OPITO Approved Standard Relative Responder Training
© OPITO
Rev 0 (31 Aug 2010) Page 2 of 22
OPITO STANDARDS OPITO is an Industry-owned not-for-profit organisation that exists solely to service the needs of the Oil and Gas Industry. OPITO is employer led in all aspects of what it does, therefore all standards development activities are at the behest of industry employers. The standards are driven by the needs of employers to help create a safe and competent workforce. This standard is owned by the Oil and Gas Industry and maintained by OPITO who are the nominated custodians of all Industry standards within the OPITO portfolio which carry the OPITO logo. The contents of this document were developed by an industry workgroup facilitated and supported by OPITO. The workgroup consisted of representation from a cross section of oil and gas Industry employers, discipline experts working within the industry and members of the OPITO Approved Training network. This standard has been verified and accepted through the governance and integrity management model for OPITO standards which can be viewed here: (Standard Protocols) Guidance on this standard is available by contacting OPITO at: [email protected] This standard has been designed to accommodate global variations in national legislation and regulations. In the absence of relevant national legislation and regulations, OPITO approved centres should use legislative and regulatory criteria specified within this Standard © OPITO All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval or information storage system, or transmitted in any form or my any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission in writing of the publishers.
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AMENDMENTS AMENDMENT & DATE PAGES CHANGES
MADE BY CHECKED BY
APPROVED BY
Rev 0 31 Aug 2010 M. Carr J. Cameron J. Cameron
Any amendments made to this standard by OPITO will be recorded above.
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Contents
Introduction and Course Description .......................................................................................5
SECTION A The Initial Training Programme........................................................................6
A.1 Target group ...................................................................................................................6 A.2 Delegate pre-requisites ..................................................................................................6 A.3 Physical and stressful demands of the course ...............................................................6 A.4 Aims and Objectives.......................................................................................................7 A.5 Learning Outcomes ........................................................................................................7 A.6 Performance evaluation..................................................................................................7 A.7 Duration and Timing of the Training Programme ...........................................................8 A.8 The Training Programme................................................................................................9
SECTION B Refresher Training...........................................................................................15
SECTION C Resources for training ....................................................................................16
C.1 Staff ..............................................................................................................................16 C.2 Trainer/delegate ratio ...................................................................................................16 C.3 Facilities........................................................................................................................17 C.4 Equipment and materials..............................................................................................17
SECTION D Administration and certification.....................................................................18
D.1 Joining Instructions.......................................................................................................18 D.2 Periodicity .....................................................................................................................18 D.3 Certification...................................................................................................................18 D.4 Course administration...................................................................................................19
Glossary.....................................................................................................................................19
Appendix 1.................................................................................................................................20
OPITO Approved Standard Relative Responder Training
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Introduction and Course Description
The nature of the work carried out by companies working in the oil and gas industry inevitably leads to emergency incidents arising. These incidents demand a coordinated response backed by robust procedures both on and offshore in order to ensure effective support for front line emergency managers. Trained personnel who form the Onshore Emergency Response Teams provide support when an emergency or major incident has occurred. Teams are led by managers experienced in responding to such incidents, supported by safety advisers, field specialists and engineers along with logistical, media and HR trained personnel. Other teams such as Media Response, Relative Response and Reception Facility personnel may also be mobilised to support the response. The training to be provided to this Standard will focus on telephone techniques and procedures when handling calls from concerned relatives and friends of those who may be involved in an incident. The need for companies to provide training in appropriate telephone response techniques and call management is vital if integrity is to be maintained during and following a critical or major incident. The perceptions of employees, contracting partners, the public and the media can be influenced by the initial responses of a company or organisation from the first point of contact. Therefore the responses made require to be considered, concise, accurate and consistent. Relative Response telephone training programmes are designed to suit varying requirements from the perspective of both the organisation and employee. A flexible approach is adopted to ensure that individual abilities are evaluated and developed. This is a training experience designed to increase knowledge, ability and confidence. Note: For the purpose of this Training Standard; ‘Relatives’ will include designated contacts i.e. person/s that have been formally identified by the relevant company as emergency contacts for the individual working for the company.
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SECTION A The Initial Training Programme
This section identifies the target group, specifies delegate pre-requisites and explains the specific physical and potentially emotional demands of the delegate for the Initial Training Programme. It specifies the theory and practical content of the modules and module-elements, and learning outcomes. Performance evaluation is a key part of most training programmes to ensure that delegates/candidates have gained the required knowledge, understanding, and skills during the training so that they can apply them in the work place. This section specifies the type and methods of performance evaluation and learning checks that will be conducted during the training programme.
