The 2015 Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, TX covered a wide range of different subjects and topics important to those who are in all areas of the gas and oil industry. One of the topics that resonated with many at the conference, as well as nearly everyone in the gas and oil field, is safety culture.
One of the speakers brought up an interesting subject about safety culture. Michael Broadribb, senior principal consultant for Baker Engineering & Risk Consultants, Inc., said, “Safety culture is not universal. It varies in different areas around the world and also from culture to culture.” He went on to say that many companies, particularly those that are operating with a different safety mindset and culture, have problems with safety. This may have to do with local cultures, as well as the overall culture of the industry.
He stressed that it is difficult for some companies to get into the safety mindset. This is something they must do though, even if it takes them a substantial amount of time and effort. It becomes important for the safety of the individuals who are working on the offshore rig, as well as for the environment. It also comes down to the company’s bottom line. Lax safety means accidents, and that means companies will lose money and the confidence of the public.
What Can They Do?
In order to improve security and safety on an offshore rig, it becomes important for companies and the people on the rig to be as proactive as possible. They should not merely rely on compliance to help prevent major incidents. They should actively inspect and audit the equipment used on the rigs to make sure it is in good condition. They should continually identify improvements to their current safety processes, and learn from other companies in the industry.
Many companies are trying to comply with the safety rules and regulations. However, mere compliance is not enough. Instead of just complying, they need to make safety their goal. Changing the internal culture of many of the companies that are lax in safety right now will not be easy, but it needs to happen. Changing the way some companies think may not happen overnight, but it will eventually happen. Fortunately, the tides are turning and more and more oil companies are truly starting to understand the need to mitigate risk for the right reasons.
About Oil Works Inc.
Oil Works, Inc. is a complete drilling rig equipment manufacturer and service provider based in the Permian Basin for over 20 years. OWI’s product and service offerings include Derricks, Substructures, Drawworks Manufacturing, Mud Systems, Rig Walking Systems, Power Generation, Control Systems, Iron Roughneck Service, Quincy Air Compressors. We are a complete Drilling Equipment Manufacturer and build to API and ISO standards. OWI is also proud to offer 24/7 Service and Support.
