torsdag den 31. juli 2008

What is the task of the Assessor?


The Assessor performs independent checks of: The development process (audits) and the products safety functions (spot checks).

It takes some time to really understand the role of the Assessor.

Interpretation

The tasks of the assessor can be divided into two branches. - A judgement - based on evidence - of:

  • The safety functions implemented in the physical product
  • The developing process of the product.

Not only one of the branches!

The Assessor should perform audits, based on the Safety plan, of the Quality and Safety management systems of the Supplier, the Infrastructure owner and the Operator and be convinced that these systems works.

To be further convinced, the Assessor can also perform spot checks on detailed technical issues to see that safety functions are correctly implemented. The safety functions key documentation (Hazard Log, Safety Requirements and Safety Case) should be examined too.

As an example of the Assessor work, the Assessor could examine the implemented FRACAS system: What happens if an Operator discloses a failure during testing of a new train? Who decides whether the failure is safety related? Is the role of this person described in the Safety Plan? Is the sub supplier being noticed? Etc.

Next chapter >> 5.2 When is the Assessor independent?

Focus on the Source (EN 50126 and "Guide to EN 50126")

See the quick guide.

3 kommentarer:

Fulvio sagde ...

Hi,
I'd like to know where you have found this information:
"The Assessor should perform audits, based on the Safety plan, of the Quality and Safety management systems of the Supplier, the Infrastructure owner and the Operator".
Most of the time I'm working with "famous" certification companies and I have the problem to convince them that the ISA cannot impose or force any own Safety Technique, Method, Procedure or template.
Thanks

Troels Winther sagde ...

Hi Fulvio
Look in e.g. TR 50126-2:2007, chapter 9.7.1 and Table 9.
I recognize the frustration of not being able to convince an Assessor, - I guess it is the whole idea about independence.
I would say that the best place to take the battle with the Assessor is during the writing of the Assessors Scope of Work; too diffuse paragraphs only pushes disagreements to later.

Anonym sagde ...

Hi all
The scope of the assessor is the standard so an "assessor scope of work" is not necessary.
The role of the assessor is not to force anything, but to verify the compliance to the standard and so to the safety (and RAM performances if required) and quality.

Very good blog, very useful to share ideas and stimulate discussion. Thanks!
ciao vittorio