Methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field

Disclosed are methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field, and more particularly, methods and systems for accessing permit, plan, risk assessments and equipment information, auto-populating documents, and for transmitting data and receiving notifications based upon permit availability and location. The disclosed systems and methods for risk management provide tools to engage field operators in the process of risk management and encourage field operators to complete the risk management tasks in an appropriate manner.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed are methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field, and more particularly, methods and systems for accessing permits, plans, risk assessments and equipment information, auto-populating documents, and for receiving notifications based upon user-specific location, activity and authority and changes in each.

BACKGROUND

Current field risk management practices include a plethora of regulations, codes and standards with regard to employee health & safety, environmental protection and quality management. Every company must comply with all of the requirements—but compliance is particularly difficult when employees are involved in activities that:A) are remote from an office or desk (‘front line’ employees)B) occur across multiple sites or sites that change daily (eg. plumbers, electricians, mobile technicians, mobile health care services);C) involve building construction, mining, civil construction or any other ‘high risk’ tasks.

In short, compliance generally requires employees to either:1. Complete a checklist of safety checks and implement prescribed controls prior to undertaking a specific task2. Undertake a ‘risk assessment’ before they do any job. In its simplest form, a risk assessment involves:A) identifying all of the hazards for each step in the job;B) choosing controls for each hazard (the bigger the hazard—the stronger the controls required);C) determining (through a ‘qualitative’ assessment) the ‘residual’ risk level;D) only proceeding with the job if:i) the residual risk is appropriate andii) all of the controls have been implemented.

The great majority of these checklists and risk assessments are paper-based—and the volume of paperwork generated is very large. As an example, the following provides a summarised list of the forms front line employees complete on a daily basis:A) Equipment Pre-Starts for Vehicles, Trucks, Capital Equipment & Plant: A list of about 30 maintenance checks that must be completed before any employee operates any equipment.B) Job Safety Assessment (JSA): A detailed risk assessment of all of the steps in a project or job. The JSA is written for each job and reviewed at least daily. A basic JSA takes up to 60 minutes to develop and up to 20 minutes to review. Every employee involved on the job must review and sign the JSA before they start work each day.C) Take 5 Assessment: A check of about 30 hazards before an employee starts a specific task.D) Permits: A detailed list of safety checks and prescribed controls that must be in place before specific activities are undertaken. For example, permits are generally required before employees can:i) Attend any site to do any work;ii) Penetrate any surface (eg walls);iii) Excavate (manually or mechanically);iv) Enter a confined space;v) Work at heights (defined as a risk of fall from a level to another level—which can be less than a foot);vi) Undertake electrical worksvii) Undertake hot works;viii) Clear any flora;ix) Undertake high pressure water jetting; or use a concrete cutting saw.

Of course, front line employees have a natural aversion to paperwork, especially when they have done the same task or job hundreds of times. The key faults of the paperwork are:

It's a lot like telling field employees to ‘write lines’ every day.

Field employees don't respect the paperwork—so they arbitrage it.

i) The data from completed paperwork must be manually input by administrative staff into central systems (eg. asset management systems, training systems, records of hours on-site, amount of fuel consumed etc.).ii) Because front line employees can arbitrage paperwork, safety investigators must attend site to check the paperwork.

Any references to documents that are made in this specification are not intended to be an admission that the information contained in those documents form part of the common general knowledge known to a person skilled in the field of the invention, unless explicitly stated as such.

Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed are methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field, and more particularly, methods and systems for accessing permits, plans, risk assessments and equipment information, auto-populating documents, and for transmitting data and receiving notifications based upon user-specific location, activity, authority and changes in each. The disclosed systems and methods for risk management provide tools to support and engage front line employees in the process of risk management and encourage them to complete the risk management tasks in an appropriate manner.

One embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods provides:1. The ability for front line employees to complete their risk management documents via a portable computing device, such as an iPhone/iPad/Android. This includes: Pre-Start Checklists, Job Safety Assessments (JSAs), Take 5's, Permits etc.2. Access and review of:a) Personnel qualifications;b) Material Safety Data Sheets (commonly “MSDS”);c) Logbooks;d) Equipment Risk Assessments;e) Job Method Statements/Notes/Photos etc.;f) Company Procedures; andg) Company Risk Alerts.3. The tools engage front line employees by:a) Prompting them to consider lists of Method Steps, Tasks, Risks and Controls populated and managed by oversight employees. They also have the capacity to add any ‘other’ item to each of the Lists with such additions being automatically reported to oversight employees.b) Enabling them to search and select any relevant and appropriate Method Steps, Tasks, Risks and Controls;c) Assessing the residual risk;d) Providing a ‘score’ for each upload; and:i) Keeping a record of employee scores that may be linked to performance reviews and compensation;ii) Creating a company-wide leader board.e) Offering monthly competitions (eg. Spot the Hazard) and on-line forums for risk improvement ideas (with financial benefits).4. Improvements in the timeliness and accuracy of risk information by:a) GPS tracking the time and location of each access/uploadb) Preventing front line employees from commencing a task before controls are in place (eg. the time stamp of the Pre-Start must be before the time stamp of equipment movement or time logged on the equipment)c) Cross-referencing GPS and time stamp data with incident investigations, compliance audits, customer invoicing etc.5. The ability to create a database of real-time health & safety data including changes in safety thinking across various factors.6. Enables oversight employees to complete statistical and other analytics on the data to identify patterns and ‘lead indicators’ of risk incidents.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a method of providing information for risk management on a mobile computer device including a processor, a memory, a network interface, and a touch display screen, the method comprising:receiving at a work site, in the processor via the network interface, first information identifying permits, second information identifying plans, third information identifying risk assessments and fourth information identifying equipment;displaying on the touch display screen the first information identifying permits, second information identifying plans, third information identifying risk assessments and fourth information identifying equipment;providing access to data relating to permits, plans, risk assessment and equipment respectively with a touch on the touch display screen proximal to displayed first information identifying permits, second information identifying plans, third information identifying risk assessment and fourth information identifying equipment;upon receiving a touch input proximal the displayed third information identifying risk assessment, displaying one or more fifth information identifying job safety assessments identifiers; andupon receiving a touch signal on the touch display screen proximal to the displayed one or more fifth information identifying job safety assessment identifiers, providing access to data relating to permits, plans and equipment associated with respect to a particular job safety assessment identifier.

Also disclosed are methods and systems for providing information for risk management executed on a mobile computer device including a processor, a memory, a network interface, and a touch display screen, the method comprising:displaying an icon indicative of information identifying a process period;
upon receiving a touch signal on the touch display screen proximal to the displayed icon, receiving and displaying on the touch display screen one or more information identifying log queries;
upon receiving a touch signal proximal one or more displayed information identifying log queries, transmitting to a remote server one or more data relating to the received touch signal;
the remote server providing processing to auto-populate the one or more data relating to the received touch signal proximal to one or more displayed information identifying log queries into a document having a log form; and storing the document having a log form.

