Safety management systems (SMS) are vital in ensuring safe operations and compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. The Permit to Work (PTW) system is an essential part of a SMS for high-risk work onboard vessels. While there are constant efforts to improve safety, human actions still account for two-thirds of ship incidents*. ‍Despite continued investments in training and the introduction of tighter regulations, these instances still occur, raising doubts over the effectiveness of current safety practices. ‍Read this white paper from SOL-X to discover more about current industry trends and the key benefits of having a digital permit to work system, including increasing crew productivity, enhanced compliance and safety and contributions to sustainability.

The Occupational Health & Safety New Product of the Year Award honours the outstanding product development achievements of health and safety manufacturers whose products are considered particularly noteworthy in their ability to improve workplace safety. SOL-X Connected Worker Health and Safety Solution has won the Fall Prevention and Noise & Vibration Monitoring category. One of the most common causes of fatalities and injuries at sites is fall accidents. The wearable-based fall detection solution assists in detecting falls in near real-time and from height when it occurs and minimises fatalities. The Fall Detection feature of the SOL-X Smartwatch helps in detecting falls from a height at a worksite and requests help with the Crew Assist function. During the event of a fall, the SmartWatch alerts the worker by displaying the name and location of the worker to the Supervisor and assures the individual worker that help is on the way. Moreover, acute and chronic hearing loss, Tinnitus and work-related stress are a few of the adverse effects of exposure to high levels of noise. Understanding this, Magellan X has come up with a unique noise monitoring feature in SOL-X SmartWatch. The feature helps in detecting high ambient noise in a working environment and triggers an alert. The winners of the awards will be recognised with an award ceremony and published in the November and December issues of Occupational Health & Safety magazine, as well as appearing on the industry leading ohsonline.com website.

Magellan X partnered with Da-Qiao Enterprise, an industrial construction services provider, in implementing SOL-X, our Connected Worker Health & Safety Solution at a construction site. This Partnership helped SOL-X Solution to expand its reach and resources to deliver even more comprehensive and effective solutions. Learn how this collaboration contributed in creating safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious work environment in a construction site. Download the Case Study Learn More Watch the video Watch now! Our Partner Da-Qiao Enterprise

The Client is a subsidiary of an energy and petrochemical company. It provides ship management, technology services and shipping oil and natural gas and is well known to be a leader in health, safety, security, environment, and social performance (HSSE & SP) that commits to conducting an environmental, social and health impact assessment for every major project. Find out how they improved crew wellbeing, Human Reliability, and safety outcome onboard with SOL-X Connected Worker Health & Safety solution. Download to know more. Download Now

Construction workers often involve in hazardous activities which could lead to various incidents and accidents. Implementing a reliable worker safety solution at a construction site could be challenging owing to various factors like environmental conditions and outdoor working situations. The construction industry demands a digital safety solution that caters to specific needs and safeguards workers. Magellan X partnered with Da-Qiao Enterprise, an industrial construction services provider, in implementing SOL-X, our Connected Worker Health & Safety Solution at a construction site. Da-Qiao Enterprise is a renowned industrial construction services provider with expertise in handling small renovations to multi-billion-dollar ventures in various heavy industries. By partnering with Da-Qiao Enterprise, we hope to contribute to creating safer, more efficient, and more sustainable work environments. Know more about SOL-X for Construction Worker Safety

The client is a global integrated business enterprise with a diverse group of companies engaging in a wide spectrum of business activities across virtually every industry. This case study applies to a subsidiary of a leading shipping multinational company which operates mainly in ship management. Find out how they improved operational performance and workforce enablement using SOL-X Connected Safety Solution. Download Now

"You have the required Safety and Sustainability Strategy in place. That is the WHY. It is thus vital that we redirect attention to achieve the Generative Culture in Safety to accelerate Core Values and Sustainability results within the organisation – which will bring us to the WHAT and HOW.” Captain Daniel Alcantara In recent times, there has been an increase in worker health and safety awareness across industries. Many employees have lost their lives due to worksite incidents and occupational illnesses. These fatalities and serious injuries are devastating and can have a long-term effect on employees, their families, and colleagues. Therefore, it is the responsibility of everyone in an organisation to understand the potential factors associated with worksite accidents and take preventive measures. The Global Sustainability Standards Board (GSSB) issued guidelines since 2018 to develop sustainability journeys and reporting for health and safety. GSSB is the independent standard-setting body of GRI and has developed best practices in occupational health and safety management and reporting. Despite these efforts, there is a very little change over the past decade. Worksite incidents and injuries continue to plague several sectors, resulting in a huge loss of resources. While Mining, Chemicals, Maritime are the few sectors which are prone to such worksite accidents, the Oil and Gas industry, a vital part of the world economy, is one of the most affected sectors among all. A report by The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP) revealed that workplace injuries were about 10% higher in 2021 as compared to 2020. The prospering industry is not immune to serious injuries or fatalities. Cause of accident reoccurrence No matter how safe a worksite is, accidents are inevitable. Unforeseen events and incidents can lead to an injury or casualty. Despite their efforts, companies have not been able to improve safety records involving its employees and contractors. In fact, worksite incidents have been on the rise for the past decade and their effects may be devastating and result in huge human and economic costs. Human reliability is one of the primary factors of workplace safety. In general, human reliability means successful performance within specific timeframes and environmental conditions. Lack of Human Reliability information on process efficacy and work environment increases the likelihood of accident’s reoccurring. Experts believe that by improving general awareness and understanding of the risks involved in human reliability, the rate of accidents can be brought down significantly. This can be achieved by leveraging IIoT analytics to better inform the design of employee safety awareness programmes and conducting targeted, proactive training sessions. Most companies are unable to uncover underlying cause of the accidents and tend to concentrate on direct causes. The main reason for accident recurrence is insufficient real time information towards underlying causes and pre-conditions. It is crucial to obtain real time human reliability data in order to assess the cause of an incident; and subsequently execute preventative measures effectively. Leveraging IIoT and AI technology to improve visibility and situational awareness for workers involved in hazardous operations can help to improve accidents and incidents and reduce overall frequency. Through data and analytics, leading indicators can help management and HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environment) teams identify early trends and take proactive action, resulting in positive behaviour change. Unpredictable and unsafe behaviour The unsafe behaviour of the workers is one of the underlying causes of worksite accidents. Employees tend to neglect safety protocols by taking shortcuts. Also, it is common for employees to not be always conscious of their surroundings. Such unsafe behaviour and hazardous working environment can exist concurrently and cause serious accidents. Early detection of unsafe behaviour is important to execute interventions and targeted trainings. Technology plays a crucial role in detecting unsafe behaviour of workers at hazardous locations. Therefore, it is imperative that the management has safety solutions backed by digital frameworks in the worksite to minimise accidents. Transforming safety with the digital framework using wearable technology With Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and software, companies can improve workers’ situational awareness. Wearable technologies help in optimising worker data and improving the work environment and processes. Utilising wearable technology as a tool to curb worksite accidents is becoming popular and is adopted by various industries to create a safer work environment. They can minimise such accidents at the worksite by helping the organisation with real-time alerts during an incident. Some wearables not only prevent accidents but also assist employees in their day-to-day work. Today, wearables like smartwatches have the capability to detect anomalies and prevent accidents. Through wearables, organisations can track lone worker in remote or dangerous locations. Benefits of the Safety SmartWatch in the Oil and Gas Industry Location Tracking The Oil and Gas industry involves specialised equipment and employees working at oil rigs and plants. Processes like the extraction of natural gas from ocean beds involve hundreds of labourers and engineers. Tracking workers who are spread across the site on the ocean bed is a tedious task that calls for digital solutions to connect workers and their supervisors. Location tracking technology in smartwatches enables supervisors to track employees’ location in real time at a worksite, no matter how remote it is or how hazardous the working conditions are. A human movement overview on the dashboard and the ability to pinpoint the indicative location of worker during an emergency will accelerate rescue operations and provide swift medical aid. Virtual Geofencing It is impossible for management to monitor individual employee’s situational awareness with the current manual tools available and furthermore the topic of Situational Awareness has generally been misperceived as the injured person’s shortcomings (for not being situationally aware of the tasks they have been engaged on). So, with virtual geofencing technology, smartwatches can detect and alert the worker when approaching a hazardous area. Over and beyond notifying the worker of direct hazards, technology can provide the supervisors with additional insights to evaluate sufficient manpower on site, workers work and rest hours, heat exposures etc. We strongly believe Situational Awareness can be accelerated when human reliability insights become more visible or prominent. Workforce Optimisation Unsafe acts are difficult to predict at a worksite. It is natural for workers who are on 9 to 12-hour shifts on rigs to get tired or stressed. This increases the tendency for such workers to get injured due to fatigue and poor concentration. Also, the monotonous nature of certain jobs may result in such workers ignoring safety protocols or behaving recklessly, causing harm to themselves and others. As such, it is important to recognise and correct such behaviours to prevent serious accidents. Smartwatches can assist in delivering insights into worker behaviour and providing the basis for guided intervention. With these insights, supervisors can make the necessary tweaks to the deployment of their workers to achieve both safety and resource optimisation. Vitals Monitoring It is common for oil and gas industry workers to lack real-time situational awareness on hazardous worksites. Workers are unaware of pre-conditioned environmental risk exposures, and they may not receive contextual alerts that inform them of surrounding risk. External environmental factors and harsh working conditions may result in adverse physical and psychological effects. Guided Intervention It is natural for the workers who are on 9-to-12-hour shifts on rigs to get tired and stressed. They tend to get injured due to fatigue and poor concentration. Also, the monotonous nature of the job makes workers ignore safety protocols and behave recklessly, causing harm to themselves and others. Unsafe acts are difficult to predict at a worksite. However, it is imperative to recognise and correct such behaviours to prevent serious accidents. Leveraging on IIoT with a digital safety framework can deliver workers behavioural insights and provide guided intervention. Social Commitments in Workers Health and Safety - Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Expectations for organisational social commitments have started to shift to focus on outcomes and not just inputs or investments. Increasingly, safety and wellbeing are becoming more important for in an organisation’s sustainability agenda. Wearables is a game-changing technology when it comes to worker safety. Equipping employees with such cutting-edge solutions can assist companies in fulfilling their Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) obligations in safety, through enhancing working conditions for the employees and reducing the occurrence of accidents and injuries. Apart from ESG considerations, the quantum of accident claims, insurance premiums and regulatory fines for workplace injuries have increased over the years. Organisations that invest in safety technologies may well end up experiencing overall cost savings with reduced accident rates and associated costs. For organisations looking to enhance the safety and well-being of their employees, safety wearables could be the perfect tool.

