Introduction: All companies, whether operators or contractors, have a commitment to protect and promote the health of those affected, either directly or indirectly, by field operations in the oil and gas industry. This is best achieved by establishing an effective health management system. The purpose of this document is to assist companies working within this sector to achieve and maintain high standards of health management for all people associated with field operations. This document supersedes the previous edition published by OGP in May 2003. The aim has been to simplify and integrate into one document the recommendations that the OGP/IPIECA Health Subcommittee considers essential for optimal health management, from conception and throughout the entire duration of a field operation. The following section on Health management systems provides a basis for the establishment of an effective health management system. The subsequent sections provide guidance on the specific occupational health aspects of such a system which should be applied during field operations in oil and gas activities, as described in the OGP/IPIECA report number 393, Health performance indicators: a guide for the oil and gas industry. Health Management Systems: A health management system enables an organization to control its health risks and to achieve higher standards of performance by means of continuous improvement. The system should convey the company's structure, responsibilities, practices, procedures and resources for implementing health management, including processes to identify root causes of poor performance, prevent recurrences and drive continuous improvement. The benefits of effective health management include: (a) ensuring patient safety; (b) eliminating illness related to work; (c) managing medical care; (d) maintaining a healthy workforce; (e) optimizing business performance and reputation; (f) meeting legal requirements; and (g) ensuring cost-effectiveness. The system should be designed to complement national and international standards and regulatory requirements as necessary, as well as individual corporate health guidelines within which companies and contractors conduct their business. For further guidance on how contractors and subcontractors should be incorporated into the health management system of contracted field operations, See: OGP report number 4231. The key outcome of a successful health management system is that health performance meets both company and statutory requirements and demonstrates continual improvement. The key components of any health management system are similar and should include the following: (a) leadership and commitment; (b) policy and strategic objectives; (c) organization, responsibilities, resources, standards and documentation; (d) risk management; (e) planning and procedures; (f) implementation and performance monitoring; and (g) audit and management review. Examples of health management systems that are utilized within the industry have been published by OGP, API and the OHS Group. An example of a health self-audit template for use by managers can be found in Annex 1.