Also disclosed are methods and systems for risk management executed on a mobile computer device including a processor, a memory, a network interface, and a touch display screen, including:receiving, in the processor via the network interface information identifying permits;
displaying on the touch display screen the information identifying permits; receiving a touch signal proximal the displayed information identifying permits; upon receiving a touch signal on the touch display screen proximal to the information identifying permits, receiving and displaying on the display screen one or more information identifying specific permits, wherein the information identifying specific permits includes indicia indicating whether the permit is in force or whether the permit has expired.

The disclosed methods and systems can also include GPS tracking and can include:at a remote location, tracking the location of the computer via the GPS;
at the remote location, processing whether permits relating to jobs at the location of the computer have expired;
if the permits relating to the location of the computer have expired, transmitting a notification of the same for delivery to the computer.

According to another aspect of the invention there is disclosed a method comprising: selecting a job to be performed by a person in possession of the portable device; downloading information related to the job to the portable device, the information comprising permits required for the job, plans for implementation of the job, risks associated with the job, equipment used in relation to the job;

displaying a corresponding indicia for selection of each one of: the information relating to permits required for the job, the information relating to plans for implementation of the job, the information relating to risks associated with the job, the information relating to equipment used in relation to the job;
receiving a selection of one of the indicia;
displaying at least a portion of the downloaded information according to the received selection;
receiving input to the portable device relevant to use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person;
uploading the input, whereby a record of use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person is able to be stored.

According to another aspect of the invention there is disclosed a portable device comprising a processor configured to perform:selection of a job to be performed by a person in possession of the portable device; downloading information related to the job, to the portable device, the information comprising permits required for the job, plans for implementation of the job, risks associated with the job, equipment used in relation to the job;displaying a corresponding indicia for selection of each one of: the information relating to permits required for the job, the information relating to plans for implementation of the job, the information relating to risks associated with the job, the information relating to equipment used in relation to the job;receiving a selection of one of the indicia;displaying at least a portion of the downloaded information according to the received selection;receiving input to the portable device relevant to use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person;uploading the input, whereby a record of use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person is able to be stored.

In an embodiment the selection of the job comprises selection of a job type. The job type preselects the information to be downloaded according to the job type from a library of information available.

In an embodiment the information comprises information from a form that is to be completed when a job of the job type is to be performed and the input is information to be completed on the form when the job of the job type is about to be performed or has been completed.

In an embodiment the information comprises one or more checks that are able to be performed by the portable device so as to indicate to the user whether or not they are permitted to perform the job according to the input received in respect of the information displayed. In this manner the person is not permitted to perform the job until, for example, all of the safety checks have been performed for that particular job and they have checked off the safety checks by input into the device. Additionally upload of the input allows for compliance monitoring.

According to another aspect of the invention there is disclosed a system comprising a processor configured to:select a job to be performed by a person in possession of a portable device; download information related to the job to the portable device, the information comprising permits required for the job, plans for implementation of the job, risks associated with the job, equipment used in relation to the job;displaying a corresponding indicia for selection of each one of: the information relating to permits required for the job, the information relating to plans for implementation of the job, the information relating to risks associated with the job, the information relating to equipment used in relation to the job;receive a selection of one of the indicia;display at least a portion of the downloaded information according to the received selection;receive input to the portable device relevant to use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person;upload the input, whereby a record of use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person is able to be stored.

In an embodiment the processor is further configured to:provide one or more actions to the user for selection;receive a selection of one of the actions;transmit the selection; wherein the transmission of the selection initiates the selected action and blocks selection of one or more actions related to the selected action by other users until the selected action is completed.

In an embodiment the processor is further configured to:provide one or more actions to the user which ordinarily are available for selection;receive a block communication from a remote system when a related action is initiated;block selection of at least one of the actions until the related action is completed;receive an unblock communication indicating that the related action is completed and then allowing selection of one of the actions.

In an embodiment the system comprises a database hierarchically structured by job, and within each job there are fields related to an organisational structure for performance of the job and a tasked structure for performance of the job. In an embodiment the organisational structure comprises one or more of: information on procedures, risk limits, personnel, chemicals, equipment and lists. In an embodiment the lists comprises one or more of: method steps, tasks, risks and controls. In an embodiment the job structure comprises one or more of: job details, client details, job roles, plans/specifications and risk alerts.

In an embodiment the database further comprises communications records. In an embodiment the communications further comprises one or more of: meetings, reports, completed forms and alerts. In an embodiment the completed forms comprises one or more of: permits, plans, equipment and risk assessments.

In an embodiment the database further comprises permissions for actors to create, edit and access the database. In an embodiment permissions are set according to whether the actor is an oversight employee, a project manager, a site supervisor or field personnel. In an embodiment some permissions are set according to whether the actor is a permit issuer, permit holder, field operator working in relation to the permit or an oversight employee, a project manager, a site supervisor.

In an embodiment the field personnel access the present invention via a mobile application. In an embodiment the site supervisors access the present invention via a mobile application. In an embodiment the project managers access the present invention via a mobile application and/or a personal computer. In an embodiment the oversight personnel access the present invention via a mobile application and/or a personal computer.

In an embodiment project managers have permission to define and allocate plans to achieve the job requirements. In an embodiment all actors are able to view the plan.

In an embodiment specific actors (with appropriate qualifications) have permission to create permits and authorise field personnel to perform work under a permit. In an embodiment the specific actors have permission to allocate a holder of the permit who is qualified to hold a permit and will be responsible for meeting the conditions of the permit. In an embodiment a project manager and a site supervisor have permission to view a permit issued in relation to the job they have responsibility for. In an embodiment the specific actors can share a permit with another qualified permit issuer. In an embodiment the permit holder has permission to view and accept a permit allocated to them. In an embodiment field personnel have permission to view and accept work under the permit. In an embodiment the permit holder has permission to transfer a permit to another qualified permit holder if the transference is accepted. In an embodiment the permit holder has permission to add other personnel to perform work under the permit.

In an embodiment project managers, have permission to create Job Safety Assessments (JSAs). In an embodiment field personnel have permission to accept or suggest a change to a JSA.

In an embodiment all actors have permission to complete a pre-start checklist. In an embodiment the checklist is prescribed. In an embodiment site supervisors and project managers can view all completed pre-start checklists.

In an embodiment where a pre-start checklist is not successfully completed, the system is configured to create an alert in relation to the failed checklist.

In an embodiment field personnel have permission to create a quick risk assessment. In an embodiment site supervisors and project managers can view all completed quick risk assessments.

