Independent Safety Audit

An Independent Safety Auditor (ISA) provides an expert, professional, independent opinion on safety.

An ISA will typically:

• Produce targeted document reviews.
• Carry out independent assessment and analysis.
• Carry out "traditional" audits of safety and development processes against planned arrangements.
• Give general advice on the acceptability of a proposed safety argument, which facilitates the procurer's or contractor's decision-making.

In the UK, the main sectors that utilise ISA services are defence and railways. The ISA role in these sectors is founded on safety policy that introduces independence by requiring those responsible for safety to seek an ISA's opinion on the quality of the safety case for new or modified equipment.

Adelard's recent ISA work includes:

• Bowman. The Bowman project is to replace the MoD's existing communication system Clansman with secure, digital voice and data communications based on networks of Windows-based computers. In addition we are ISA on the Bowman applications Fire Control, Ground Based Air Defence Bridging Capability, GBAD Phase 1 and Joint Effects Tactical Targeting System.
   
• The Joint NLAW System and Anti-Structures Munition. These are surface-to-surface missile systems involving predictive guidance systems.
   
• The deployable and static components of the UK's Air Command and Control System.
   
• The HSE's eCOSHH Essentials system. This is an on-line version of the COSHH Essentials guidance for the control of hazardous substances.

Adelard recently completed guidance for MoD on contracting for ISA services, covering the ISA role, how to select ISAs, and the scopes of work for ISAs at different lifecycle phases.

Adelard is represented on the IET/BCS Independent Safety Assurance Working Group.