Environment, health, and safety (EHS) is an ecosystem that safeguards an organization’s assets, including people, equipment, and materials. It’s a complex network of dependencies that can become challenging to navigate without the right methods and tools. Often, the consequences of lapses in EHS practices—like fines and negative media attention—are evident, but the underlying causes often go unexamined. Enhanced EHS reporting could prevent such issues.
End-to-end EHS management solutions are designed to streamline this process, providing proactive tools for managing complex scenarios within the ecosystem. Here are five essential features to consider when evaluating EHS management software to elevate your organization’s safety performance:
- Customized Workflow and Hands-On Management The software should facilitate user action through efficient reporting, alerts, and tracking of logged items. It must be adaptable to your organizational needs, promoting engagement from workers and enabling the EHS team to maximize the system’s potential.
- Adding Attachments While it may seem minor, the ability to attach various checklists and forms for audits, inspections, and safety observations can significantly simplify processes. An effective EHS ecosystem supports compliance and operational safety, making this feature invaluable for reducing labor-intensive approaches.
- Performance Indicators EHS management software should extend beyond mere compliance, offering insights into key performance indicators (KPIs). These metrics—both leading and lagging—allow you to assess and improve your organization’s safety performance effectively.
- Notifications and Alerts The workplace often requires swift action and approvals. The EHS management software should provide customizable notifications and alerts to expedite approvals and ensure compliance, allowing users to prioritize tasks effectively based on urgency.
- Solution Availability The software must cater to the specific demands of its users. For field operations, mobile app accessibility is crucial, and an offline-capable app is essential for EHS reporting, especially in areas with limited connectivity.
Beyond these features, consider the people component of any EHS management software. Does the provider offer robust support, both onsite and online? Can they adapt to your domain-specific needs? Lastly, is there flexibility for future process implementations?
This overview highlights critical features of EHS management software, especially if safety is a priority in your organization.
We invite you to share your experiences and challenges when procuring EHS management software in the comments. Your insights could foster a meaningful discussion and lead to valuable solutions.
For more information, check out Core EHS.