In an embodiment where a quick risk assessment is not successfully completed, the system is configured to create an alert in relation to the failed quick risk assessment.

In an embodiment oversight personnel have permission to create a register. In an embodiment other actors have permission to view the register.

In an embodiment oversight personnel and project managers have permission to create an alert for all actors on a job.

In an embodiment field personnel have permission to create a hazard report or an incident report. In an embodiment users have permission to access the report.

In an embodiment the system is configured to display four major icons on a mobile device for selection on a home screen, where the icons each represent permits, plans, equipment or risk assessments, respectively. In an embodiment viewing of information and entry of information related to one of these is hierarchally displayed or received. In an embodiment menu options under these headings are presented, with a sequential progression from one screen to the next to complete one or more forms relating to these types of information.

In an embodiment the system is configured to provide a communications icon on the home screen which enables access to communications tools. In an embodiment the communications icon also represents when a communication is requiring the attention of the actor.

In an embodiment the mobile device is configured to synchronise data with the system database when network communication is re-established after network communication is broken.

In an embodiment the mobile device is configured with searchable and expandable lists of information.

In an embodiment the system is configured to log data entered and then match completion of forms with commencement of and completion of tasks to ensure compliance with safety protocols. In an embodiment the logs comprise time stamps. In an embodiment the logs comprise location recording. In an embodiment the logs may comprise other input, such as barcode scan or bear field device scan.

In an embodiment the system is configured to test a validity period of one or more of a permit or plan or other requirement, and to create an alert if the current time is not within the validity period.

In an embodiment the system is configured to test the applicability of a valid locality of one or more of a permit or plan or other requirement, and to create an alert if the current location is not within the valid location when an action is commenced requiring the respective permit, plan or other requirement.

In an embodiment the system is configured to check the requirements for issuance of a permit against records of the actor who intends to issue the permit and records of the actors to which the permit is intended to be issued, and in the event that the requirements are not met raises an alert that the requirements are not met. In an embodiment the system is configured such that if permit requirements are not met then the permit is unable to be issued.

In an embodiment the system is configured to create a JSA by receiving a selection of method steps in the activity for which the JSA is being created, receiving a selection of risks applicable to the selected method steps, receiving a selection of controls to mitigate the selected risks; receiving a selection of a risk rating for each of the selected risks; receiving a selection of one or more personnel to which the JSA is applicable.

In an embodiment the method steps may be selected from a predefined list of method steps. In an embodiment the risks may be selected from a predefined list of risks. In an embodiment the controls may be selected from a predefined list of controls. In an embodiment the risk ratings may be selected from a predefined risk rating matrix. In an embodiment the personnel may be selected from a predefined list of personnel assigned to the job for which the JSA is being created.

In an embodiment each of the selected personnel are sent a message to request acceptance of the JSA.

In an embodiment the system is configured to create a risk assessment by receiving a selection of a task to be performed; receiving a selection of possible risks that may be applicable to the selected tasks; receiving a selection of controls to mitigate the selected possible risks.

In an embodiment the task may be selected from a predefined list of tasks. In an embodiment the possible risks may be selected from a predefined list of possible risks. In an embodiment the controls may be selected from a predefined list of controls.

In an embodiment the system is configured to display information about checks to be performed before use of an item of equipment (pre-start); providing a check box for each part of the item of equipment to be checked; receiving a selection when the part is checked; and displaying a message that the item is unable to be used until the checklist is successfully completed. In an embodiment if an item in the check list is selected as a failure of the pre-start check, the system is configured to create an alert. In an embodiment the item of equipment may be flagged in the database as out of service until it is repaired or replaced.

In an embodiment the pre-start comprises identifying the item of equipment, for instance by a bar code scan, entry of a serial number or by other means.

In an embodiment the system is configured to display information relating to the item of equipment or part to be inspected, or how to inspect the part.

In an embodiment assignment to a job can trigger creation of a geofence by retrieval of information from the database about which actor is carrying the mobile device either should not exit or should not enter; and the mobile device checks the location against the geofence and creates an alert when the geofence is crossed.

According to another aspect of the invention there is disclosed a system comprising: a communication channel to a portable device;

a processor configured to receive a selection of a job to be performed by a person in possession of the portable device;

wherein the processor is configured to retrieve and send to the portable device information related to the selected job, the information comprising permits required for the job, plans for implementation of the job, risks associated with the job, equipment used in relation to the job; the information being suitable for display by the portable device;
wherein the communication channel is configured to receive from the portable device an input received by the portable device relevant to use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person;
a storage for storing a record of use of the displayed information in relation to performance of the job by the person.

According to another aspect of the invention there is disclosed a method of providing a document to a user of a mobile computing device, comprising:

identifying a user of the mobile device;

receiving one or more jobs that the user is allocated to from a data repository; selecting a job from the received jobs;

receiving a role of the identified user in respect of the selected job from the data repository; selecting a document type;

retrieving a template of the selected document type from the data repository according to the selected job and the selected document type;

displaying the template document to the user;

providing one or more actions to the user for selection;

receiving a selection of one of the actions;

transmitting the selection; wherein the transmission of the selection initiates the selected action.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The instant disclosure is provided to explain in an enabling fashion the best modes of making and using various embodiments in accordance with the present invention. The disclosure is further offered to enhance an understanding and appreciation for the invention principles and advantages thereof, rather than to limit in any manner the invention. While the preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described here, it is clear that the invention is not so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims.

It is understood that the use of relational terms, if any, such as first and second, up and down, and the like are used solely to distinguish one from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

Much of the inventive functionality and many of the inventive principles are best implemented with or in software programs or instructions and integrated circuits (ICs) such as application specific ICs. In the interest of brevity and minimisation of any risk of obscuring the principles and concepts according to the present invention, discussion of such software and ICs, if any, is limited to the essentials with respect to the principles and concepts within the preferred embodiments.

Disclosed are methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field, and more particularly, methods and systems for accessing permit, plan, risk assessments and equipment information, auto-populating documents, and for transmitting data and receiving notifications based upon permit availability and location. As discussed above, the disclosed systems and methods enable field-based personnel to manage the risks associated with their works. Compliance monitoring is improved (for example, by GPS and time tracking activities).

Other tools for field operators are provided by overall structure and navigation methods that provide:a) Effective selection and implementation of risk controls; andb) The timely and efficient completion of risk documentation, for example, by auto-populating logs.

The following disclosed structures and navigation systems and methods include processes for navigation, auto-populating, alerts for permit and plans status, equipment pre-start visual prompts, database tapping, real time auto alerts, equipment heavy usage checks, equipment tagging auto reminders and paint colour substitution.