A.1 Target group
Personnel who’s role it is to provide agreed and accurate information to families and *designated contacts of those involved in an emergency incident. * Designated contacts: person/s that have been formally identified by the relevant company as emergency contacts.
A.2 Delegate pre-requisites
There are no pre-requisites. Transfer options for experienced relative responders: In consultation with the training provider and employing company, experienced Relative Responders can opt to attend the second half day training only. In such a case: clear documented evidence of previous experience in the Relative Responder role must be provided by the employing company or the prospective delegate before the training provider can issue a certificate to the delegate for successfully completing the second half day only.
A.3 Physical and stressful demands of the course
Although this training programme is not physically demanding, some individuals may find certain aspects of the training emotionally stressful. The responsibility for the individual completing the course without any adverse effects to their present state of health, lies with the individual and/or company sponsoring the delegate. Where doubt exists about the medical fitness of any delegate, the training organisation should seek the advice of a medical officer.
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A.4 Aims and Objectives
The aims of the course are to:-
1. Provide delegates with an overview of call management processes in support of emergency incident management procedures.
2. Allow delegates to understand requirements in respect of appropriate response and company procedures.
3. Improve delegate’s confidence in handling various types of calls from relatives and members of the public.
A.5 Learning Outcomes
The training course will be facilitative, allowing delegates the opportunity to explore, discuss and participate in all aspects of the role. Role players will deliver a number of different call types to delegates, allowing individual style and appropriate responses to be developed. After completing the Relative Responder training course, delegates must have gained the knowledge, understanding and skills required to perform the role of Relative Responder. Expected learning outcomes are specified within the module elements in the Training Programme Section A8.
A.6 Performance evaluation
Delegates attending this training programme will be provided with the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for them to perform the role of Relative Responder. The training includes explanations, demonstrations and opportunities to role-play so that delegates can progressively build confidence and skills to perform effectively in the Relative Responder role in a real emergency incident. Delegates will be continuously evaluated, with feedback from the Course Director and role players. Any gaps in understanding or performance will be discussed with delegate’s employer, rather than letting the delegate know on the day if they have been successful or not. However, the training provider will have up to five days to ensure that the delegate has been informed of whether they have achieved the standard which leads to the awarding of a certificate. Individual feedback on their performance will of course be given verbally as the course progresses. Identified gaps must be logged and a record produced by the training provider. If required, and time permits, opportunity for extra coaching will be given to delegates to enable them to reach the standard which leads to the award of a certificate. However, the time available during a programme may be limited and it should be recognised there may be occasions where other arrangements need to be made for further training or role-play practice. Note: The delegate must achieve all learning outcomes to be awarded a certificate.
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A.7 Duration and Timing of the Training Programme
The total course duration is 1½ days. Contact time The optimum ‘contact time’ for this training is 12 hours; 8 hours for day-1, and 4 hours for day-2, with an approximate ratio of 50% theory to 50% practical. This will include feedback from participants, role-players and the Course Director, and a discussion on potential future involvement with relative response volunteer work. Where this training is part of a programme of longer duration the total contact time per day must not exceed 8 hours and the total training day must not exceed 10 hours. The total training day includes contact time, refreshment and meal breaks and travel between training sites where applicable. The training is split into four parts, or modules, delivered over 1½ days. Each module is split into a number of elements. Module 1 and Module 2 will be delivered on the first day, and Modules 3 and 4 on a different day. Note: the second day’s training doesn’t necessarily have to be delivered on the day immediately following the first day’s training, indeed it is preferable to have 3 – 4 weeks in between the two dates to give the delegates a chance to reflect on what they have learned on Day 1 of the training.
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A.8 The Training Programme
Module 1 and 2 will cover typical emergency response organisations and systems, and roles and functions of emergency response personnel. The modules will cover how relative responders fit into the emergency response organisation, what they are expected to do and the challenging issues and situations they may be faced with. Module 2 is about allowing the delegates to role-play in progressively more challenging training scenarios, following explanations and demonstrations by the training staff. Throughout the scenarios training staff will coach delegates to enable them to build up confidence and gain the skills required to be an effective relative responder in real emergency response situations. Module 3 and 4, delivered on a separate day, will allow both trainers and delegates to feed back on either:
(a) Delegate performance and issues from the practical role-playing during Module 2 training exercises, or;
(b) Experiences and relevant issues from real-life emergency response incidents (for delegates who have actually acted as a relative responder between Day-1 and Day-2 of the training.
