Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems — Requirements with Guidance for Use
ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems. It provides a framework for organisations to systematically manage OH&S risks and improve safety performance. Battery manufacturing environments involve significant OH&S hazards including chemical exposure (electrolytes, solvents, cathode materials), thermal runaway risk during formation testing, high-voltage electrical hazards, and ergonomic risks in assembly operations.
Published by: International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Current edition: ISO 45001:2018
Replaces: OHSAS 18001:2007
Scope
ISO 45001 applies to any organisation wishing to establish, implement, and maintain an OH&S management system. For battery manufacturers it is relevant across cell production, module and pack assembly, testing and formation, and end-of-life handling. Many automotive OEM supply chains require ISO 45001 certification alongside ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 as part of integrated management system requirements.
Key Requirements
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
Organisations must identify OH&S hazards — including chemical, physical, ergonomic, and biological hazards — and assess associated risks. For battery manufacturing, this includes COSHH-type assessments for electrolyte solvents (NMP, DMC, EC), fluoride release from thermal events, and high-voltage isolation risks during pack testing.
Operational Controls and Emergency Preparedness
Controls must be implemented following the hierarchy: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Emergency preparedness plans must address thermal runaway incidents during formation testing, chemical spills, and fire scenarios in battery storage areas.
Disclaimer: This is not a definitive guide, just an indication and it is important that you always go back to the source for legislation.
References
- ISO 45001:2018, ISO