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Furthermore, it is imperative that operators are continuously assessing and improving levels of individual and organisational competence. However, given the now global supply chain of manufacturers and suppliers, it is increasingly challenging to assure that new and existing pressure assets are up to scratch.
With this in mind, the Institution's Quality and Competence in Pressure Systems seminar will bring together all the experts involved from the entire sector. As the representative of the Health and Safety Executive at the seminar, we spoke with Mechanical Engineering Team Leader David Glass to get an advanced understanding of the regulatory expectations for asset owners, manufacturers and operators.
Q: Please provide us with a brief summary of your role as it relates to quality/competence in pressure systems
David Glass (DG): I’m part of a team within the onshore major hazard sector of HSE, where pressure systems and the wider issue of containment is a significant factor in many incidents. We try to ensure that process plant is of sufficient build quality, but also monitored by competent and informed personnel through its life.
Q: What is the number one challenge engineers in this sector face in assuring quality?
DG: If I have to sum it up on one word – Integrity; both of plant and the people who use it.
Q: How have the requirements for pressure systems specialists changed in recent years?
DG: We have had some regulatory stability in the last few years, but that may change with leaving the EU. In my area, changes in non-destructive testing have led to new opportunities, but also give rise to many challenges. Competence and retention of knowledge is a persistent problem too.
Q: What insight and guidance are you planning to share in your presentation at the Quality and Competence seminar?
DG: I’ll be focusing on competence, in particular how it relates to plant in service and what the HSE’s expectations are. I’ll be doing this by mainly by highlighting an accident in the major hazard sector.
Q: Are there any other issues which you are looking forward to hearing about from the PSG community?
DG: Colleagues from other sectors always provide valuable learning, and there is always something of relevance at Pressure Systems Group events.
Q: Why is it important for engineers to come together and share knowledge at this event?
DG: Learning from each other, with engineers taking knowledge and experiences from their own and other parts of industry, is invaluable. I’m hoping that by reflecting on previous incidents that they aren’t repeated.
the Quality and Competency of Pressure Systems seminar takes place on 10 March 2020 in Newcastle upon Tyne.
The latest in the Institution's popular series of Pressure Systems events, this seminar will provide engineers with expert guidance and industry case studies on ensuring the required standards of quality and safety for both new and existing pressure assets.
Attendees will hear how engineers have addressed common challenges to ensure quality and cement best practice, with input from
- HSE
- EEMUA
- EDF
- Lloyd’s Register
- Sheffield Forgemasters
To find out more and book your place visit the event website.