What are the best practices for drilling site safety audits and inspections?

2 Prepare the audit or inspection plan

Once you have defined the scope and objectives, you need to prepare the audit or inspection plan. This is a document that outlines the details of the activity, such as the schedule, the criteria, the methods, the roles and responsibilities, and the resources. The plan should also include the communication and consultation procedures, the documentation and record-keeping requirements, and the contingency and emergency plans. The plan should be reviewed and approved by the relevant stakeholders, such as the site manager, the auditor or inspector, and the client or regulator.

3 Conduct the audit or inspection

The next step is to conduct the audit or inspection according to the plan. You should follow the established protocols and procedures for collecting and analyzing data, interviewing and observing personnel, inspecting and testing equipment, and verifying and validating information. You should also document and report any findings, such as non-conformities, observations, recommendations, or good practices. You should use objective evidence and factual information to support your findings, and avoid bias and subjectivity. You should also ensure that you respect the confidentiality and privacy of the audited or inspected parties.

4 Evaluate the audit or inspection results

After you have conducted the audit or inspection, you need to evaluate the results and determine the level of compliance, performance, or improvement. You should compare the findings with the criteria and objectives, and identify any gaps, weaknesses, or strengths. You should also prioritize and classify the findings according to their significance, urgency, or impact. You should then prepare a summary report that highlights the main findings, conclusions, and recommendations. You should also communicate and discuss the results with the audited or inspected parties, and solicit their feedback and comments.

5 Implement corrective and preventive actions

The final step is to implement corrective and preventive actions to address the findings and recommendations of the audit or inspection. You should develop an action plan that specifies the actions, responsibilities, deadlines, and resources for each finding. You should also monitor and track the progress and effectiveness of the actions, and report any deviations or issues. You should also verify and validate that the actions have been completed and have achieved the desired outcomes. You should also document and record the actions and the results, and update the relevant policies, procedures, or standards.

6 Review and improve the audit or inspection process

As a part of continuous improvement, you should review and improve the audit or inspection process on a regular basis. You should evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the process, and identify any areas for improvement or enhancement. You should also collect and analyze feedback and data from the audits or inspections, and use them to improve your performance indicators, benchmarks, or best practices. You should also share and disseminate the lessons learned and the good practices with your team, your organization, or your industry.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?