What is EHS in 2023? The Essence of Environment, Health & Safety
In today's era of increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and workers’ rights, organisations are recognising the significance of Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) in creating a sustainable and responsible workplace.
In this article, we cover the significance of EHS and examine its key components.
What is Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS)
Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) is a multidisciplinary field that preserves and promotes the well-being of people and the environment, while ensuring compliance with legal regulations and standards in the workplace. It involves implementing and managing policies, procedures, and programmes to minimise risks and create a safe and healthy work environment.What does EHS stand for?
EHS stands for Environment, Health, and Safety. EHS regulations aim to protect workers, the general public, and the environment from potential hazards.ComponentDescriptionEnvironmentFocuses on preventing harm to surrounding ecosystems, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable practices to minimise environmental impact.HealthEnsures the well-being of workers and the public by identifying and managing risks, such as exposure to hazardous substances, ergonomic challenges, and excessive noise levelsSafetyInvolves the implementation of protocols, training, and procedures to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses in the workplace, ensuring a safe and cost-effective work environment for all parties involved.Employing EHS principles in an organisation allows for more efficient operations, reduced liability, and a positive reputation, while complying with relevant legal regulations.What are Examples of Environment, Health, and Safety?Environment component focuses on minimising the impact of industrial activities on the environment, ensuring compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and promoting sustainable practices. For instance, a company might invest in energy-efficient machinery and renewable energy sources to decrease their carbon footprint.Health refers to the measures taken to protect the well-being of employees and comply with Ministry of Manpower (MOM) standards. For example, a company operating in a noisy environment, such as a construction site or a factory, might conduct regular noise assessments and provide employees with appropriate personal protective equipment like earplugs or earmuffs.Safety involves managing and preventing workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses. For instance, a company operating heavy machinery might establish a comprehensive safety training program or management system to educate employees about potential hazards and safe operating procedures.Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) compliance plays a critical role in protecting the environment and the well-being of employees. The increasing number of fatalities in Singapore's hazardous industries just last year shows the importance of EHS management. Organisations must take measures to reduce risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.What are EHS Policies in Singapore like?In Singapore, EHS policies are set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and various governmental departments, including the National Environmental Agency (NEA).These agencies ensure that organisations comply with the regulations set out in the Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA) and the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) respectively.
WSHA focuses on the health and occupational safety aspects of EHS, ensuring that workplaces are safe and healthy for all employees. It requires employers to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure the safety and health of their employees. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing safety management systems, and providing adequate training for employees.
EPMA, on the other hand, focuses on the environmental aspect of EHS. It regulates activities that may cause environmental pollution and sets out measures for the prevention, reduction, and control of pollution. This includes regulations on air and water pollution, noise pollution, and the handling and disposal of hazardous substances.
Why is EHS Important?
A comprehensive EHS programme safeguards the health and safety of employees, fosters a secure work setting, and reduces accidents
By monitoring pollution-causing activities, EHS policies contribute to a decrease in carbon emissions and pollution caused by business operations.
Non-compliance with EHS regulations can lead to substantial fines, reputational damage, and in severe instances, criminal charges. Therefore, a robust EHS policy is not merely a moral and legal obligation but also a strategic business approach.
By integrating best practices, businesses operating in high-risk industries can enhance their overall performance while mitigating potential risks. EHS is not just about adhering to regulations—it's about creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable business environment.
What is the Difference Between EHS and Other Terms?
ESG vs EHS
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and EHS are both frameworks to assess a company in terms of sustainability and ethical practices. EHS focuses specifically on environmental protection and workplace safety and health, while ESG covers a broader range of issues, including corporate governance, human rights, and social inequality.
HSE vs EHS
HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) shares the same core components with EHS, but prioritises different aspects. HSE prioritises employee health and safety first, while EHS places ecological concerns at the forefront, followed by health and safety. Nonetheless, both HSE and EHS share common goals, such as striving for sustainable practices, minimising pollution, and promoting water conservation.
OHS vs EHS
OHS (Occupational Health and Safety) is a subset of EHS. OHS focuses specifically on the prevention of work-related injuries and diseases, while EHS covers environmental protection, health, and safety in the workplace.
Overall, while each of these terms can overlap in their objectives, they differ in their priorities. EHS, ESG, HSE, and OHS all strive to promote better environmental, health, and safety practices.
What is EHS Software?
EHS software consists of technological solutions that allow companies to effectively manage their EHS processes and information. This software helps organisations adhere to industry regulations, minimise hazards, and maintain a safe work environment.
Environment Software
One aspect of EHS software is environmental management, which focuses on mitigating the impact of business operations on the environment. This includes addressing pollution, reducing carbon emissions, and implementing sustainable practices.
Magellan X provides cutting-edge software such as ecoMax, an industrial decarbonisation solution. With a focus on achieving net-zero goals, ecoMax's compatibility spans various industry sectors, providing near real-time insights through IIoT monitoring and predictive AI analytics. Due to the high amounts of emissions produced by ships, this EHS software can help a business reduce emissions and attain sustainability goals.
Another solution offered by Magellan X is PROPELLER, an inventory management software that helps managers significantly by saving time and costs, and reducing carbon emissions. Through AI analytics, bulk-order opportunities can be located, saving organisations extra shipping trips. Up to 30% of excess stock can be eliminated, and the overall carbon footprint can be greatly reduced.
Health & Safety Software
Another critical area of EHS software is health and safety adherence. This encompasses managing risks in the workplace. Implementing safety management systems in hazardous industries is crucial to ensure employees' safety and well-being. Our SOL-X solution introduces Crew Protect software that helps protect workers on the job.
SOL-X analyses environmental exposure risks, as well as worker health and well-being data. Through the Wearable SmartWatch system, it monitors the heart rate, heat stress, and fatigue levels of workers, allowing supervisors to keep track of their well-being through a Dashboard.
Moreover, SOL-X Crew Protect enables connected wellness programmes by analysing live data, allowing for near real-time feedback from worksites.
EHS software is indispensable in today's challenging marketplace. As a provider of these solutions, we offer expert guidance to help businesses excel in managing environmental, health, and safety aspects. With solutions like SOL-X, ecoMax, and PROPELLER, organisations can ensure a safe and sustainable future.
Meet Your EHS Goals With Magellan X Solutions
Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) form the bedrock of a responsible and sustainable workplace. By embracing best EHS practices, organisations can make a profound impact on the environment, safeguard employee health, and ensure a safe working environment—while reaping the benefits of increased productivity and reduced costs.
Magellan X provides a comprehensive suite of EHS management solutions that empower businesses to tackle various challenges head on. By using our EHS software, companies can implement robust safety and health management programmes that set the gold standard in the industry.
Take the first step towards a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future—contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Purpose of EHS in Business?
EHS ensures the safety of workers, minimises the damage done to the environment by operations, and protects the company’s reputation while meeting compliance requirements.
What is an EHS Hazard?
An EHS hazard refers to any source of potential damage to the environment, workers’ health, or safety. Some examples of common EHS concerns include:Exposure to hazardous materialsEnvironmental pollutionHeat ExertionFire risks
What is EHS in Compliance?
EHS compliance refers to the adherence to laws, regulations, and standards related to Environment, Health, and Safety. This involves implementing and managing EHS policies and procedures, conducting regular audits and inspections, and ensuring that the organisation meets all legal and regulatory requirements.
What are EHS Guidelines and Procedures?
EHS guidelines and procedures are a set of rules and instructions designed to help organisations manage their EHS responsibilities. They provide a framework for identifying and controlling hazards, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.