Each document that requires an action (eg; agreement or signing) will have an action button that allows the user to perform the action. The action to be performed is adapted according to the status of the document, and the role the user has in relation to the document and the job. When actioned, a copy of the document before actioning is saved and a new document created. A document can be locked while another requirement is pending. For example if a permit is in the process of being transferred from one holder to another, a field personnel will not be able to accept the permit or close the permit.

Definitions of terms used are provided with embedded references. For example, a risk can be selected and the definition and other information related will be explained.

In an embodiment the tools of the present invention are provided via an application operating on a mobile computing device, such as a smart phone. It is known that a smart phone is a mobile computing device which has a processor, memory, a display screen which is also an input device in the form of a touch screen and a network communication device(s). Typically the smart phone is loaded with a computer program stored in the memory, which when executed by the processor forms the application. Put another way the computer program comprises instructions for controlling the processor to configure the mobile device as a system according to an aspect of the invention. When the computer programs instructions are executed, the mobile device performs a method according to another aspect of the invention.

It will be appreciated that the invention can be implemented in a number of ways. One way of implementing the invention is according to the embodiments described below.

In an embodiment an aspect of the tools are provided on a more general computing device, such as, but not limited to a laptop or desktop personal computer. The term personal computer is not intended to be limiting as it could be implemented on a portable computing device, although when used in an office environment, size, weight and portability more generally are less constraining. Some of the aspects of the present invention need not be implemented in the field, as will be explained in more detail below. Such implementation can be provided by software installed on the personal computer, or they can be implemented by software at a remote location which is assessable from the personal computer, such as via a browser installed on the personal computer. Such implementation is commonly referred to as a software as a service model or software in the “cloud”.

Referring toFIG.57there is shown a system1000according to an embodiment of the present invention, the system1000comprising a processor1002, a database1004, memory/storage1008, a network interface1010connected to a computer network1012(such as the Internet). The network1012comprises a mobile telephone network1014, (or other wireless network) which connects to a plurality of portable computing devices1020,1022and1024. The network1012also connects to a personal computer1030.

Executing on the processor1002are a mobile user application interface1040and a backend user application1042. The mobile user application interface1040interfaces with the portable devices1020,1022and1024by communication channel1052via the network interface1010, the network1012and1014. The communication channel includes a communication1054into the mobile telephone network1014and wirelessly by communication1056between a base station and the mobile devices1020,1022and1024. The backend user application1042has a communication channel1050to the personal computer1030via the network1012.

The personal computer1030gives offsite personnel access to the present invention. Whereas the mobile user application interface1040gives onsite users of the personal devices1020,1022and1024access to the present invention. The mobile user application1040is able to interact with and exchange information with the backend user application1042by communication channel1056.

Referring toFIG.58, each personal computing device1020,1022and1024comprises components1100. These components1100comprise a processor1102, memory/storage1104, network interface1106, a screen1110and touch input1108which is typically a touchscreen combining elements1108and1110.

Executing on the processor1102is a mobile user application1120which communicates by network interface1106and antenna1112with the mobile telephone network by wireless communication1134. As an alternative to the mobile telephone network, a Wi-Fi network or other wireless network may be used instead. The mobile user application interface1040is able to communicate with the mobile user application1120by a communication channel1130. The mobile user application1120is able to store data via communication channel1132.

In an embodiment the database1004is structured as shown inFIG.59and is in the form of the job library1210. The job library1210comprises an organisation database1212and a job database1214. The organisation database1212comprises information on procedures1220, risk limits1222, personnel1224, chemicals1226, and equipment1228. It also includes lists1230such as for example method steps, tasks, risks and controls. The job database1214comprises job details1240, client details1242, job roles1244, plans/specifications1246and risk alerts1248. The job library1210also includes stored communications1270which include meetings and reports, and completed paperwork1280including permits, plans, equipment and risk assessments. The job library1210is able to be viewed by making a query1260to view the job library by actors, including project managers, site supervisors and in the field operators.

Referring toFIG.14, the present invention facilitates indication of risk assessments by actors using the present invention, these actors include oversight personnel1302, project managers1304, site supervisors1306and field operators1308. The oversight personnel are usually located in a company head office.FIG.14shows a schema1300by which these actors can communicate information and provide risk assessments. The schema1300is provided in the context of a job which these actors have been assigned to. For this job there will be allocated: one or more oversight personnel1302, one or more project managers1304, one or more site supervisors1306and one or more field operators1308.

The project managers1304may use any of a personal computer1030or one of the portable devices1020,1022, or1024to define and allocate plans1320to achieve the job requirements. For a known type of job the plans may be relatively consistent between each of those types of job, although they may be tailored according to the specific job requirements. Also a plan maybe individually crafted according to the job requirements. When specified, plans are loaded into the database1004for that particular job and are able to be accessed by all of the actors assigned to that job.

Oversight personnel1302may specify which site supervisors are authorised to issue which permits. Site supervisors that are authorised, can create permits1340. Some permits will require acceptance by a project manager or by a specific permit issuer. Where a change occurs to permit1340, the project manager1304should be advised. Permits can be shared between site supervisors1306. Some permits1340have to be updated (closed) at the end of the job, such as a permit to work. Some permits1340have to be updated when conditions change. Permits1340can be shared with project managers1304, site supervisors1306and field operators1308, and subsequently the project managers1304, site supervisors1306and field operators1308need to accept the permit. Generally, permits may be Long Term Permits or Short Term Permits, which are described further below.

Site supervisors1306can also create Job Safety Assessments (JSAs)1330. Typically the JSA1330has to be accepted by everyone working on the job site and in particular field operators1308. A JSA1330can be updated, including by adding risks observed on the jobsite. When a JSA1330is updated all of the personnel who accepted it should be automatically informed of the update. The project manager1304is also alerted to any changes to the JSA1330.

The project manager1304can perform all the operations that a site supervisor1306can perform.

Field operators1308can create a pre-start checklist1334. Field operators1308can only access their own pre-starts1334which allows them to be tailored to the individual. The site supervisor1306and project manager1304can access all of the pre-starts1334for a specified job. For high-risk tasks, when something is not right according to the checklist provided in the pre-start, other personnel on site can be automatically alerted of the problem.

The field operators1308can also take their own quick risk assessment, called a Take 5. A “Take 5” generally involves: 1) stopping to look and listen to observe the work area and focus on any potential problems or risks; 2) review the task to be performed; 3) identify the risks; 4) manage the risks; 5) perform the work and assess the work and work area once completed. The field operator1308can access their own Take 5, but other field operators1308are not able to access other people's Take 5s. The site supervisor1306and project manager1304can access all Take 5s for a specified job.

A site supervisor1306can perform all the functions of field operators1308.

The oversight personal1302can create a register1324. The register1324is uploaded from the personal computer1030into the memory1104and is accessible by use of the mobile user application1120. The oversight personnel1302and project manager1304can be alerted when something is changed in the register1324.

