ISO 45001 – Health & Safety Management and the HSG 65 – Managing Health and Safety Standards both follow the Principles of Plan, Do Check and Act, embedding the fundamental principle of
Opportunities For Improvement (OFI) emphasise this principle of continuous improvement. They are integral to maintaining and raising occupational health and safety performance.
How to identify OFIs
This phase is about recognising areas where processes, systems, or services can be enhanced to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance. It involves a proactive approach to seeking out potential improvements rather than waiting for issues to arise.
Internal audits
Regular internal audits are a primary method for identifying OFIs. Auditors should not only look for non-conformities but also for areas where processes can be optimised.
Employee feedback
Employees who are directly involved in processes often have valuable insights into potential improvements. Encourage a culture where feedback is valued and acted upon.
Customer feedback
Customer complaints, suggestions, and reviews can be an invaluable source of OFIs. Understanding customer needs can lead to significant improvements in products and services.
Benchmarking
Comparing your processes and performance metrics with industry standards or competitors can reveal areas for improvement.
Evaluating and prioritising OFIs
Once OFIs have been identified, evaluate, and prioritise them. Ensures that resources are allocated effectively and that the most impactful improvements are addressed first. It involves a thorough assessment of each identified OFI to understand its potential benefits, costs, and impacts on the organisation.
Impact analysis
Assess the potential impact of each OFI on quality, efficiency, customer satisfaction, and compliance. This helps in prioritising actions.
Feasibility study
Evaluate the resources required (time, cost, manpower) to implement the improvement and the feasibility of doing so.
Risk assessment
Consider the risks associated with implementing the OFI, including potential disruptions and unintended consequences. When an OFI is identified that may change a process or function, consider the impact to existing risk controls and challenge new and previously not foreseen hazards that may be introduced.
In summary
OFIs help organisations proactively identify areas where systems and processes can be optimised, leading to increased efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance. By focusing on OFIs, businesses not only adhere to standards but also foster a culture of ongoing development, driving innovation and competitive advantage.
