January 2012

The Hebron Public Review Commission – A Submission by PEGNL

The following is the summary taken from the PEGNL submission to the Hebron Public Review Commission on November 28, 2011. The complete submission may be viewed through this link. 

“In summary, I think it is important to bear in mind that over the past three decades Newfoundland and Labrador has been building a reputation for offshore development. The process continues today though the Hebron Public Review and events such as these hearings.

It’s important that we maintain and continue to develop a positive reputation for our ability in Newfoundland and Labrador to handle major offshore oil projects as well as other developments.

Part of that reputation will involve concern for safety, public welfare and the environment, and a good record of protection of the public interest in these areas. Part of this process will be enhanced by ensuring that companies and individuals maintain a positive and proactive attitude toward the importance of professional responsibility, professional regulation and licensure for people working as engineers and geoscientists. 

Some closing comments in summation: 

1. It is in the interests of the public that all the engineering and geoscience work that is undertaken by this project be the responsibility of properly qualified engineers and geoscientists and that those so qualified be licensed to practice in their specialty in Newfoundland and Labrador as is required by the Engineers and Geoscientists Act.

Engineers and geoscientists at the management level must also indicate their professional responsibility through their personal registration and encouragement of their peers and subordinates to seek professional registration;

2. That such professional responsibility is taken by those who are closest to the work from an organizational perspective whether or not a professional seal is required to indicate that responsibility. Wherever in the organizational structure of the Hebron Project, professional engineering and geosciences judgments are made; those making the judgments should be properly qualified and licensed; 

3. That the companies involved in the project are required to keep a specific record of those professionally responsible for such work and that it is available to regulatory organizations or others. This involves not only the design portion of the project, but also the construction, operation and maintenance portions; 

4. That the companies involved in the project should inform those with professional responsibility for the work that this responsibility applies to both the company for which they work, their profession, and most importantly the public; 

5. We ask that you specifically note these items in your final report as recommendations.”

© Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador