Understanding Safety Cultures: Designing Effective Systems Globally

When it comes to safety, perceptions can often vary from one country to another. However, it's crucial to recognize that, fundamentally, people everywhere share a universal desire for stability, security, and success in life. The challenge lies in how different countries manifest their safety cultures, particularly when resources and tools for protection may differ significantly. Designing a robust Safety Management System (SMS) requires an understanding of these cultural nuances.

In my experience working internationally, I've encountered considerable challenges in crafting safety systems tailored to local contexts. For instance, while collaborating with a client in the Middle East, I established an international board that included safety experts from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. While their insights were invaluable, it became clear that incorporating local expertise was essential. Experts from Egypt and Saudi Arabia provided critical perspectives that challenged our assumptions, ensuring our SMS was culturally relevant and sustainable.

The development of an effective SMS should not be viewed as an overly bureaucratic task. In fact, most accidents can often be traced back to inadequacies in the safety management systems in place. By focusing on the major elements of a strong SMS and implementing practical steps, organizations can create a system that not only meets global standards but also resonates with local practices.

To maximize the effectiveness of your SMS, it's vital to invest time in understanding the local culture before you begin designing or implementing systems. Early visits to the region can facilitate meaningful relationships with locals, providing insights that are crucial for success. Moreover, a thorough understanding of the local context can ultimately save both time and resources.

Respect and empathy are key components of successful safety system implementation. Regardless of your expertise or the standards you aim to set, it's important to remember that people everywhere share similar aspirations. Engaging with locals and seeking their advice on how to adapt your SMS to fit their environment is not only respectful but can also lead to a more effective system. By valuing the perspectives of those who will be impacted, organizations can create safety systems that are truly world-class while being grounded in local realities.