Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) Study
Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) workshop is a multi-disciplinary risk workshop which assesses whether certain combinations of activities carried out concurrently can add risks to safe operations.
With variability and additional elements, SIMOPS pose critical hazards. It is therefore vital that risks associated with SIMOPS related activities are closely reviewed and mitigation measures implemented to mitigate risks to an acceptable level.
At Velosi, Simultaneous Operations Leader (S.O.L) is responsible for proper coordination and safe simultaneous interfaces between departments, as well as identification and resolution of any potential impact on other operations.
The S.O.L. makes sure that all members of the operational teams duly implement the requirements of this SIMOPS procedure. It is the obligation of the S.O.L to follow up to the completion of all planned SIMOPS actions and to report to Master any trend or omission, that could possibly endanger the planning schedule, work areas, personnel or the environment.
SIMOPS Review Process
Identifying the combined operations.
Executing risk assessment for each task separately.
Identifying the additional hazards introduced by the SIMOPS.
Evaluating the relevant level of risk.
Verifying the adequacy of the planned control measure.
Recognizing additional risk reduction measures.
The safety of SIMOPS operations is much reliant on the general communication, coordination and cooperation between the S.O.L., task supervisors, team members and other involved workers. In addition to the normal job preparation, task supervisors should:
Make sure that their activities are planned and that all involved personnel are informed of the schedule and any possible constraints and interferences.
Make sure the essential permits to work are authorized and ready for display at the worksite.
Validate starting time and duration.
Approve assessment of potential constraints and interference.
Ensure that the operation and emergency procedures comply with SIMOPS context and to the current schedule of the planned actions.
Make sure that essential equipment and personnel are ready to start the task.
It’s crucial to recognize that SIMOPS operations pose significant risks due to the variability, enhanced level of activities and various interactions. Conducting SIMOPS risks reviews plays a vital role in identifying, evaluating and putting in place control measures that can reduce risks to an acceptable level, specific to the organization’s criteria and risk management framework requirements.
