In today’s regulatory environment, organizations must ensure that their employees are not only aware of compliance requirements but also capable of applying them effectively. ISO 37301, the international standard for compliance management systems, highlights the importance of competence, awareness, and training in building a robust culture of compliance.
Training and Development Under ISO 37301
ISO 37301 places significant emphasis on ensuring that all individuals working under the organization’s control are competent and properly trained to carry out their roles in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. The standard requires organizations to determine training needs, provide appropriate learning opportunities, and evaluate the effectiveness of such initiatives.
Why It Matters
A well-informed workforce is essential to the success of any compliance program. Training empowers employees to recognize and respond to compliance risks, enhances decision-making, and fosters accountability. Ongoing development helps maintain competence as legal and regulatory landscapes evolve.
Key Steps in Addressing Training Needs
1. Identify Competence Requirements: Understand what skills and knowledge are needed for each role.
2. Conduct Training Needs Analysis: Assess gaps in employee knowledge and compliance awareness.
3. Develop a Training Plan: Tailor content for different roles and risk levels, using varied formats such as workshops, e-learning, or seminars.
4. Deliver and Document Training: Ensure consistent delivery and maintain records for audits.
5. Evaluate Effectiveness: Use assessments, feedback, and performance indicators to measure the impact of training.
Continuous Improvement and Culture Building
Training and development should not be one-off activities. ISO 37301 encourages a continuous cycle of assessment, learning, and improvement. By embedding training into daily operations and strategic planning, organizations reinforce the importance of compliance and create a proactive, informed culture.
Conclusion
Effective training and development are cornerstones of a successful compliance management system. ISO 37301 provides a framework to ensure that all personnel have the knowledge and skills necessary to support compliance efforts. Organizations that invest in training not only meet regulatory obligations but also empower their workforce to act with integrity and responsibility.
For further information and to book your ISO37301compliance management systems survey please contact: Marcus J Allen at Thamer James Ltd. Email: [email protected]
Marcus has twenty years’ experience in delivering Governance, Risk and Compliance solutions to over two hundred organisations within the UK. Marcus holds the respected Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance from the International Compliance Association and holds a master’s degree in Management Learning & Change from the University of Bristol.
Marcus is a member of BSI G01 Governance Committee, this committee contributed to the formulation of the above Standard, in the UK.