Today, my “friend in safety” and I continued our debate/discussion regarding the “proper” length of written programs. He staunchly believes that a shorter program will attract more eyes and get used more often. On the other hand, I have programs that are over 50 pages, which blows his mind.
He brought a few samples of his written programs, which helped me make my point. The argument is that shorter programs would attract more eyes and get used more than longer programs. My 30 years of experience managing safety says that is a pipe dream; however, neither of us can prove our position as there has been no research to support either of our positions.
His PRCS Entry program is 12 pages long; mine is 52 pages; however, my PRCS program covers every aspect of what is needed to enter a PRCS safely. It covers everything from preparing/isolating the space to bump testing the direct reading meter. Mine references my Respiratory Protection program.
His 12-page PRCS program refers the reader to five (5) other written programs to understand all the requirements for a safe entry.
So let me see if I can understand this… we think our employees will not utilize a 52-page PRCS entry program because it is too long; however, these same workers will open and read five (5) additional written programs (totaling 62 pages) looking for their answers in how to enter a PRCS safely. I am sorry, but this is not reality in my eyes.
