The year 2012 saw the leading British luxury yacht builder, Sunseeker International, achieve management system certification for ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management and the International Document of Compliance for safe marine operations from the UK Marine and Coastguard Agency. As both standards have an element of Health & Safety incorporated within them, it was decided to pursue full ISO 18001 accreditation.

ISO 18001 Health & Safety Certification for Sunseeker Yachts

With the support of senior management, the Health & Safety Team, individual production line Safety Representatives and employees of all levels and trades, the business was audited independently and no major or minor non-conformities were encountered.

Since implementing ISO 14001 Sunseeker has seen a significant reduction in waste. The company has also taken some effective measures to reduce gas consumption by introducing new and innovative solutions for heating large spaces. The amount of waste sent to landfill has dropped to approximately 20% of the pre-2013 levels with corresponding increases in recycling rates.

With compliance for ISO 18001 brought under common management responsibilities and controls there has been a focussed commitment to the safety and well-being of all personnel on their sites and there has been a 30% drop in the average frequency rate of accidents and incidents amongst staff with an average of only 2 lost hours per month compared to 300,000 worked.”

Martin Arnold, Health & Safety Conformance Manager at Sunseeker International can also see the positive impact the certifications have had on the company. “The management standards have enabled us to consider the necessary requirements to safeguard our people, other parties affected by our work as well as our local environment and community. We have a strong safety and environmental culture within the company and are now even safer and more compliant as a business.”

Paul Attrell is ISOQAR’s lead auditor for certification, working with the company during the two phases of implementation and beyond. He says: “As one of the largest and most high profile marine businesses, Sunseeker fully realise their obligation to maintain their businesses around Poole and Portland Harbours. Each visit has witnessed an improvement in conditions within production areas and waterfront yards. ”