Tools to Streamline Your Compliance with Process Safety Management Standards

Tools to Streamline Your Compliance with Process Safety Management Standards

A recent survey of engineering and safety information management, across diverse process industries, identified three primary problems which are summarized below:

  • Accessibility ― Easy and quick access to basic information such as equipment and instrumentation data, operating procedures, process data, process safety information, etc., for all stakeholders continues to pose a challenge.
  • Accuracy ― Management of Change (MOC) programs have not proven effective in keeping the information updated. Many sites have MOC backlogs that run into the hundreds.
  • Fragmentation ― Information management systems largely operate in functional silos (engineering, maintenance, safety, etc.) and are incapable of leveraging the knowledge stored in them beyond their inherent functions.

Essentially, ineffective engineering and safety information management has direct consequences on cost, schedule, safety, and reliability. Projects may be delayed, experience cost overruns, or fail to discover critical safety risks when teams attempt to manage process safety across multiple siloed systems. Your organization needs to keep project work and activities where they are easily accessible, yet secure.

In this newsletter, John Barker explains how organisations can improve the accessibility and accuracy of their engineering and safety information while reducing information fragmentation. Process Safety Enterprise? enables easy ongoing management of process safety data, helping businesses achieve compliance, manage risk, and remain competitive.

Introduction

As Director at ioMosaic Corporation , I look after the international offices in Bath, U.K., and the Kingdom of Bahrain. I work closely with the software team to understand what our strategy is and how we intend to develop the tools we have in-house. Most of my work has been in process safety and risk management. What we do at the ioMosaic Corporation European office is look for a safety case-based regime, where you have a particular set of parameters that you are expected to work to and you have to demonstrate that your activities can comply within those parameters. We look at loss of control, loss of containment, and operational upset.

Process Safety Enterprise? has in its toolkit the tools to answer all those questions. It contains proven workflows for all 14 elements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration PSM Standard 29 CFR 1910.119. It’s interesting from my side because Process Safety Management regulations are seen as a very strong framework, even if they are not applicable under the law in Europe. In the European office, we work a lot with the PSM Standard requirements, although in different ways than in the United States.

The integration and connectivity of the software is the really exciting part. Each software tool that we have has a particular purpose, allowing users access to tools for managing tasks such as process safety information, hazard analysis, operating procedures, mechanical integrity, incident investigations, emergency planning, and more. What we have done by joining up all the software tools into one platform is provide the best possible set of tools that you need, so that if you need to switch to a different tool that fits a different circumstance, you can do so seamlessly, and it also allows you to easily move information across the system.

What is Process Safety Enterprise? (PSE)

PSE is a cloud-based system that is accessible via the internet, but for us, it's our electronic home where we conduct the majority of our day-to-day work. It's a platform that we use for document sharing and cross-team collaboration across projects and offices in different time zones. We have a lot of coordination that has to occur to help us communicate updates, files, and other information, and all of that is done on PSE.

We also use PSE to distribute our software. For example, when a client receives a link for new software or updates to their current software, that action occurs via PSE. We have a number of workflows that we use internally such as our Quality Management System (QMS), ISO 9001, and various financial approvals, that all come from Process Safety Enterprise?. The first thing I do in the morning is log in to PSE and check on project status and action items from our offices around the world.

Another key feature of PSE is that it is platform agnostic, meaning it can run equally well across multiple operating systems, devices, or web browsers. When you’re working in a Microsoft 365? environment, for example, the login is very much tied up with your company. You might have a single sign-on (SSO) into Windows?, meaning you enter your password once and then you are not prompted again as you navigate between the various Microsoft 365? applications you have a license for. This is fine for software shared within one company, but if you are working across multiple companies like we do, that becomes a barrier to collaboration.

Process Safety Enterprise? enables secure collaboration between companies using very different company systems. For example, we use PSE to collaborate with clients in the Middle East, sharing files and project updates. PSE delivers common ground with various systems so we can focus on the projects at hand without barriers. Although PSE does have single sign-on capabilities, at ioMosaic we actually separate that out to one side because it allows us to collaborate better without it.

There are a lot of tools and features available within Process Safety Enterprise? however the workflows are their shining achievement and differentiator. An organization will have a variety of users, each with a distinct role and involvement in a project; in PSE you can define all of those different roles and responsibilities. Therefore when a user starts to use a workflow, the level of involvement in the workflow is determined by the user’s role in the organization. At ioMosaic, we have set up different roles, such as project manager and process engineer. The project managers are authorized to provide the necessary approvals at particular points in a project. Each role has specific permissions based on their responsibilities, ensuring data integrity and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

We use PSE workflows to manage everything that we do. Our team can work 24 hours a day, around the clock, because we know exactly the status of any project activity and we know exactly what the next step is on a client deliverable. We also know at what point a particular item of information needs to be shared or approved by a client. Of course, PSE has backup and disaster recovery services, system maintenance, and everything else you would expect in professional software.

