The first step in this cyclic process is “Describing the context”. Here the inspecting authority looks amongst others at its statutory tasks. This part sets the scope of the inspection plan. In addition to the identification of the scope it is necessary to gather information for performing the risk assessment.
The second step is “Setting priorities”. This step starts with an assessment of selected environmental or other risks. The risk assessment will result in a list of installations or activities that are ranked and classified. In this step the priorities are also set. In other words, what installations or activities will get the necessary attention (and how much) and what will not. The output of this step, the listed priorities (for the specified period), is then the input for the next step.
The third step is “Defining objectives and strategies”. Within this step the inspecting authority identifies inspection objectives and targets. These objectives and targets can be presented quantitatively and/or qualitatively. When it is clear what we want to achieve we can define or modify the inspection strategies in order to meet these objectives and targets. The output of this step, the objectives, measurable targets and the inspection strategies, will be part of the input of the next step.
The fourth step is “Planning and review”. In this step the inspection plan is developed. The inspection plan covers a defined time period and describes and explains the steps taken in box 1a, 1b and 1c. Part of the inspection plan is the inspection programme. The inspection programme may stand as a working annex to the inspection plan, or as a separate document referenced within the inspection plan.