Understanding the definition of HSE: hygiene, safety, and environment

HSE definition: Hygiene, Safety, and Environment.

Companies are responsible for the daily safety and well-being of their employees. To avoid accidents and occupational risks, a risk control methodology was developed in the fields of Hygiene, Health/Safety, and Environment. This is HSE.

HSE definition: the different aspects of HSE

According to the HSE definition, this methodology covers three main aspects. All are addressed during HSE training:

Hygiene

Hygiene refers to the employer's obligations to provide employees with a healthy working environment (sanitary facilities, toilets, locker rooms, etc.). They differ from one sector to another. For instance, if employees perform dirty jobs, the employer must provide the necessary means to ensure their cleanliness.

Safety

The employer is also obliged to protect employees by making their workspace safer. This requires implementing measures to prevent occupational risks, in accordance with HSE rules.

Environment

The environmental aspect cannot be overlooked within companies. Indeed, most of the actions of professionals have a significant ecological impact. The role of HSE is to provide them with a framework to act in an environmentally friendly manner.

HSE regulations

The HSE manager must implement various methods to control the risks present in a work environment. However, they must comply with current regulations.

Laws and regulations to be respected

Hygiene and safety are governed by the international standard ISO 45001. As for the environment, it is framed by the ISO 14001 standard.

Regulatory bodies

The reference texts ISO 45001 and ISO 14 001 were established by the International Organization for Standardization in 2018.

HSE certifications

Here are the different HSE certifications in France:

• Professional certificate of HSE manager
• BTS Hygiene Safety Environment
• DUT Hygiene Safety Environment
• QHSE Engineering degree (Quality Hygiene Safety Environment)

HSE management in companies

To ensure the safety of individuals and their work environment, companies must effectively manage HSE.

HSE policies

The HSE policy outlines a company's overall intentions regarding its performance in terms of Hygiene, Safety, and Environment. By listing rules and principles, its goal is to guide the actions of the institution.

Training and awareness of employees

HSE training has many objectives, including hazard prevention and injury and accident reduction. For it to be effective, it must be led by experts. Virtual reality allows for easy implementation. Various methods can be used to help employees identify and assess the risks in a work environment. This includes safety days, the Single Risk Assessment Document, and social dialogue.

HSE audits

HSE audits are designed to analyze and control HSE regulatory compliance. During the inspection, the manager determines the requirements applicable to your organization and then assesses the discrepancies observed between the field reality and obligations.

Benefits of implementing HSE

Implementing HSE has several advantages.

Benefits for the company

Thanks to HSE, the company saves money. Indeed, the costs associated with occupational diseases are controlled. Additionally, it becomes more efficient as absenteeism rates are reduced. Furthermore, it's a way to improve its brand image, as the HSE policy shows its commitment to protecting the planet and its teams. Finally, a safe working environment attracts the best talent and improves overall performance.

Benefits for employees

HSE also benefits employees, as it enhances social dialogue and internal communication. Thus, they will be more fulfilled and motivated daily. Indeed, it's more reassuring to work in a healthy and protected environment.

Benefits for the environment

A good HSE policy controls environmental risks. It aims to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Rely on Immersive's expertise for your virtual reality HSE training

We offer HSE training in virtual reality to meet professionals' needs. Comprehensive, customizable, and regularly updated, they offer an immersive experience. We support you in their implementation and provide advice on choosing the subscription formula that suits you best. Thanks to our technicians' expertise, your employees will benefit from effective learning.