One of the interesting discoveries I’ve made after years of investigating incidents is identifying things that were wrong, but not a factor in causation; although they could cause a different problem in the future. This is because, using the scientific method, several potential scenarios that could lead to the event are identified and then tested against the evidence to either prove, or disprove them. This well-established methodology helps, among other things, to reduce poss

This article was written for IChemE's Loss Prevention Bulletin in 2025 and was awarded the 2026 Lee's Medal for the best article on the topic of safety and loss prevention in an IChemE publication. A summary is provided below and the full article can be viewed at: https://www.icheme.org/media/28270/lpb302_pg02.pdf Summary Electrical power, steam, compressed air, nitrogen, hydraulic systems, other energy sources and key utilities such as cooling water are essential for the sa

What happens when an investigation reaches the wrong conclusion? In process industries, incident investigations are a cornerstone of safety management, forming part of frameworks such as the US Center for Chemical Process Safety Risk-Based Process Safety model and the Energy Institute Process Safety Framework. But even well-structured systems can fail, particularly when culture and organisational behaviour are not properly examined. The following real-world example illustrate

Industrial incidents can have devastating consequences, not only for the individuals directly involved but also for the organizations and communities surrounding them. These events often serve as stark reminders of the importance of safety culture in the workplace. By examining past incidents, we can glean valuable lessons that can help improve safety practices and foster a culture of safety within organizations. Understanding Safety Culture Safety culture refers to the share

In industries where safety is paramount, the integration of operational excellence strategies can significantly enhance process safety. The stakes are high, and the consequences of neglecting safety protocols can be catastrophic. By focusing on operational excellence, organizations can create a culture of safety that not only protects employees but also improves overall efficiency and productivity. This blog post will explore various strategies that can be employed to enhance

In today's fast-paced world, the integration of management systems and technology is not just a trend; it is a necessity for organizations aiming to enhance safety and operational efficiency. The convergence of these two elements can lead to significant improvements in workplace safety, risk management, and overall productivity. This blog post explores how aligning management systems with technology can create safer operations, providing practical insights and examples to hel