ABS Certifies To ISO 14001 Standard

ABS Quality Evaluations Inc. has certified the first offshore platform fabrication company's environmental quality management system to the internationally recognized ISO 14001 standard. The Morgan City, La., facilities of worldwide marine construction company J.Ray McDermott, Inc., was successfully audited by ABS QE to receive this certification. According to ABS QE Auditor Patricia Fitzgerald, the Morgan City facility implemented an integrated Quality, Health and Environmental management system for the entire scope of fabrication and repairing of offshore structures. Since residential neighborhoods and other businesses as well as bayous border the yard, environmental concerns were factored into the overall program. The Environmental Management Systems (EMS) procedures developed by J. Ray McDermott, Inc. for this facility were implemented to further strengthen their commitment to the environment. The procedures outline the means by which the fabrication operations minimize air, water and land pollution and specify the efficient utilization of resources available on site. The comprehensive program includes employee training and extends that training to contractors working at the facility.