Manual Management or Unified Methodology: Which Option to Choose?

From Manual Management to a Unified Methodology

When it comes to implementing large investment and construction projects, manual management of environmental issues becomes inefficient. Speaker Andrey Agafonov, drawing on his 14 years of experience in HSE and ecology, explains why global companies with a wide geographical presence need a unified methodology. The presentation details the transition process from the lack of a systematic approach to the implementation of standardized regulatory and methodological documents.

An Outside Perspective and Document Development

To objectively assess the current state of the environmental risk management system, the company engaged independent consultants. This helped identify the gap between existing practices and the standards of global industry leaders. Based on the data obtained and the team's own experience, a business process structure was developed, and eight key documents were implemented to regulate environmental aspects at all stages of project implementation (the Stage-Gate approach).

Identification and Assessment of Environmental Risks

Using the methodology for identifying, assessing, and managing environmental risks as an example, the speaker demonstrates how the HAZID/ENVID approach works. Cross-functional expert groups conduct brainstorming sessions using qualitative risk assessment based on a 5x5 matrix. An important innovation was the transition from an alphabetical to an alphanumeric assessment system, which made it possible to more clearly track the dynamics of risk reduction after the implementation of mitigating measures. Critical project risks that can significantly affect the project's timeline or cost can be upgraded to the status of key company risks.

Digitalization and Preparation for Inspections

To improve risk management efficiency, the company implemented the "Environmental Risks" module in its corporate information system. This automated the process of recording risk session results and monitoring risk dynamics. In addition, the speaker analyzes the methodology for preparing for government inspections, which includes a clear distribution of roles and action algorithms at all stages: from receiving a notification to completing the inspection. Specially developed memos and action plan templates help minimize the number of violations.

What you will learn from this webinar:

• How to transition from manual management of environmental issues to a systematic methodology in large projects?
• What tools to use for the identification and qualitative assessment of environmental risks?
• How to organize effective monitoring and management of critical risks?
• How does digitalization help in environmental risk management?
• How to properly prepare for government inspections at construction sites?