Incidents Investigations and Learning Approach in Oil & Gas Industry

Abstract

Abstract Incident investigation makes an important contribution to reduce risk by implementing recommendations and Lessons Learned from an investigation. Lessons Learned from an Investigation is an instrument to prevent future reoccurrence and it requires effective implementation. Nevertheless, the implementations of the lessons learned from the incidents require a systematic approach and management methodologies, which include Processes, Procedures and a Robust System, that ensure lessons are captured, validated, implemented and utilized in future activities and projects. In most organizations, lessons are captured only within one segment that lacks an effective mechanism for sharing and implementing Lessons Learned. Therefore, omissions are often repeated from one activity or project to the next. This paper discussed the effective implementation of the Lessons Learned through Pan Company Process and System that positively adds value to an oil and gas organization. The Developed framework with "Common Database System" in ERP platform to facilitate Lessons Learned from various activities is embedded into Common Processes and Procedures. Therefore lessons are pro-actively routed to those who need to see them and take appropriate action. The Common System shall provide the aspects required to identify, assess and take corrective action on any issue and to communicate results for effective implementation across the company. This Process cuts across functional boundaries and allows an organization to learn from both its blunders and triumphs. The Lesson Learned System will support organization in learning efficiently from experiences that will reduce operational risk, increase efficiency, and improve operational effectiveness. In addition, it presents opportunities to save time, money and to add value to company standards. The gains from the idea will usually materialize over the longer term. This is encouraging Knowledge Management (KM) sustainability by learning, exchanging and implementing valuable lessons learned across all aspects of Company business activities. Such lessons shall be referred to prior starting a new activity or project. The paper proposes a novel method to manage Lessons learned from Incidents. An efficient Lessons Learned process could inhibit organization from rerunning their errors and allow organization to repeat their accomplishments. It should be an instrumental part of any organization's overall continuous improvement process.