Management systems and standards

3 men looking at monitors, Canada Square, London, UK

BP manages the environmental impacts of its operations through adherence to internal and external management systems and standards

During 2008, we continued to implement our new operating management system (OMS), which when fully implemented will provide the single framework for operations at every BP site. The OMS includes requirements relating to environmental performance and provides sites with a systematic approach to continuous environmental risk reduction and performance improvement.

The OMS has evolved from the good foundation provided by our HSE management system, ‘getting HSE right’ and is a fully integrated system which addresses the whole range of our operations. It is consistent with the ISO standard for accredited environmental management systems, building on and developing the rigorous approach we have taken in the past.

BP’s goal has been to have all major operating sites certified to ISO 14001. Currently, except in two locations, the operations at our 45 major operating sites are covered by certification to ISO 14001. The Texas City refinery, after completing planned work to strengthen its environmental management systems, is now working on recertification in 2009. Our Angola business is working towards an expansion of its existing certificate to include its new offshore production facilities by the end of 2009. Progressive implementation of the OMS, including ISO 14001, will also help us strengthen our management of environmental performance.