The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Green Tier program has requirements for participants to perform different types of audits of their Environmental Management Systems (EMS). Understanding these types of audits and who can perform them will help ensure compliance with Green Tier. The types of Green Tier audits are:
- EMS Internal audits
- EMS Outside Audits
- Regulatory Compliance Audits
Types of Audits and Frequency
Type of Audit | Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
---|---|---|
Internal EMS | Annual | Annual; |
Outside EMS | 3 Years | Annual |
Regulatory Compliance | NA | Annual |
EMS Internal Audits
Internal audits can be performed by the participant themselves or by independent auditors. These audits are then used as part of the management review process to help leadership evaluate the performance of the EMS and to decide if any changes are needed to improve it. They must be documented, performed at least annually and conducted by competent objective auditors.
Outside Audits
Outside audits are performed by independent auditors that have been approved by WDNR to perform these audits. Tier 1 participants must perform these audit at least every 3 years. Tier 2 participants need to have an WDNR approved auditor perform these audits at least annually.
Compliance Audits
Compliance audits are different than the Outside Audit described above. These audits check that the organization is meeting the USEPA, WDNR and local legal requirements. These include requirements for emitting pollutants to the atmosphere, water, solid and hazardous waste disposal. Tier 2 participants need to perform compliance audits at least annually and report the results to WDNR. These audits can be internal audits or performed by other independent auditors.
Why Does Green Tier Require Audits?
The Green Tier Law is based on the requirements of ISO 14001 which also requires periodic audits of the EMS. ISO 14001 is itself based on the principals of continual improvement (PDCA). Audits are the checking part of the PDCA cycle.
Who is Qualified to Perfrom External Audits
Only WDNR approved Green Tier auditors are qualified to perform external audits. Green Tier participants should confirm that their auditor is on this approved list. Participants should do this even if they are using an ANAB accredited ISO 14001 certification body to perform their external audits. If you have any questions about Green Tier audits, who is qualified to do audits or want to know how to get the most out of your audit contact us for at kalehner@envcompsys.com or use the form below.