22 Dec Line-Of-Fire virtual audit

Based on a continuous self-assessment, the LOF tool, sets minimum safety standards for people (man), process (method), and systems (machine), and measures overall compliance with group-wide minimum requirements. The resulting score forms the basis for annual safety target setting. The self-assessment and completion of planned actions is verified through monthly reporting, providing proof and evidence, and complemented by a year-round, corporate-led cross-audit program. Besides verification of the reported results, these audits also provide a platform for best practice sharing and mutual learning between similar entities. In parallel to the managerial assessment tool, a companywide communication and training campaign aims to raise awareness for the LOF-based risks with the operational community. Initial results from the nearly two-year running program look promising, with a noticeable reduction of very serious incidents and accidents.

Covid-19 and the resulting travel restrictions have put some limitations on the audit program, especially for our China-based locations. Therefore, a – for Euroports first-ever – virtual audit was arranged in early December. With the help of a mobile phone, a stabilized selfie-stick, and an online collaboration tool, local colleagues were able to act as the eyes and ears on-site. They also acted as an interface between operators in the field and the auditors some 9000 kilometers away, and in different locations, in case of questions. All in all, the experience was quite a success, and a repeat event is already planned for a second location. Despite some limitations compared to an audit with one’s own ‘feet on the ground’, this way of hybrid auditing is certainly something we will consider post-Covid to aid our ongoing sustainability efforts as well.