An integrated management system: from various aspects of the literature to a maturity model based on the process approach

Abstract

Through this work, we will try at first, to provide a look at the literature to define the concept of integrated management system (IMS) and define the different approaches of study on the topic, a critical analysis of the different models, strategies and integration techniques will also be discussed. The results of this research confirm the usefulness to potential contribution and the development of a single model of IMSs following a continuous improvement PDCA approach, incorporating a set of quality, safety and environment tools at each stage of the implementation management systems. The IMS proposed, gathers three aspects and observes the following key standards: quality (ISO 9001), environment (ISO 14001) and occupational health and safety (OHSAS 18001)). The chosen integration is based on a conceptual model governed by a simple and consistent form of generic processes and requirements to be an adaptable model to all types and sectors of business. Finally we propose a set of performance indicators to effectively assess the production system in terms of cost, time, quality, safety and environment to achieve the optimal performance of IMS.