Message of the President of Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environmental Management and Engineering (HSEME) on the occasion of World Environment Day 2024 "Our Earth, Our Future"

This year, the World Environment Day 2024, with the slogan "Our Earth, Our Future", has a special emphasis on restoring the earth, stopping desertification and building resistance against drought. In addition, according to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, 40% of the earth's land has been destroyed, which directly affects half of the world's population. Also, the frequency and duration of droughts have increased by 29% since 2000, and if immediate action is not taken, drought may affect three quarters of the world's population by 2050. Land restoration is one of the important goals of the United Nations regarding ecosystem restoration in 2021 to 2030. Also, land reclamation plays a significant role in achieving sustainable development goals.

On this occasion, Dr. Amin Padash, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environmental Management and Engineering (HSEME), in a message while congratulating this World Day on the importance of paying attention to education, awareness and public participation to achieve this sustainability, emphasized the environment and prioritizing the preservation of the environment in all aspects of development - industrial, service, economic, cultural and social.

Safety information, Safety, Health and Environmental (HSE) requirements in Marine and Shipping

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has several key conventions that obligate ships to comply with safety, health, and environmental requirements. One of the most significant frameworks is the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), along with the MARPOL Convention for pollution prevention.

Key Clauses and Explanations:

1- SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)

Safety of Life at Sea Convention SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) is an international maritime treaty that sets minimum safety standards for ships and shipping procedures. First introduced in 1914 after the sinking of the RMS Titanic, SOLAS was subsequently implemented several times during It has been updated over the years, with the last amendment of SOLAS 1974 coming into force in 1980. The purpose of this convention is to ensure the safety of human life at sea, the safety of ships, and the safety of property on board.

2-MARPOL (Marine Pollution)

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL)

Water pollution is one of the most fundamental global concerns to preserve the marine environment, which can cause damage to plants, animals and marine ecosystems, as well as disrupt human exploitation of the sea and harm the tourism and fishing industries. to be Various types of sea pollution caused by ships, such as the discharge of waste, oil and its derivatives in the water and pollution caused by the smoke of ships, led to the creation of an important international treaty to prevent them. The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships or MARPL is a treaty in which all ships flying the flags of MARPL signatory countries, regardless of their origin and destination, are obliged to comply with its provisions, and the member nations, They are responsible for all ships and vessels that are registered under their respective nationality. Marple is an abbreviation of Marine Pollution.

3. STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers)

The convention outlines the training and certification requirements for seafarers and ensures that crews are adequately trained to handle safety and environmental challenges. These standards consist of the abbreviation of the Latin words Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping, and it means the standards of training, certification, cares or watches of maritime, which was approved in 1978 by the conference of the International Maritime Organization in London and in It was implemented in 1984.

4- ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code)

ISPS stands for Latin words (International Ship and Port Security) and means international security of ships and ports.

What is HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Management in Organizations

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) management refers to the systematic approach organizations adopt to ensure the health and safety of their employees while minimizing their environmental impact. It encompasses policies, procedures, and practices that are designed to manage risks related to health, safety, and the environment effectively. HSE management is not only about compliance with laws and regulations; it is also about fostering a culture of safety, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing organizational reputation.

The Importance of HSE System Implementation

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

 The implementation of a Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) management system is crucial for organizations across various industries. It not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also fosters a culture of safety and sustainability, ultimately driving operational excellence. An effective HSE system minimizes risks, enhances productivity, and safeguards the well-being of employees and the environment. Below, we explore the importance of HSE system implementation through practical examples and extended descriptions.

Difference between HSE approach in an operational company and a commercial company

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

The Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) practices in operational companies (like manufacturing, construction, or energy) differ significantly from those in commercial companies (like retail, hospitality, or service-oriented businesses) due to the nature of their operations, associated risks, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Operational Companies

Characteristics:

• High-Risk Environments: Operational companies often work in environments with significant physical hazards, such as heavy machinery, chemicals, or construction sites.
• Regulatory Scrutiny: These companies are usually subject to stringent regulations and standards from various regulatory bodies (e.g., OSHA, EPA).
• Focus on Physical Safety: HSE practices prioritize physical safety due to the inherent risks of operations.

Example: Oil and Gas Industry

• HSE Practices: In an oil and gas company, HSE practices include comprehensive safety training for workers on handling hazardous materials, implementing robust emergency response plans for oil spills or explosions, and conducting regular safety audits and drills.
• Implementation: The company may use advanced technologies like drones to inspect infrastructure for safety compliance, ensuring that all operations are conducted under strict safety protocols.
• Impact: By effectively managing HSE, the company can significantly reduce accidents, enhance employee morale, and minimize environmental impacts, thereby safeguarding its reputation and operational viability.

What are the Best Practices for HSE Management System?

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

Implementing best practices for Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) is crucial for creating a safe workplace and promoting a safety culture. These practices help minimize risks and enhance organizational performance, employee morale, and public perception. Below are some of the best HSE practices, illustrated with examples and extended descriptions to demonstrate their importance and effectiveness.

1. Comprehensive Risk Assessment

Best Practice: Conducting regular and thorough risk assessments is fundamental in identifying potential hazards and evaluating the associated risks in the workplace.

