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Step 6: Show This Helps Everyone
Here’s an example: An operations manager working from the corporate offiffice needs to be notifified as soon as an incident or near- miss incident occurs. In a paper-based or email system, that event notification could take hours, days or even weeks to assemble and make its way to their desk.
With an EHS software, that operations manager will receive a real-time notification of the incident on their phone which includes details of what happened, pictures from the event, and descriptions. The real value of instant notification is now the operations manager will be able to see the follow-up actions and status. They will be armed to make quicker and better-informed decisions to ensure that the relevant jobs and operations associated with the event can continue with minimal to no disruption and with worker safety in mind.
Not convinced? Here’s another scenario: A heavy equipment operator needs to run through a pre-use checklist at the start of every shift, but today someone removed the laminated checklist card from the cab. This worker wants to start their shift so they can start moving material before someone complains.
In a paper-based world, that operator has to contact their supervisor about the missing checklist, figure out where it is, fill it out and then give it to somebody who will later enter the information into a spreadsheet to confirm the inspection. That might take 15 minutes or more where this employee will be running around doing something they don’t want to be and should not have to be doing.
Pulling that checklist up on their phone is more accessible, better organized and cuts down the time someone else will spend inputting that information into a spreadsheet. The operator is already off and working to ensure the equipment is safe to use and moving material in a few clicks.
Alright, one last example for the employees whose safety involvement requires on-site response. In this scenario, the safety coordinator has to drive from the main office towards a well site every time there’s a collision or safety incident to determine if everyone is okay and if anyone might need first-aid or more substantial medical treatment. Because they are in a rush to triage the situation,
they keep forgetting the incident forms they have to fifill out. Even if they have a notepad or take notes on their phone, they’re still going to have to drive back to the main offiffice to retrieve the form and then back down again to find witnesses so they can complete their report.
EHS software can prevent unnecessary trips. With a phone they already have, they can find necessary resources and get guided, real-time instructions that will make their job much easier.
Digitization Doesn’t Happen Overnight
It can be extremely daunting and feel like more effffort than it is worth changing how you manage your safety program. But with small, easy-to-accomplish tasks and a committed organization, the transition to software will be smooth and take less time than you initially thought. All in the name of better safety for everyone.
Deren Boyd is senior vice president of KPA.
What’s Your Employee Health?
To be successful, your workforce must stay healthy and avoid injuries. How do you achieve that while ensuring compliance? Now there’s a software solution that brings workplace health management and compliance together, while saving you time and dollars on cumbersome paper processes.
Net Health® Employee Health improves the health of your employees, and your business.
nethealth.com/employee-health
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www.ohsonline.com
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 | Occupational Health & Safety 27