Module 3 re-enforces the main responsibilities and actions required by a relative responder, and Module 4 further develops the role playing scenarios. The Module/Element titles:
Module 1 The role of the Relative Responder within emergency response Element 1.1 Overview of emergency response organisations, systems and roles Element 1.2 The relative response room processes and roles Element 1.3 Handling stress effectively Element 1.4 Effective handling of phone calls Element 1.5 Managing information Element 1.6 Accounting for people involved in the incident Element 1.7 Preparing yourself on arrival at the Relative Response room Element 1.8 Debrief and follow-up actions Module 2 Performing the role of Relative Responder
Element 2.1 Receiving briefings Element 2.2 Verifying emergency response information Element 2.3 Press Statements Element 2.4 Delivering information to relatives Element 2.5 Asking for support Module 3 Theory refresher, and an introduction to Mutual Aid Element 3.1 Relative Responder role refresher and feedback Element 3.2 Mutual Aid Element 3.3 The ‘message of involvement’ Element 3.4 Legalities and confidentiality
Continued.
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MODULE 1
Module 4 Performing the role of Relative Responder 2 Element 4.1 Receiving briefings Element 4.2 Verifying emergency response information Element 4.3 Press statements Element 4.4 Delivering information to relatives Element 4.5 Asking for support
Training programme; Day 1 Trainers must provide clear explanations and deliver effective training which covers all the topics specified in Module 1 to ensure that delegates meet the detailed learning outcomes specified in the module elements. Trainers must ensure that all elements of Module 2 are covered to ensure that delegates meet the learning outcomes, using effective training, coaching, demonstration and delegate role-play.
The role of the Relative Responder within emergency response Element 1.1 Overview of emergency response organisations, systems and
roles To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.1.1 Identify the typical organisations involved in emergency response e.g. Police,
Coastguard, Fire Services, Operators and Service Companies etc and explain their role
1.1.2 Explain the role of a Relative Responder and how it fits into the emergency response structure
1.1.3 Identify and explain the duties of the Relative Responder Element 1.2 The Relative Response room processes and roles
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.2.1 Describe a typical set-up of a company emergency response room/s 1.2.2 Explain typical flow of information into and out of the emergency response
rooms 1.2.3 Describe the layout and requirements of the room 1.2.4 Identify and explain the various roles in the Relative Response room and their
functions Element 1.3 Handling stress effectively
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.3.1 Define stress 1.3.2 Identify typical symptoms of stress 1.3.3 Identify the potential causes of stress during an emergency 1.3.4 Identify the potential causes of stress for a Relative Responder 1.3.5 Explain how to recognise stress in yourself and others Continued.
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1.3.6 Explain some methods of handling your own stress, and others experiencing stress.
1.3.7 Explain how debrief sessions, group and personal, can help reduce stress.
Element 1.4 Effective handling of phone calls
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.4.1 Explain and demonstrate how you would manage confidential and sensitive information
1.4.2 Identify the different types of phone calls you may receive and make as a Relative Responder
1.4.3 Demonstrate best practise when receiving and making calls, for example words, phrases and behaviours
1.4.4 Demonstrate how to avoid identified bad practises 1.4.5 Recognise and demonstrate when to ask for help and support 1.4.6 Explain the message of involvement, including Grampian Police Guidance for
Notifying Next of Kin.
Element 1.5 Managing Information To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.5.1 Understand the purpose of press statements / holding statements 1.5.2 Correctly state press statements / holding statements to relatives and non-
relatives 1.5.3 Explain how to verify authenticity of relatives (NOK/Emergency Contacts) 1.5.4 Identify what information to give out to different types of callers 1.5.5 Explain how information is managed within the Relative Response room. 1.5.6 Understand the difference between reactive and proactive strategies during
relative response mobilisations Element 1.6 Accounting for People involved in an incident
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.6.1 Identify and explain typical acronyms used in emergency response e.g. NOK, POB, POS, PAX lists etc
1.6.2 Explain how the status of company personnel involved in the emergency is tracked and recorded
1.6.3 Recognise the different types of personnel status information lists, how to obtain them and use them
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MODULE 2
Element 1.7 Preparing yourself on arrival at the Relative Response room To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.7.1 Explain how to familiarise themselves with Relative Response Room building
facilities; wash rooms, fire exits etc. 1.7.2 Explain how to ensure the Relative Responder receives a briefing on arrival
at the relative response room. 1.7.3 Explain how to ensure they are familiar with the room setup and systems.