Figure 1 - The Process Safety Enterprise? solution is PSM compliance made easy
Figure 1 - The Process Safety Enterprise? solution is PSM compliance made easy

An effective dashboard is an invaluable 'must-have' asset for any data-driven enterprise solution looking to increase performance and productivity. With well-designed dashboards featuring various widgets such as bar charts, pie charts, line charts, and tables, Process Safety Enterprise? provides a comprehensive overview of a PSM program from a single source. These dashboards allow business owners to make reliably faster decisions at a glance based on real-time data.

Within PSE users can customise graphs, decide what information they want to be displayed on those graphs, choose the style of graphs, and set up reminders or email triggers to receive regular reporting. Below are some examples of charts we’ve used in project work.

Figure 2 - Includes a comprehensive package of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can be configured to create organisational dashboards
Figure 2 - Includes a comprehensive package of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can be configured to create organisational dashboards

There is a lot more to PSE than simply workflows. PSE also includes an intelligent form builder for efficient data capture and linking to documents in a central digital library. This dynamic form builder enables users to create practical, customizable forms. PSE also includes equipment forms for the management of asset integrity across your entire facility. There is a lot of structured information that sits behind PSE that enables users to properly document their available information. That information can then be searched, catalogued, and used in ways that are far more meaningful and useful than a bunch of folders on a computer.

Another great thing about Process Safety Enterprise? is that once a user enters information into an equipment form, for example, or a PHA workflow form, the data can be shared with stakeholders and even exported to an Excel file, making sharing and data analysis even more seamless. Below are some examples of the PSE asset integrity management tools. The Remaining Useful Life calculator shows long-term corrosion rates for assessing if corrosion rates for a particular piece of equipment fall outside expected norms.

Figure 3 - Examples of the Asset Integrity Management toolkit for the management of asset integrity across your entire facility
Figure 3 - Examples of the Asset Integrity Management toolkit for the management of asset integrity across your entire facility

PSE Implementation Process

Some clients choose the out-of-the-box solution that comes with standard pre-programmed workflows and is ready for deployment. Installation includes setting up a server, enrolling all of your users, and configuring the roles and responsibilities of your users within your organisation. Whether you have just a few users or hundreds of users, this can be set up quickly. We have clients who have several hundreds of active users in PSE and others with as few as 10. Workflows are available and ready to use immediately. All the workflows, the forms, and the various other tools within PSE are set up to facilitate PSM compliance, as that is its fundamental purpose.

However, your organisation might have a particular way of doing things that differs somewhat from some of the standard workflows. Customizing workflows to meet your specific demands is available. There is a really neat workflow customisation tool in PSE for building workflows and a dynamic form builder for custom-made forms.

Once your PSE instance is ready and set up, the heavy lifting and maintenance of the server is on us.? You wont need ?to worry about data security, backup, or other concerns. We take care of everything so your organisation is up and running quickly with the very best tools for your Process Safety Management compliance and operational needs.

Below are the steps to a successful PSE implementation. The timeline will depend on customisation if needed.

Figure 4 - We take care of everything to get your organisation up and running quickly
Figure 4 - We take care of everything to get your organisation up and running quickly

Overview of Workflows

Process Safety Enterprise? contains workflows for all 14 elements of the OSHA PSM Standard 29 CFR 1910.119. An additional workflow has been added for addressing the Management of Organizational Change (MOOC) as well. These 15 workflows are all available as standard in PSE and have been configured to follow regulatory and RAGAGEP practices.

Figure 5 - All 14 elements of the OSHA Process Safety Management Standard are included
Figure 5 - All 14 elements of the OSHA Process Safety Management Standard are included

PSE Process Hazard Analysis Workflow

PHAs include a collection of tools such as hazard and operability study (HAZOP), “What-If” Checklist, fault tree analysis, layer of protection analysis (LOPA), and failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) methodologies. In Europe we typically only use the HAZOP methodology for hazard identification. PHAs provide a systematic approach to hazard identification because they define the requirements for conducting a PHA study and define the requirements for the management of process safety information (PSI).

The PSE Process Hazard Analysis Workflow serves as the glue that holds together the information that is required within a PHA study and the action tracking and follow-up that must take place after a PHA study is completed. In a PHA there is a need for the identification of hazardous scenarios, incident history, management of change records, operational procedures, asset integrity records, and other sources of information that all need to be compiled before the PHA study can be completed. PSE has a workflow for recording all the documentation at each phase to ensure all necessary documentation is completed at each phase. PSE allows users to check off what they have prepared for the PHA before actually conducting a PHA study. Users can also make sure they have management approval to complete the study.

One of the most onerous tasks when working on a PHA is keeping track of all the action items until they are completed. The OSHA Process Safety Management Standard requires the dissemination and resolution of recommendations. The PSE workflow really helps with meeting compliance. When the study is complete, PSMPro? (PHA compliance software) users can then electronically transfer their action items to PSE and use the workflow to track those items to completion.

