Monitoring and Control
After the EMS has been put in operation, it is necessary to check the progress of activities implemented as a result of the “Do” step, and take corrective actions, if necessary. Monitoring activities requires establishing procedures for comparing established operational procedures with the actual procedures being followed in the system. For example, if the established operational procedures require disposal of waste using a particular method, then it is should be compared with the actual procedure being following to dispose off waste.
The monitoring process includes tracking the environmental management system’s performance in terms of achieving the established targets and objectives. This includes compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The progress of each target by the established deadline should be monitored through appropriate measures. For example, if one of the targets is reduce energy use by 25% in 3 months, then the energy consumption should be monitored month by month to check if the required target is being met. Otherwise, appropriate corrective actions should be taken to achieve the desired results.
Monitoring and control also requires calibrating and maintaining monitoring equipment (if any), and documenting the results of the monitoring process on an ongoing basis.
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