Element 1.8 Debrief and follow up actions To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
1.8.1 Explain methods for capturing and recording Relative Response information and identify lessons-learned during the debrief
1.8.2 Explain the benefits of mutual emotional support 1.8.3 Ensure that ongoing support options for relative responders (counselling,
etc.) are discussed
Performing the role of Relative Responder The following Elements must be delivered using demonstration, coaching and role play scenarios. Element 2.1 Receiving briefings
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
2.1.1 Demonstrate how to receive a briefing on arrival at the Incident Response Room and get clarification on any information which is not clear.
2.1.2 Recognise the various formats of relative contact lists and how they are used. 2.1.3 Familiarise themselves with the relative response room setup and systems
Element 2.2 Verifying emergency response information
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
2.2.1 Verify the authenticity of relatives (NOK/Emergency Contacts) 2.2.2 Explain the information a Relative Responder would give to different types of
caller. Element 2.3 Press Statements
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
2.3.1 Receive authorised press statements 2.3.2 Deliver, over the phone, authorised press statements to appropriate
personnel
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MODULE 3
Element 2.4 Delivering information to relatives
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
2.4.1 Deliver correct and accurate information to the relatives 2.4.2 Demonstrate methods for capturing and recording Relative Response
information Element 2.5 Asking for support
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
2.5.1 Recognise when they need support 2.5.2 Ask for and ensure they get support
Training programme; Day 2 Trainers must ensure that all topics of Module’s 3 and 4 elements are covered to ensure that delegates meet the learning outcomes using effective discussion, training, coaching, demonstration and delegate role-play.
Theory refresher, and introduction to Mutual Aid Element 3.1 Relative Responder role; refresher and feedback
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
3.1.1 Explain the role of the Relative Responder within emergency response 3.1.2 Identify and explain the main functions of the Relative Responder 3.1.3 Discuss and share learning points from either the practical training exercises,
or performing the role in live emergencies
Element 3.2 Mutual aid To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
3.2.1 Explain the concept of the relative response Mutual Aid scheme in the North
Sea area. (or equivalent area overseas) 3.2.2 Discuss and explain the key similarities and differences of the following:
a) Enrolment induction at host company b) Relative Responder room set up/layout and systems c) Roles and responsibities of emergency response staff d) Briefings and debriefs e) Skill levels
Element 3.3 The message of involvement
Note: this element applies to UK delegates only. To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
3.3.1 Discuss the Police Guidance document for Notifying Next of Kin (Appendix 1)
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MODULE 4
Element 3.4 Legalities and confidentiality To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
3.4.1 Discuss and explain the purpose of the; ‘Mutual hold harmless agreement’ 3.4.2 Discuss and explain the confidential nature of the role, whether responding to
a Mutual Aid request or their organisation’s incident. 3.4.3 Complete personal administration requirements following the Incident
response 3.4.4 Explain how relative responders are mobilised as part of Mutual Aid.
Performing the role of Relative Responder 2 Element 4.1 Receiving briefings
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
4.1.1 Demonstrate how to receive a briefing on arrival at the Incident Response room.
4.1.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the various formats of relative contact lists 4.1.3 Familiarise themselves with the relative response room setup and systems
Element 4.2 Verifying emergency response information
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
4.2.1 Verify authenticity of relatives (NOK/Emergency Contacts) 4.2.2 Explain the information a Relative Responder would give to different types of
caller. Element 4.3 Press Statements
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
4.3.1 Receive authorised press statements 4.3.2 State authorised press statements to appropriate personnel
Element 4.4 Delivering information to relatives
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
4.4.1 Deliver correct and accurate information to the relatives 4.4.2 Explain methods for capturing and recording relative response information
Element 4.5 Asking for support
To successfully complete this Element, delegates must be able to:
4.5.1 Recognise when they need support 4.5.2 Ask for and ensure they get support
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SECTION B Refresher Training
It is expected that a Relative Responder will participate in an exercise or ‘mobilisation’ annually, and attend refresher training every 2 years. Refresher training will cover Module-3 and Module-4 content (Relative Responder Day-2 of the training course). Note: The training certificates issued for delegates who have successfully completed the Initial and Refresher Training will expire 3 years after the date of issue. Refresher training duration: The duration of the Refresher training will be 4 hrs
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SECTION C Resources for training
In order that a training programme may be delivered successfully it is essential that the right people are there to support the programme, and that the appropriate facilities and equipment are in place.
