How do you keep track of open action items?
As the list continues to pile up, I’m curious what everyone else is doing to keep track of action items? Are you just keeping track on a spreadsheet or using another tool to help with it?
Excel has been working alright, but definitely has its limitations when it comes to managing action items across multiple departments.
Comments (12)
I personally like an EHS Managment Software (currently trying to get one at my current employer). Spreadsheet is how I have done it for years, until EHS software.
Could not agree with John and David more! Lacking software I use Excel. I use a form similar to a JSA (it is a JSA with a different title) with a Risk Rating, that helps me set priorities.
In the Corporate World at my facility I would put it on the Management Drive in my Safety Folder so supervisors, engineers, and specifically the Maintenance Supervisor and PM Coordinator would see it, regularly. It was also an item we reviewed at our Management Review (ISO), Supervisor Meetings, and Staff Meetings.
The last few years we added a a column we called the "Bird Dog" space. Anything with a Risk Rating of 10 or more was assigned a "Champion" to "Bird Dog" the item! I got assigned as a Bird Dog but we were good at others to "participate" too! I call it a "Hazzard Tracking Sheet".
John is again spot on! If you can get a good EHS software add this tool to the modules you buy. These modules can be very good and of course some are better than others.
If anyone would like a copy of my Excel Template, email me: fitz@safetyfitz.com
Yes, I had an excel file and would walk through it every 3-4 weeks and see what corrective actions were accomplished and what was still open. If things were still open, I had to email the responsible person and ask for an update manually. I think this is where the benefit of safety software comes in handy :)
I've tried a number of things, including software, and they all have pros and cons.
What we currently have is a corrective action form which includes a root cause analysis and a specific corrective action which includes action steps, policy changes, training, whatever..How the plan is going to be communicated to those affected, and a timeline for completion. Then the person who owns the corrective action reports on it monthly at the safety committee meeting. This provides accountability because it's on the agenda every month until it's resolved.
Safety Culture reminds me of actions assigned and auto updates with status. Love it