Step 1 - Make the commitment

• Know what you are trying to achieve (goals and priorities)

• Determine the scope of your EMS

• Recognize  aspects of your activities, products and services that can significantly impact the environment

• Identify applicable legal and other requirements

• Develop and communicate your Environmental Policy

Step 2 - Plan the system

• Understand key EMS processes and responsibilities

• Communicate EMS plans internally

• Determine and document your system procedures and related responsibilities

Step 3 - Develop objectives to and management programs

• Determine objectives (and related targets) to address your significant aspects and other environmental priorities you may have

• Extend the objectives to all relevant functions

• Agree on action plans to achieve each objective (including responsibilities and timing)

Step 4 - Implement controls needed

• Determine how you will control operations (address significant aspects, legal requirements and objectives)

• Determine document control and recordkeeping requirements

Step 5 - Train and communicate

• Hold EMS Awareness communication and training sessions

• Identify competency training needs (including contractors)

• Conduct required training (keep records)

• Determine and perform desired external communications

Step 6 - Monitor performance

• Monitor action plan progress and performance in achieving objectives (and make any corrections needed)

• Monitor key characteristics of your operations (keep records)

• Monitor regulatory compliance

Step 7 - Assess and improve EMS performance

• Conduct internal audits

• Correct / prevent EMS nonconformances

• Review EMS suitability, adequacy and effectiveness (Management Review)

• Look for ways to improve the EMS