What is a robust safety culture?
BSEE defines safety culture as the core values and behaviors of all members of an organization that reflect a commitment to conducting business in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. The Safety Culture Policy Statement informs the offshore community of the Bureau's safety expectations but does not create any additional regulatory requirements. The nine characteristics of a robust safety culture are:
- Leadership Commitment to Safety Values and Actions. Leaders demonstrate a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship in their decisions and behaviors;
- Hazard Identification and Risk Management. Issues potentially impacting safety and environmental stewardship are promptly identified, fully evaluated, and promptly addressed or corrected commensurate with their significance;
- Personal Accountability. All individuals take personal responsibility for process and personal safety, as well as environmental stewardship;
- Work Processes. The process of planning and controlling work activities is implemented so that safety and environmental stewardship are maintained while ensuring the correct equipment for the correct work;
- Continuous Improvement. Opportunities to learn about ways to ensure safety and environmental stewardship are sought out and implemented;
- Environment for Raising Concerns. A work environment is maintained where personnel feel free to raise safety and environmental concerns without fear of retaliation, intimidation, harassment, or discrimination;
- Effective Safety and Environmental Communication. Communications maintain a focus on safety and environmental stewardship;
- Respectful Work Environment. Trust and respect permeate the organization with a focus on teamwork and collaboration; and
- Inquiring Attitude. Individuals avoid complacency and continuously consider and review existing conditions and activities in order to identify discrepancies that might result in error or inappropriate action.