It is no secret that the Heavy Industries, Oil and Gas, Mining, Construction and Maritime industries are potentially the most hazardous sectors worldwide. The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers’ annual safety report shows a startling rise in fatalities in 2021 and an overall total recordable injury rate of 0.77. This is 10% higher than in 2020. The combination of powerful machinery, combustible substances, and high-pressure procedures can result in dangerous and even fatal situations. That is why organisations need to have the best industrial safety solutions in place and enable every worker to practise the recommended safety controls on their worksites. As technological advances continue to shape the industrial sector, more companies recognise the need for better safety systems and are transitioning towards modern safety solutions. SOL-X is at the forefront of this movement by pioneering innovative IIoT technology designed for hazardous worksites – allowing businesses worldwide to boost their operational excellence while simultaneously ensuring worker health and security. The Importance of Industrial Safety Solutions Industrial safety is the term used to describe safety management procedures in the industrial sector. An industrial safety solution prevents potential mishaps on the worksite and helps to detect dangerous situations in a hazardous environment. Certain factors can increase the chance of a worksite accident if an organisation has yet to employ industrial safety solutions. For instance, extreme noise or heat can cause workers to feel unwell and make mistakes. Other hazards include injuries due to over-exertion or malfunctioning equipment. An industrial safety solution is therefore a vital system to keep people, industrial equipment, and the environment safe. How Oil and Gas and Maritime Companies Benefit from SOL-X Industrial Safety Solutions SOL-X industrial safety solutions can benefit Oil and Gas, and Maritime companies through its innovative technologies. Their integrated Control Of Work software ensures on-site compliance, and their Crew Protect system and SmartWatch tap on IIoT and AI technology to improve workers’ visibility and situational awareness. These solutions provide companies with advanced worksite management, increasing productivity and overall well-being. Here are how these solutions can further help businesses in hazardous industries. 01.Increases Productivity Productivity is a result of safety. Workers can devote more time to their work output when they are not concerned about the safety and security of their workplace. Through the SOL-X Control Of Work system, organisations can enhance operational productivity levels with alert notifications and real-time monitoring. For example, their smart worksite-connected platform and live dashboard provide a holistic overview of cumulative risk and high-risk work activities. This enables near real-time operational monitoring, allowing for faster response if safety is compromised. By standardising best practices using SOL-X innovative technology, it can also improve fleetwide operational excellence, helping businesses save approximately 4,600+* man hours per vessel annually. *Number is approximate and may differ depending on customer’s current practices. Based on data collected from customer usage of SOL-X. 02.Saves Costs Direct and indirect costs from accidents, such as hospitalisation and treatment costs, can be avoided and with insurance claims. All these are prevented with proper safety and control systems. There are also hidden costs, such as slower production rates by other employees, downtime from the employee involved in the accident, and labour costs associated with cleaning. These can add up and should not be ignored by the organisation. Organisations can reduce such costs by detecting potential pitfalls early using wearable technology to send crucial information and reminders about the working environment. For instance, the SOL-X SmartWatch tracks workers’ active heart rates. Companies can use such data to determine which employees require more assistance. These can improve well-being reporting and reduce accident rates, which can lead to higher costs if left unchecked. 03.Ensures Legal Compliance Safety regulations have been created emphasising occupational health and safety. Breaking these rules can result in severe fines. Companies can utilise the SOL-X Control Of Work system to avoid paying hefty fines to ensure legal compliance. This innovative technology facilitates Permits to Work using Smart Forms. The system also aligns with global standards used to protect human rights, working conditions, employee welfare, pay and compensation, and labour laws. Such critical steps help to enhance compliance assurance. 04.Improves Workplace Relations A work environment that is safe and free from any accident promotes positive employee attitudes towards the company. SOL-X Crew Protect system provides the infrastructure for better workplace relations. One example is how workers receive GeoFence notifications on the SOL-X SmartWatch. These are contextual alerts which inform workers of surrounding risks in the work environment. The wearable also has active sensors to capture worker insights and leading indicators. Companies can use such data to craft corporate wellness programs, health, and safety plans. These features also empower employees to take ownership of their well-being. The Real-World Impact of SOL-X’s Technology Global companies like Shell and Eaglestar have started to guard against different industrial safety hazards with SOL-X Industrial Safety Solutions. Eaglestar, headquartered in Malaysia, has deployed the SOL-X solutions for crew management across its fleet of over 67 vessels. Global energy company Shell has also partnered with SOL-X in a successful trial of a breakthrough safety solution on an LNG tanker. The aim was to further enhance crew safety management practices. The ship’s staff were enthusiastic about the system’s functionality to meet their specific needs. Some highlighted system features include virtual barrier management and the ability to account for crew faster before the revlease of CO2 and during emergency drill mustering. Promoting Global Worksite Safety with SOL-X One catastrophic mistake can stop Heavy Industries, Oil and Gas, Mining, and Maritime operations. That is why our team of seasoned technologists, maritime, and safety experts continue to research and develop innovative SOL-X IIoT technology to improve operational excellence, promote a safety culture, and reduce potential risks on worksites. With efficient industrial safety solutions, organisations can now engage in new and elevated standards of safety to promote a better workplace for industrial workers across the world.

How many times have you narrowly avoided slipping on a wet floor?At the worksite, this is referred to as a near miss. In simple terms, a near miss is an unexpected event that did not cause any harm, injury, or damage but had the potential to.The concept of near misses gained traction in the 20th Century because of the Accident Triangle, a theory proposed by Herbert W. Heinrich and later expanded on by the research of Frank E. Bird, who studied a total of 1.7 million accident reports from 297 companies. This extensive research revealed that for every 600 near misses, there is an estimation of 30 minor injuries, 10 severe injuries, and 1 fatality.This finding revolutionised how companies viewed worksite safety. The idea that reducing near misses could potentially lead to a fall in the number of serious accidents encouraged organisations to build more reliable reporting systems to record and address near miss incidents.As part of those efforts, the SOL-X IIoT industrial safety solution strives to create safer worksites by ensuring that workers, particularly those in the oil and gas and maritime industries, have access to better systems to report and prevent near misses. By reducing the potential for injuries or fatalities wherever possible, our solution stands at the forefront of protection for hazardous worksites.What Should We Pay Attention to Near Misses?Near misses are unintentional or unexpected incidents that could have caused minor or severe injuries, or even death, but were narrowly avoided. A near miss could occur due to human error or inadequate safety systems or procedures. Near misses should not be confused with an incident or hazard. A hazard is any potential for harm to a person, equipment, or property, and an incident occurs when there is an unplanned event that results in injury, damage, or death. On the other hand, a near miss describes an unplanned event that had the potential to cause injury, illness or damage but did not do so.Although near misses are not positive experiences, they are important learning opportunities. Hearing about your co-worker’s experience can provide insight that makes you even more aware of your surroundings. Additionally, reporting them can potentially lead to improvements in safety procedures.However, America’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that half of the serious workplace injuries are still unreported. Additionally, for 62% of worksite incidents, OSHA responded by “asking employers to conduct their own incident investigations and propose remedies to prevent future injuries.”With workers choosing not to report even severe injuries, the likelihood of them reporting a near miss is even lower. Furthermore, relevant authorities might not step in to inspect worksite incidents. These factors make it even more important for employers to find better solutions to identify near misses and eliminate risks.How SOL-X IIoT Solutions Actively Prevent Near Misses01. Increases Worksite VisibilityThe SOL-X Control Of Work system improves workflow management with a smart worksite-connected platform with live dashboards that allow for worksite visibility for workers and supervisors.With a digitalised Control Of Work, users can track high-risk activities alongside peripheral information (including workers, location, and time) which offers an added layer of security of who, what, where and when knowledge, giving managers access to behaviour-based safety information.Additionally, with the benefit of gaining situation awareness through the SOL-X Control Of Work system, superiors can take immediate corrective action when reviewing the present situation or upcoming trends.Using near real-time monitoring of operations and having a holistic overview of the worksite to increase situational awareness not only prevents near misses, but may also motivate the worker to feel more accountable and engaged throughout the process.02.Analyses Workers’ Well BeingBy conducting regular reports of workers’ well-being, your organisation can uncover high-risk activities and health data that were previously unknown.Using the well-being data, companies can implement targeted control measures, such as training and equipping specific workers for heat stress management and hearing conservation. They can easily identify high hazard zones that require infrastructural improvements and improve the efficacy of worker well-being programmes using near real-time feedback.To gather such data, the SOL-X Crew Protect leverages digital technologies, such as AI, big data, cloud computing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in day-to-day hazardous work operations. These technologies will deliver actionable insights to the organisation on how to improve the situational awareness of workers.As part of the Crew Protect system, the SOL-X SmartWatch provides workers with important information and data regarding their working conditions, such as risk exposure times and other potential work-related dangers.The features on the SmartWatch include timely reminders to stay hydrated when in high-risk environments so that workers can better manage heat stress symptoms. On top of that, it detects heart rate trends which gives insights into where physically demanding activities are being performed and who is performing them.The wearable also tracks Work Rest Hours which provides rich analytics about rest periods for better workload management. All this information can help to better monitor workers’ health and prevent near misses.03.Improves ComplianceFor any high-risk work in hazardous environments, on-site checklists and cumbersome paperwork are part and parcel of the job. The hassle of taking these steps onsite may at times disincentivise workers from following safety processes. Workers may end up taking shortcuts to complete tasks which increases the risk of non-compliance and near misses.But with digital IIoT solutions, like the SOL-X Control Of Work system, workers no longer have to rely on inefficient manual and paper-based systems. These digital solutions are fully integrated, easy to use, and encourage workers to follow the correct procedures.In addition, with end-to-end mobile systems that provide near real-time line of sight into ongoing safety operations, the SOL-X Control Of Work system further assures workers and onshore teams that safety processes are being followed throughout the worksite.These digitalised systems and visibility of ongoing safety operations encourage positive worker behaviour change, improve procedural compliance for high-hazard work, and can ultimately reduce the instances of near misses.Prevent Near Miss Incidents with SOL-X solutionsWhen human lives are at stake, companies have a responsibility to their workers to implement comprehensive safety protocols. With the latest IIoT technology by SOL-X, companies can establish a proactive safety culture and empower workers with solutions that ensure no near miss goes unnoticed or uncorrected, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of their workers.

