Embedded Lifting Technical Authority strengthens operations at Iraq's largest oilfield.
ASCO provided long-term specialist lifting support at the Rumaila Oilfield in Iraq, deploying personnel on permanent rotation to support the development, implementation and continual improvement of a lifting system that remained operational throughout the engagement.
An embedded team provided specialist lifting, working at height and scaffolding support within a complex, high-hazard operating environment. The team delivered comprehensive technical and operational support, helping to ensure lifting activities were conducted safely, competently and consistently across the operation.
Scope
Lifting Assurance, Workforce Training & Competence
Location
Rumaila Oilfield, Iraq
Duration
10+ years
At a glance
- 10+ years of embedded specialist support within a complex, high-hazard operating environment.
- Site-wide lifting management system developed and continually improved to meet evolving operational requirements.
- Thousands of lift plans reviewed annually, providing ongoing technical oversight and assurance.
- Integrated assurance supported by performance monitoring, equipment assurance and contractor oversight
Approach
A multidisciplinary team comprising Lifting Technical Authorities (LTAs), Site Lifting Specialists, Working at Height Specialists and Scaffolding Inspectors was embedded on site, and supported by experienced technical specialists within our UK operations.
Working within the client's HSSEQ framework, the team supported the development, implementation and continual improvement of the lifting management system, including:
- Lifting Equipment Control and Operation Procedures (LECOP), competence and procedural materials
- Lifting equipment inspection, maintenance, examination and certification procedures.
- LTA screening and development programmes
- Technical review, assurance and approval of lift plans
- KPI monitoring, performance trending and analysis, safety intervention tracking across People, Plant and Process, and self-verification and assurance documentation.
- Animated safety-moment films, toolbox-talk materials and instructor-led and e-learning training.
- Working at Height and scaffolding inspection support.
Continuous Improvement
The ASCO team was supported by wider organisational technical and HSSEQ network, enabling the integration of lessons learned, legislative and standards updates, industry good practice and technical developments. This ensured the lifting system remained current and continued to improve in response to changing operational requirements.
Impact
Over a decade of specialist support has strengthened lifting operations in line with Rumaila’s evolving operational requirements.
The engagement has delivered:
- A structured, sustainable lifting management system, supported by long-term Lifting Technical Authority and specialist expertise.
- Consistent technical oversight, with thousands of lift plans reviewed annually and strengthened equipment assurance and contractor oversight.
- Improved lifting performance with KPI monitoring, trend analysis and continual improvement.
- Strengthened workforce competence, through defined development pathways, training and knowledge transfer.
- Increased in-country capability, through sustained workforce development, knowledge transfer and the ongoing development of procedures, training and safety communications.