QHSE Transformation Project Lead

Executive Summary

This project addresses critical QHSE system failures through a cultural, procedural, and structural transformation. Given the operational context (swamp/land, rigless/rig-based, marine ops in Niger Delta), we must prioritize immediate risk control while building a sustainable, embedded QHSE culture aligned with ISO 9001 principles.

Project Structure: 5 Pillars of Transformation

1. LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE (Pillar 1)

• Executive Sponsorship: Form a Steering Committee chaired by MD, with all department heads.
• QHSE Charter: Develop and sign a “Safety Covenant” recommitting to “Zero Harm.”
• Accountability Framework: Clear QHSE KPIs for managers, linked to performance reviews.
• Immediate Action: Appoint a respected, empowered Head of QHSE with direct reporting to MD.

1. RISK & INCIDENT MANAGEMENT (Pillar 2)

• Immediate (Month 1): Implement a simplified, confidential Risk & Near-Miss Reporting System (phone-based & paper forms at sites).
• Critical Risk Controls: Focus on Fatality Prevention protocols for top risks:
  • Driving/Transport (land/swamp)
  • Lifting & Rigging
  • Marine Operations
  • Confined Space / Hot Work
  • Hydrocarbon Handling
  • Incident Investigation: Train lead investigators using Root Cause Analysis (RCA). All high-potential incidents reviewed by Steering Committee.

1. COMPETENCE & TRAINING (Pillar 3)

• Mandatory Training Matrix: Role-based training for all 900+ employees (direct & ad-hoc).
• Immediate “Survival Skills” Training: Focus on:
  • Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (HIRA)
  • Defensive driving (land/swamp)
  • Basic Offshore Safety Induction & Emergency Training (BOSIET) for marine/rig
  • Permit-To-Work (PTW) System
  • Ad-hoc Worker Integration: No one works without minimum QHSE induction and verified competency.

1. SYSTEMS & PROCESSES (Pillar 4)

• Simplify & Integrate Procedures: Adapt ISO 9001 for QHSE. Integrate Safe Work Instructions into existing project management/EPCC workflows.
• Technology Enablement: Evaluate affordable QHSE software for:
• Incident reporting/tracking
• Risk register
• Training records
• Audit findings
• Daily Operations: Implement Toolbox Talks and Pre-Task Risk Assessments for every crew.

1. CULTURE & ENGAGEMENT (Pillar 5)

• Visible Felt Leadership: Managers spend minimum 20% time on site conducting QHSE engagements.
• Recognition Program: Reward positive safety behaviors and reporting.
• Communication Campaign: “See Something, Say Something, Do Something” to empower all employees.
• Local Community Integration: Extend safety principles to community interactions.

• FUNCTIONS
• Appoint QHSE Head and core team.
• Deploy emergency reporting system.
• Launch “Survival Skills” training blitz.
• Conduct baseline risk assessment of all critical activities.
• Roll out revised procedures (PTW, HIRA, etc.).
• Implement QHSE software platform.
• Train supervisors and investigators.
• Develop full competency matrix and training plans.
• Start recognition program.
• Integrate QHSE metrics into business reviews.
• Conduct internal audits and management reviews.
• Deepen culture programs.
• Seek external verification/ISO 45001 certification.

Key Success Metrics (KPIs)

Lagging Indicators (Outcome Metrics)

1. Zero Fatalities (Absolute priority)
2. Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) – Target: 50% reduction yearly
3. Total Recordable Injury Rate (TRIR) – Target: 40% reduction yearly
4. Number of High-Potential Incidents – Track and reduce
5. Near-Miss Reporting Rate – Target: Increase by 100% in first year

Leading Indicators (Activity & Behavior Metrics)

1. % Completion of Mandatory Training – Target: 95% for critical roles
2. % Jobs with Pre-Task Risk Assessment – Target: 100% for high-risk tasks
3. Leadership Field Engagement – Target: Each manager 20+ engagements/month
4. Audit Findings Closure Rate – Target: >90% within 30 days
5. Employee Perception Survey Score – Target: 20% improvement in “Safety Culture” score yearly

System Health Metrics

1. Average Time to Close Action Items – Target: <30 days for high-risk items
2. % Ad-hoc Workers Trained Before Work – Target: 100%
3. Management Review Frequency – Target: Quarterly with full attendance

Critical Success Factors

1. Unwavering Leadership Commitment: Resources, time, and priority from the top.
2. “Just Culture” Balance: Encourage reporting without fear of blame for honest errors, while maintaining accountability for reckless behavior.
3. Simplicity & Relevance: Procedures must be practical for swamp/land Niger Delta context.
4. Include Ad-hoc Workers: They are most vulnerable and must be integrated into all systems.
5. Learn from Incidents: Transparent sharing of lessons from investigations.

Budget & Resources

• Dedicated QHSE Transformation Team (Project Manager + Specialists)
• Training Development & Delivery (internal/external)
• QHSE Management Software
• Campaign Materials & Recognition Rewards
• Estimated Initial Investment: 2-3% of annual payroll (justified by reduced incident costs, reputational protection, and client confidence).