OGUK launches assurance guidelines in continued focus on prevention of hydrocarbon releases

OGUK’s Assurance and Verification Task Finish Group has launched assurance guidelines to assist industry in the prevention of hydrocarbon releases and Major Accident Hazards. This landmark document has been developed in partnership with industry, the Health and Safety Executive and OGUK following regulator concerns on assurance and verification processes related to the prevention of hydrocarbon releases.

These guidelines describe good practices in the implementation of an assurance framework for the prevention of major accidents, including hydrocarbon releases. The guidelines also describe effective assurance activities, provide examples of robust systems, and promote and share good practice.

Although the main focus of the guidelines is to support duty holders in the prevention of hydrocarbon releases and Major Accident Hazards, it can also support and be applied to any organisation type.

Commenting, Mark Wilson, chair of OGUK’s Assurance and Verification Task Finish Group and HSEA director, Enquest, said:

“Throughout 2020 a team of industry experts in the field of assurance have worked, in a predominantly virtual environment, to produce a document that will provide good practice on assurance-related matters.  The Assurance Guidelines support building resilience into the industry approach to preventing hydrocarbon releases and will be supported by awareness presentations in 2021.  The guidelines are a like a ‘pick and mix’ in that there will be a good practice for all organisations.

“It has been a privilege to be part of the team developing the Assurance Guidelines and supporting awareness material.  We hope that the industry can benefit from the collective experience of the team and that leadership and those involved with assurance take a moment to read the guidelines and challenge how they can add value to their own organisation.  Together we can make a difference to build further resilience into our processes and systems and ensure that all those working in the industry go home safe and sound.”

OGUK HSE Advisor Tricia Schooling added:

“This comprehensive and well written document was developed through excellent collaboration between members and should really benefit the industry as it maintains its effort to prevent hydrocarbon releases and in improving management systems. OGUK is grateful to Mark, the Task Finish Group and the regulator for their continued focus and momentum.”

Read the latest issue of the OGV Energy magazine HERE.