When incidents happen at an industrial facility, it can be costly, dangerous, and challenging to recover from.
Whether it be a control systems failure, environmental exposure, equipment defects, or improper operations that caused the problem, knowing precisely why an incident occurred is essential to preventing a repeat of the event. The investigation can become more complex when insurance or lawsuits are involved.
At Catch Engineering, we have expertise in investigation and testing of industrial failures, bringing a wide breadth of industry-leading experience to the table.
In today’s post, we’ll be providing further insight into what makes us the ideal solution for Energy and Utility companies who require proficient, unrivaled expertise when faced with these difficult circumstances.
But first, we’ll be touching on what makes incidents of this nature so concerning.
The Spill-Over Effect (How Job Site Failures Negatively Impact Operations)
There are several different implications that can result from an unwanted event at an Energy or Utility job site.
Some of the most undesirable implications include:
1.Personal Injury
Employees, contractors, etc., could potentially be injured by a failure in equipment, control systems, or structures. Furthermore, in the most unfortunate of cases, fatalities can occur.
2.Downtime
Many entities within the energy industry stand to lose hundreds of thousands (if not millions) of dollars per day if their operations cease— an outcome that quite evidently needs to be avoided by any means necessary.
3.Lawsuits
If an energy company is found to be at fault for environmental damages, injuries or fatalities, that occur as the result of a failure, they may be held financially responsible in addition to the legal obligations held by companies and their directors.
The Importance of Accurate Root Cause Analysis
Thorough, immediate and expertly-executed root cause analysis is the best method a company can use to determine the cause of an event or a failure.
When an unwanted event occurs, it is standard practice to conduct an investigation based on industry practices, particularly if insurance is involved.
As part of this process, a root cause analysis will allow the company to:
- Put safeguards in place to prevent recurrence
- Avoid future or similar problems with similar causes
- Understand the layers of protection with the process
- Effectively adjust quality management processes and systems (if required)
- Select solutions that will have the best and most long-lasting impact
- Confirm or disprove contributing causes
How Catch Engineering Delivers Best-In-Class Results
There are three core pillars that contribute to our high standard of excellence with regard to investigations and testing.
These pillars include:
1.Industry Leadership
Our team of engineering professionals are more than just skilled— they’re passionate about the work they do. They deeply value integrity, accuracy, and accountability. In fact, our engineers have volunteered at the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta’s Authentication Committee, and continue to contribute on an as-needed basis.
To put it more succinctly, we play an active role in ensuring APEGA’s standards for ethical, professional, and technical competency are met and upheld.
2.Minimal Downtime
Our comprehensive and intensive knowledge of testing and investigation best practices allows us to greatly reduce the amount of time it takes to identify the cause of an unwanted event, determine the best course of action, and implement the solution.
As a result, our clients are able to return to operations as quickly as possible.
The expediency we are capable of providing is one of the key reasons why our clients choose to work with us.
3.Depth of Knowledge
The Catch Engineering team is composed of highly-qualified specialists who have honed their understanding of their craft through years (or in many cases, decades) of hands-on experience and academic study.
Some of the additional specializations our engineers have include:
- Automation
- Telecommunications
- Power systems
- Industrial process
- Safety Systems
- Facility design
- Regulatory and environmental compliance
- Engineering processes and responsibilities
- Professional practice
Our deep industry insight is our key differentiator and the primary consideration our clients take into account when making their final decision.
If you are interested in learning more about the credentials and competencies of our team, we encourage you to contact us directly. We would be happy to provide additional references and information.
Conclusion
When an unwanted event occurs, your priority is to protect the future viability of your company, your profits, and most importantly your workers.
At Catch Engineering, we never waiver in our commitment to providing innovative solutions to the most challenging objectives presented within the industries we serve.
When things go wrong, we will ensure your needs are addressed and your expectations are exceeded.
If you’re an energy or utility company that requires troubleshooting, investigation, or testing services, reach out today. We’ll provide the answers you need to move forward and minimize future risk.
