Why are journey management plans important in oil and gas?

Vehicle incidents are the leading cause of fatalities in the oil and gas industry. Journey management plans reduce risk by ensuring someone knows where drivers are, when they should arrive, and who to contact if they don't check in. They also ensure vehicles are properly inspected and equipped for remote travel.

How often should drivers check in during a trip?

Check-in frequency depends on trip length and conditions. For typical oilfield trips, check-ins every 2 hours are common. High-risk conditions (remote locations, poor weather, night driving) may require more frequent check-ins. Some companies require check-ins at every major waypoint.

What should be included in a trip plan?

A comprehensive trip plan includes: driver identification, vehicle details (plate, color, type), departure and destination locations, planned route with alternatives, estimated times, check-in schedule and contact, emergency contacts, pre-trip vehicle inspection checklist, and safety equipment verification.

What happens if a driver misses a check-in?

Missing a check-in should trigger an escalation protocol: attempt phone contact, wait 15-30 minutes, escalate to supervisor, then initiate search procedures. This is why accurate route information and check-in times are critical - they help locate workers quickly in emergencies.

Do I need a journey management plan for short trips?

Best practice is to use journey management for any work-related travel to remote locations, regardless of distance. Short trips to isolated well sites can be just as dangerous as long trips. Many operators require JMPs for any trip over 30 minutes or to locations without cell service.

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#1 Cause of Oilfield Fatalities: Vehicle Incidents

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Cause of O&G Fatalities

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What is a Journey Management Plan?

A journey management plan (JMP) is a documented safety protocol that tracks work-related driving, particularly in remote locations. Also called a trip plan or driver authorization form, it ensures someone always knows where drivers are, when they should arrive, and who to contact if they do not check in.

In the oil and gas industry, workers regularly travel long distances to remote well sites, often on unpaved lease roads with limited cell service. Vehicle incidents are the leading cause of fatalities in the industry, accounting for over 40% of oilfield deaths. Journey management plans are a critical control to reduce this risk.

What to Include in Your Trip Plan

Driver & Vehicle ID

Full driver name, phone, license number, and complete vehicle description including plate, color, and make/model.

Route Information

Departure and destination locations, primary and alternate routes, expected road and weather conditions, known hazards.

Check-In Protocol

Check-in frequency (1-4 hours), contact person and phone, scheduled check-in points along the route.

Emergency Contacts

Personal emergency contact, supervisor information, nearest medical facility along the route.

Pre-Trip Inspection

Vehicle inspection checklist covering tires, fluids, lights, mirrors, fuel level, and driver fitness.

Safety Equipment

First aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency flares, water/food, charged phone, GPS, satellite communication.

Why Use Digital Trip Planning?

Faster Check-Ins

Digital forms complete in minutes. No more handwritten forms or lost paperwork.

Instant PDF

Generate professional trip plans instantly. Keep a copy in your vehicle glove box.

Risk Indicators

Automatic risk assessment based on conditions, equipment, and safety checks.

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Protect Your Field Crews

Vehicle incidents are preventable. BasinCheck helps you implement consistent journey management across all your operations with digital trip plans, automated check-in tracking, and real-time visibility.

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