During one of our SEMS Workshop held in Houston, our discussions and presentations were focused on contractor management and how operators are approaching it with SEMS. One question that was brought up was about training verification. These third party contractors that are hired have to provide proof of the proper training needed for a specific company and site. Without wasting time on verification, how are operators supposed to confirm that every contractor has up to date training as well as training that is sufficient?

This brought up a relatable analogy. People are required by law to have a valid driver’s license, but it is a fact that a lot of people who are legally driving should not be on the roads endangering people’s lives. In Texas, you are even allowed to be home schooled for driving. I know because I did it myself.

My Story

I had to take the test to get my permit like everybody else, but then for the driving part of my training, I just had to log my hours and have my parents sign off saying I had done it. I actually completed it and was properly trained by my parents, but what if there are parents out there who sign off on something that is not true? I did not have to go through the driving part of the test to get my license. Once my parents signed off that I had done my required hours behind the wheel with my permit, I was able to get my license. This is completely and totally legal and accepted in the state of Texas, so it is considered certified training, but there is no way to know that those who are home schooled truly get the proper training.

For just BP alone in 2012, more than half of the 402 million hours worked were done by contractors.

With those kinds of statistics, it is crucial to have a strong contractor management program that includes training verification. Just because the training was completed does not mean the concepts were fully understood and maintained. Pre-project kickoffs are so important as well as on-site training before beginning the work of a contractor. What do you think is the best way to address contractor management and maintain a safe work environment for everybody?

On a related note – These GRC functions could be easily taken care with an automated GRC software that is constantly updated.

 *The author’s views and opinions are entirely his or her own and may not reflect the views and opinions of 360factors.

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