Shutdown/TAR Seasons

The OIM network identified 2021’s shutdown season as a period of concern, due to the impact of COVID-19. In alignment with the Health and Safety Executive, the network compiled the following list of areas where each duty holder should consider. These areas of concern continue to be relevant to TAR / shutdown seasons today.

1. Effective induction / management of transient workforce – recognising the cross-industry risks associated with an influx of a significant number of new starts / green hats, ensuring all personnel are technically competent and familiar with the site, managing the return to work of personnel who have had extended periods of inactivity / unemployment, while also recognising that there may also be a reduction in experienced Performing Authorities.
2. Flange break management and control – managing the MAH risks associated with increased heavy mechanical scopes and ensuring that a thorough end-to-end process for management of flange breaks, leak testing and pre- and post-start up checks are in place and understood.
3. Management and up-front identification of SIMOPS – ensuring SIMOPS identification is effective and adequate strategies are put in place to ensure risks are managed.
4. Effective toolbox talks – ensuring quality toolbox talk delivery, consistent across work scopes, particularly when considering points 1 & 3 above.
5. COVID-19 – managing the continued risk of COVID-19 through the application of manageable and proportionate controls, whilst recognising the importance of achieving safety critical maintenance.
6. Lifting operations – ensuring adequate risk assessments and plans required.
7. Audits – undertaking TAR-specific audits, relative to the tasks and activities ongoing.