It’s easy for a business to get lost in the process of production and growth and take HSE for granted. Recovery from major incidents can take the company steps back and in some cases, lead to closure – it’s that serious.
An effective HSE management system does not just keep OSHA off your back, but it can be a significant contributor to the growth of your business.
Benefits of an HSE Management System
Reduced costs
An HSE management system ensures that you are fully compliant with all state rules and regulations preventing hefty fines.
With a safe working environment, you reduce the costs resulting from employees’ injuries such as hospital bills and worker’s compensations. The company also reduces the resultant cost of high employee absenteeism.
Less incident occurrence in your company shows better risk control. It becomes easier to negotiate with insurance companies for a lesser premium amount.
Better employee productivity
Workers perform better in a safe environment. By demonstrating the company’s commitment to keeping them safe, the employees become more productive and conscientious.
A company with fewer workplace incidents is less likely to face disputes with employee unions. It makes negotiating employee contracts easy and disruptive cases of workers strike less.
Improved company reputation
A company with less HSE related scandals has a better image. They are more likely to gain more customers and build loyalty.
Financial and investment institutions are more likely to comfortably finance and invest in a business that is properly managed and has fewer scandals.
Better handling of emergencies
Even with proper management of risks, accidents happen. An efficient HSE system offers an emergency response plan which all employees are aware of.
It creates a consistent response plan that prevents confusion which results in more damage.
Major Elements of an Effective System
Effective policies, procedures, and process
It should give a proper guideline on all EHS-related issues in the company such as safety behavior, incident reporting, and record keeping.
An efficient emergency response plan
This is a guideline on the conduct of behavior in case of an emergency. It should contain evacuation procedures, guidelines on shutting down project operations, assembly points, information on local medical hospitals, and rescue and medical duties of those assigned with the task.
Timely updates on EHS rules and regulations
Rules and regulations governing EHS are always changing. An efficient system should have a way to distribute up-to-date documents, and equip employees with current laws for continued compliance.
Safety inspection checklist
An EHS checklist guides the inspection officer that is in line with EHS rules and regulations and ensures the inspection is exhaustive thus reducing risk. It provides a baseline for the safety inspection.
Mobility and Flexibility
Good EHS management software should be flexible and easy to use on the go. Mobility and flexibility can be made possible by the use of mobile apps that make real-time communication possible even in remote locations.
An efficient HSE management system is a must-have for any business. It provides financial benefits, increases employee productivity and builds a reputation.
A management system should provide guidelines on responding to emergencies, conducting inspections, and the latest rules and regulations. It should also be easy to use at any location.