According to the International Labour Organisation, approximately 2.3 million workers die from work-related incidents yearly –this shocking statistic corresponds to over 6000 deaths every day. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if proper measures were in place. Yet there are still companies that lack the necessary visibility into worksite operations for effective risk management. Today, the modern solution is to employ cloud connected wearable technology. These devices share real time data insights so workers can quickly assess and respond to hazards and accidents. To meet the rising need for advanced safety technology, Magellan X developed the SOL-X SmartWatch, a wearable IIoT device that helps to send emergency alerts, manage workloads, and track health and environment data. In furtherance of its commitment to advancing the state of the art in personal safety technology, Magellan X recently introduced 3 all-new features to enhance the already robust capabilities of the SOL-X SmartWatch: Fall Detection, Noise Monitoring and Alerts, and Broadcast Message. 01. Fall Detection Falls from heights are one of the most common work-related accidents in industrial worksites. These types of accidents are not merely the results of slips or missteps. Site design and conditions, such as lack of physical barriers, fall protection systems, or proper maintenance of the working space, are key factors in determining the probability of such falls. When a fall from height incident occurs, the severity of the consequences of the fall will be dependent on the response time and quality of response. In order to create an effective fall detection feature, Magellan X first identified these 3 pain points when it comes to detecting falls: a. Speed of Response A swift and effective response can mitigate the harm inflicted by falls. However, various circumstances may prevent a fall victim from receiving help in a timely manner. Workers may not be aware of the dangers a fellow colleague is in, and an isolated victim may be unable to call for help independently due to the injuries sustained. Workers who witnessed the fall may be in shock, resulting in a delayed or inadequate response. b. Issues With Reporting Critical information must be relayed in a timely and accurate manner. However, there can often be obstacles to communication. For instance, the lack of first-hand knowledge can lead to a misinterpretation of the severity of events. Workers may also be reluctant to report a fall if it was due to human error/incorrect behaviour. c. Deliberate Falls A worker may intentionally drop from a height to reach their destination faster. Such events are more likely if worksite configuration and layout make taking the designated pathways inconvenient. Of course, a worker should not disregard their safety for the sake of efficiency. However, they may miscalculate the fall risk factor due to human error. What is in This Feature The SOL-X SmartWatch’s new fall detection feature was developed to address these 3 pain points. If a fall is detected by the SmartWatch’s accelerometer, the device automatically sends an alert to the Dashboard with the worker’s identity and last known location. This information will enable a more efficient and precise response from a site manager to address the situation, potentially reducing the severity of the harm inflicted. 02. Noise Monitoring and Alerts Singapore’s WSH Council reports noise to be a common occupational health hazard. Excessive or prolonged exposure to noise can cause acoustic trauma or hearing loss. It may also interfere with workers’ speech communication and their perception of warning signs. All of these can lead to disrupted job performance. Equipment, machinery, and processes in industrial worksites often generate high noise levels. Most companies in hazardous industries establish a Hearing Conservation Programme to prevent noise-induced deafness (NID), which usually involves a professional noise survey performed by a specialist. However, establishing such a programme and performing a noise survey report are typically labourious and time-consuming. Noise surveys are performed infrequently, often with lapses of a year or even years between each. Furthermore, they only take certain personnel into consideration and thus do not mitigate the risk for all workers. What is in This Feature In contrast to the Hearing Conservation Programme, the SOL-X SmartWatch’s new noise monitoring and alert feature provides continuous data points and more immediate and relevant feedback to counter noise-related issues. The SmartWatch provides noise level readings in near real time so users can take the necessary safety precautions. If a user is exposed to harmful noise levels, the SmartWatch alerts them so that they can respond to this potential hazard accordingly. Noise levels are measured 4 times per hour for each user. This data is then displaced on the SOL-X analytics platform and compared across different work groups at various locations within the worksite. When surfaced to HSSE and operations teams, these insights can be used to evaluate operations policies and tweak training programmes in a more focused manner. The collected data also helps to identify specific groups at higher risk of developing NID and identify areas of improvement to better ensure compliance with safety precautions on the worksite. 03. Broadcast Alerts Timely communication is critical to ensure the safety and effectiveness of operations. Suppose a hazardous gas leak is discovered somewhere on the worksite. Such critical information will need to be rapidly disseminated to all at-risk personnel to prevent or limit exposure to the toxic gases. This will also allow first responders spread across the site to quickly provide the necessary mitigation measure to the situation. Digital or analogue walkie-talkies are commonly used to relay information within industrial worksites. However, this form of communication has various limitations, which may result in the recipient not receiving the message in its entirety or at all. Transmission of the information on the ground may also result in broken messages that fail to convey the original intent and purpose. What is in This Feature The new message broadcast feature allows for the dissemination of information regardless of each worker’s location within a worksite. As such, supervisors and first responders can quickly implement and enforce the necessary measures to contain the situation. It also provides added assurance that workers on the ground will receive timely and accurate updates. Supervisors in control rooms can send precise text messages to specific SmartWatch users via the Dashboard to improve situational awareness or to perform a specific task. In the case of an emergency, this will allow for a faster and more targeted safety response. Through the SmartWatch, worksites will be able to provide periodical reminders on operations and health and safety matters. Sending these reminders will help SmartWatch users keep pertinent safety information fresh in their minds and to comply with the latest Standard Operating Procedures and health and safety requirements. Enhance Worksite Safety With The SOL-X SmartWatch When placed in a hazardous and unpredictable environment, effective communication and timely information can be vital to saving lives and preventing injuries. By increasing awareness of where workers are at all times and any hazards they may face, the SOL-X SmartWatch is a modern solution that can greatly transform the safety culture of worksites in hazardous industries.

Singapore - 27 March 2023. Magellan X announces that the SOL-X SmartWatch, an ATEX certified safety smartwatch, will have three new features. The new features – Broadcast Message, Noise Monitoring and Fall Detection – will amplify the benefits of SmartWatch in providing a safe and secure work environment. The Annex contains illustrations of the SOL-X SmartWatch’s new features. One of the world’s first intrinsically safe smartwatches, SOL-X takes industrial safety up a notch by providing a connected worker platform. The existing features of the product include heart rate and heat stress monitoring, GeoFencing, Crew Assist and more. This SOL-X solution is also compatible with major connectivity protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Long-Range Bluetooth. Download Press Release to know more.  

Occupational safety is a key concern in any line of work, but especially so in high-risk industries such as the energy sector. Oil and gas workers face a host of potential dangers in their work environment, like falling equipment and hazardous chemicals.With a higher possibility of being struck by hazards, workplace safety becomes all the more crucial — organisations should place the well-being of their workers at the heart of their culture and values.In an interview with McKinsey & Company, Bernadette Spinoy — then senior vice president of health, safety, and environment (HSE) from the major global oil and gas player Total—talks about how inculcating a collective mindset in which workers choose the right behaviour even when no one is watching can lead to a successful safety culture transformation.To encourage this collective behaviour, this article will cover 5 ways on how safety can be achieved in the oil and gas industry.Safety Hazards and Risks in Oil and Gas IndustryAccording to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), these are just a few of the many workplace hazards that can occur in the oil and gas extraction industry.1. FallsWorkers often must work from elevated platforms or equipment. This poses a risk of slips, trips, and falls that could cause serious bodily harm. Accessing these places via a ladder, would thus require more precautions to safely guide workers. Vigilance and proper safety training are essential.2. Confined SpacesWorkers often must work within confined spaces, where there is a higher risk of health hazards such as asphyxiation or exposure to toxic chemicals. The ignition of flammable vapours or gases is also a possibility, in the event of small or narrow areas which would position workers directly in the danger zone.3. Machine HazardsOil and gas extraction involves working with or around dangerous machinery. Workers could get struck by or caught between unguarded machines, which may result in cuts, burns, or other serious injuries. This is why routine checks and regular machine maintenance are important, as well as alertness to one’s surroundings in high-risk areas.4. Explosions & FiresThe ignition of flammable gases or vapours can also result in explosions or fires, which can wreak damage on a large scale in such a hazardous environment. Some causes include electrical energy sources, open flames, and frictional heat. High-pressure lines may also leak or burst if not properly maintained.5. Physical StrainOil and gas extraction is a physically demanding job that, even with the surplus of machines, often requires manual labour. Certain tasks, such as the lifting of heavy loads or equipment, can continuously exert a strain on workers’ bodies over time. Poor workplace ergonomics negatively affects safety in this area and can increase the risk of injury. Tips to Prevent and Reduce Hazards in Oil and Gas IndustryWhile safety risks cannot be completely eliminated, they can be significantly reduced through awareness of potential hazards and how they can be avoided. Use these 5 safety tips to help improve worksite safety.Tip #1 Establish Good Safety CultureWorkplace safety culture is a collective set of values and attitudes towards safety, which goes beyond the individual to the overall safety of the organisation. This sense of solidarity would encourage workers to obey rules and communicate hazards to keep themselves and their fellow workers safe.A good safety culture begins with strong leadership, as workers would feel more reassured knowing that their well-being is being cared for from the top down. Aside from having processes that are tailored to your company, it is important that these are clearly stated and reinforced in the worksiteNot only does this ensure that safety precautions are observed, it will also give workers added peace of mind knowing the processes are in place for their occupational safety. Furthermore, the mental health of workers will go a long way in keeping them vigilant and alert on the job.Tip #2 Learn to Embrace Automation & DigitalisationWhile there are manual steps that can be taken to ensure overall safety, such as installing safety signs or having highly visible floor marking, we live in an age where technology can provide useful tools for detecting and minimising hazards.SOL-X solutions provide valuable data and leading indicators through AI and IIoT. SOL-X is a management system focused on behavioural safety. By collating data on risk assessment and permits within the work environment, it provides real-time data to increase worker situational awareness, enhancing both safety and efficiency.Through smart wearables and AI technology, SOL-X solution addresses human factors — the most common cause of workplace accidents such as inaccurate fatigue management. By tracking conditions such as heat stress levels, heart rate trends, and work rest hours, it also helps workers monitor their symptoms to ensure that they are physically fit for the tasks at hand.Tip #3 Use the Process Safety ApproachThe International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) defines the Process Safety approach as the safe management of oil and gas operations and processes, with the aim of preventing hazardous emissions or structural failures that could lead to more severe consequences.While the traditional approach to accident prevention is based on trial and error, Process Safety attempts to identify trends and so more accurately predict events based on probability. The implementation of relevant safety precautions can thus protect workers from situations that can be easily avoided.According to the IOGP, there were 56 process safety events between 2007 and 2017 that led to 128 deaths. Combined with safety management systems like SOL-X and culture programmes, having process safety will greatly reduce the occurrence of oil and gas hazards.Tip #4 Communicate with Emergency Response OrganisationsAlthough prevention should always come first, unforeseen events may still occur from time to time. In such cases, a quick response could save a life. It is thus important for oil and gas companies to maintain good communication with their local emergency response community.This includes emergency responders and health professionals who will be able to take action and help minimise the consequences in the event of an accident. Developing a collaborative relationship with these organisations can also be beneficial to the workers by increasing awareness of emergency and safety equipment.Tip #5 Having Consistent Maintenance Activities & Safety ProgrammesAs with anything, consistency is key. Conducting regular maintenance checks and occupational safety training programmes can help to reinforce safety messages, especially for new workers entering a company. Since the job is highly focused on working with various equipment, routine maintenance is also mandatory to prevent premature machine failure.Risks and hazards can look different from day to day, especially if a project begins that requires working with new materials or equipment. By encouraging consistent training, this also ensures that workers are prepared for any situation that may come their way.Enhance Safety of Oil and Gas Workers with SOL-X SolutionsIn such a high-risk environment, the safety of oil and gas workers should never be left to chance. The safety solutions provided by SOL-X can not only reduce hazards in the worksite, but also enable quicker responses and boost overall productivity.Contact us to learn more about risk management and accident prevention today.

