January 23, 2025
The BDA Technical & Standards Sub-committee convened on 14th January 2025 via Teams, focusing on addressing technical challenges, reviewing incident reports, and improving standards within the industry.
Key Highlights:
- Incident Reviews: Discussions centred on the Cleat Hill Explosion and the River Garry Retaining Walls electrical transfer issue, both of which highlighted safety concerns. Plans are in place to issue safety alerts to raise industry awareness and provide guidance on prevention and risk management.
- Member Engagement: The committee is enhancing communication with members by inviting technical questions ahead of meetings. Proposed initiatives include an anonymous Q&A section on the BDA website to share responses with a broader audience.
- Audit Updates: A review of the 2024 BDA Audit process revealed growth in audit numbers and consistent patterns in non-conformance. Insights from BDA audits will be shared on social media, with the top 2024 audit failings publicised to inform members.
- Guidance and Standards: Updates from BSI and collaboration with AGS and FPS were shared. Plans for a safety alert regarding electrical transfer issues are in progress, emphasising the importance of continued vigilance in technical standards.
- Future Developments: The committee will focus on developing practical guidance for borehole capping and engaging design experts to address specific technical challenges.
The next meeting is scheduled for 18th March 2025.
Members are invited to share technical queries or suggestions for standards improvement, contact: office@britishdrillingassociation.co.uk