Head office can create alerts1322, which is when they need to notify on site personnel1308of an important piece of information. The alert1322will be pushed to the app1120where it is able to be drawn to the person's attention and inspected to find out the details of the alert1322. A field operator1308can also create a hazard, or an incident report1350where they specify that a hazard has been observed or an incident has occurred, this is then shared from the mobile application1120with head office by being pushed from the mobile device1020,1022and1024to the mobile user application1040then to the backend application1042for display on to the personal computer1030accessible by oversight personnel1302.

The system1000and method1300allows for sending the approval of permits, sending off for reviewing acceptance of risk assessments and permits, sending and transfer of ownership permits, sending to everyone to enable access to registers and plans, sending to the project manager and site supervisor to enable access to Take 5s, JSAs and pre-starts and notification about the document updates to JSAs, registers, permits and allows sending of warnings (alerts).

Referring toFIG.1, which schematically shows operation of the application1120on one of the personal devices1020,1022or1024. Starting at 5, the field employee (including a project manager, site supervisor or field operator) logs in, so that their identity is known. Additionally they may be allocated to a job. If they are working on multiple jobs at a time, then they are able to select the job that they are working on in this context. Depending on the selection of the jobs, the information accessible in the data base1004through the application1120will be specifically tailored to the job.

Irrespective of the type of job, the presentation of information is intended to be consistent. A home screen12is shown which comprises four major icons representing different types of information. From the home screen12a user of the mobile computing device can navigate to a number of tools represented by major icons. The first icon represents information about permits (top left-hand corner). The next icon in the top right hand corner represents information about plans. The next icon in the bottom right hand corner represents information about equipment. The final icon in the bottom left hand corner represents information about risk assessments.

By selection of one of these icons, the user of the application is taken to a screen representing permits14, plans16, equipment18, or risk assessments20, respectively.

In each of these respective screens14,16,18or20the operator of the mobile device is presented with information specifically related to permits, plans, equipment or risk assessments, respectively. From there, the person may make another selection and is then taken to a further screen, such as for example further equipment screens24and26or further risk assessment screen22. The user is also able to access settings on setting screen30. This provides information about the user and the user can change settings in this menu.

The home screen12is shown in more detail inFIG.15. It comprises a message icon31in the top right-hand corner which alerts the field personnel user of the mobile device (such as field operator1308or site supervisor1306) when there are messages that are waiting for viewing, much in the same way as a mobile phone indicates when a text message is waiting for viewing on the messages icon. The icons for permits42, for plans44, for risk assessment46and equipment48are shown. There are also minor icons for other access to other useful information50as will be described further below.

Navigation between the menus in the present invention is hierarchical. When a selection is made, the user is taken to the next level of menu down in the hierarchy with the ability to select from information to be entered or viewed. Selection of an item in a menu can be made by touching the respective area in the normal manner that a touchscreen operates. Data can be entered by touching a screen to select a check box/radio button, or by entering of text into a text box by typing, or by using voice to text to enter information into the text box.

Information is presented in a way that prompts the memory of the user by providing a prompt to identify method steps, tasks, risks and controls using searchable and expandable lists. For example there are a number of risks associated with acids. They include: exposure to the acid, inhalation of the acid, spillage of the acid, swallowing of the acid etc. The user is presented with these risks upon keying in “acid” and can access information about these risks. The user can see the list of risks associated with that risk category and can select information about a particular risk in a consistent and hierarchical manner.

Administrators can access backend information to perform tasks such as controlling templates and searched risks lists, adding the personnel including permit issuing authorities, managing the use of procedures, qualifications and material safety and data sheet (MSDS) information as well as issuing global alerts.

Project managers can access the desktop front-end to perform tasks including creating jobs, allocating personnel to jobs, setting job roles within defined authority, attaching job plans and issuing job alerts (that is an alert to people operating on a particular job) or in relation to a particular aspect of the job.

The mobile application running on the portable computing device is also accessible by project managers, site supervisors and field personnel, so that they can perform tasks including issuing in transferring permits if authorised, holding work outstanding by testing and closing permits, creating signing updating transferring closing JSAs, creating Take 5s, pre-start lists for equipment and taking equipment out of service, viewing alerts recording meetings and records of meetings and viewing reports, viewing machines, viewing MSDSs, viewing qualifications, viewing registers and during procedures, using calculators and safety thinking challenges.

NavigationA) Communication activities (including Risk Alerts; Daily Pre-Start Meetings; Weekly Toolbox Meetings; Hazard & Incident Reports; Non-Compliance Reports & Idea Logs) can be accessed through an icon at the top right hand corner of the mobile device. Importantly, this icon can remain fixed in position so it can be accessed from any screen within the interface.B) Risk tools as seen in the home screen12inFIG.1can be selected by selection of a main button of one of the four main icons. The selection is in the normal manner of touching an adjacent portion of the touch screen. In the embodiment ofFIG.1the screen transitions to a respective screen14,16,18or20representative of the major functions of the present invention:1. Permits. This icon directs the user to all of the potential Permits that may be required including, but not limited to:a. Permits to Work;b. Work at Heights;c. Confined Space Entry;d. Hot Works;e. Asbestos Removal;f. Excavation;g. Penetration;h. Quick Cut Sawing;i. High Pressure Water Jetting;j. Environmental (Flora or Fauna);k. Vegetation Clearing;l. Cultural Area Access;m. Works on Heritage Structures2. Plans. This icon directs the user to all of the Plans that may be required including, but not limited to:a. Construction Schedules;b. Method Statements;c. Dial Before You Digs (DBYDs);d. Contaminated Sites;e. Environmental (Flora or Fauna);f. Cultural Areas;g. Heritage Structures;h. Inspection & Test Plans;i. Bypass Plans.3. Risk Assessments. This icon directs the user to all of the Assessments that may be required including, but not limited to:a. Contract Risk Assessments;b. JSAs;c. Task Assessments;d. Take 5s4. Equipment. This icon directs the user to all of the Equipment documents that may be required including, but not limited to:a. Equipment Risk Assessments (including templates specific to each type of equipment);b. Equipment Pre-Starts (including templates specific to each type of equipment);c. Equipment Registers including, but not limited to:i. Asset Registers;ii. Electrical Registers;iii. Portable Ladder Registers;iv. Lifting Gear Registers;v. Harness and Recovery Equipment Registers;d. In addition, all Registers have “Out of Service Tag” functionality.C) Less frequently used risk tools can be accessed through 1 of 5 subsidiary links as shown inFIG.76:1. Chemicals or MSDS (chemical registers and MSDS sheets including the ability to source updated MSDS sheets);2. Calculators (real time calculation tools for calculations commonly completed in the field);3. Training (access to current qualifications with auto expiry alerts);4. Emergencies (Step-by-Step Emergency and Evacuation Instructions);5. Procedures (access to review the employer's existing procedures).D) All risk management documents are attached to a job number. In addition however, risk documents can also be attached to, and embedded within, a specific JSA. This enables field employees to access all of the risk documents applicable to their job directly through their JSA.

