Innovative compliance tools for EHS managers: Moving beyond static plans
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March 23, 2023 - EHS managers are responsible for ensuring that their organization complies with a range of regulations and standards designed to protect the health and safety of employees and the environment. In the past, EHS compliance plans were often static documents that sat on a shelf gathering dust. However, in the wake of the great resignation and staffing shortages, it's clear that the traditional approach to compliance is outdated and can’t be transferred easily or effectively to others.
To address this challenge, leadership needs to adopt innovative compliance tools that enable them to stay up to date with changing regulations and communicate effectively with their team regardless of staff turnover or shortages. EHS managers now have access to powerful tools that can help them stay on top of compliance issues in real time more efficiently and effectively than ever before and ensure that compliance actions and documents are easily transferrable to others, thus increasing the long-term success of the program.
Digitize compliance plans
One of the most effective ways to ensure that compliance plans are current and accessible is to digitize them. This allows for changes to be made quickly and easily and ensures that all team members have access to the latest version. There are a range of tools available to help with this, from basic document management systems to sophisticated compliance software that can automate much of the compliance process.
Use cloud-based tools
Cloud-based tools are becoming increasingly popular as they enable teams to collaborate and communicate effectively regardless of location. This is particularly important in the current climate, where remote working and staff turnover are common. Cloud-based tools can include compliance software, communication platforms, and project management tools, all of which can help organizations stay on top of compliance requirements and communicate successfully.
Automate compliance tasks
There are a range of compliance software tools available that can automate tasks such as task reminders, reporting, data collection, and monitoring. This can free up staff time and ensure that compliance tasks are completed consistently and accurately.
Leverage data analytics
Data analytics can be a powerful tool as it can help identify trends and potential issues before they become a problem. By collecting and analyzing data on compliance performance, EHS managers can identify areas for improvement and take proactive steps to address them, thus reducing risks and operating safely and responsibly.
Innovative compliance tools are transforming ways to approach compliance issues. By using cloud-based tools, automating compliance tasks, and leveraging data analytics, professionals can ensure that their organization is compliant and operating safely and responsibly.
Mike Zimmerman will present this topic at SESHA’s 45th Annual Symposium held this April. There, he will specifically address innovative compliance tools for EHS managers as well as include short-attention-span training methods, interactive compliance plans, and tools for assessing EPCRA compliance.
For more EPCRA insights, read as JD Gibbs, BSI's Associate Director of Air Quality Compliance, discusses the EPA's proposed changes that would increase reporting obligations for all chemicals of special concern, including PFAS, in EPA proposes TRI requirement changes for PFAs. Follow along with these and other EHS topics that should be at the top of your list at BSI’s Experts Corner.