C.1 Staff
OPITO approved training providers will deliver and carry out evaluation of delegates completing the training modules. It is important that the training staff involved have the appropriate qualifications and experience to ensure that all training and supporting activities are carried out in accordance with current legislation. Training instructors will:
(a) Have appropriate knowledge and workplace experience in the Relative Response role
(b) Be able to demonstrate instructional and evaluation techniques and have proven instructing/teaching experience
(c) Be included in an ongoing training and development programme, which ensures they are aware and knowledgeable of all changes to relevant legislation and industry requirements
Role-playing staff must have the relevant experience in role-play scenarios, or have been coached by training instructors
C.2 Trainer/delegate ratio
The maximum number of delegates attending this programme is 10. The minimum number of delegates attending this programme is 3. Note: The optimum number of delegates is 8 The following ratios indicate the maximum number of delegates to be supervised by one Instructor at any one time during each activity. Theory 1:10 Practical 1:10
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C.3 Facilities
Facilities may vary depending on training locations, however training facilities must be of a required standard – see below for details. Administration arrangements to support delegates from booking through registration and evaluation to certification
Theory training area(s) so designed to enable each delegate to participate fully. Location of training It is recognised that the restricted range of resources and facilities required makes this course suitable for on-location training. However, prior to any courses being delivered remotely, training providers must comply with the following requirements:
(a) Prior to initial approval, the training provider will specify a single ‘approved site’* and advise OPITO of its intention to deliver training remotely.
(b) The training provider shall ensure the suitability of facilities and arrangements prior to delivery.
(c) The training provider will advise OPITO of the location of any remote training in advance of each delivery.
(d) Documented evidence will be retained by the training provider to show that delivery of training at the remote site met the criteria detailed in this OPITO standard including, but not limited to, facilities, equipment and qualification of instructional and/or evaluation staff.
(e) Documented management procedures shall be retained which record any measures required to assure the quality and safety of on location training.
(f) All records and associated documentation must be retained at a single, specified location, mutually agreed with OPITO, and made available at time of audit.
(g) OPITO reserves the right to physically audit any or all of the remote sites operated by the training provider.
*approved site; could be the training provider’s base or address. All facilities must be maintained and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance with current standards/legislation and manufacturers recommendations.
C.4 Equipment and materials
The following training equipment and materials are required as a minimum; they are:
1. Working telephones 2. Overhead projector 3. Seating and workspace for all delegates 4. Pens/pencils and notepads
All equipment must be maintained, and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance with current standards/legislation, guidance and manufacturers recommendations.
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SECTION D Administration and certification
An OPITO Certificate will be issued to all delegates evaluated as meeting the stated outcomes. The issue of a certificate indicates that the delegate has successfully achieved the desired standard to enable him/her to become a Relative Responder.
D.1 Joining Instructions
Joining instructions may be sent to delegates from the Training Provider, via the employing company. As a minimum, joining instructions must include:
1. Venue address and how to get there 2. Course times 3. Accommodation – where required 4. Meal arrangements 5. Clothing specified – where required 6. Any special arrangements
All joining instructions must contain information which indicates that certain aspects of the course are of a potentially stressful nature. Prior to each course commencing, delegates must sign a declaration indicating they have read and understood a written statement regarding the potentially stressful nature of the programme and the need for delegates to be in good health.
D.2 Periodicity
It is expected that a relative responder will participate in an exercise or mobilisation annually, and attend refresher training and re-evaluation every 2 years. If delegates do not meet the required standard, then Relative Response training could be repeated.
D.3 Certification
Training establishments are responsible for issuing a certificate direct to the delegate completing the programme and to the sponsoring company (when required). Each certificate must indicate that the delegate has been evaluated against and met the learning outcomes. The certificate must also contain the following:
1. Training Establishment name 2. Full OPITO course title stating that it is OPITO approved 3. OPITO course identification code 4. Delegate's name 5. Course dates 6. Unique Certificate Number 7. Training Establishment Signatory
Both the Initial and Refresher Training certificates will expire 3 years after the date that the delegate successfully completes either: the Initial Training or Refresher Training Course.
