HOW DO I MANAGE THE PROCESS OF ENSURING A SAFE OPERATOR
Whilst each focus area is relatively simple in itself, managing all of them together, particularly for a large workgroup can become a big job.
Like any big job, it needs to be planned, scheduled and followed up. Project management skills are therefore important.
The planning should start with the development of a competency matrix for employees and regular contractors. This matrix should include a list of roles and/ or staff on one axis, and a list of competencies/training/ knowledge required on the other axis. An example of a competency matrix is set out here.
Once the matrix is complete, training requirements then need to be determined for each competency, along with decisions regarding periodic retraining and verification of competency.
Capturing the resulting work in a calendar helps to remind when any form of training or competency assessment is due.
As operations become larger, more resources need to be devoted to managing the process of ensuring all personnel maintain their knowledge and competency in the three key focus areas. Many larger organisations utilise learning and information management systems to assist in managing these obligations.
SUMMARY – SAFE OPERATOR
The objective of this article is to try and demystify the process of ensuring a safe operator and safe operation of a piece of plant.
Whilst it would have been easier to focus just on training an operator and making sure they can use a machine, we have taken a holistic view of what it takes to ensure a safe employee, safe plant operator and safe site worker.
By combining the systematic process outlined in this SAFE OPERATOR article, with the processes described in our SAFE PLANT and SAFE ENVIRONMENT articles, development of a complete and thorough system of work becomes simpler and easier to understand.
That is not to say it is easy or takes no time, however these are aimed at helping you direct your resources to the appropriate areas in order to diligently manage safety risks.
From here it is our intention to develop further tools to assist you to follow the processes outlined in the Plant Safety Management Model. We welcome your feedback and ideas to assist with this process.
Disclaimer: This information is intended to provide general information on the subject matter. This is not intended as legal or expert advice for your specific situation. You should seek professional advice before acting or relying on the content of this information. Please contact us for further assistance – see form below.