The evolution of risk assessment in the electric utility industry has been a focal point over the past decade. In a series of articles published in response to discussions at the Co-op Forum for RE Magazine, industry experts have examined changes in how safety is approached within this sector.
In earlier articles, the emphasis was placed on integrating operations and safety into a unified approach. This shift from compliance-based methods to fostering a culture of safety through leadership was highlighted. Additionally, there was an exploration of coaching versus catching errors and understanding human error as part of the solution.
The third article in this series focuses on serious injuries and fatalities (SIF) risk management. A significant development noted is how SIF risk management has prompted organizations, particularly in Ohio, to reassess what defines a "high performing cooperative." It suggests that instead of focusing solely on DART rates and recordable incidents, there should be an emphasis on creating proactive capacities that encourage open dialogue about safety issues.
"Even with all of that, risk management of serious injuries and fatalities (SIFs) may have evolved most of all as it’s really helped us in Ohio to re-focus on the most important things," states the article. It further explains that injury absence does not equate to safety presence.
Herbert William Heinrich's 1931 pyramid theory is discussed for its historical significance but also critiqued for potentially misdirecting focus towards minor incidents rather than SIFs. The critique led to renewed attention on SIF incidents across industries such as electric utilities where cooperatives and union contractors like Quanta are implementing new strategies like "STKY" and Commitment to Zero Contacts Phase 2 programs.
A key point raised is maintaining ongoing conversations around safety programs for them to remain effective year-round. There must be environments where workers feel safe discussing mistakes or challenges without fear. An anecdote shared illustrates how arrogance can contribute significantly to SIFs more than any other factor.
Viewing injury rates through an appropriate lens involves recognizing their cultural implications while ensuring they don't overshadow more pressing concerns like life-saving shortcuts taken under extreme conditions. The article stresses celebrating safety presence rather than just low injury rates by acknowledging positive behaviors such as mentoring apprentices or conducting solid crew observations.
Ultimately, open communication is identified as essential within any successful safety program: "To me, that single most important thing is open communication where it’s safe to be transparent."