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[Youngstown, Ohio, August 13]—Accupoint Software today announced it will join more than 100 exhibitors at the YOUNG 2013 Conference & Expo taking place in Youngstown, Ohio, Sept. 12 and 13, 2013. YOUNG 2013 is the premier Utica Shale show in Ohio and will be packed with exhibitors, experts and attendees from the shale industry and related industries and suppliers.
Accupoint Software will exhibit its flexible, cloud-based solutions in booth #113 on the YOUNG 2013 show floor.
In addition to the exhibition, Accupoint will be presenting an informational session on the API Q2 Specification. Jeff Cianciola, of Accupoint Software, will provide insights on how API Q2 differs from previous compliance standards and how it will affect industrial professionals.
Accupoint Software will exhibit its flexible, cloud-based solutions in booth #113 on the YOUNG 2013 show floor.
In addition to the exhibition, Accupoint will be presenting an informational session on the API Q2 Specification. Jeff Cianciola, of Accupoint Software, will provide insights on how API Q2 differs from previous compliance standards and how it will affect industrial professionals.
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The API Q1 Specification outlines the minimum quality management system requirements for organizations that manufacture products for the oil and gas industry. Q1 has been around for more than 20 years and has gone through several editions in that time. The ninth edition is right around the corner and its implementation will alter your organization’s compliance processes.
API Q1 9th edition expands the scope of previous publications by adding over 80 new clauses and 5 new sections. API recommends, that as a result of the vast changes, that the implementation time is a year from the publication date.
So, what does this mean for your organization?
The first step of the transition involves auditing. API will conduct audits based on the 8th edition up until November 2013 to allow your organization and any third parties to become familiar with the 9th edition. API realizes that implementation and training can drain time and resources. To reduce these impacts, they have provided organizations and interested parties 5 months to train personnel and become prepared.
The second step will begin in December of 2013. At this point, all audits will be done according to the 9th Edition of Q1. During this period any unusual findings will be marked as “concerns” and API will not follow up to ensure corrective actions have been taken. However, beginning March 1, 2014 any of these issues that remain unresolved will be marked as non-conformances.
The final phase takes effect in June of 2014 and requires conformance to the 9th edition and any nonconformities will be treated with appropriate penalties.
With these dates rapidly approaching, it is essential that you develop a plan to become compliant. If you do this properly, you can put the 9th edition transition in the rearview mirror and focus on core business operations.
To discuss how your organization can easily comply with API Q1 9th edition standards call Accupoint at 800-563-6250
API Q1 9th edition expands the scope of previous publications by adding over 80 new clauses and 5 new sections. API recommends, that as a result of the vast changes, that the implementation time is a year from the publication date.
So, what does this mean for your organization?
The first step of the transition involves auditing. API will conduct audits based on the 8th edition up until November 2013 to allow your organization and any third parties to become familiar with the 9th edition. API realizes that implementation and training can drain time and resources. To reduce these impacts, they have provided organizations and interested parties 5 months to train personnel and become prepared.
The second step will begin in December of 2013. At this point, all audits will be done according to the 9th Edition of Q1. During this period any unusual findings will be marked as “concerns” and API will not follow up to ensure corrective actions have been taken. However, beginning March 1, 2014 any of these issues that remain unresolved will be marked as non-conformances.
The final phase takes effect in June of 2014 and requires conformance to the 9th edition and any nonconformities will be treated with appropriate penalties.
With these dates rapidly approaching, it is essential that you develop a plan to become compliant. If you do this properly, you can put the 9th edition transition in the rearview mirror and focus on core business operations.
To discuss how your organization can easily comply with API Q1 9th edition standards call Accupoint at 800-563-6250
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Quality is crucial in the oil and gas industry. We are constantly adjusting and readjusting in order to improve our products and services. But even with this improvement, nonconformities will happen. So, in order to act responsibly, we must have plans in place when nonconformities occur.
The impending API Q2 Specification highlights controlling nonconformities. API Q2 stresses that your organization identifies responsible parties and have the proper procedures in place for tracking nonconformities in services or service-related products (SRP). When responding to these nonconformities it is important that you treat each incident appropriately and that the effect on the service performance is analyzed thoroughly.
Nonconformities should be handled in the following order:
1. Make a correction, or;
2. If correcting the issue is not possible, stop using the service-related product, or;
3. If neither option is acceptable, request a waiver or deviation from the customer.
Once you have identified and corrected the nonconformity, with CAPAs (if required) you need verify the action was effective. Throughout this process, you need to document required changes and communicate, if applicable, the information with your customer and other interested parties.
Control of nonconformities and related impacts are a focus of the new standard and it is important to manage the process in order to be in compliance with the requirements of API Q2.
