DOE Policy on ISO 14001

DOE Policy on ISO 14001

An early approach on ISO 14001 was to require DOE contractors to develop an ISO 14000-like EMS through a DOE-wide Order. Some contractors did not like the implication of the draft Order would ‘require’ a ‘voluntary’ standard. Although some viewed the draft Order as broad and flexible, the Order was never finalized. Likewise, largely due to a change of administration,DOE was not able to establish a formal Policy regarding ISO 14001.

The current approach within DOE is to encourage voluntary implementation of an environmental management system as an integrated component of the contractually-required Integrated Safety Management System (62 FR 34841).4 Further, DOE encourages implementation of an environmental management system where it makes good business sense for the individual site. The voluntary approach is supported by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy,5 and the integrated approach has been recognized as acceptable by EPA.6 DOE is also actively involved with the standard both at DOE sites and through an Interagency Working Group on ISO 14000. In addition, many DOE contractors are implementing ISO 14001 where it makes business sense for their individual site. Implementation is seen in a variety of ways from full third-party certification to implementation of various aspects of the standard.