A recent study by Tracplus found that nearly 20% of lone workers working in remote areas have difficulty getting help after an accident. That is a shocking number of workers at risk of an injury since it’s entirely preventable.Imagine what would happen if 1 in 5 of your workers were suddenly unavailable for work? Your business would have a loss of productivity, a decrease in sales, low staff morale, and a loss of reputation. In the worst case, the closure of the business is also possible. With such high stakes at play, businesses need to prioritise their lone worker’s safety.So how can we reduce the risk of lone working? Read on to learn more about the pain points of lone workers and the best ways to ensure their safety.Common Injury Risks Faced by Lone WorkersFor lone workers, the risk of injury is much higher as there is no supervisor or team member to assist them when they are in danger.This makes it even more important to identify and thoroughly understand the hazards in detail so you can take the necessary precautions to mitigate risks and keep your lone workers as safe as possible.1. Slips, trips, or falls on the same levelSlips, trips, or falls are the most common type of accidents yet are often the simplest and most cost-effective to prevent. Multiple factors can cause these accidents. Some of it includes the workers’ footwear and environmental hazards such as bad weather conditions and low visibility due to fog.2. Handling, lifting, or carryingHandling, lifting, or carrying objects can lead to immediate or long-term musculoskeletal injuries. The risk of injury increases when workers bend, twist, have awkward postures or deal with heavy loads.3. Struck by a moving objectMoving objects include things such as knives or any objects falling from height. Injuries caused by moving objects can be fatal, especially for lone workers, since they cannot get help quickly.4. Acts of violenceActs of violence are “any occurrence in which a person is mistreated, intimidated, or attacked in the circumstances relevant to their employment”. Learn more about acts of violence and maritime crime here.5. Falling from a heightFalling overboard. A fall from a port or ship into the open ocean is a prevalent cause of maritime worker deaths. Even if workers are pulled from the water; hypothermia, hypoxia, and other near-drowning symptoms may occur. It’s much more dangerous for lone workers as they must account for their safety and can only rely on themselves should they fall overboard.Falls from platforms. Ship workers may fall from ropes and scaffolds while completing repairs, while harbour workers may trip when working equipment on storage facility roofs. A fall from many storeys can result in permanent brain damage, physical and mental problems, or spinal injuries resulting in partial or total paralysis.What is Lone Worker Protection?Lone worker protection means having proper policies, risk assessments, processes, and safeguards in place to ensure the safety and security of any lone workers.For many lone worker employers, this entails carefully considered risk assessments, a comprehensive lone worker policy, and investing in a lone worker safety solution that allows employees to call emergency services or others for help quickly.These safety solutions usually come with monitoring systems and location-tracking functions to help employers provide safety to all staff members in the work environment.Reasons Why You Need Lone Worker Safety Solutions 1. Government ComplianceEmploying a safety solution lowers liability, keeps track of employee actions, dangers, and incidents, and helps businesses comply with workplace health and safety regulations. For this reason, businesses have increasingly turned to smarter solutions to keep their workers safe and avoid legal troubles.2. Safety Practices and ProceduresEmploying an effective lone worker protection solution makes it simple for businesses to create and implement robust safety policies, protocols and procedures that can ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers.3. Ever-Changing Lone Worker HazardsThe nature of every lone working role is different. This means that every role has its fair share of hazards that could differ from other roles, which makes it necessary and important for employees to be trained in carrying out dynamic lone worker risk assessments.5 Ways to Reduce Risks of Lone working1. Use a Lone Worker Device with AlertsLone worker devices are applications that allow workers to communicate quickly with their employers and emergency services. In addition, they help reassure lone workers that they can get help if needed while they work without supervision.Specialist lone worker solutions like the SOL-X Control Of Work System enable real-time visibility of front-line operations from a live dashboard, displaying workers’ identities along with their live location and active tasks.The system alerts the supervisors through Crew Assist notifications when workers have difficulties performing their tasks or feel unwell.2. Use Wearables to Monitor WorkersSmart wearables are used for tracking information and are usually linked to a safety system that allows for real-time monitoring to ensure the safety of workers. The SOL-X Crew Protect System, which provides each individual with a SOL-X SmartWatch, is a superb system that accomplishes this.These smartwatches are equipped with modern hardware and extensive data processing software to generate physical activity profiles that provide users with helpful health and safety preventative information. At the same time, they provide their supervisors with real-time health and activity levels for monitoring.When workers need assistance, they can access a Crew Assist function on the SmartWatch that helps them contact their supervisor. The Crew Assist function automatically sends the worker’s location and task details which speeds up response time.3. Conduct Lone Worker Risk AssessmentsA lone worker risk assessment allows supervisors and workers to identify and address risks associated with a job role by considering the possible hazards and the environment the lone worker is working in.Organisations can create a lone worker risk assessment to use, and the assessment should contain and address the following:Hazards identified/presentWho and how a lone worker may be harmedProcedures in place to reduce risks and prevent harmFurther actions are required to reduce the riskIt is also useful to include the names and dates of when the risk assessment was carried out, along with any necessary details.4. Train Lone Workers and SupervisorsTraining is an essential part of any successful business or organisation.It increases workers’ confidence by allowing them to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle problems and get things done. Furthermore, it shows the workers that the business prioritises their safety.By training lone workers, supervisors ensure that they are aware of workplace hazards and how to carry out first aid for themselves or other workers in an emergency. Other core components of a training course for lone workers may include:Work behaviour and best practices to avoid dangerous situationsHow to use lone working monitoring systemsHow to use personal protective equipment5. Encourage Cooperation between Lone Workers and Managing StaffThe managing staff of a business with lone workers should always be aware of the activities, locations, and schedules of lone workers, especially if the company has not adopted a lone worker monitoring system.Without a lone worker monitoring system in place, a constant communication channel must be activated between lone workers and supervisors to ensure they are safe and can receive instructions from their supervisors when needed.Protect Lone Workers with SOL-XThe easiest and best way to monitor your lone workers in real-time is through IIoT technology from SOL-X for lone worker monitoring.Check out our Control of Work Systems and Crew Protect System at SOL-X today!

Have you ever nearly slipped on a wet floor but managed to catch yourself in time? In the work site, this is referred to as a near miss.In simple terms, a near miss is an unexpected event that did not cause any harm, injury, or damage but had the potential to.Accidentally tripping or slipping may not seem like the cause of a serious injury at first, but the Ministry of Labor’s Workplace Safety and Health Report states that slips, trips, and falls are one of the top three workplace significant injury causes, alongside machinery accidents and falls from heights.That’s why it is important to have a proper reporting system to record and address near-miss incidents and prevent workplace accidents.This article will cover everything you need to know about near misses, incidents, hazards, and how near misses can be reported and prevented.What is a Near Miss?A near miss is an unexpected or unintentional incident that could have caused harm, minor or severe injuries, or even death, but was narrowly avoided. A near miss could have been caused by human error or inadequate safety procedures or systems at a company.Differences between Near Miss, Incident, and HazardAn incident refers to any unplanned event resulting in injury, damage, or other types of loss.The key is that something has occurred and caused injury, illness, damage, or even death. “Accident” is another word commonly used to describe an incident resulting in severe consequences and may be used interchangeably with “Incident.”A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm to a person, equipment, or property.The difference between a hazard and a near miss is that a “hazard” describes the potential for something to occur, while a “near miss” indicates that something unplanned has happened but did not result in an injury/illness or damage but had the potential to do so.For example, a puddle on the floor from a spilled drink is a hazard since it could potentially cause harm. On the other hand, a worker experiences a near miss when he nearly slips but regains his balance and avoids getting injured.In summary:Incident — something has happened and resulted in injury, illness, damage, or death. (a worker trips on an unmarked step, falls, and hits his head).Hazard — something that could cause a dangerous event (an unmarked step).Near Miss — something has happened but did not result in any injury, illness, damage, or death (a worker trips on an unmarked step but regained his balance which did not result in injury).What are Examples of Near Misses?Some near-miss examples include:A crew member working without a safety helmet falls but is saved by a fellow employee nearby.A crew member is working to fix a ship’s hull on a platform when suddenly, the board breaks, but his life belt saves him.A site manager working with poor lighting almost falls over an undetected extension cord but avoids a fall by grabbing a nearby railing.A worker accidentally touched an exposed cable from high-voltage equipment but did not get electrocuted as it was already turned off.A person jumps out of the way to avoid a collision with a swinging suspended load.How to Report Near Misses (With Examples)Regardless of the industry or size of the business, near misses occur frequently. They may be viewed as warning signs of unidentified work site issues. Companies should track near misses to prevent accidents rather than waiting for one to happen.At its core, a near-miss report should lead to hazard resolutions and preventative action by allowing your management to review the situation and take proper action to prevent future accidents.A near-miss reporting system typically consists of 5 steps — Identify, Report, Investigate, Intervene, and Review.Identify: employees should be trained to recognise a near-miss event when it happens and understand the importance of near-miss reports in preventing workplace accidents.Report: To help employees, they should have a convenient and easy-to-understand system, along with near-miss reporting templates that allow them to fill in the near-miss details without too much additional work.Investigate: The company’s management should investigate every near-miss report to prevent near misses and future accidents.Intervene: After reviewing the near-miss incident, the company’s management should take the proper actions to prevent potential accidents.Review: At this stage, any similar near-miss incidents should be prevented, and the company’s management would review the safety practices or safety programme and adjust if necessary.Even if there isn’t an existing near miss reporting system in your work site, near misses can still be reported informally. Text messages to your employer are an example of an informal near-miss report.The National Safety Council can also provide solutions and assistance if the proper steps are unavailable to ensure work site safety.How can Near Misses be prevented?1. Keep an eye out for hazardsStaying alert for hazards while moving around the workplace is one way to prevent near misses. Near misses are accidents waiting to happen, and the more you take the initiative in recognising and reporting near misses, the less likely an accident will happen.2. Follow safety rulesSafety rules set in your work site are important because they are meant to protect employees. Following safety rules, such as wearing the required Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), dress code, and following proper work procedures, are all rules that should be always followed, even if you think that performing a task differently may save you time.When rules are followed, employees can work more efficiently and smoothly, knowing they won’t have any work site accidents. This creates a positive atmosphere, and everyone can be more comfortable at work.3. Use a Control Of Work systemThe SOL-X Control of Work system provides a smart worksite-connected platform with live dashboards that allow for real-time worksite visibility of front-line operations by presenting live worker locations, their identities, and the activities they are working on.This ensures near real-time monitoring of operations and a holistic overview of cumulative risk and high-risk activities happening in the work site.With situational awareness on the ground, superiors can take fast corrective action at any time when reviewing the present situation or upcoming trends.4. Use wearables and IIoT technologyThe SOL-X Crew Protect leverages IIoT and AI technology to increase visibility and situational awareness for workers.Through connected wearable features on the SOL-X SmartWatch, workers are given crucial information about their working conditions, hazard exposure periods, and other work-related hazards.In addition, real-time interventions like GeoFence notifications are delivered on their wearables when they get close to dangerous zones. Avoiding that location immediately lowers the likelihood of an incident and gives employees more control over how they carry out their preventive measures.Finally, the SmartWatch encourages positive behavior by sending notifications telling workers to drink water and take breaks as necessary when they are in a high temperature setting or heart rate.5. Regularly analyse dataRegularly analysing data via trend analysis reporting allows your organisation to uncover high-risk areas and activities that may be previously unknown. Using this data, mitigation and safety programmes can be revised to lower the risk of incidents.It is also equally important to ensure that all areas of the organisation are aware of the findings and analyses, and corrective procedures are in place to raise awareness of the recent risks that were found in the work site and new proper safety procedures.Prevent Near Miss Accidents with SOL-XNear-miss accidents can be tricky to catch, but with the latest IIoT technology by SOL-X, you can better prevent and protect your workers from near misses. Contact us to learn more about our safety solutions today.

