Safety-First Approach to Security

At chemical, petrochemical and utilities sites where safety is the constant top priority, the standard approach to security is anything but standard. The security approach needs to be safety first. An effective program engages security professionals and supervisors in setting a positive example and communicating the importance of individual and team safety. The program must demonstrate active concern for the safety of employees, contractors and visitors. As the security officers are often the first point of contact, they need to personify and exemplify every aspect of the safety-first approach to security.

• Safety-Focused Security - Security companies that are committed to a safety-first approach to security invest in safety. It is not a project but part of the organizational culture. From a Corporate Safety Manager that is a Certified Safety Professional; to safety standards applied at every location; and resources you can use, safety should clearly be the expectation every day.

• Site-Specific Safety - A safety-first approach demands the creation of a site specific safety plan for the security team. A job safety analysis (JSA) is a joint effort between management and the security officers in which job activities are divided into individual steps to identify and eliminate or control hazards. After the initial JSA is completed it should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect workplace changes and emerging hazards.

• Performance Measurements - Leading indicators are measures that indicate compliance and future performance. If your company is not currently engaging your security provider in collecting leading measures, you may be missing an opportunity to create a safer environment. Leading indicators vary but may include safety training, safety audits, employee surveys and near miss reporting.

Establishing a safety-first approach to a security program necessitates a commitment to relevant and continual safety training to elevate safety awareness, lessen complacency and implement action plans that eliminate risk and enhances your overall safety and security at your facility. 

How are you creating a safety-first culture at your workplace?

 About the Author 
 Adam Serna is Director, Chemical/Petrochemical/Utilities for Allied Universal.