The described auto-populating of the log document during the process period helps eliminate a challenge in field risk management by ensuring field personnel complete Take 5s (a process period) and Logbooks (a log document) in a timely manner. Take 5s should be completed before the commencement of a new task. Logbooks of each employee's activities should be maintained for specific high risk tasks including Excavator Operation, Dogging, Crane Operation, Long Distance Driving etc.

The disclosed systems and methods provides auto-populating logbooks based on Take 5 data entries and equipment pre-starts. In short, the Take 5 template requires the user to confirm if they will be undertaking any activities for which a logbook should be maintained. If the user selects one of these activities from within the Take 5 template, a pop-up box sources additional information from the user and employs this additional data to auto-populate the user's relevant logbook.

Alerts for Permit and Plans Status

Different Permits and Plans have different validity periods. For example, some Permits and Plans are short term and are valid for several hours whilst others are long term and are valid for 30 days or more. An issue for field personnel is the renewal or re-issue of Permits and Plans to ensure the timely, continuous and safe completion of works. The disclosed systems and methods can provide:

a) Applying a Red Cross against Permits and Plans listed in the JSA that have expired or are about to expire;

b) Permit and Plan Expiry Auto Alerts and also, based on GPS and time stamp data.

Permits are issued to perform certain tasks where certain qualifications, experience or training is required in order to perform the particular job. Permits may have roles assigned to them including a permit issuer, a permit holder, other personnel falling under the permit, a permit tester and a permit clearance provider. Permits may also have responsibilities conveyed by the permit, a start time/date an end time/date and may have time limits. Examples of permits include a permit to work on a particular job site, a permit to perform excavation, a permit to perform asbestos removal, a permit to perform hot works, a permit to work in a confined space, a permit to work at heights, a permit to work in the vicinity of high voltages, a permit to use a quick cutting saw and a permit to use high-pressure water jetting. Other permits can be provided as required.

The permits menu14is shown in more detail inFIG.16. This screen includes the screen heading38. For permits it also includes an information bar32beneath the screen heading38that indicates the job for which the listed permits are applicable. It also includes an option to switch jobs by selection of34. The heading also includes a back-arrow36to go back to the home screen12. It also includes the message icon30so that the arrival of messages can be seen from this level.

The permits for this particular job are listed, and in this example, where the job is the replacement of a sewer main, the permits are to: operate a quick cut saw60, permit to work at heights62, permit to work on the site64, permit to use a class B water jetting66, permit to perform hot work68, permit for excavation70and permits to work in a confined space72. The permit to work64can be selected by pressing in the vicinity of74. This will open up information about this particular permit, as seen inFIG.17.FIG.17shows a screenshot displayed by the mobile application on the type of device display screen, at the top is the heading of the permit80, which is a permit to work. There is a menu bar82that shows details about the permit. The user can select different types of categories of information about the permit. In this case there is permit data84, documents about the permit86and pre-mobilisation checks88. Each of these can be selected. In this instance the permit data tab is highlighted and in the window90information about the permit to work is provided. The permit has a time frame within which is valid, starting from the date indicated by94and the valid-to date indicated by96. The highlighted area96is selected so that this date can be changed. Furthermore the description of the work performed can be selected92so as to define the type of work to be performed. Data accessible by the field personnel is able to be automatically loaded into memory of the portable device and then displayed because it is automatically retrieved from the database. The expiry of the permit may be reset to a maximum allowed period.

The issuer of the permit holds responsibility for checking all of the permits. The issuer of the permit can be guided by references checks and interventions. The holder of the permit holds responsibility for checking work is performed according to the permit.

Referring toFIG.18, which shows an example of a work at heights permit displayed in the title bar100and the menu item “Access Equipment & Mode” in menu slider102is selected and highlighted. This provides information to the user including a visual guide as to the nature of this permit and what is required in order for it to be issued and all constraints required for this permit. There is a requirement to restrain the person falling as indicated by104. There is a visual guide as to what the permit entails at106and equipment required to operate in this environment is displayed at108.

Referring toFIGS.19and20, which are examples of a Hot Work Permit, as indicated in the heading110. The items of a checklist for the permit can be selected in bar menu112, and the items are listed in window114. A checklist item asks “does the task involve hot work of walls, ceilings or in closed equipment?” If that is the case, the yes box116can be checked as indicated. This may bring up additional requirements related to that situation.

Referring toFIG.20, which shows further aspects of the checklist114′. When an item required to be checked is not so, as indicated by116, then a notice118may be displayed indicating that the work cannot proceed because all the requirements, as per the checklist, are not met. This allows field personnel to know what the requirements are, and to go through a process of checking that requirements are met. If any of the items required are not met, then they are given notice that they are not allowed to proceed with the work. This also allows the person to change the answer if the circumstances change. In this example where the requirement of the checked item can be met, that will then interactively and automatically change the notice118.

Everyone on the permit can receive role-specific notices. Personnel allocated to the permit may be listed and reminders can be provided so that the user is able to know what sort of permit is required in order to perform the job. The user may be required to review and actively accept a permit, so that they indicate they understand and there is a record of the understanding of the permit, that it has been allocated to them and they are accepting their responsibilities for their role in the risk related to this particular permit.

A new permit can be issued as shown inFIG.4. For example if an asbestos removal permit is required as indicated by150. A create new permit icon can be selected in152. The user is taken to screen154which provides the permit details including job details and tasks required for the permit. They can then advance to the next screen156which is to identify the type of asbestos removal required as indicated inFIG.21, which more clearly shows some of the information required. In this screen the user is able to enquire whether the removalist holds the correct and current licence “less than 10 m2of not friable asbestos”. Other details are provided as indicated at156. Once entered the user is able to progress, and to provide information about the job requiring the permit and risk particular to this job in screen158. Information is able to be entered into checks boxes or as free text in screens160and162.

Another example of the creation of the permit is shown inFIG.5which is to create a confined space entry permit, commencing at172shown in more detail inFIG.22. The basic information about the permit is shown in174including job details and tasks required for the permit. Personnel are allocated to the permit at176and as shown inFIG.22. Information about the safety requirement for the permit are entered in180and182.

A further example of a permit for excavation is shown in relation toFIG.6. Creation of the permit begins at190and then progresses to192where basic information about the permit request is displayed including job details and tasks required for the permit. Tasks required and requirements of the tasks including clearance requirements in relation to the excavation are entered in windows194,196,198,200and202.FIG.23shows a portion of196in more detail. In this menu item information can be entered by selecting checkboxes.