The impending API Q2 Specification highlights controlling nonconformities. API Q2 stresses that your organization identifies responsible parties and have the proper procedures in place for tracking nonconformities in services or service-related products (SRP). When responding to these nonconformities it is important that you treat each incident appropriately and that the effect on the service performance is analyzed thoroughly.
Nonconformities should be handled in the following order:
1. Make a correction, or;
2. If correcting the issue is not possible, stop using the service-related product, or;
3. If neither option is acceptable, request a waiver or deviation from the customer.
Once you have identified and corrected the nonconformity, with CAPAs (if required) you need verify the action was effective. Throughout this process, you need to document required changes and communicate, if applicable, the information with your customer and other interested parties.
Control of nonconformities and related impacts are a focus of the new standard and it is important to manage the process in order to be in compliance with the requirements of API Q2.
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We are in the midst of the dog days of summer and staying cool is on the top of everyone’s mind. It is the perfect time of the year to take a dip in a pool or relax in the air conditioning. But many of us have to work during August, so we must keep cool while on the job.
It isn’t difficult to imagine a scenario where workers will be dealing with extreme heat this time of year. When a person is exposed to a hot environment, his/her body must find a way to release the heat. If this heat isn’t released, workers can experience some serious side effects.
Workers that are more likely to be affected by heat related illness are those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight or take medications that may cause an adverse reaction to excessive heat. Of course, this does not mean that if these do not apply to you that you are safe from heat related illness.
Heat related illnesses are a significant concern in the workplace and it is important that we take the appropriate steps in order to mitigate the risk.
Extreme heat should be avoided whenever possible. If exposure cannot be avoided, employers should:
It isn’t difficult to imagine a scenario where workers will be dealing with extreme heat this time of year. When a person is exposed to a hot environment, his/her body must find a way to release the heat. If this heat isn’t released, workers can experience some serious side effects.
Workers that are more likely to be affected by heat related illness are those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight or take medications that may cause an adverse reaction to excessive heat. Of course, this does not mean that if these do not apply to you that you are safe from heat related illness.
Heat related illnesses are a significant concern in the workplace and it is important that we take the appropriate steps in order to mitigate the risk.
Extreme heat should be avoided whenever possible. If exposure cannot be avoided, employers should:
- Provide liquids to workers
- Give rest periods
- Monitor workers who are at greater risk
- Gradually build into heavy work
- Avoid drinks with large amounts of caffeine or sugar
- Wear light-colored, breathable clothing
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Whether we are checking the weather or communicating with loved ones, technology has made a significant impact on our personal lives. As you might expect, these advances have also significantly impacted the business world.
Picture this. A quality manager needs to make sure that his organization is in compliance with ISO 9001. In order to do this, he needs to practice careful process and data management. Historically, organizations would spend countless hours every day manually recording metrics by hand and filing them away in hard copy. When it was time for an audit, the management representative had to dig through mounds of paperwork and hope that everything was where it was supposed to be. Once he finally retrieved all the information, it needed to be presented to the auditor who was required to wade through the stacks of records to ensure the processes were in compliance.
What is wrong with this scenario? The quality staff is shuffling through paperwork instead of monitoring operations to identify possible improvements. Additionally, cumbersome legacy systems are unorganized and confusing, which leads to mistakes and poor audit results.
With the advent of cloud-based technology, organizations can now cost effectively record quality data and develop metric reports with the click of a button. In addition, records are accessible anytime, from any web enabled device.
We have successfully integrated technology into our personal lives; why not improve our businesses as well? Technology has empowered quality managers everywhere to get back to the basics and focus on managing processes instead of drowning in a sea of unmanageable data.
Click here to find out how a cloud-based Quality Management System can help your organization.
Picture this. A quality manager needs to make sure that his organization is in compliance with ISO 9001. In order to do this, he needs to practice careful process and data management. Historically, organizations would spend countless hours every day manually recording metrics by hand and filing them away in hard copy. When it was time for an audit, the management representative had to dig through mounds of paperwork and hope that everything was where it was supposed to be. Once he finally retrieved all the information, it needed to be presented to the auditor who was required to wade through the stacks of records to ensure the processes were in compliance.
What is wrong with this scenario? The quality staff is shuffling through paperwork instead of monitoring operations to identify possible improvements. Additionally, cumbersome legacy systems are unorganized and confusing, which leads to mistakes and poor audit results.
With the advent of cloud-based technology, organizations can now cost effectively record quality data and develop metric reports with the click of a button. In addition, records are accessible anytime, from any web enabled device.
We have successfully integrated technology into our personal lives; why not improve our businesses as well? Technology has empowered quality managers everywhere to get back to the basics and focus on managing processes instead of drowning in a sea of unmanageable data.
