Strategic initiative between HSE and BAE Systems 2014 - 2016

Summary

This outlines the OPSTD Manufacturing Sector initiative with BAE and the interaction with HSE and ONR regulatory work.

Introduction

The initiative includes:

The initiative is not regulatory. It is not to advise on, or coordinate, operational work.

Action

Inspectors should:

Manufacturing Sector will keep operational parts of HSE and ONR aware of any corporate initiatives with BAE.

Background

BAE Systems PLC is a global defence, aerospace and security company employing around 88,200 people worldwide, approximately 34,800 in the UK. They are the largest supplier to the UK Ministry of Defence with interests in the manufacture, repair and servicing of naval vessels and submarines, combat vehicles, fixed-wing aircraft and general munitions.

The main manufacturing sites are listed in the Appendix. They also have repair and servicing facilities at many RAF bases.

BAE Systems were part of LOPP (Large Organisations Partnership Pilot) which was concluded in 2008. FOD NW continued to take the lead with the organisation after this. This initiative is distinct from previous work but builds on previous approaches.

Organisation

This initiative contributes to the HSE 'influencing large employers' work stream as described in HSE51.

This is not a regulatory approach but is designed to influence and use the leverage of working with a large employer to:

Following contact at Board level the initiative is managed by Manufacturing Sector and BAE Corporate Health and Safety department.

Outcomes so far include:

Further work is under discussion.

Any staff with suggestions for future work under this initiative should discuss them with the Manufacturing Sector contact.

This initiative does not change the targeting or undertaking of inspections, or the selection of investigations. However, discussion with the sector contact before and after inspections or investigations may help to contribute to effective regulatory intervention.

HID have an interest at a number of sites with COMAH enclaves and where explosives are manufactured and stored. ONR have an interest at sites dealing with nuclear powered submarines.

Timing

Two year Manufacturing Sector initiative starting April 2014.

Review in March 2016 will determine effectiveness and any future work.

Recording & Reporting

Manufacturing sector contacts are recorded on COIN case 4314115.

There are no special recording arrangements for operational staff.

Contacts

Manufacturing Sector/Engineering Industries Team, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Appendices

Updated 2020-12-15