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D.4 Course administration
Each delegate attending any OPITO approved programme must be registered with the Central Register (CR) operated by OPITO. Registration must be made by the training establishment to OPITO within one week following the course. OPITO confirms that information on the registration form will be contained in a computerised register which will be available to employers, prospective employers and training providers in the oil and gas industry to verify training records. At all times use of this data will be strictly in accordance with principles laid down in the UK Data Protection Act, 1998.
Glossary
NOK Next of Kin PAX Passenger List (excluding Flight Crew) POB Personnel on Board POS Personnel on Site
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Appendix 1
Note The guidance applies only to offshore oil and gas installations and associated activity, such as helicopter movements, where Policing responsibility lies with Grampian Police. These installations are in the UK sector of the northern and central North Sea, and west of Shetland. For incidents occurring outwith these areas, companies should liaise with the appropriate police forces.
Notifying Next of Kin
A Guidance Document for the Oil and Gas Industry About this document This Grampian Police document provides guidance to companies on procedures for notifying next of kin following a serious incident offshore, when one or more of the following triggers have been met:
(a) Early indication of several fatalities, several people with life-threatening injuries and/or several missing persons.
(b) Appointment of a Police Senior Identification Manager (SIM).
(c) Establishment of a Force Operations and Coordination Centre (FOCC).
It covers only the initial notification of next of kin about someone being involved in an incident offshore. In this context, involved means that the people are either missing, injured or apparently deceased. This guidance does not alter the existing procedure for the Police notifying the next of kin of someone's death when this has been confirmed. This document may be useful to those responsible for:
(a) preparing emergency response plans, and (b) organising and training Relative Response and Emergency Response teams.
It covers the following: 1. Keeping next of kin information up to date 2. Gathering personnel-on-board data 3. Handling personnel-on-board information in an incident 4. Giving initial information to next of kin 5. How this procedure is likely to develop
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1. Keeping next of kin information up to date In an incident, Police may ask companies for next of kin information. It is important that companies keep information about next of kin up to date. Companies should also have processes in place to access this information at short notice and at all times. 2. Gathering personnel-on-board (POB) data Most oil and gas companies in the Grampian Police area use the Vantage system developed by LOGIC (Leading Oil and Gas Industry Competitiveness). Grampian Police will use companies’ Vantage POB data as a source of information during incidents. It is accepted that some companies use other personnel tracking systems and data from such systems may also be used by the Police. The option to use further methods to confirm personnel on board, such as requesting a call to muster on an installation, will remain and can be used if required. 3. Handling personnel-on-board information in an incident If one or more of the triggers detailed above are present, then it is almost certain that a Police Liaison Officer (PLO) will be deployed to the company where the Emergency Response to the incident is being coordinated from. PLOs may also be deployed to other Emergency Response Rooms (ERR). In an incident, it is a priority to get a personnel-on-board list. In most cases the Police Liaison Officer will obtain the list from the company and pass this to Police Headquarters. In the absence of a PLO the company may be asked by the Police to FAX the POB to Police Headquarters or the POB may be collected by Police. Whichever of these police personnel has the list will contact the company’s emergency response room if they have any objection to the company contacting next of kin. They will do this directly or through the Police Liaison Officer or Force Control Room Inspector.
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4. Giving initial information to next of kin Information about people involved in the incident
This is the procedure for initially contacting next of kin to confirm that someone has been involved in an incident offshore. In this context, involved means that the people are either injured, missing or apparently deceased. The company coordinating the emergency response for the incident is responsible for making sure arrangements are in place for getting this message to next of kin. The wording of this message will require to be agreed with Grampian Police. The message will not normally include any specific information regarding whether the person is injured, missing or apparently deceased. The company responsible for the overall coordination of the emergency response may liaise with any other contractors or service companies as appropriate to ensure the task of initially informing next of kin is completed. Ultimately, this coordinating company is responsible for ensuring that all the messages are passed. Information about people not involved in the incident
If next of kin contact companies about relatives who are not believed to be involved in the incident (i.e. people who are not injured, missing, or apparently deceased), Relative Response teams may give this information. This procedure is currently followed by many companies. Appointing a single point of contact for next of kin
The company may wish to nominate a single point of contact for next of kin of those involved in the incident to provide further help such as welfare support and counselling. 5. How this procedure is likely to develop We expect to refine this guidance to take into account learning from exercises and incidents. A workgroup of the Emergency Preparedness Offshore Liaison (EPOL) group is currently developing an industry standard for training Relative Response Teams, taking into account this guidance. Once this work is complete, it will form part of this document.