Optimizing EHS Programs with an Internal Auditing Tool

The client, a global technology company, faced gaps in monitoring EHS compliance across their global operations. With inconsistent audit processes and fragmented recordkeeping, it was difficult to maintain oversight and ensure compliance, highlighting the need for a more cohesive solution.

The solution was to develop a truly bespoke tool that addresses the client’s needs. The tool enables the client to track EHS-related processes and corrective actions to completion, as well as uncover the unique dynamics that affect the business across its global scope. 

To build this, Antea Group UK:

• Worked with external system developers to define the unique needs of client and craft a holistic approach to their internal auditing system development   
• Defined best practices and weighed them against operational demands 
• Gathered feedback from stakeholders across all levels of the organization to craft a comprehensive approach that is aligned with both operational and high-level needs   
• Established the project implementation timeline and required resources 

This background work enabled Antea Group to deliver a versatile system that was specifically developed to help the client address their unique challenges. The tool makes it possible to complete checklists across a range of electronic devices,  allowing users to carry out audits locally on-site and generate a variety of global reports for business leaders. 

The system was initially piloted by Antea Group UK in selected offices and subsequently rolled out globally. As part of the implementation process, Antea Group also developed a variety of checklists for the client’s use, with defined frequencies for completion. Training was provided to all intended users of the system as part of the project. 

The system was further customised based on client feedback and improved with several additional features, including: 

• Comprehensive dashboards and automated reporting 
• Task assignment and progress tracking 
• Recordkeeping and evidence management capabilities 
• Legal registers library 

Implementation Timeline:

The project was designed for a phased approach to avoid overwhelming internal client teams within a period of one year.   

Phase 1: Deploy in critical client sites, provide training, and initiate the use of a limited number of business-critical checklists.  

Phase 2: Global rollout, adding remaining sites. Development and implementation of other business-critical checklists. Training and supporting teams. 

Phase 3: Uploading audits and their resulting corrective actions, ensuring required compliance by monitoring local teams’ real-time workflows within the system, and assigning teams to use the system and complete work with assigned deadlines. 

Phase 4: Uploading EHS-related legal registers and utilising system for management of ever-changing laws and regulations globally. 

The system provided the client with a proactive approach in identifying gaps and addressing issues in a timely manner using automated escalations and reporting features. It also increased operational efficiency and oversight of all 30 global office locations across four continents, enabled the client to assign ad-hoc tasks to local site individuals, and allowed progress tracking while promoting friendly competition among colleagues based in different office locations. 

The EHS compliance tracking system eased the client’s worries by establishing a systematic approach. It also ensured compliance and strengthened EHS processes by overseeing the completion and tracking of workplace safety checklists. As a result of successful implementation, the client is exploring the use of the system in other sectors of business such as management of environmental compliance, security operations, and more.