Tool Box Talk: System Safety

Systems Safety

System Safety is the application of special technical and managerial skills in a systematic, forward looking manner to identify and control hazards throughout the life cycle of a project, program, or activity.

A system is defined as a group of interrelated processes which are composed of, People, Procedures, Equipment, Materials, Tools Facilities, and Software, operating in a specific environment to perform a specific task.

Systems Safety covers the entire spectrum of risk management, from design of hardware to the culture and attitudes of the people involved.

A system approach provides a logical structure for the problem solving. It views the entire systems as an integrated whole.

System Safety Attributes

Responsibility: Organization or person who owns the process and is answerable for the quality of the process.

Authority: Organization or person who determines the course of action for a process.

Procedures: Documented or prescribed methods of accomplishing processes.

Controls: Checks or restraints that are designed into a process to derive a desired result.

Process Measurements: Measures or assesses information to identify, analyse and document Interfaces: Interactions between independent processes.

Where is the Value Added?

• Risk Identification and Management
• Focused Resources
• Ensures proper development and implementation of programs
• Ensures a higher level of Safety

System Safety is not a replacement

• It brings us to the next level in a forward thinking all encompassing accident prevention management tool.

Old school of thought

If it will cause loss of life, injuries, or loss of equipment, don’t do it!

New school of thought

(Systems Safety)

If a function is necessary, then EVERYONE must set about to find the best and safest way to perform the function.

And a bonus quote from Albert Einstein:

“It is insanity to continue doing the same thing over and over and expect the results to be different.”

Thanks for the share, TO!