Businesses across Africa continue to face incredible losses, lawsuits and reputational risk due to gaps in the provision of quality, certifiable technical safety services. Worst is the loss of lives and environmental damage that could be negated by services provided to acceptable benchmarks. To provide an expert opinion on the need for competent technical safety experts in process safety risk management, we draw from the profile, extensive work experience and expertise of Antonia Beri, Technical Director of SCSPNG and a prominent figure in West Africa’s service industry.
Process safety risk management (PSRM) is essential in industries where hazardous processes and chemicals are involved, such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and chemical production. The complex nature of these industries demands the involvement of highly skilled technical safety experts who can anticipate, manage, and mitigate risks effectively. The expertise of these professionals is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a necessity for protecting lives, the environment, and corporate assets.
1. Technical Competency in Hazard Identification
Safety experts possess the technical knowledge required to identify hazards that could lead to catastrophic incidents like explosions, toxic releases, or fires. Their expertise enables them to assess and model risk scenarios, perform root cause analysis, and ensure systems are designed to handle worst-case scenarios.
2. Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
Many industries, especially in Nigeria and across West Africa, operate under stringent regulatory frameworks designed to protect workers, communities, and the environment. Competent safety professionals ensure compliance with both local and international safety standards (such as OSHA, HSE, and API). By doing so, they prevent costly regulatory breaches that can damage the company’s reputation.
3. Leadership in Safety Culture
As a leading female service provider in West Africa, Antonia Beri embodies the importance of strong leadership in the safety sector. Competent safety experts play a critical role in fostering a safety-conscious work culture. Their leadership ensures that safety protocols are followed, that workers are trained, and that safety becomes a core value of the organization, rather than an afterthought.
4. Technological Advancements in Safety Systems
With rapid advancements in technology, safety experts need to stay abreast of modern tools and software that can enhance safety measures. From automated shutdown systems to real-time monitoring of hazardous conditions, experts are key to integrating these technologies into operational workflows, ensuring they function as intended during critical situations.
5. Mitigating Financial Risks
Industrial accidents are not only tragic in terms of human life but also financially crippling. Incidents can lead to massive operational downtime, legal liabilities, compensation claims, and loss of business reputation. Competent technical safety experts are instrumental in mitigating these risks through proper safety planning, continuous monitoring, and contingency management strategies.
6. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
As global industries push towards sustainability, safety experts are critical in ensuring that operations do not harm the environment. In regions like West Africa, where industries like oil and gas have significant environmental footprints, experts in PSRM help navigate the balance between operational efficiency and environmental protection.
Conclusion
The role of technical safety experts in process safety risk management is undeniable. For Africa at large, industry leaders should seek to use qualified industry captains with a proven track record for these critical services. Leaders like Antonia Beri in West Africa demonstrate the importance of not only having skilled experts but also ensuring diversity and leadership in this field. With competent professionals in place, industries can protect lives, maintain compliance, and secure their operations against preventable incidents, ultimately ensuring long-term sustainability and success.
For more information on Expert Profile for Technical and Process Safety Expert and Industry Advise visit: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/11/scsp-lead-consultant-antonia-beri-bags-continental-award/;