Workers in the maritime and oil & gas sectors have had some of the riskiest jobs for centuries. The mortality rate of workers on offshore platforms is disturbingly high. Although it has declined greatly over recent decades, these jobs continue to remain amongst the most hazardous of occupations.While out at sea, even slippery, uneven, or cluttered vessel decks can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. Other common accidents include falling from elevated heights, exposure to harmful chemicals, fires and explosions, and more. As a result, workers can suffer devastating injuries, and even death.This is where workplace safety culture comes in.Creating a strong safety culture can protect and save many lives. By promoting a positive attitude toward safety, workers are more likely to follow the rules they know will keep them safe. Also, by encouraging employees to report hazards before they become injuries or even fatalities, you can avoid having any accidents occur in the first place.To build a workplace safety culture, this article will help you understand the components of a strong safety culture, and 5 tips to help create and maintain it.How do you define a good safety culture?A safety culture can be defined as an organisation’s shared values and beliefs that influence employee behavior. This includes people’s attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors about safety on a ship or in an oil and gas environment. It’s important because it can help prevent accidents from occurring—or at least mitigate their impact. A workplace with a positive safety culture will have procedures for ensuring adequate safety and preventing accidents and making sure that employees feel comfortable reporting problems or concerns.Why is it important?Here are three key reasons why a company’s safety culture is so important:1. It prevents injuries and accidents from occurringA successful safety culture helps create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting issues on the job, leading to more timely fixes and preventative action. It also allows employees to feel empowered to make decisions about their safety and that of their coworkers.2. An effective safety culture improves overall productivityA strong safety culture ensures that a high standard is routinely expected for all safety processes. Therefore, the company is always prepared to deal with safety performance audits, reducing the time taken to prepare for compliance checks.3. Better employee engagementWhen you have established an effective safety culture, employees will require less supervision to adopt safe working habits. In addition, over time, employees feel more committed to preventing safety hazards as they are well aware of their participation and role in the workplace.What are the 4 key components of a workplace safety culture?To create a workplace safety culture, these four key characteristics must be in place:1. Your leaders are committed and invested in successful safety cultureStrong safety culture starts at the top. Your senior leadership team must set the tone by prioritising safety, factor it into bottom-line goals, and ensure their commitment is visible. The company must be willing to invest resources such as time, money, training, and personnel to achieve safety outcomes.Senior management should also be actively involved in the safety programme activities alongside frontline employees. Leadership must be led by example, and all workers should have opportunities to be trained and certified. Here’s an example of how Total, a leading company in the oil and gas industry, set up a successful workplace safety culture by involving top management.2. Your employees feel safe to speak upAll employees must feel comfortable reporting unsafe conditions. In addition, they should feel accountable for their own and their coworkers’ safety. To do so, the environment must be safe enough for them to provide suggestions for improvement without fear. Therefore, an efficient and effective communication system must be in place to support the organisation’s safety culture.3. There are clear processes to identify & control hazardsA straightforward, proactive process to locate and repair workplace hazards is crucial to a safety culture. Start by performing a comprehensive safety assessment. Employees can also conduct a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) for individual tasks. This will help them perform JSA inspections routinely or whenever there is an equipment modification or procedure that could impact safety.4. State safety goals, purpose, policies & proceduresYour safety programme should have a purpose and goals suited to your workplace. Once those are in place, you can design policies and procedures that reflect your organisation’s particular needs. They must be plainly expressed, in clear terms, and reviewed as necessary.To ensure the safety culture is sustainable, everyone, from leadership to frontline workers, must remain informed. Ongoing education and training will also improve workplace safety. Even seasoned workers should undergo training, so they know how to make health and safety decisions, especially when new systems are introduced.What are examples of a good safety culture?So, you think your organisation’s safety training culture is insufficient, but you are unsure what makes a good safety culture. While there are many examples you can reference, here are three top signs that you are doing it right:1. All employees demonstrate a working knowledge of health and safety topicsIn great workplace safety cultures, all employees have a working knowledge of health and safety topics. In other words — they’re competent in safety practices. They are not afraid to report safety concerns and seek continuous improvement.2. No competing priorities – safety comes first every timeYour organisation chooses safety every time when it comes to productivity versus safety. In some organisations, risk assessments are neglected as the company tries to increase production. This leads to unnecessary workplace injuries. If your company chooses safety first, even when it costs money, you have a good safety culture.3. The organisation is willing to invest in health and safetySafety slogans are excellent, but developing a winning safety culture requires resources. Safety concerns and potential hazards need to be addressed. Investing in safety so that necessary action is taken creates a positive safety culture.5 Tips to Create and Maintain Safety Workplace CultureTip #1: Use a Control Of Work systemControl Of Work is a safety management system ensuring that hazardous job tasks, such as confined space entry or “hot work” like welding and brazing, do not happen unless and until the necessary authorities have reviewed and authorised them.A system such as SOL-X Control Of Work System helps maintain safe workplace culture as all workflow tasks are streamlined and integrated into one software. All hazardous tasks can be reviewed and monitored seamlessly, which improves efficiency.For example, our system has a fully integrated end-to-end mobile Permit To Work which is easy to use and encourages the workers to follow the correct procedures, increasing operational safety and compliance.It also provides greater assurance that Control Of Work processes are observed. This enables Behavior-Based Safety as managers can access peripheral information such as the workers’ location and activity time stamps. Increased situational awareness of the job also motivates the workers to feel more accountable and engaged.On top of that, SOL-X Control Of Work provides real-time data and continuously analyses high-risk operations through leading indicators and worker safety behavior. This further enhances visibility and promotes a safer workplace culture in dangerous work environments.Tip #2: Empower workers to participateEngaging every worker in enhancing workplace safety culture is essential because when you have a culture that makes employees feel valued, they are more likely to participate in creating and maintaining a safe environment.The SOL-X Crew Protect System helps maintain safe workplace culture while encouraging positive behavior change. Through our SmartWatch, workers can proactively manage their health and well-being. For instance, workers are also empowered to take ownership of their broader health and activity levels. Timely notifications are sent to workers, advising them to hydrate and rest when possible. If feeling unwell, the individual is advised further to seek proper medical advice.With the SmartWatch, when workers need assistance, they can also activate the Crew Assist function which alerts their supervisor and immediately provides the worker location and task details, speeding up response times.Workers can also track their activities with the daily step goals feature in the wearable. This promotes healthy living, and the data can be used to measure and track the efficacy of Corporate Wellness programmes. The SmartWatch also allows workers to record and track their Work Rest hours conveniently. By managing working hours and workloads more effectively, the SOL-X SmartWatch reduces the risks of worker fatigue.Tip #3: Enable employees’ access to critical informationFrontline workers face the most increased risk of injury at work. They spend much of their time on job sites outside the offices and rarely have computer access.Organisations can improve safety by investing resources so that employees have instant access to necessary documentation and safety materials. Supervisors and safety representatives also need a way to send instant safety updates and alerts. To communicate this information, front-line workers should have access to designated offices or be equipped with mobile technologies such as mobile phones and smart devices. That way, information can be easily made available to them.Tip #4: Appoint and support safety supervisorsSome organisations may benefit from appointing a health and safety representative because employees hesitate to voice their safety concerns with their direct supervisors. Doing so will empower employees to confidently discuss their safety concerns with representatives who can act as a trusted go-between for frontline employees and managers.However, it is still the employer’s responsibility to support safety supervisors, allowing them to stay closely connected with employees. Such an appointment can ensure frontline workers feel that they can reach out to someone to report safety hazards.Tip #5: Keep investing in safety training sessionsNot only does training hold workers accountable for their own safety, but it also gets employees together as a team to learn and practise new skills. Educational programmes are wonderful opportunities to foster a safety culture, whether conducted online or remotely. In addition, it gets participants out of a daily routine, and you can easily include lunch, guest speakers, or other exciting components that are related to your safety and wellness programme.And because training is conducted regularly, safety remains at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Moreover, your employees will look forward to gatherings where they can engage with coworkers around safety topics.Boost Your Workplace Safety Culture with SOL-XTo improve your company’s workplace safety culture, harness advanced IIoT technology from SOL-X. Our Control Of Work and Crew Protect systems can help you reduce safety incidents and promote safety in your workforce.Contact us to learn how you kickstart a safety culture in your workplace today.