Users can then electronically transfer the action-tracking information to update the PSMPro? file. The benefits of having two-way communication between the PSE Process Hazard Analysis Workflow and PSMPro? means that the PHA study includes ?the action items, who has been assigned to that action item, who closed out the action item, and whether and when all the action items have been closed out. That linkage is where you find the true value of PSE and PSMPro?. We want both tools talking to each other so that when the information is synchronised everyone involved has access to the most accurate and current data, enabling better decision-making and operational efficiency.

Key Features:

  • Workflow manages the PHA study, status is used as an input to associated KPIs
  • All information required for the PHA can be added via the PHA document form
  • Workflow provides the ability for management approval of the PHA to proceed based on the review of study information
  • Once the PHA is finished the workflow tracks formal review and QA/QC of study records
  • Studies conducted using Process Safety Office? PSMPro? can have recommendations uploaded from tracking to closure

Figure 6 – Example of the PSE Process Hazard Analysis Workflow
Figure 6 – Example of the PSE Process Hazard Analysis Workflow

PSE Training Workflow

Process Safety Learning? is our competency and Learning Management System (LMS) providing organizations with vital risk management learning solutions. Training is composed of two parts: Record keeping and learner competency management.

? Record keeping ― The PSE document control system shows where training records are, who has been assigned particular training and refresher training, and how those training records reflect current needs and competence. Much of these training requirements are mandated by the OSHA PSM Standard which requires that organisations collect training record verifications that show the training topic, date completed, employee name, and evaluation results.

? Learner competency management ― An LMS is more about competency management, therefore the systems are typically structured for assessing the extent to which employees demonstrate competencies that are critical for success in their role. In the process industries, employees are required to learn the hazards of HHCs and flammable materials, how to handle them safely, and how to respond to emergencies. An LMS helps organisations plan training, create training courses, assign training and refresher training, deliver training, and store required training records.

The PSE Training Workflow gives organisations the best of both worlds. You have the PSM compliance piece, which is covered within Process Safety Enterprise? records and documentation, to demonstrate a particular aspect of compliance. You also have the competency piece, which is covered by the Process Safety Learning? platform. Having these two systems talk to each other enables real-time insights into learner activities and reduces or eliminates the risk of overlooked or forgotten training.

Key Features:

  • Workflow coordinates training requirements with Process Safety Learning? through training records verification
  • New employee training can be assigned and tracked via the workflow, with refresher training assigned based on a specified interval
  • Training dates are tracked for compliance with training timeline requirements
  • Action items are generated for receipt by coordinators to fulfill training requirements
  • Training records are stored on Process Safety Learning?, records of passes are used to clear the workflow

Figure 7 – Example of the PSE Training Workflow
Figure 7 – Example of the PSE Training Workflow

How We Configure Servers

Our flexible configuration options provide excellent value for money for small and medium-sized companies right through to the largest multi-site corporate solutions.

Figure 8 – An overview of how we configure servers
Figure 8 – An overview of how we configure servers

An Invaluable Tool for Risk Management

Process Safety Enterprise? is a centralised, easy-to-use platform that can manage the lifecycle of your critical PSM compliance and engineering data. To request more information or book a demo, call 1.844.ioMosaic or send me a note. I'd love to hear from you.


Competency-Based Learning is the Foundation of Process Safety

Competency-Based Learning is the Foundation of Process Safety

Competency-based learning principles ensure your team receives the appropriate instruction consistently, regardless of location or manager. Your company’s time and resources spent on learning and learning outcomes are then more efficient and effective. Learn about the essential steps to a competency-based learning program.

To read the article, visit our website > https://bit.ly/407dOw0 ?


PSE Asset Integrity (AI) Workflow Demo

Watch this two-minute video for a demonstration of the Process Safety Enterprise? asset integrity workflow functionality. Users can create reports for upcoming and overdue AI inspections as well as AI findings open and overdue reports. PSE offers several layout options and customization to fit the specific needs of your organization.

To learn more about the PSE Asset Integrity Workflow, visit our website > https://bit.ly/3CHBNG2


#HIRING

Latest Career Opportunities

If you’re someone who enjoys learning new things and tackling a variety of challenges daily, we’d love to speak with you. Check out more opportunities with ioMosaic Corporation.

Analyst- Chemical Engineer

The ideal candidates will be detail-oriented chemical engineering graduates with a desire to succeed and a willingness to learn. You will be provided with a mentor to train you in the finer aspects of process safety and risk management, and to further develop your engineering skills. Upon developing the necessary skills, you will be working as a key member of our team executing projects for the world's largest production companies. This position is located on-site in Bath, England, United Kingdom.

To view this opportunity and apply, visit > https://bit.ly/4etkfPL


Sales Coordinator

ioMosaic is seeking a dynamic and proactive Inside Sales Coordinator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be energetic, detail-oriented, and possess experience with Salesforce and HubSpot. As an Inside Sales Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in supporting our sales team and ensuring the smooth execution of sales processes. This position is located on-site in Houston, TX, United States.

To view this opportunity and apply, visit > https://bit.ly/4g7ZGdd


#ProcessSafetyManagement #SafetyInformation #OSHAcompliance

Copyright ? 2024 ioMosaic Corporation. All rights reserved

要查看或添加评论,请登录