A Risk-Based Approach to Mechanical Lifting

摘要

This paper describes the approach taken by an oilfield services company to prevent mechanical liftingincidents by implementing industry best practice in the form of fundamental and risk-based controlsthroughout the company.The risk-based approach to mechanical lifting operations allows locations to focus on controlling specificoperational risks.The risk-based controls supplement a set of fundamental controls describing companyrequirements which are mandatory at all locations.The fundamental controls include the introduction of adesignated lifting crew,Country Mechanical Lifting Champion and Country Mechanical Lifting Procedure.A lift categorization questionnaire was developed to identify the risk level associated with mechanical liftingoperations which also enables consistent identification of the required risk-based controls.The introduction of Country Mechanical Lifting Procedures and Champions has allowed applicable localregulations to be clearly identified to enable compliance in accordance with the revised company standard.Site Mechanical Lifting Champions have been assigned to support implementation of the updated standardat local level by developing and maintaining a site specific Mechanical Lifting and DROPS Procedure.This has allowed the workforce to have a local point of contact for specific mechanical lifting queries andcompliance information.To monitor implementation,an internal compliance audit tool was revised to ensureevery location with mechanical lifting operations is assessed for compliance with the company fundamentaland risk-based controls,as well as local regulatory requirements.In addition to the documentation and roles created,new training and innovative materials were developedto communicate the company expectations for the control of mechanical lifting operations.These tools havebeen designed to engage personnel in a memorable and interactive manner in using the principles of spacedlearning.The risk-based company standard and associated innovative training and communications materialsprovide personnel with a clear understanding of the control measures required to prevent mechanical liftingincidents.