Implementation of Integrated Management System in Hydropower Stations in Bhutan

In this article, we share our journey, experience, and a step-by-step procedure for the establishment, implementation, and certification of hydropower stations in Bhutan in ISO 9001:2009—Quality Management System, ISO 14001:2004—Environmental Management System and BS OHSAS 18001:2007—Occupational Health and Safety Management System. The integration of the above-mentioned three ISO standards is known as Integrated Management System (IMS). The hydropower generating company decided to apply for the implementation and certification in the above-mentioned ISO standards to improve the internal process and adopt international best practices. The following stages for implementation and certification involve submission of proposal and seeking approval, selection of a certification body, and certification process. The certification phases involve Gap Analysis Stage-I, Gap Analysis Stage-II, preparation of IMS Manual, procedures, environmental aspect impact register, hazard identification and risk assessment register, formats, IMS policy, conducting awareness, legal register, formats, site implementation, internal audit, and management review meeting. In addition, certification audit stage-I and certification audit stage-II are also discussed followed by the closure of nonconformities raised by the auditees to achieve the certification through correction and corrective action. Finally, the benefits of the certification are discussed. Due to the certification, the image and the reputation of the company improved.