Back in the days, FICA could be held accountable for the inspectors’ compliance and capability, even though FICA were not in a position to qualify tower inspections. FICA didn’t have a repository for the inspection reports, as each inspector kept their own records using their own unique form. Additionally, the industry as a whole didn’t know where all the towers were located. Industry only knew from Rien Visser at University of Canterbury that there were about 350 towers across the country.

Since towers need to be inspected annually, this process needed modification. The first thing FICA did was meet with CBIP – Certification Body for Inspection Personnel – to discuss how we could use an independent body to certify the inspectors. We wanted to create a transparent process. Over the next year, we built a new program with CBIP and also developed the expanded scope Best Practice Guidelines for Engineering Safety Inspections of Cable Log Yarders, which hadn’t been updated since 2005.

To improve record keeping, we designed an app for inspections in collaboration with Thinksafe, a reliable health & safety business experienced in building apps for the oil and gas exploration industry overseas. The inspectors fully embraced this technological advancement. They willingly tested the new format and appreciated the ability to use the app offline, complete inspections on their phones, and upload the reports back at the office. They could then send a copy to their clients and file it electronically. The app also provided a summary dashboard linked to the FICA website, making all the inspection forms available for industry review.

Some may argue that this level of transparency is excessive, but FICA’s stance is that there’s nothing to hide. If there are shortcomings in the inspections, they need to be addressed promptly.