Transition to a New HSE Management Model or the Reasons for the 2022 Russian Labor Code Changes

Transition to a New HSE Management Model: Context and Reasons for Changes

On March 1, 2022, fundamental changes regarding HSE management took place in the Labor Code of the Russian Federation. Serik Mazhkenov, Chief Expert of the HSE Research Center at the "VNII of Labor" of the Russian Ministry of Labor, details the objective reasons for the transition to the new model and explains why these changes became a necessity for the industry.

In his presentation, the speaker emphasizes that the development of technologies and the emergence of new materials and professions lead to new, previously unknown risks. Under these conditions, the HSE management system must respond adequately to changes to ensure the reliable and uninterrupted operation of production processes.

The Essence of the New Paradigm: Risk-Based and Process Approaches

The new HSE management model is based on two key approaches: risk-based and process-oriented. The speaker uses an example to show how the results of one process become the basis for launching the next, forming a continuous management cycle.

• Risk-based approach: all management decisions are made based on hazard identification and risk assessment. This allows shifting the focus from reacting to events that have already occurred to preventing them.
• Process approach: the management system is viewed as a set of interconnected processes. The basic processes are the special assessment of working conditions (SAWC) and occupational risk assessment (ORA), the results of which determine the requirements for all subsequent stages.

It is important to note that the ultimate consumer of the occupational risk assessment results is the specific employee at a specific workplace. The entire system is aimed at creating safe working conditions and informing the person about the protective measures taken.

Occupational Risk Assessment: Key Stages and Methods

The presentation details the process of occupational risk assessment, starting from work organization and ending with documenting the results. The speaker analyzes the main assessment methods recommended by the Ministry of Labor and explains their applicability depending on the specifics of the enterprise.

• Hazard identification: includes documentary-analytical, visual stages, and situational analysis. Thorough identification of all potential hazard sources is the foundation for developing effective management measures.
• Choice of assessment methods: the checklist method is recommended for small and micro-businesses, while the matrix method is for large enterprises. The main task is to quickly and cost-effectively assess the risk level to make management decisions.
• Hierarchy of controls: the speaker emphasizes the importance of the sequential application of protective measures, starting with hazard elimination and ending with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as the last barrier.

Documenting and Implementing Control Measures

Documenting the results of occupational risk assessments is a critical stage of the new model. All information about hazards and control measures must be reflected in local regulations, primarily in HSE instructions.

The speaker notes that documentation allows forming a corporate knowledge base and eliminates the system's dependence on the skills of individual employees. The implementation of control measures, including medical examinations, training, informing, and issuing PPE, is centered on the specific employee, ensuring their safety.

What you will learn from this webinar:

• What are the objective reasons for the transition to the new HSE management model in the Russian Federation?
• What is the essence of the risk-based and process approaches?
• How to properly organize and conduct an occupational risk assessment at an enterprise?
• Which risk assessment methods are most effective for different types of businesses?
• How to properly document assessment results and implement risk control measures?