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October 2017

The Scary Truths of EHS Software

The Scary Truth of EHS Software

Every organisation has some sort of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) management system, whether it’s digital or not. It’s the way an organisation plans and documents (or doesn’t) to manage EHS. Most large companies have a well-defined EHS management system (or systems) and are based on certain standards such as ISO, an industry standard or a hybrid that is unique to that organisation.

EHS should be at the heart of what companies do and make up the framework of all processes to ensure the best working environment for today and tomorrow. Often planning EHS is easier than executing it, which is when there are serious consequences to people, the environment and your business, both in terms of financial and reputational losses.

There is normally a trigger which leads you in the pursuit of EHS Software to help achieve a compliant safe working environment, you will have end goals in mind and will look for an EHS software supplier who you believe can help you achieve those goals. A reliable supplier will have come across many of challenges companies have faced in the past and will be able to help you overcome your fears. Selecting an EHS software system for your business is an important decision and these are some common pitfalls;

Fear of Change

Change is often the biggest cause of fear in the workplace and can often led to feeling of uncertainty or apprehension towards the implementation of new software. Frequently the introduction of EHS software will mean changes in the collection and management of data for Environmental Health & Safety uses. Initially this may include additional time and training until users become acquainted with the system meaning it can be difficult to see the benefits and some will lose enthusiasm.

At this stage users need to focus on the longer-term rewards and the potential to safe time, and money. Employees can spend time on valuable work outside of data management and admin. More importantly increasing EHS and quality standards within their organisation will reduce the risk to all stakeholders.

Ghosts of the Past

Tried it all before? Failure of past systems is another reason companies are reluctant to suggest another system. However, implementation of EHS software need not be a difficult process. Below are some tips to ensure future success;

Communication:

Have a clear set of goals of what you want to achieve with your system and communicate them to your staff and ensure you have “buy-in” from all levels in the organisation.

In-House:

Are you ready for implementation? Are all the resources necessary to initiate and sustain the change in place? Resources include people, time, money. If not speak with your EHS Software Supplier for help on how to achieve.

Start Small:

Start with one or two EHS modules to mould and maintain your safety, health, environmental and sustainability measures right from the start and build upon these foundations.

Support:

Don’t wait for things to go wrong, speak to your onboarding or customer success manager about your concerns. They are here to ensure any issues are handled in the most effective and timely manner possible.

Remember having an effective operational EHS management systems is key to safe, sustainable operations and will provide the benefits you seek.

Bloodsuckers

The high costs of EHS Software can frighten some customers as often suppliers have complex pricing structures, there is a cost per user, another cost per device or there is only one package available regardless if you plan to use it all or not. It can be difficult to calculate a Return on Investment (ROI) or it can seems that it is just not a viable solution for smaller businesses.

Look for a supplier with a module based offering, so you only pay for what you use. Additionally, there are suppliers who offer unlimited users. There are cost effective EHS Systems available.

What is a good ROI from EHS Software?

When calculating your ROI, you must determine the time you spend now on entering data, consolidating data, producing reports for EHS, and looking through old data and figures as well as the salary costs versus the cost of a digital solution.

If you don’t know where to start to work this out, the likelihood is EHS Software would ensure considerable savings. If you are waiting for people to get back to their desks or access points to rely information or you are still using paper or spreadsheet-based processes, chances are you’re wasting time and effort.

Another ROI considerations are costs related claims, which include worker’s compensation. Preventing accidents at your place of business or operation can also alleviate costly legal fees. Lowering the number of incidents can lead to a lower Experience Modification Rate (EMR), which will, in turn, lower insurance and healthcare premiums.

Data

No EHS software provider will keep or steal your data. You own it and can have it back at anytime!

 

EHS Software Implementation doesn’t have to be Scary!

While the above issues can be scary, organisations can avoid the risks by working with an experienced and reliable EHS Software Supplier such as Bluezone.