A further example of creation of a permit for high-pressure water jetting is shown in relation toFIG.7, which commences at210with details about the permit being shown in214. The process progresses to more entry of more detail in216and as shown inFIG.24. Information about the requirements for this permit can be entered by the completion of checkboxes.

A further example of creation of a hot work permit is shown in relation toFIG.8, which commences at220. Basic information about the permit is shown in224. Information about the job is then entered in226and as shown in more detail inFIG.25. Precautions about the work and a person permitted to assist in performing the hot work are also entered in228,230and232.

FIG.9shows an example of the issuance of a working at heights permit, commencing at270and then progressing to272and then274where basic information is provided. Information about the nature of the work required is entered in276, which is shown in more detail inFIG.26. Further information is entered at278, such as a rescue plan and information on a stand by person, in282and284.

An example of a general Permit to Work is shown inFIG.29. Each permit to work that is used in relation to various personnel, such as indicated inFIG.27indicates the list of personnel permitted to work in the worksite. The list may be generated so as to only show personnel to whom the permit holder may be transferred if the holder is seeking to transfer the permit. The list may be generated so as to only show personnel to whom the permit holder may add personnel able to perform the work of the type for which the permit is given. Each person involved in each permit is provided with reminders of the need to review and sign each permit to work that involves them, as indicated inFIG.28.

The term of the permit can be tracked and prior to the expiry of the permit, the holder can be notified so that action can be taken if an extension or new permit is required. When the work undertaken under a permit is finished, the permit may be closed. The permit holder and issuer are notified when there are changes made in relation to the permit.

Risk Assessments

FIG.30shows the home screen12and selection of risk assessments by touching the screen in the area indicated by402. This then takes the user to the menu20, also shown inFIG.31. The consistency of presentation is demonstrated, with the heading at the top410, with the back-arrow and message icon. The job is listed underneath. Then slide menu bar412allows the user to select the type of risk assessment being made. In an embodiment the types of risk assessment are JSA or Take 5. Take 5 is selected and therefore highlighted. A list of existing risk assessments is provided at416. A search of existing Take 5s by task or date can be entered at414. A new Take 5 can be entered at418. Take 5s will be described further below.

JSAs can be issued, updated, or transferred until closed. When JSA is selected as the risk assessment and an existing JSA is selected, the device will display basic information about the JSA in window438ofFIG.32. The Basic Information option is selected in the slide menu bar434under the name of the JSA in the heading432. Other options aside from basic information in the menu434are risk assessment personnel. The JSA is provided with an identification number indicated in the main menu top menu432. There are also options to sign the JSA or close the JSA and Update the JSA as indicated by440.

FIG.33shows a window510in which method steps of the risk assessment are able to be selected. Selection on the highlighted area512opens the “All times on site” as indicated by520inFIG.34. This then allows the user to add risks to the risk assessment. Upon selecting the add risks area522, a list of risks is displayed at530inFIG.35. A user is able to select from those risks and add them to the risk assessment. The user is then able to swipe over the controls as indicated in the next menu item next to the risks item532. This opens controls available to mitigate against risk as indicated by540inFIG.36. The controls heading is highlighted in menu542. The user is then able to select a risk rating, in550ofFIG.37. When an unselected risk rating is selected, a pop up risk matrix opens560inFIG.38. The choices available depend on the impact and the likelihood as each axis of the matrix. The impacts are selected from minor, medium, serious and major. The likelihood is selected from very likely, likely, unlikely and very unlikely. The sections on these axes determine the risk rating. The impact of minor has been selected as indicated by564. This opens a pop up shown inFIG.39describing the meaning of a minor impact in terms of health and safety and environmental impact.FIG.40shows all of the risks selected have been given risk ratings.

The assessment of the risks can then progress to allocation of personnel as perFIG.41. Personnel impacted by this JSA can then be listed at590, which also includes details of the site supervisor. The JSA can be submitted by selection of the submit button592. This then issues a notice as indicated inFIG.42to all of the personnel listed inFIG.41, which shows in their reminders as indicated inFIG.42. They are can review and sign the JSA. Should circumstances indicate, they may be able to update the JSA.

FIG.10shows the process of creation of a new JSA. When selected from the main menu the process starts at450, which as noted above is also shown inFIG.31. Basic information about the New JSA is shown in452, also shown inFIG.43. Method steps are entered in454, also shown inFIG.44. Risks are then chosen from a list. An example of search for risks in the list is shown inFIG.45, with selected risks listed inFIG.46. Controls and Risk rating are then made in steps460to466and then personnel allocated in step468.

Take 5s are specific to the user, but are still retained centrally, and are still with the dynamic interface of the documents. The user assesses the risks for themselves before commencing a task.FIG.11shows the process, which starts by selection to perform a Take 5 as indicated by710. The user can select which jobs they are working on at712. Details of the job come up at714, and then if they select the job, further details of the job are presented at716.FIG.47shows the screen form. The user can then select742a task to be performed from a list of common tasks. The user can scroll or search the list.

FIG.48shows a list of risks that might apply to the selected type of task. The risk can be selected at722. Then a list of controls that can mitigate the risk can be shown in724.

Additional menu options inFIG.49provide information about what the risks might entail and a reminder to monitor for the risk. This is also able to monitor risks and if something changes they can then make the user complete another Take 5 and reassess the risk and what controls might be applied to mitigate the risk.

Equipment Pre-Start Visual Prompts

When completing Equipment Pre-Starts, personnel can become confused about which component of the equipment a specific check relates to. This is particularly the case for personnel that struggle with reading (eg. dyslexia). The disclosed systems and methods provide:a) Diagrams of the equipment with each component numbered according to equipment check numbers;b) Highlighting (via colour change) the component that each check relates to.

For example, in the Quick Cut Saw Pre-Start template, check number11relates to the cutting blade. A diagram of the quick cut saw therefore numbers the blade “11” and as the user scrolls over the blade check questions, the blade in the diagram changes colour.

From home screen12, equipment can be selected and submenus provided800as seen inFIG.12. The menus comprise a list of equipment provided or available for use on the job. The user can select an item of equipment to perform pre-starts, risk assessments or view registers inFIG.50. A list of equipment used for the selected job is shown in window802. Alternatively the user is able to search at804for particular items of equipment. Risk assessments in relation to particular equipment and registers are static, but pre-starts checks are specific and dynamic. When a pre-start item of equipment is selected a templated set of checks is shown, that is able to be interactive. For example, if the user selects a quick summary of the item given in818, then a set of control information then appears as shown atFIG.51and item820. The user can then see specific details about that item of equipment. The user can go through basic information about this particular item of equipment that can include checkboxes of things to check in order to ensure that the item of equipment is in good working order. The user can answer the questions indicated in852. If one of the answers indicates that the equipment is not in good working order, as is per menu item822and as shown in more detail inFIG.52, the user will be provided with information that the equipment is not in good working order. For example, in the case shown inFIG.52that the item of equipment has an oil leak as indicated by862and is in this instance out of order. These are items for the user to report, including to the site supervisor and tagging equipment as being out of service. The reports can be automatically sent by the selection of the “send report” button600and864, which by virtue of the information already provided allows open areas of the form to be automatically completed.

