The PSA has been checking for several years how company managements work to reduce the risk of major accidents. Its findings, not least from serious incident inquiries, illustrate the need to maintain a commitment here in 2010.
It is important to recognise that the industry poses threats, but that these can be managed. Accepting a certain level of risk does not mean that an accident is acceptable.
Several close shaves in recent years are a reminder that an underlying risk of a major accident always exists.
The PSA’s audit results, experience from major accidents internationally and recognised accident theory all highlight the key role played by management in reducing major accident risk.
Learning at senior executive level and management’s contribution to learning in the organisation are important elements. By giving high priority to this issue, the PSA will follow up and exert influence to achieve improvements.
