Safety culture: A plant operator's perspective

This paper deals with the experience of conducting a Safety Culture Audit following the ASCOT Guidelines in a major operating department of the Sellafield Site, where irradiated fuel is received and stored. It also covers the process of implementing changes to strengthen the Safety Culture. The main conclusion of the paper is that the prevailing culture of a department/plant must be recognized and taken account of in preparing for and performing a Safety Culture Audit and again in the implementation of measures to strengthen the Safety Culture. Also, if any success is to be had in strengthening Safety Culture, all personnel must be involved in the process, which requires efficient communication and feedback of results and consultation on the way forward. (author). 3 refs