AEO
International framework for low-risk supply chain certification
ISO 45001
International standard for occupational health and safety management systems
Quick Verdict
AEO provides customs facilitation for low-risk traders via supply chain security, while ISO 45001 delivers occupational health management through risk controls and worker participation. Companies adopt AEO for faster trade clearance; ISO 45001 for injury prevention and compliance.
AEO
Authorized Economic Operator (WCO SAFE Framework)
Key Features
- Harmonized SAQ criteria A-M for compliance
- Mutual Recognition Arrangements enabling cross-border benefits
- Risk-based supply chain security architecture
- Fewer inspections and priority customs processing
- Continuous internal audits preventing compliance drift
ISO 45001
ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
Key Features
- Leadership accountability and worker participation
- Hierarchy of controls for hazard elimination
- Risk and opportunity-based planning
- Annex SL for integrated management systems
- PDCA cycle for continual improvement
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
AEO Details
What It Is
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a voluntary certification program under the WCO SAFE Framework, recognizing low-risk businesses in international trade. It applies to all supply chain actors, using a risk-based approach with harmonized Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) criteria A-M.
Key Components
- Four pillars: customs compliance, records/internal controls, financial solvency, supply chain security.
- 13 criteria groups covering cargo, premises, personnel, partners, crisis management.
- Built on SAFE Framework principles; requires validation and ongoing monitoring.
- Certification via customs approval, with periodic re-validation.
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces inspections, clearance times, costs (e.g., avoided container exams).
- Enables Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) for global facilitation.
- Enhances reputation, competitive edge in tenders.
- Manages risks of suspension/revocation through continuous compliance.
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis, process design, IT integration, training.
- Cross-functional project: 6-12 months typical.
- Applies globally to importers/exporters; audits by customs.
ISO 45001 Details
What It Is
ISO 45001:2018 is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS). It provides a framework to prevent work-related injuries and ill health, proactively improving OH&S performance through a risk-based approach aligned with the High-Level Structure (Annex SL).
Key Components
- Organized into Clauses 4–10: context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
- Emphasizes hierarchy of controls, worker participation, and PDCA cycle.
- No fixed number of controls; scalable requirements for certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces incidents, legal risks, and costs; enhances resilience and insurance savings.
- Builds stakeholder trust, talent retention, and market advantage.
- Supports integrated management with ISO 9001/14001.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, policy/objectives, controls, audits, certification.
- Applicable to all sizes/sectors; voluntary but certification via accredited bodies.
Key Differences
| Aspect | AEO | ISO 45001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Supply chain security and customs compliance | Occupational health and safety management |
| Industry | International trade and logistics operators | All industries and organization sizes |
| Nature | Voluntary customs partnership certification | Voluntary international management standard |
| Testing | Customs validation and periodic re-validation | Internal audits and certification audits |
| Penalties | Status suspension or revocation | No legal penalties, loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AEO and ISO 45001
AEO FAQ
ISO 45001 FAQ
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