API PUBL 9100B:1998 pdf download.Guidance Document for Model EHS Management System
A series of steps taken to ensure that stated objectives are achieved. Typical steps or elements of an EHS management system are shown in Table 1. A typical system includes consideration of four key characteristics: scope and objectives, documented procedures and resources for implementation and execution, a verification or measurement process to determine if results are being achieved, and a feedback mechanism to provide for continual improvement. These key characteristics provide the basic structure for a quality systems approach, which is often referred to as: “plan, do, assess, and adjust” (see Figure l).”
1.2.2.1 Procedures for Process Steps and System Tasks
Two types of procedures are integral to a system, both of which need to be documented. The first type of procedure addresses the process steps of the management system itself. A flow chart or similar type of diagram may be useful in documenting these process steps. The second type of procedure lists the various steps for key system tasks. These procedures should be clear, easy to follow, and kept current. Properly written procedures will address safety precautions to be observed, and facility operations during normal and abnormal (Le., emergency) situations. These types of procedures are not normally kept with the overall management system documentation, but typically are contained in safety or operating manuals. Examples of written procedures for system tasks could include forms, and instructions for their completion, and elaboration of steps to be performed to complete various actions.
1 .2.2.2 Responsible and Accountable Resources
In addition to the procedures mentioned above, it is equally important to establish clear roles, responsibilities and approval authorities for a system. Communication of the management system requirements and responsibilities is necessary to ensure that all individuals involved understand the objectives of the system and their specific responsibilities related to the system.
these activities. It is the monitoring of EHS performance that gives the organization the capability, “the facts,’’ to demonstrate the quality and degree of improvement of its performance, and consequently, the quality of its environmental stewardship. The objectives of measurement and verification are to ensure: (1) that processes exist to measure performance against objectives and expected results, and (2) that proper functioning of the system is verified. Processes need to be set up to measure system performance against the objectives and expected results. Measurement is a means to check system performance against requirements or expectations. Specific system outputs need to be measured to ensure that the system is functioning and meeting its objectives. Auditing the EHS Management System involves monitoring and assessing system effectiveness and efficiency parameters. The purpose of system verification is to confirm that the system is continuously functioning and meeting its objectives. Verification is usually done through some form of review of the system or system outputs. Verification includes both management review of the system and field verification to ensure the system is working as designed in an operation.