Click here to find out how a cloud-based Quality Management System can help your organization.
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We all have worries about our business that can keep us up at night. That is precisely why it is important to have contingency plans in place in the event of a disaster.
The addition of Contingency Planning to API Q2 forces organizations to anticipate catastrophic events and create documentation defining their contingency plan procedures. The service provider must also integrate the plan into its processes between its suppliers and customers.
Contingency Planning is an ongoing process and must be updated periodically to mitigate risks of disruption and incidents.
Contingency Plans should at the very least contain:
The pending API Q2, with its added Contingency Planning requirements ensures your organization will be prepared for should the unexpected occur.
For more information on how Accupoint Software can help to manage your Contingency Planning process, we invite you to contact us today.
The addition of Contingency Planning to API Q2 forces organizations to anticipate catastrophic events and create documentation defining their contingency plan procedures. The service provider must also integrate the plan into its processes between its suppliers and customers.
Contingency Planning is an ongoing process and must be updated periodically to mitigate risks of disruption and incidents.
Contingency Plans should at the very least contain:
- How to respond to specific risk scenarios
- Steps to mitigate the effects of disruptive incidents
- Assigned responsibilities and authorities
- Internal and external communication controls
The pending API Q2, with its added Contingency Planning requirements ensures your organization will be prepared for should the unexpected occur.
For more information on how Accupoint Software can help to manage your Contingency Planning process, we invite you to contact us today.
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If you are anything like me, you realize that sustainability is one of the biggest concerns that our planet faces today. As we become more environmentally responsible, green movements seem to be a focus of every industry. No industry has faced as much scrutiny as oil and gas has lately. So, when I see an example of responsibility, I like to take note of it.
Freshwater is a key component to the fracking process and hauling large quantities to dry areas is costly and inefficient. Not to mention the time and money required to transport the used water to underground disposal wells.
As a result of these issues, oilfield service companies such as Baker Hughes and FTS International have begun to treat the used water and reuse it in the fracking process.
This practice has spun off some benefits to surrounding stakeholders and businesses. The reduction in the transportation of water has drastically reduced the number of trucks on the road, thus reducing traffic in these fracking areas. Also, companies producing materials that aid in the treatment of used water are seeing an increase in business.
Given the benefits of recycling, likely accompanied by additional regulations for reusing fracked water, I expect this practice to become more prevalent in the oilfield service industry.
Freshwater is a key component to the fracking process and hauling large quantities to dry areas is costly and inefficient. Not to mention the time and money required to transport the used water to underground disposal wells.
As a result of these issues, oilfield service companies such as Baker Hughes and FTS International have begun to treat the used water and reuse it in the fracking process.
This practice has spun off some benefits to surrounding stakeholders and businesses. The reduction in the transportation of water has drastically reduced the number of trucks on the road, thus reducing traffic in these fracking areas. Also, companies producing materials that aid in the treatment of used water are seeing an increase in business.
Given the benefits of recycling, likely accompanied by additional regulations for reusing fracked water, I expect this practice to become more prevalent in the oilfield service industry.
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With API Q2 looming, it is crucial that we continue to uncover what it means to oil and gas service providers. An addition that I am paying close attention to is the communication requirement of the new specification. Both internal and external communications will require greater control in order to become compliant with Q2.
Establishing an internal communication process is equally as important to service providers as developing compliant service processes. The API Q2 guidelines for internal communication outline the steps necessary to maintain processes that ensure customer and other requirements are communicated to the relevant parties within a service organization. Appropriate levels of the organization must also be alerted when data analysis results are obtained. These controlled processes are not just about compliance but also about reducing misunderstandings and miscommunication within an organization.
Communicating with contractors and customers is a necessary ingredient for successful organizations. API Q2 stresses open communication with external parties to confirm that the requirements are understood and that risk is mitigated throughout the execution of services.
Some of these services include:
Click here to learn more about how Accupoint’s SaM solution can help you manage the API Q2 Spec Communications Requirements.
Establishing an internal communication process is equally as important to service providers as developing compliant service processes. The API Q2 guidelines for internal communication outline the steps necessary to maintain processes that ensure customer and other requirements are communicated to the relevant parties within a service organization. Appropriate levels of the organization must also be alerted when data analysis results are obtained. These controlled processes are not just about compliance but also about reducing misunderstandings and miscommunication within an organization.
Communicating with contractors and customers is a necessary ingredient for successful organizations. API Q2 stresses open communication with external parties to confirm that the requirements are understood and that risk is mitigated throughout the execution of services.