Example: A company might conduct a risk assessment in the construction industry before starting a new project. This involves identifying hazards such as working at heights, heavy machinery, or potential exposure to harmful materials. The assessment would include evaluating the likelihood of these risks and their potential impact on workers.

A detailed risk assessment process often includes site inspections, employee feedback, and historical data analysis. This information helps in formulating specific control measures, such as using safety harnesses for workers at heights, establishing barriers around machinery, or implementing stringent safety protocols when handling hazardous substances. Regular assessment updates are also essential as projects evolve or new hazards emerge.

How can HSE Systems be efficient in the company?

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

Implementing an effective Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) system is essential for companies seeking to enhance their operational efficiency. A well-structured HSE system ensures compliance with regulations promotes a safety culture, reduces incidents, and ultimately improves productivity. Below, we explore how HSE systems can drive efficiency within a company, supported by examples and detailed descriptions.

1. Streamlined Processes and Procedures

Efficiency Gain: An effective HSE system provides clear processes and procedures that streamline operations. Companies can reduce confusion and increase productivity by defining safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Example: In a manufacturing facility, implementing a standardized safety protocol for machinery operation ensures that all employees follow the same steps when using equipment. This minimizes the risk of accidents caused by human error and enhances overall productivity.

A well-documented HSE system includes detailed SOPs that guide employees through each task, highlighting safety measures and operational steps. For instance, if a company standardizes the lockout/tagout procedures for machinery maintenance, employees are less likely to overlook critical safety steps. This consistency leads to fewer disruptions in operations, as safety checks become routine rather than reactive. Moreover, streamlined procedures allow for easier training of new employees, as they can quickly learn established protocols, reducing onboarding time and enhancing overall workforce efficiency.

HSE and HSEQ approach in Oil and Gas and FPSO Operations

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

The terms HSE and HSEQ are often used in industries like oil and gas, especially in activities such as drilling and FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) operations. While they share some similarities in their focus on safety and risk management, there are subtle but important differences between them, particularly in terms of scope and application. Let's break it down in detail using the example of drilling and FPSO operations:

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment)

HSE refers to the overarching framework focused on ensuring the health, safety, and environmental protection of employees, contractors, and the environment where operations occur. It's a broader, foundational concept that ensures compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards related to health, safety, and the environment. The core principles of HSE are:

• Health: Ensuring that employees work in a healthy environment that minimizes risks of illness or injury. In drilling and FPSO operations, this might include ensuring the availability of medical support on-site and managing potential exposure to harmful chemicals or working conditions (e.g., noise, heat).
• Safety: Reducing risks of accidents, incidents, and injuries in the workplace. For example, safety protocols in drilling operations would include procedures to deal with blowouts, equipment failures, or fires. In FPSO operations, safety measures could include emergency evacuation plans, fire suppression systems, and safety drills.
• Environment: Preventing or minimizing harm to the environment. For instance, drilling could involve preventing oil spills, managing waste fluids, or reducing air emissions. For FPSOs, it would ensure that discharges into the sea, such as produced water or ballast, are managed according to environmental regulations.

In drilling and FPSO operations, HSE focuses on reducing operational risks and ensuring safe practices to protect human lives and minimize environmental impacts. Specific measures include using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safe handling of hazardous materials, and regular training on emergency response.

Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) in Oil and Drilling industry

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

Quality Assurance (QA) refers to the systematic process of ensuring that products or services meet specific requirements and standards through planned and organized activities. The main goal of QA is to prevent defects in the product or service by focusing on improving and refining the processes that produce them. It is a proactive approach that focuses on the prevention of issues, ensuring that everything is designed, implemented, and maintained to meet the desired quality standards.

In the context of industries like oil and drilling, QA includes all the procedures, audits, assessments, and training programs aimed at ensuring that operations are compliant with safety, environmental, and quality standards. QA also ensures that all the systems, equipment, and processes used during exploration, drilling, and production are capable of consistently meeting regulatory and operational requirements.

Main Differences Between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)

While Quality Assurance and Quality Control are closely related, they are distinct concepts, and understanding the differences between them is crucial.

Concept of Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS)

Prepared and edited by: Dr. Amin Padash, President of the Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environment Management and Engineering (HSEME)

Concept of Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS)

Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) refers to the execution of multiple activities or operations at the same location or within close proximity, typically involving different teams, systems, or equipment. If not properly managed, SIMOPS could lead to potential conflicts or safety risks. In industries like oil and gas, mining, and construction, SIMOPS is a common challenge due to the nature of the work, which often requires different types of operations to occur in parallel or in close sequence.

While these operations might be necessary for efficiency, they must be coordinated to ensure safety, minimize risk, and protect people, the environment, and assets.

Objectives of SIMOPS

The main objectives of SIMOPS include:

1. Risk Mitigation: To identify and reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, or environmental damage due to conflicting operations.
2. Operational Efficiency: To ensure that multiple operations can be conducted simultaneously without unnecessary delays or downtime.
3. Safety Assurance: To ensure the safety of workers and assets during simultaneous tasks, particularly when the activities might interfere with each other.
4. Compliance with Regulations: To ensure that the organization meets safety regulations, industry standards, and legal requirements when conducting multiple operations.