Understanding Safety Culture Across Borders

When it comes to safety, perceptions can vary widely between different countries. However, it is essential to recognize that, at the core, people everywhere share fundamental desires: a stable life, the well-being of their families, and opportunities for success. What differs significantly among nations is the availability of resources and tools necessary to protect lives, property, and the environment effectively.

One crucial aspect of establishing a robust Safety Management System (SMS) is understanding the local culture where it will be implemented. For example, in my experiences working internationally, I found that integrating local perspectives is paramount. During a project in the Middle East, I established an international board that included experts from Western countries alongside professionals from the region. This approach provided a valuable balance of insights and helped challenge preconceived notions, resulting in a more culturally appropriate and effective safety system.

Accidents often arise from poorly designed SMS frameworks, but it doesn't have to be a daunting task to develop an effective one. Key elements of a successful SMS can be identified and adapted to fit the specific needs of an organization or community. The implementation of these systems should be tailored to ensure they resonate with the cultural context, which ultimately fosters better compliance and safety outcomes.

Practical steps toward designing an effective SMS begin with a deep understanding of the local culture. Taking the time to visit a location and engage with the community can yield significant benefits. Early visits allow stakeholders to build rapport and gather insights that inform system design and implementation. It is critical to approach these interactions with respect and humility, recognizing that local insights are invaluable in shaping a system that works.

Moreover, engaging with local experts and asking detailed questions about the SMS's potential impact can lead to more sustainable practices. By doing so, organizations can avoid imposing an outsider’s perspective and instead create solutions that are respectful and cognizant of local values and practices. The goal should always be to create a safety culture that is not only world-class but also adaptable to the unique challenges of the local environment.