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Terms and Definitions of EPA Region 7's Environmental Management System

There are a number of terms and phrases used in the context of an environmental management system (EMS) that need to be defined to ensure that everyone choosing to participate in the system is working from a common perspective. These terms include familiar words, such as “document” and “record,” that take on very specific meanings in the context of an EMS. They also include words like “aspect” which may seem unusual to those unfamiliar with EMSs. Phrases used to describe parts of an EMS, such as "environmental management programs" and "other requirements," must also be defined to ensure they are completely understood.

Region 7 has compiled a list of definitions for common terms used within the context of our EMS, and Safety and Health Management System (SHMS) that can be viewed and/or downloaded from this site. People who are unfamiliar with EMSs may want to print a copy of the list and use it as a reference while viewing the rest of this site.

If you have questions about the Region 7 EMS, please use the Contact Us link.

Terms and Definitions of the Region 7 SHEMS (pdf) (114.69 KB, January 14, 2016)
Region 7 SHEMS Terms and Definitions

Visit the Region 7 EMS Home Page to review all of its components.

Environmental Management Systems

  • Basics of an EMS
    • What is an EMS?
    • Costs and Benefits
    • EMS Under ISO 14001
    • EMS Resources
  • Develop an EMS
    • Plan — Initial Development of an EMS
    • Do — Implementing an EMS
    • Check — Evaluating Parts of an EMS
    • Act — Fixing and Improving an EMS
  • EMS at EPA Facilities
    • EPA's Commitment to EMS
    • Headquarters and Special Program Laboratories
    • Regional Offices and Laboratories
Contact Us About Environmental Management Systems
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on November 2, 2024
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