Here is a list of eight general principles that was established, following the major steps in the approach but adapted specifically to the implementation of Golden Rules. These principles emphasize the set-up of a coalition and the importance of ensuring synergy with the actions and processes of any external contractor companies.  These steps are intended as a general guide. Their chronological...

Taking from the “Five Themes for Excellence in Safety Management Systems (SMS)”, we can look at a facility’s ability to assess and manage risks through this lens of excellence and measure the maturity of the safety culture. To recap the progression, here are the five levels: Ad-Hoc Managed Standardized Predictable Excellence Using an organization’s ability to assess and manage...

Taking from the “Five Themes for Excellence in Safety Management Systems (SMS)”, we can look at the means a facility holds its front-line supervisors and managers accountable for safety through this lens of excellence and measure the maturity of the safety culture. To recap the progression, here are the five levels: Ad-Hoc Managed Standardized Predictable Excellence Using the organization’s...

Yes. … HomeRead More »

Vulnerable zones are areas that could be affected by a release from a chemical accident at a facility subject to the risk management program requirements in 40 CFR Part 68. How can one determine if they live or work within a vulnerable zone? … HomeRead More »

As part of the hazard assessment, owners and operators of Program 2 and Program 3 covered processes must identify and analyze alternative release scenarios (40 CFR §68.28). What criteria should be used when selecting an alternative release scenario? … HomeRead More »

I love using these tools to help identify where a client is at in their maturity level within their safety efforts.  … HomeRead More »

If you thought SIF was a new concept, well it is relatively new – Heinrich discussed the concept in his 1931 and 1941 books… “Undoubtedly a healthy condition exists when attention is concentrated upon the prevention of fatalities and serious injuries. This work should not be neglected, but the general problem will be more speedily solved if the causes of the accidents that produce...

As human beings, we may think that we know what is good or bad in terms of human characteristics. However, common sense does not allow us to answer questions such as:   ➡ For how long can an operator remain vigilant in front of a screen where not much is happening?➡ How can we design screen layouts that make it easier to detect when a reading is deviating from the norm?➡ Why do operators on a...

“What further is there to say, except that the responsibility lies first of all with the employer. If he has an earnest desire to reduce the frequency and cost of accidents, if he recognizes his responsibility for the safety of his workers, and if he is aware of the fact that methods of achieving safety are analogous with methods of controlling production, he will exercise his prerogative and...

As you probably know by now, I LOVE metrics in safety.  I was raised in industrial safety/process safety by some great leaders and mentors who taught me that everything in safety must be defined and quantified.  They also taught me that anything and everything can and most likely will be manipulated at some point in time.  This is why a functioning SMS is so critical, as all SMSs should...

Building on my post from this weekend, discussing the three (3) pillars of Safety: Technical Safety SMS HOF/HOP I wanted to share something I created for a client that needed to frame up the role of a safety professional within their organization.  As in many immature safety cultures, safety people and even degreed, trained, and certified safety professionals can take on roles that DAMAGE the...