Institution news
Please briefly explain your role as it relates to safety in pressure testing.
My role is that of technical lead on all matters relating to pressure testing in our company. I have a responsibility to ensure test safety and the continual improvement in competency amongst our test operatives and supervisors.
I am also the PVMf representative for UK manufacturers on the board of the PSG. I have been involved in the development of the EEMUA guidance document 168 alongside a number of the other speakers.
Could you talk a little about the recent developments which have been taking place in the sector?
Since 2017 we have been developing a standard which industry can use to train, test and qualify individuals for the safe performance of pressure tests. We need to see a reduction in accidents, incidents and fatalities during the performance of testing operations. Our work at the PSG has been to (1) encourage all stakeholders to contribute to the development of this document and (2) to support engagement with the training and learning outcomes within industry.
Why is it important for engineers to come together to learn about and discuss these issues?
Engineers want to work safely. This event will provide the perfect platform to review the guidance and enable them to measure their existing training and performance.
Engineers respect best practice. Attending the online seminar provides the perfect opportunity for us to work in collaboration to develop a picture of what this best looks like for designers, manufacturers and on site.
Engineers want ownership. This event enables engineers to ascertain which aspects of the guidance relate to their daily roles. Early insight into the content and direction of the document enables engineers to begin the process of improving their own systems and owning the outcomes.
What insights do you plan to share with the Pressure Systems community at the upcoming seminar?
As PVMf members we would like to portray what engagement and implementation of this document could look like in the equipment manufacturers environment. A vision of future changes.
Which other presentations are you looking forward to hearing?
I look forward to hearing the presentation from Paul Brooks about practical implementation of the guideline on an end user site. I am also looking forward to hearing what Paul Grady shares from the Regulators point of view.
What are you hoping will be the main takeaways from this event?
I am hopeful that all the attendees will recognise the life saving opportunity we are presented with to improve and standardise the competency expectations in our industry. I am also hopeful that there will be agreement between stakeholders to support and engage with this process going forwards
The Pressure Testing 2021 seminar will offer a unique opportunity to learn about the development and increased scope of EEMUA guideline 168 which will now cover initial manufacturing tests alongside in-service inspection. There will be presentations from EEMUA, end users and manufacturers, along with an insight into what the potential training delivery options are for the guideline.
Furthermore, the Health and Safety Executive will provide a clear overview of the current regulatory landscape, together with a discussion of possible future uptake and engagement with the new guideline.
For full details and to book your place, please visit the event website.