Here’s a great example of how Standardisation through sharing industry related non-conformance data in a common format is allowing us to more effectively identify issues that subsequently become focus areas to drive industry improvements. In a nutshell, this is what continuous improvement looks like.

Safer Together has released a new Specification that defines standardised control measures for the safe packaging, handling, and movement of materials onshore, as well as to and from offshore rigs and platform installations.

Why was this Specification developed?

Continued use of the Uniform Non-Conformance Reporting (UNCR) tool by Safer Together member companies is allowing our industry to identify and track trends in non-conformance issues related to transport safety and enabling us to target our improvement efforts going forward to minimise risk to those involved in loading, unloading and transport of essential materials and equipment.

Analysis of UNCR data revealed a significant number of packaging failures in relation to packing shipping containers. In addition, consultation with stakeholders identified that there was a need for some additional guidance on minimum requirements expected for the packaging and restraint of freight and/or Cargo Carrying Units (CCU), beyond that already provided in the National Transport Commission Load Restraint Guide, 2nd Edition (2004) 1.

So our Land Logistics Working Group applied themselves to the task of developing the Packaging, Handling and Movement of Materials Specification It defines standardised control measures for the safe packaging, handling, and movement of materials onshore, as well as to and from offshore rigs and platform installations, where these requirements are not already defined in the above referenced NTC Guidance. The Specification is intended to clarify and add to the controls provided for in that reference.

What’s the scope of application of this Specification?

The Specification was approved for issue by the WA/NT Safety Leaders Group in June and is intended for use by all companies involved in supply chain activities that support the WA/NT Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industry. It covers activities including:

  • cargo preparation including loading and securing within the Cargo Carrying Unit (CCU);
  • packaging of materials at the carton / crate level to ensure internal restraint is sufficient to prevent cargo movement through to the end destination;
  • securing of Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG); and
  • restraint of materials to a pallet / skid.

What support resources are available to help companies deploy this Specification?

A Launch Pack has also been developed to help Safer Together member companies introduce and deploy the Packaging, Handling and Movement of Materials Specification.  This includes the following support materials:

Members can also call the Safer Together hotline (1300 723 869) if they have any questions about the Specification, and we’ll direct these queries to the Land Logistics Working Group for a response.

Find out more about the Packaging, Handling and Movement of Materials Specification here.

Contact:  [email protected]

1 In Western Australia and the Northern Territory, the performance standards in the 2004 Load Restraint Guide apply.