Which types of incidents should be reported as part of an EMS?

Reporting environmental incidents, including spills and emissions violations, is a fundamental component of an Environmental Management System (EMS). This practice aligns with the principles of continuous improvement and compliance, which are essential objectives of an EMS. By documenting these incidents, organizations can assess their environmental impact, implement corrective actions, and track performance over time. This process not only aids in regulatory compliance but also enhances the organization's ability to proactively manage environmental risks and mitigate future incidents.

In contrast, focusing solely on major accidents or financial discrepancies would not provide a comprehensive view of the environmental performance and issues an organization may encounter. Additionally, while staff training is important for maintaining operational standards, failures in training are generally not categorized under environmental incidents, as they do not directly pertain to environmental impact or compliance requirements. Therefore, the integration of reporting all environmental incidents is crucial for the efficacy of an EMS.