It’s no secret that the maritime and oil & gas industries are potentially the most hazardous sectors worldwide.The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers’ annual safety report shows a startling rise in fatalities in 2021 and an overall total recordable injury rate (fatalities, lost workday cases, restricted workday cases, and medical treatment cases) of 0.77. This is 10% higher than in 2020.The combination of powerful machinery, combustible substances, and high-pressure procedures can result in dangerous and even fatal situations. That’s why organizations need to have the best industrial safety systems in place and enable every worker to understand the recommended safety controls and hazards on each work site before work begins.You can improve worker safety by being aware of industrial safety systems’ benefits, and the solutions companies can adopt.What Are Industrial Safety & Industrial Safety Systems?Industrial safety is the term used to describe safety management procedures in the industrial sector. These procedures safeguard the environment, industrial personnel, equipment, buildings, and structures.An industrial safety system is typically a safeguard that is essential in any dangerous plants, such as nuclear power plants and oil and gas processing facilities.They are employed to safeguard people, industrial equipment, and the environment if a process deviates from the acceptable control margins.Benefits of Industrial Safety SystemsIncreased ProductivityProductivity is a result of safety. Workers can devote more time to their work output when they are not concerned about the safety and security of their workplace.Costs SavingsDirect and indirect costs from accidents, such as hospitalization and treatment costs, can be avoided and prevented with proper safety and control systems.However, there are hidden costs such as slower production rates by other employees, downtime from the employee involved in the accident, equipment damage, and labor costs associated with cleaning. These can add up and should not be ignored by the organization.Moral ResponsibilityYou have a moral duty as an employer to protect your employees from harm, for the benefit of themselves, their families, and the long-term prosperity of your company.Furthermore, creating a safe working environment for workers affirms the basic morale of a workplace. After all, you depend on your employees to maintain your operations.Legal ComplianceSafety regulations have been created emphasizing occupational health and safety, and breaking these rules can result in severe fines.These include the global standards used to protect human rights, including working conditions, employee welfare, safe work practices, pay & compensation, and labor laws.Better Workplace RelationsA work environment that is safe and free from any accident promotes positive employee attitudes towards the company.In addition, if there are no significant industrial accidents within the organization, a pleasant working relationship can be attained over the long term and helps with employee retention. Types of Industrial Safety HazardsPhysicalNoise exposure can result in increased stress levels, decreased productivity, and, in extreme circumstances, irreversible ear damage. The sound levels do not only affect hearing; unprotected noise exposure can result in greater stress levels and decreased productivity. Workplace noise exposure is also related to cardiovascular health.Radiation can cause skin damage and, in high doses, cancer later in life. Therefore, accidental exposure to radioactive substances requires emergency actions to minimize damage from radiation.Extreme temperatures can disrupt the body’s thermoregulation systems and cause rashes, exhaustion, and heatstroke. Therefore, it is advised to allow workers time to acclimatize to high temperatures with plenty of breaks and access to cold water to keep them safe in the heat.ChemicalChemical risks are a result of exposure to dangerous substances. This includes anything that could transmit disease through contact or inhalation.ErgonomicThe human body needs frequent movement and exercise. Overusing a particular set of movements, mainly when done incorrectly or without support, can cause overuse injuries. Pain can result even from prolonged inappropriate standing or sitting.BiologicalBiological dangers are caused by living things, whether small, like viruses, or large, like animals. These ailments could spread among the workforce and be contagious.SafetySafety risks arise while an employee is at work. Safety risks include electrical shocks from malfunctioning equipment, slips and falls from heights, head injuries from flying debris, and cuts or worse from improper use of machinery.How to Protect Workers from Industrial Safety HazardsTypes of Industrial Safety SystemsFunctional Safety SystemA functional safety system is the most critical safety system. It involves electronic, programmable, and the system’s capacity to respond appropriately to an initial electrical signal.Electrical Safety SystemElectrical safety can be attained by designing and installing electrical equipment. For instance, designing equipment so users won’t come into contact with electrically conductive components.Process Control SystemProcess control systems are employed to monitor and manage the production environment electronically. Process control systems can detect gases or liquids present in the environment.Process Safety SystemProcess safety systems manage the robustness of processes and operating systems that handle hazardous substances. It mainly prevents and handles events that have the potential to release hazardous substances and energy.Process Shutdown SystemProcess shutdown systems help to rapidly detect and safely handle process upsets. It can shutdown parts or whole processes where necessary.Safety Shutdown SystemSafety shutdown systems aid in the creation of a safe workplace by automatically shutting down and stopping any systems that are deemed unsafe.Emergency Shutdown SystemEmergency shutdown systems are higher-grade protection intended to safeguard personnel and equipment while minimizing any adverse effects of process activities on the environment.Fire and Gas SystemFire and gas systems are an incredibly sensitive and sophisticated mitigation safety layer that can identify danger early and broadcast visual and auditory warnings to warn others.Intrinsic Safety SystemThe intrinsic safety system is a technical principle that eliminates the risk of explosion or fire from electrical equipment and electronic instrumentation. Galvanic isolation or Zener barriers at the level of the power circuitry give this safety.Latest Industrial Safety Systems with IIoT TechnologySOL-X Control Of Work systemControl Of Work is a system of safety management that serves as a gate for your worksite, ensuring that dangerous job tasks, including restricted space access or “hot work” like welding and brazing, won’t happen unless and until you’ve evaluated and authorized them.Streamlined Step by Step Safety workflowsSOL-X Control Of Work streamlines step-by-step smart safety processes to enhance Control Of Work planning and execution and compliance assurance. For example, when preparing a permit at key stages, the worker needs to input location and time stamp verification such as Electrical Isolation Certificate (EIC) and sign-offs. This ensures compliance safeguards.AccountabilityThe workers are empowered to take ownership, and accountability is assured for tasks performed.Near real-time operational monitoringThe smart worksite-connected platform using a live dashboard enables near real-time operational monitoring and provides a holistic overview of cumulative risk and high-risk work activities.Alert NotificationsAlerts Responsible Authority with Crew Assist notifications if workers encounter difficulties performing their tasks or feel unwell. This results in improved response, better worker communications, and turnaround time on critical tasks.SOL-X Crew Protect systemCrew Protect uses IIoT and AI technology to enhance workers’ visibility and situational awareness during risky tasks. Integrated wellness features and fatigue management also ensure that employees stay in good physical condition.Communicate Crucial InformationWearables can detect important information about the working circumstances, risk exposure times, and other job-related dangers experienced by workers in confined spaces, other workplaces, etc.Empower WorkersWorkers are empowered to perform their own preventive actions in time when they are approaching hazardous zones, and they receive GeoFence alerts on their wearables.Reinforces Positive BehaviorPositive behavior is encouraged by sending reminders to notify workers to hydrate and take short breaks when exposed to stressful heat environments.Capturing Worker FeedbackActive sensors on the wearable enable the capture of workers’ insights and leading indicators that bring about the efficacy of corporate wellness programs and health and safety plans. This information empowers workers with near real-time data to manage immediate risks, such as important health signs, notifications, and recommendations.Explore Our IIoT SolutionsOne catastrophic mistake can stop maritime and oil & gas operations. Guard against different industrial safety hazards with SOL-X Control Of Work and Crew Protect now.To learn more about our solutions, look at our Control Of Work and Crew Protect systems and how they can solve your problems.

In the world of work, problems that occur due to human factors are common. After all, we are not robots, and we can make judgment errors when making a decision. Human limitations mean that such errors are more common than you might think. However, while they are natural, it’s a problem when the number becomes so high that accidents keep happening in the workplace.In fact, according to SOL-X, 66% of all incidents and casualties are caused by human factors. That’s why understanding human factors is so important for employers. Improving overall system performance is about managing such errors, especially in hazardous industries where a risk of human error can lead to severe consequences.The good news is that human factors can be managed with the right technology, which is key for hazardous industries. When you have suitable technology in place, you can protect your workers’ health and safety. Let’s assess examples of human factors in safety and solutions that work.What are Human Factors?Simply put, human factors are conditions that affect an employee’s interaction with their workplace, equipment, work procedures, or even their team. These conditions might arise from physical, psychological, or social reasons, but ultimately, they affect employees’ human abilities to perform their work safely.What are Examples of Human Factors?From the above definition, it’s clear that people, management, and workplaces contribute to human factors. Let’s take a look at specific examples of these factors:People: Your employee’s knowledge, abilities and limitations, and expectations will affect how they interact with others around them. Their individual differences such as their age and culture, also matter. If employees are stressed or distracted, these are predictors that safety performance might be affected.Management: The overarching organizational factors, such as management systems, also play an essential role. Managerial policies and decisions about the job design as well as how the information is communicated to the employee, will also impact human factors. This means that safety professionals must consider things such as work schedule, workload, task design, and requirements, besides written and spoken communications to convey instructions and data to employees.Work environments: Finally, work environments also affect safety in the workplace. The facilities, workstation configuration and accessibility, as well as workplace controls, warning systems, and other physical aspects that affect human well-being such as noise, temperature, and heat exposure all matter. Human factors specialists must consider workplace and employment design together while assessing the work environment.How Do Human Factors Affect Workplace Safety?The maritime and oil & gas industries are high-risk environments. The workers who operate in this field are exposed to various hazards, from extreme temperatures to the possibility of explosions. As such, companies in this field must have rigorous safety procedures in place to account for human factors.Human factors affect workplace safety because it leads to severe external consequences.Human factors are one of the most significant factors affecting workplace safety in this industry. The critical word to recognize in “human factors” is “human”. Humans make mistakes. Unfortunately, the price of human error is quite high. In October 2020, for example, an admin error by the Public Health of England caused nearly 16,000 COVID-19 cases to go unreported. In healthcare safety, it is estimated that the global cost of medication error is US$42 billion annually. The fact is that everyone is human, and those human mistakes come with major costs in safety.In the maritime industry, human factors cause severe casualties, leading to collisions, stranded ships, and even fire. Research shows that 80 per cent of maritime casualties are caused by human factors which lead to collisions, and collisions account for 85 per cent of maritime casualties. The collision among ships may cause damage to not only ships but also cargo.According to researchers (Mengwei, 2020), some human factors include fatigue which cause many driving accidents, the breakdown of machines, lack of professional knowledge, and negligence of potential risks. All these lead to an unavoidable collision.While it is difficult to establish a correlation as to which human factors lead to what type of consequences, suffice to say that such collisions have brought about disastrous consequences on the environment as well as negative effects on quality of life. In 1990, the Changjiang 0802 fleet collided with the Chongqing fleet, capsizing other ships and leaking concentrated sulfuric acid into the Yangtze River.In 2018, the oil tanker Sanchi caused significant impacts on the environment. The tanker carried about 1 million barrels of condensate, and a collision spread the fuel into the East China Sea. This is a catastrophe for the marine environment.Human factors impact safety since employees use experience rather than logic to judge the jobAnother reason why human factors can be challenging to minimize is that risky behaviors are sometimes driven by experience.Experience can prevent significant accidents because this process occurs intuitively and automatically and does not involve analytical, data-driven risk assessments. Each time the benefit is realized without a negative consequence, the behavior becomes automatic. But injuries can also occur when experience becomes a habit, influencing behavior. The act of doing in the workplace becomes careless when people think that the job is safe.Indeed, a study found that injuries were 88 per cent more likely to occur in a perceived safe job than those considered the most dangerous. Secondly, when people make repeated choices that reward their risky behaviors, they tend to underestimate the actual risks. Finally, the study concludes that we tend to rely on intuitive responses to make decisions and act upon them between logic and intuition. This partially explains why just telling someone that a job is risky may have little influence on someone’s behavior.Human factors impact safety due to complex environments with little informationHuman factors also result from employees’ lack of awareness of what is happening in complex and dynamic operating environments. Safety systems and risk models often do not describe safety risks or environmental change.An explosion at a Torrance, California, refinery in 2015 illustrates this problem. As the workers focused on completing the refinery shutdown, they became unaware of the changing environment around them. As a result, they neglected the importance of the critical safety barriers around them.Many companies might also not understand all the hazards they have and the conditions of their safeguards to prevent an incident—especially company operations associated with infrequent modes of operations, like startups and shutdowns. When accidents happen, the impact goes beyond assessing safety performance. ARC Advisory Group estimates that the unplanned downtime on process industry revenue and profitability costs companies $1 trillion yearly.How to Reduce Risks from Human Factors?Adopting a system and technology approach is the way to reduce risks from human factors. This means understanding the strengths and limitations of humans. It also means studying the interaction of people with equipment, technology, systems, workplace, environment, etc. Lastly, safety professionals must evaluate and design better technology, systems, workplace, and environment.Here are some solutions that can help you in a technology approach:Utilizing a Control Of Work SystemA Control Of Work is a Safety Management System that ensures that hazardous job tasks, such as confined space entry or “hot work” like welding and brazing, do not occur unless and until they have been reviewed and authorized.SOL-X’s Control Of Work can manage human factors by streamlining step-by-step smart safety workflows to improve compliance assurance, planning, and execution.For example, when a worker is preparing a permit at crucial stages, he must enter location and time stamp verification like sign-offs in the system. The roles and approval controls are customized to various authority levels for specific workflows, using unique worker identification. It also allows for surveying real-time operations from the live dashboard. This provides a complete overview of cumulative risk and high-risk work activities. Crew Protection SystemA crew protection system helps companies to manage risk and enhance current safety systems by addressing low situational awareness, incomplete workers’ health and wellbeing data, and environmental exposure risk.SOL-X’s Crew Protect can lower risks by providing crucial information on the working conditions, hazard exposure periods, ill health, and other work-related hazards faced by workers when detected by our SmartWatch. It also sends out Crew Assist alerts from their wearables when workers encounter difficulties performing their tasks or feel unwell, therefore alerting Responsible Authority.Furthermore, it reinforces positive behavior by sending out GeoFence alerts on their wearables so workers will avoid hazardous zones.Solutions to Manage Human FactorsHuman factors can add significant time pressures to your workflow when not managed well. To find out more about how human factors can impact your workplace safety, read our whitepaper to find out more.If you want to know how to better enhance your existing systems, see our SOL-X Behavior Based management systems and how our smart wearables work together to create a safe working environment.

