hSE SySTEMS

the safe to Work (stoW) program is a joint initiative of the energy chamber of trinidad and tobago, downstream companies represented by the point Lisas energy association (pLea) and upstream companies of the association of upstream operators of trinidad and tobago (auott ). its purpose is two-fold: (1) to establish an independent system for certifying contractors’ health, safety and environment (hse) management systems in the energy sector and (2) to create a standardized platform that uniformly assesses minimum hse requirements for prequalifying contractors.

The STOW certification program which establishes common hSE requirements for the pre-qualification of contractors is applicable across all companies signed on to the STOW Charter (upstream and downstream).

From 2011 to early 2013, Methanex Trinidad has participated on the STOW implementation Board, tasked with the implementation of STOW and sustaining the initiative in the energy industry. in accordance with the STOW process, contracting companies are certified according to the level of risk of service they perform on the respective energy company’s site. having integrated STOW into our contractor management process, all onsite vendors categorized in the high risk segment of contractors, were mandated to be STOW-certified by January 01, 2013. indicative of Methanex Trinidad’s commitment to STOW certification, high risk vendors not satisfying the requirement were temporarily suspended from the approved contractor listing, and re-instated upon successful completion of STOW certification.

David Martin, Manager, Materials commented on the intrinsic value of the STOW initiative as one that provides “a measure of quality assurance about a company’s hSE management system. Whilst STOW has significantly supplemented our efforts, it has also elevated contractors’ hSE awareness and systems.” STOW certification is a rigorous process and companies are certified for a fixed duration, making re-certification a necessary requirement. David affirms, “certification is a requirement for all contractors but the enforcement timeline of the requirement differs between high risk vendors and low risk vendors. The industry requirement for STOW certification of high risk contractors is December 31, 2013, and we will continue to deliver a series of consultation sessions with contractors to provide guidance and ensure compliance.”

Methanex Trinidad’s monitoring process is integral to supporting STOW’s effectiveness on our site. As David emphasizes, “the STOW certificate is like your RC passport, and although it may allow you entrance on our site, it is one component in our Responsible Care package.” in tandem with the Point Lisas Energy Association (PLEA) Contractor Passport system, he points out, “there are other site specific requirements to fulfill that may also be relevant to the provision of service and reflect the inherent risk involved in the activity.” As employees, contractors and companies, we all have a vested interest in continuously ensuring a safer work environment.

STOW-certified contractors bring quality assurance to HSE management systems.