3.61 The planning needs for a SMS
A comprehensive Safety Management System – SMS is an effective framework for an organizations EHS Planning.
Having an SMS is likened to an “engine cylinder block ” that likewise controls all essential moving parts and controls their functions to achieve a higher level of performance
A safety management Plan or a detailed program is a planning document that outlines the specific safety arrangements for a particular project or activity.
It is based on the principles and framework of an SMS, but it is tailored to suit the nature, scope, and duration of the work.
Good planning identifies opportunities to prevent incidents, improve performance, and demonstrate due diligence.
SMS policy includes the following elements:
- Scope and objectives
- Roles and responsibilities
- Hazard identification and risk assessments
- Risk control measures
- Emergency response plan
- Training and induction to Include Contractors
- Consultation and communication
- Reporting and record keeping
- Review and audit.
A SMS should be developed in consultation with the relevant stakeholders, such as workers, contractors, clients, regulators and engineers. Should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes or issues i.e. a live document!
Why Planning Fails
Common reasons include:
- Lack of leadership commitment
- Poor communication
- Insufficient resources
- Inadequate supervision
- Failure to identify hazards
- Failure to monitor performance
There is no one SMS that fits all – develop to meet your priorities and challenges
For an example Canadian SMS – CSA/CAN Z1000 provides a standard for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an occupational health and safety management system. Such a system encourages a more systematic approach to meeting defined occupational health and safety objectives and increases awareness of health and safety in the workplace and assists organizations seeking certification under federal, provincial, and sector-based certification programs (e.g., Certificates of Recognition). Advantages for Contract companies to demonstrate contract standards.
Note – Your SMS standard can be developed internally and does not need to be an external std. therefore developing your internal staff expertise and maintaining confidentiality.
Visit this link – https://www.ontario.ca/page/chief-prevention-officers-occupational-health-and-safety-management-system-accreditation-standard
Most organizations and contractors need to have a safety program or an SMS Standard to demonstrate “Due Diligence for GDC and EHS arrangements to include their contractors.
Leading Health and safety planning performance Indicators are;-
– Effective planning at all stages of the program
-Senior Management commitment
-Effective communications
-Competency and experience at all levels
-Employee and Contractors involvement
-Detailed Health and Safety Management System – SMS
-A comprehensive total safety case
-Do more not less – aim for the “optimum” solution
Have a Proficient Health and safety coordinator and Supervisors
Best to Plan your work from a thoroughly planned engineering perspective and then check it meets all regulative requirements and codes. This approach enables innovations, initiatives and the wider safety case consequences perspective.
A good example was when the HSE de-regulated the Offshore oil platforms following Piper Alpha and brought in the offshore “safety case regulations”- Operators are now not constrained by prescribed regulations but given the initiative to design “fit for purpose” based on the operators ( The experts) own risk assessments . Mr Bell had the role of leading on “Fire Safety” and the “Field Safety Management System” for submission to the UK HSE Authority for the Morecambe Bay safety case.
Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS – WSIB) can provide guidance on what is best for your organization.
Start the SMS with an index, use this index as a numbering system for all ICPP’s and policies, procedures and records.
Synchronized flying – If we can fly in formation like this we can work safely together!
