Which characteristic is NOT part of a good process safety culture?

A good process safety culture is built on open communication and a collaborative environment, which fosters safety across all levels of an organization. Establishing a questioning and learning environment encourages employees to voice concerns and ask for clarification, which is critical in identifying potential hazards and improving safety practices. This culture promotes proactive safety measures rather than reactive fixes.

Empowering individuals to fulfill safety responsibilities is also essential; it ensures that everyone feels accountable and has the authority to act on safety issues. When individuals at all levels are encouraged to take responsibility for safety, it enhances the overall safety performance of the organization.

Deferring to expertise is another fundamental aspect of a strong safety culture. Recognizing and respecting the knowledge and experience of those with specialized skills, or firsthand experience in certain processes, supports informed decision-making and helps to mitigate risks effectively.

However, limiting communication to a top-down approach is contrary to a healthy process safety culture. Effective safety performance relies on transparent communication channels where feedback is encouraged from all employees, rather than just directives from upper management. This inclusivity leads to a more informed and engaged workforce, capable of identifying potential safety issues and contributing to safety initiatives.