Some of these services include:
- Execution of inquiries, contracts, or handling and amendments
- Service Quality Plans
- Addressing feedback and complaints
Click here to learn more about how Accupoint’s SaM solution can help you manage the API Q2 Spec Communications Requirements.
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I have been working to understand API Q2 and the new challenges it will present to the oil and gas industry. One area that has particularly struck my interest is Management of Change (MOC).
It is evident that API wants the integrity of the QMS maintained throughout the planning and implementing of changes. Your organization will now be required to identify potential risks associated with changes. These changes will require approval to guarantee integrity before they can be implemented across your operations.
MOC will be used for:
The addition of MOC presents unique challenges to your organization that must be understood in order to become API Q2 compliant.
For more information on how Accupoint Software can help with your Management of Change Process, contact us today.
It is evident that API wants the integrity of the QMS maintained throughout the planning and implementing of changes. Your organization will now be required to identify potential risks associated with changes. These changes will require approval to guarantee integrity before they can be implemented across your operations.
MOC will be used for:
- Changes in the organizational structure
- Changes in key or essential personnel
- Changes in critical suppliers
- Changes to the management system procedures
The addition of MOC presents unique challenges to your organization that must be understood in order to become API Q2 compliant.
For more information on how Accupoint Software can help with your Management of Change Process, contact us today.
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As API Q2 continues to evolve, one of the most significant updates in the specification is the increased emphasis on Service Quality Plans (SQPs). Also referred to as quality plans or service delivery plans, these frameworks are critical for ensuring consistent product and service delivery within the oil and gas industry.
Organizations must now take additional steps to define, measure, and document compliance with API Q2 requirements. This includes maintaining detailed records of procedural changes, specifications, and documentation updates. Any modification to a procedure must be recorded in a timely and traceable manner, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned with the latest compliance requirements.
Strengthening Subcontractor Oversight
One of the more challenging aspects of implementing Service Quality Plans is demonstrating control over subcontractors. Many organizations struggle with this requirement, as improper oversight can lead to compliance issues and inefficiencies.
To meet API Q2 standards, businesses must establish clear accountability measures for subcontractors, ensuring they adhere to the same quality and safety standards as the primary organization. This can include:
By strengthening subcontractor oversight, your organization can enhance operational efficiency, reduce risks, and ensure full compliance with API Q2.
Why Service Quality Plans Matter
Service Quality Plans are more than just a compliance requirement; they play a vital role in improving overall service delivery and operational efficiency. A well-implemented SQP helps:
Organizations that proactively integrate Service Quality Plans into their processes will not only achieve regulatory compliance but also gain a competitive advantage in the oil and gas sector.
Understanding and implementing API Q2's Service Quality Plan requirements is essential for maintaining compliance and enhancing efficiency. Ensure that your organization is fully prepared by reviewing your current quality management processes, updating documentation practices, and improving subcontractor oversight.
For more information on how we can help implement the requirments of API Specification Q2 in your organization, please contact us today to schedule a discovery session.
Organizations must now take additional steps to define, measure, and document compliance with API Q2 requirements. This includes maintaining detailed records of procedural changes, specifications, and documentation updates. Any modification to a procedure must be recorded in a timely and traceable manner, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned with the latest compliance requirements.
Strengthening Subcontractor Oversight
One of the more challenging aspects of implementing Service Quality Plans is demonstrating control over subcontractors. Many organizations struggle with this requirement, as improper oversight can lead to compliance issues and inefficiencies.
To meet API Q2 standards, businesses must establish clear accountability measures for subcontractors, ensuring they adhere to the same quality and safety standards as the primary organization. This can include:
- Conducting regular audits of subcontractor operations
- Implementing performance tracking mechanisms
- Establishing comprehensive training programs
- Ensuring proper documentation of subcontractor activities
By strengthening subcontractor oversight, your organization can enhance operational efficiency, reduce risks, and ensure full compliance with API Q2.
Why Service Quality Plans Matter
Service Quality Plans are more than just a compliance requirement; they play a vital role in improving overall service delivery and operational efficiency. A well-implemented SQP helps:
- Identify potential risk factors before they escalate
- Improve customer satisfaction through consistent service delivery
- Reduce downtime and errors in operations
- Ensure alignment with industry best practices
Organizations that proactively integrate Service Quality Plans into their processes will not only achieve regulatory compliance but also gain a competitive advantage in the oil and gas sector.
Understanding and implementing API Q2's Service Quality Plan requirements is essential for maintaining compliance and enhancing efficiency. Ensure that your organization is fully prepared by reviewing your current quality management processes, updating documentation practices, and improving subcontractor oversight.
For more information on how we can help implement the requirments of API Specification Q2 in your organization, please contact us today to schedule a discovery session.
