The Importance of Written Procedures

This chapter describes the importance of written procedures and how to design a system for guiding procedure development and revisions. This procedure management system works in conjunction with Management of Change to ensure procedures are selected, developed, reviewed, and approved consistently using a planned framework that allows their easy use and maintenance. 

Effective operating and maintenance procedures provide a win-win opportunity for both facilities and individual employees. Here are just a few of the recognized benefits of effective, written operating and maintenance procedures. They 

Developing effective operating and maintenance procedures requires commitment and resources. Part of the development includes designing a procedure management system. The benefits of the investment in your procedure program, listed above, will offset your initial costs. 

The purpose of your procedure management system is to define how you will consistently develop, review, approve, implement, maintain, and control your procedures. Describing your procedure managonent system in a written, administrative procedure is a recognized and effective way to clearly establish those instmctions. The procedure manag ent system is based on your available resources (human, technical, and financial) and the hazard potential of the processes involved. Remember, your objective is to achieve a safe, environmentally responsible, quality operation. 

You would not think twice about performing the necessary maintenance on a pmnp. It is an investment and vital to production. Procedures are also an investment and are vital to production. They must be maintained to ensure they remain functional and effective. 

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