A growing number of integrated work processes based on ICT advances are entering the petroleum sector, particularly in the drilling, production, maintenance and logistics areas.
New modes of operation create not only new risks but also further opportunities to become better at HSE. The PSA will help to reduce the risk of introducing integrated operation (IO), partly by investigating the possible significance of ICT developments for HSE.
In the authority’s view, the industry must consciously exploit these advances and the constant changes they encourage in order to achieve improved HSE management.
Secure ICT solutions are important for the whole basis of HSE, and not just to protect computer data. The PSA’s goal is to create understanding and awareness among different players about the links between HSE, ICT safety and security, and IO.
The authority sees a need for an overall picture of the critical factors involved and for a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities by the players concerned.
It will be a prime mover in ensuring that the new technology contributes to HSE improvements, not least by encouraging the use of IO when the industry further develops its HSE management.
Change processes will be implemented in a good way, and HSE will be a driver for the development of innovative solutions – particularly in safety-critical work processes and systems.
The PSA has defined HSE in IO as one of its five main priorities for 2008.