What is IIoT?With the ever-growing number of smart devices, the Internet of Things (IoT) is more relevant than ever. Defined as a network of physical objects that contain embedded technology, IoT helps people and businesses communicate and collect real-time data so they can get actionable insights into the world around them.Similar to the concept of IoT, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is the technology that connects machines, devices, sensors, and other equipment in industrial sectors with IT applications or cloud services. This allows businesses to collect and analyze data from IIoT-enabled products and services while they are being used in order to improve efficiency, uptime, and productivity levels over time. Find out how these technologies can improve industrial automation for smart factories in our modern age.IoT vs IIoT: How Are They DifferentThe Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are both exciting technologies that have the potential to transform industrial automation in many ways.The main differences between IIoT and IoT include:Scale: IoT is an ecosystem that connects machines and devices over a network. It can be an interconnected system of consumer wearables that are used to monitor a small number of devices. In comparison, IIoT is the process of using data from connected devices to improve the efficiency, quality, and cost of an industrial business. Therefore, it is usually designed to manage large amounts of information.Focus: IIoT focuses on streamlining business operations, while the IoT focuses on creating new applications and services that improve consumer lives. Many IoT devices are designed to be used by consumers in their everyday lives, while most IIoT devices are designed to help businesses run more efficiently.Systems: The IoT relies on cloud computing, while the IIoT does not need cloud computing because it uses local servers instead of remote servers. Additionally, IIoT platform is more secure than the IoT because it uses more established hardware and software platforms that have been tested thoroughly to prevent hackers from breaking into systems.5 Examples & Applications of IIoTWhile they may differ slightly in industrial application, most industries with challenging environments (such as shipping, oil and gas, energy, chemical industries etc.) will benefit from an IIoT platform. Here are five applications:Application 1 – Manage Human ErrorHuman factors are the physical, psychological, and social characteristics that affect human intersection with equipment, systems, processes, other individuals, and work teams(s). Human error is when a person makes a mistake due to human factors, which can lead to issues in time, cost, and quality. We all make mistakes. It’s in our nature. But when you are talking about the workplace, human error can cause major issues.With the introduction of IIoT applications, human factors are better managed. These applications allow for better coordination of staff, which significantly reduces errors made in the workplace.Smart machines help us manage human error by automating some of the processes that could lead to human error.For example, a logistics company may require an employee to manually input inventory data into Excel spreadsheets every day. That can lead to mistakes that are hard to track down later on. But now that you have implemented an IIoT application for your warehouse management system, the computer can automatically input data, and you can get alerts from the application if something goes wrong and fix it quickly.Of course, the type of IIoT technology you employ in your workplace depends on your industry.For instance, let’s assume your goal is to reduce human errors in the maritime industry and improve worker safety. Smart devices can be very handy in this case. For instance, a smartwatch can allow every crew member stationed in different areas to quickly alert the entire team of any work-related incidents that may occur while on the job.This is especially so for ship workers. Take, for instance, the Pump Room on a ship. Using an IIoT device with remote access allows key personnel to monitor if a team member is in the Pump Room. Likewise, crew members in the pump room can alert others if something’s amiss. The SOL-X Atex certified SmartWatch is a mobile device that allows one to do that. This device also informs the crew about restricted work zones. Such timely reminders will improve your worker safety, as they receive notifications and gain awareness about these hazardous areas.According to the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), 66% of incidents and casualties are caused by “human factors”. Therefore, you should implement IIoT technology like the SOL-X SmartWatch so that you can employ remote monitoring of your crew, issue timely reminders, and minimize workplace casualties.Application 2 – Manage CostsEmployees are a company’s greatest asset, and keeping them safe is a priority for any business. But workplace accidents can be costly—in terms of money spent on repairs and equipment, as well as time spent on recovering from injuries, filing claims, and hiring new employees.And that’s not even the worst part: if an accident is severe enough to cause permanent disability, it can have devastating effects on a company’s reputation.If you’re in the construction, manufacturing, or maritime industries, you know that workplace accidents can cost your company money in lost time and productivity, as well as medical expenses and insurance fees.In today’s world of interconnected machines and systems, it has never been easier to improve industrial protocols. IIoT allows companies to monitor their frontline operations and equipment from an off-site location, so they can identify potential problems before they happen and respond quickly when problems do occur. This means fewer injuries for your employees (and less time spent treating those injuries).It also means fewer delays on projects because you don’t have to wait for someone to notice something is wrong before getting it fixed—you can fix it yourself!Apart from the above features, wearable IIoT technology is now advanced enough to provide managers with updated information on workers’ wellness.For instance, SOL-X’s Crew Protect is a holistic solution using smart devices that can track and monitor workers’ workload, heat stress levels, and heart rate monitoring. Workers can also tap on a ‘Crew Assist’ button to seek help quickly.Particularly for workers on a ship who are exposed to high heat, the SmartWatch allows safety engineers to monitor workers’ heat exposure. Plus, reminders are automatically sent to prompt employees to rest when the heat gets to a dangerous level.This data allows your company to effectively plan corporate wellness programs so that your workers feel valued and safe. When workers are not fatigued, they can also perform at their peak capacity. Overall, it can drastically improve a work site’s productivity and operational efficiency.Application 3 – Gather Deeper Data InsightsWe are entering a new era of data analytics, where the traditional silos of business data are being replaced by real-time and relevant insights.Companies are now able to collate and tap meaningful and real-time data on worker performance—something that is made possible with IIoT technology. This can cover the entire worksite, giving us a much deeper understanding of the challenges their staff faces. It also allows them to react flexibly, carrying out predictive maintenance to reduce workplace danger.With digitalized improvements led by industry leader SOL-X, AI models are constructed to collect data and provide enhanced insights. Such information helps companies identify key factors and leading indicators in achieving operational excellence. Through this data, companies can carry out pre-emptive measures and make continual improvements to work processes.For instance, the SOL-X SmartWatch tracks work rest data, so safety engineers can evaluate their team’s workload and take the right steps to manage their fatigue levels.Overall, with modern IIoT solutions such as SOL-X’s Control Of Work and Crew Protect system, you gain peace of mind. Especially so for companies in hazardous industries, you need the data to streamline operations and manage key safety compliance factors so as to achieve maximum operational excellence.Application 4 – Near Real-time Remote MonitoringFor the shipping industry, incidents related to cargo loading occur for many reasons, as detailed by several case studies. Often, it is a lack of remote monitoring that leads to such accidents. It could be a worker entering an enclosed area that has been marked off limits. Or perhaps the wrong or outdated platform or ladders are used.These incidents often occur because there isn’t timely information that keeps everyone working aligned. Imagine a world where you can see what’s happening on your vessel in real-time. You can see where your crew members are, and what they’re doing. You can make sure that everyone is working safely and responsibly.Even at the blind spots for crane or forklift operators, you can monitor the work going on and quickly update workers on safety reminders. That’s the level of security IIoT technologies such as SOL-X’s Control Of Work can offer you.Workplace incidents can happen due to many reasons. While human factors, as mentioned above, can be a contributory cause, other factors such as the layout of the work area or equipment failure can cause an issue.For instance, poor ventilation or lighting in the area needs to be highlighted to the workers immediately so that nobody goes there while it is under maintenance.Using the live dashboard in SOL-X, your superiors can obtain a wide-angle view of all ongoing operations in real time. They are able to see what each worker is doing and whether they are at the right place. With SOL-X, you can reduce safety risks and improve workflow management.Application 5 – Increase Worker ProductivityIIoT technology is rapidly changing the way businesses operate by automating manual and repetitive tasks.With industrial automation, you can reduce paperwork, which means less time spent on tedious tasks and more time spent working with your team to improve processes and increase performance.For instance, SOL-X’s solutions allow for enhanced digital document management. There is no need to print, scan, and manually update documents with the all-in-one dashboard that archives all relevant data.Besides, it’s an integrated turn-key system with wireless communication, so you don’t have to worry about not being able to communicate essential data while onboard a ship. An additional plus is that all this information is archived, and you can easily retrieve it for company audits.In fact, getting permits signed is much easier with SOL-X. The system automatically routes a permit to work (a necessary permit in hazardous industries to formally authorize work done on-site) to the ship master for approval.That reduces the time spent for the second officer to look for the ship master, freeing them to concentrate on other tasks. Ultimately, less paperwork also means more time for workers to focus on what matters on the job site.Explore SOL-X IIoT SolutionsIn high-hazard environments such as the maritime industry, one fatal error can cause work to suspend. Don’t risk your employee’s safety and the company’s reputation. Instead, harness advanced IIoT technologies to improve risk management in your company.With the expertise of our internal safety experts, SOL-X solutions are designed to meet the unique requirements of high-hazard environments. Our expert team can also configure and customize systems suited for your workplace environments when required. Contact us for a free demo to find out how to optimize your workplace safety and efficiency today.

