The three fundamental components of a safety system are man, machine, and method (Figure 1). Effective safety systems address the interaction of these components to optimize the capability of the system as a whole. Man is the most critical component in the system because manuals, policies, and procedures (methods) can not and will not alone ensure a safe and healthy operation. Likewise, there are no accessories or guards (machines) that can compensate for a lack of careful attention and competent skill level.

Safety systems should be managed with the aim to help people optimize the system so that everyone benefits (win/win).

Keywords:
safety standard, management system, procedure, safety management, upstream oil & gas, antecedent, criteria, supervisor, spe 30694, safety system
Subjects:
HSSE & Social Responsibility Management, Safety, Professionalism, Training, and Education, Safety risk management, Personnel competence
Copyright 1995, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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