Returning toFIG.12the item for selection shows that if the user requires use of a skidsteer808which is another item of equipment needed, then another pre-start is used. The process then proceeds from830to840to go through and check the pre-start requirements for that piece of equipment.

Equipment Heavy Usage Checks

When completing an Equipment Pre-Start, users are asked whether their use of the equipment on that day will be particularly heavy or intense. If the user indicates in the positive, the Equipment Pre-Start requires additional checks to be completed. For example, in a Vehicle Pre-Start, users are required to complete additional checks for long distance or off-road driving.

Database Tapping

Safe completion of works may require access to third party databases such as Dial Before You Dig (DBYD)s, Contaminated Sites etc. Plans are generally sourced by office personnel and provided in paper format to field personnel. The described systems and methods:1. Enables field personnel to view pdf files of Plans applicable to their works (through either the Plans icon or through the JSA cover screen). These pdf files are generally sourced and loaded to the application by office personnel;2. Also contemplated is sourcing Plans directly from third party databases (for example, DBYD and Contaminated Sites databases).

Real Time Automatic Alerts

Auto Alerts (audible and vibratory) can be provided to field personnel during their field activities (which are GPS tracked through their personal mobile device and/or wearable technology):a. When excavations approach the vicinity of underground services prescribed in DBYDs;b. When activities approach the vicinity or boundaries prescribed in specific Permits and Plans (for example, Environmental Permits);c. When personnel enter the vicinity of specific operating plant or equipment (such as excavators) (in this case, an alarm is issued to both the operator and the relevant ground personnel);d. When specific noise levels are detected by the device;e. When specific vibration levels are detected by the mobile device;f. When specific ambient temperatures are detected by the mobile device.

Referring toFIG.3the creation of a new report is shown which may be automatically generated such as in the case of reporting failure of an item of equipment, or it may be created because of the observance of something that presents a risk or is an incident that requires reporting, as indicated by item922. The completion of the report comprises completion of information by selecting checkboxes, for example whether it is a problem involving electricity, whether this is a health and safety risk, whether this is an environmental risk, as well as other factors, such as whether there are any injuries and whether there are other persons involved. This can be entered in boxes924. In the event that there was an injury involving a person, details can be entered in926.

The information can be entered to report such as shown inFIG.13and the nature of the item can be selected at820. At870the summary of the severity of the equipment failure is included in the information is provided in boxes834and836. A photograph of the problem can be taken and uploaded.

In addition to prompt users about risks, the present invention is able to provide a platform for publication including providing alerts information about meetings of reports shown in FIG.2.FIG.53shows a location menu932is opened by selection of the application icon at the top right corner. This shows that there are alerts waiting and that when selected menu opens showing the alert in relation to a particular job, as indicated by job list934. InFIG.54it shows that there is a cyclone update issued940. The user can select the cyclone update to access additional information944about the cyclone alert inFIG.55.

Information is also able to be provided on the home screen as indicated in more detail inFIG.56. This shows a list964of information such as documents videos and tools under the headings chemicals which provide access to MSDS; a calculator which is available to users to perform compilations in order to perform the job; access to training information such as emergency procedures, and protocols as well as more general procedures. Also under the job tab960is a list of documents created (permits, JSAs, Take 5s etc) in relation to the job, as well as reminders of documents that need to be accepted and or signed.

FIG.2shows a wild fire alert. A notification box appears under the main title. When selected the alerts menu drops down listing an alert in904. The alerts window is open in906and then the listing of the fire alert appears. This can be opened in908to see the wild fire alert and obtain information about it.

Equipment Tagging Auto Reminders

The disclosed systems and methods can include auto reminders for all equipment tagging requirements. For example, auto reminders are issued for the quarterly tagging and checking of electrical equipment, lifting gear, portable ladders, harnesses and recovery gear.

Paint Colour Substitution

When field operators are electronically locating underground services in the field, there is a set of ‘common practice’ colours that are used to mark the surface with high visibility paint marks. For example, it is common practice to mark the surface with:

A) Blue lines for water;

B) Green or black lines for sewer;

C) Orange lines for power;

D) Yellow lines for gas etc.

In practice however, crews often run out of the required coloured paint and they ‘improvise’ with other available colours.

The disclosed Excavation Permit enables the user to prescribe the colour they have used to mark each type of underground service by selecting a coloured dot for each service. This is different to paper-based systems which generally dictate the colour for each service (which field operators ignore if paint colours are not available).

Meetings

The application also allows actors to complete meetings including:a. Adding topics for discussion at the meeting;b. Using voice to text to record meeting minutes;c. Allocating Action Items to specific personnel and setting deadlines for each Action Item;d. Personnel that attended the meeting then receive two notices:i. A reminder to review & sign the meeting minutes;ii. A reminder for each Action Item allocated to them.

When there are pending risk alerts the site supervisor and or the project manager may be prompted to raise these at the meeting.

Signing

Every time a user ‘signs’ a document, they must first positively confirm one or more statements (eg; “I have reviewed, understand and agree to comply with this JSA”). The statements are specific to each document and specific to each user's role under each document. If they have a signing outstanding, the need to do so will remain in the reminder until it is attended to.

The disclosed methods and systems for providing and receiving information for risk management in the field, and more particularly, methods and systems for accessing permit, plan, risk assessments and equipment information, auto-populating documents, and for transmitting data and receiving notifications based upon permit availability and location provide tools to engage field operators in the process of risk management and encourage field operator to complete the risk management tasks in an appropriate manner. The disclosed structures and navigation systems and methods include processes for navigation, auto-populating, alerts for permit and plans status, equipment pre-start visual prompts, database tapping, real time auto alerts, equipment heavy usage checks, equipment tagging auto reminders and paint colour substitution, furthermore provide tools to engage field operators in the process of risk management and encourage field operators to complete the risk management tasks in an appropriate manner.

From their personal mobile device:a. Personnel can see:i. All of the Plans etc. attached to the Job Library (via the desktop application),ii. All of the documents they have created or signed onto;b. Site Supervisors and Project Managers can see all of the above—as well as all of the documents created or issued by anyone else on the Job.

General Operational

The tools of the invention may be provided as three applications. These applications are a desktop backend, a desktop frontend, and a mobile application. Each of these applications have different operational functions and access different sets of information found in the organisation database1212and the job database1214that form the job library1210.