Role of Leading Indicators in Prevention of Major Accidents: CSB Learnings From BP Texas City and Deepwater Horizon

In July 2012 the Chemical Safety Board (CSB) held a two-day forum to discuss the use of process safety indicators both on and offshore. The CSB examined progress on previous recommendations related to process safety indicators as well as conclusions in our Deepwater Horizon investigation.  Representatives from various high-hazard industries, the workforce, and national and international regulators spoke on how indicators shape safety performance in their company, industry or nation. From its investigative work and the forum discussions, the CSB has identified some common pitfalls of indicators programs as well as some “indicators” of a program’s success.  This paper will discuss those key aspects and explore the role of  leading indicators for prevention of major accidents.