What is Behavior Based Safety?Behavior Based Safety (BBS) is a proactive method of implementing safety programs. By analyzing the risk factors that are created due to employee behavior, it aims to minimize safety hazards and reduce unsafe behaviors by analyzing the risk factors created by employee behavior. BBS studies how factors such as work procedures, measures, training, or equipment design, influence a person to perform the task safely.The objective behind BBS is to create an organizational culture where data-supported interventions are used to assess and improve the safety measures put into place continually.How Does Behavior Based Safety Work?Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) is a management approach that uses data, analysis, and learning to improve safety performance. It is based on the idea that safety is a behavior, not a condition. Through training, coaching, and feedback, BBS focuses on increasing employees’ awareness of safety behaviors.The goal of BBS is to reduce unsafe behaviors performed by employees. To do this, you must first identify the unsafe acts that are taking place in your organization. Then you can take steps to change unsafe behavior and prevent them from happening again.To identify the unsafe acts, the methodology relies on third-person observation data. As employees continue to work, an observer stays as a passive participant. This observer can be a human participant or a system that collects data.The tasks can include safety-related tasks such as a discussion on permit applications or workplace safety reviews using a checklist. When the job is completed, or at suitable points, the observer will share observations made, without judgment. This data triggers a discussion about why certain safety practices are carried out. In that way, the feedback loop creates a reflective safety culture.Why is Behavior Based Safety Important?One of the main benefits of BBS is that it puts more emphasis on prevention rather than just corrective actions after an injury has occurred. This means that employers can identify potential hazards before they become serious injuries or illnesses.With the observation data, the discussion can center on the effectiveness of the current safety program. It can also highlight safe and unsafe behaviors as well as conditions that the employees face, which might be overlooked by management.Overall, it creates a safety culture where workers feel empowered to report danger zones. It also increases the engagement between leadership and frontline workers, reducing human errors. In that way, the company can avoid severe consequences before accidents happen.Is Behavior Based Safety needed based on Singapore Laws (OSHD)?While there is no legal requirement in Singapore to implement BBS, the method improves worksite safety. The Workplace and Health Council, the statuary board under the Ministry of Manpower that regulates workplace safety in Singapore, also highly recommends BBS as a way to perform site inspections.What are the Principles of Behavior Based Safety?Here are five principles you should use to guideline your BBS program:First, recognize that historical assessments of previous injuries and accidents provide data-driven results. Start by identifying problematic behaviors that are unsafe or risky. Then, determine the root causes of the behaviors.Pay attention to small careless behaviors that result in significant accidents and injuries.Manage these risky and unsafe behaviors by developing critical behavior checklists to document examples of target behaviorsMaintain a safety culture. Design intervention programs to improve/avert unsafe or risky behavior. Such interventions can include training workers to lead as safety monitors.Fully engage all employees in the importance of behavioral safety. Encourage active observation and reporting to boost employee engagement and compliance.How to Promote Behavior Based Safety?1. Develop Safety Culture:Strong safety culture is supported by senior leadership, has clear policies and procedures, and encourages employees to speak up if they see something that could be unsafe.Safety culture is important to BBS for two reasons: employee morale and employee engagement. When people feel safe at work, they’re more likely to engage with their jobs and take pride in their workmanship. In addition to this, having a strong safety culture can help you avoid accidents on the job. This increases overall productivity in the organization.The SOL-X Control of Work process designed by SOL-X is a way that organizations can implement behavior-based safe work practices. The integrated technology ensures workers follow the safety procedures at the right place and time while carrying out their assigned scope of work. Such transparency also helps workers to feel in control over their work environment, motivating them to be more productive.2. Observe BehaviorsReal-time monitoring is beneficial for BBS because it allows organizations to identify gaps in safety processes. As mentioned, one of the fundamental principles of BBS is to pay attention to careless behaviors that result in accidents.When we use real-time monitoring, we can see where our safety processes are breaking down and identify where we need to make changes. This allows us to improve our work systems and ensure that operations are carried out safely.Using SOL-X’s safety solutions, your organization can observe risky behaviors in real-time. The live dashboard allows near real-time visibility of all operations. For example, crew managers can see a live update of their team’s location and tasks. Should any team member feel unwell, notifications will also alert relevant officers to take action.3. Get Real-Time FeedbackOne of the important aspects of BBS is real-time feedback. Real-time feedback refers to providing feedback to workers promptly so they can make adjustments as soon as possible.The intervention allows workers to be accountable for their actions in the present moment and encourages a sense of responsibility among members of the team. In addition, such feedback makes them more likely to take ownership of their actions.SOL-X’s advanced technological solutions, such as smart wearables for workers, will facilitate the provision of such real-time feedback. Workers are notified immediately if the system senses any possible danger. For example, if the place is too hot, the SOL-X SmartWatch can sense heat exposure and remind the worker to rest and hydrate. Workers can also alert their officers in charge via notifications from their smart wearables if they realize they cannot carry out their tasks safely. This reinforces positive safety behaviors, which is a cornerstone of BBS.4. Analyze Quality DataBBS safety processes are successful because they are based on direct observations of front-line workers doing their jobs. Unfortunately, the organization cannot see what people are thinking or understand their beliefs and attitudes. This qualitative data is undoubtedly necessary, but measuring them without exerting time and resources is impossible. On the other hand, it’s easy to observe what people do. The actions they take to ensure they are not injured and the actions they take that may put them at risk for injury are data that a company can collect.Once the unsafe behaviors are identified, you can create targeted solutions to remove them. Again, using data means no need for speculation since the process generates evidence we can see and measure.You can rely on SOL-X’s products to obtain such real-time data to collect important information. For example, its integrated SOL-X collects timely data on worksite safety. The SmartWatch also collects near real-time data on workers’ safety and well-being. Both data collection points from the work environment and workers’ health conditions support safety managers in crafting a comprehensive safety program.5. Use a Behavior Based Safety ChecklistA behavior based safety checklist is a direct-observation instrument that is used to record safe behavior and recognize the reason behind an unsafe act.A BBS checklist is important and valuable because it helps the observer to identify the areas of concern. The observer can then provide timely feedback to prompt a discussion from the checklist. The checklist also helps ensure that employees follow the correct procedures when performing their work, creating a behavior based safety system.Even a simple checklist like this example can also help encourage a workplace culture that promotes safety since it ensures everyone is on the same page.6. Reinforce Positive BehaviorsUltimately, BBS is not a framework for negative criticism. Instead, it aims to provide a feedback loop where safe behaviors are recognized. At the same time, unsafe behaviors are discussed so workers can reflect and adjust their processes. As part of a safety culture, monitoring, managing, and giving positive feedback to reinforce safe behavior is essential.SOL-X solutions use ready-made analytics that helps to create positive behavioral feedback loops. This technology is aided by AI and is built by an experienced safety personnel team that is well-informed about workplace safety. This professional solution means SOL-X can gather real-time ground data for actionable insights. These insights allow the company to identify positive behaviors, share best practices, and find leading indicators for continuous improvement.Behavior Based Safety SolutionsFor more information on how SOL-X can support BBS methods, read our white paper to learn more. You can read more here if you’re interested in how our innovative products can facilitate and support BBS observation cycles.

SOL-X, a leading Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) safety management technology company, is pleased to announce the evaluation of SOL-X by Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (Shell), a leading global energy shipping company where safety and social responsibility are fundamental to their business operations. Global energy leader Shell has partnered with SOL-X to trial the breakthrough safety solution – SOL-X on an LNG tanker to further enhance crew safety management practice. As part of its ongoing focus on health and safety, Shell has been increasing its use of technology to prevent accidents and reduce people’s exposure to potential incidents. Common industry high risk incidents relating to working in and around high hazard environments such as enclosed spaces, hot work areas, mooring areas, and health related issues such as heat stress exposure, coronary stress and work rest hours are some of the areas that SOL-X is addressing in a holistic approach to crew safety and wellbeing. SOL-X developed as a turnkey solution which connects the crew via the intrinsically safe wearable technology (SOL-X SmartWatch) which enhances operational visibility, Control of Work management and improves overall crew situational awareness of their personal wellbeing and safety in the line of fire. SOL-X is a game changing safety 4.0 platform that improves human reliability, operational excellence, and safety outcomes. Our solution SOL-X Control of Work helps customers automate workflows, improve productivity and operational excellence. It also provides assurance of safety and compliance by promoting positive crew behavior change. During the trial, the system was enthusiastically adopted by the ship’s staff who were able to tailor the functionality to meet their specific needs. Some of its highlighted features include virtual barrier management and the ability to account for crew faster before the release of CO2 and during emergency drill mustering. “We are excited to be collaborating with Shell in deploying preventive technology to improve human performance and evolution of shipboard safety culture. At SOL-X, we understand that safety is the top priority for any ship operator and focusing on the human factors will reduce crew risk exposure and improve crew productivity. Ultimately, it will save operational cost in the long run and differentiate sustainable ship operators from their peers,” said Paul Keng Teoh, Vice President of Growth. About SOL-X SOL-X is a leading IIoT safety technology company centered on human factors. Combining deep maritime knowledge with Internet of Things capabilities and predictive Artificial Intelligence, our focus is on improving safety and compliance outcomes, increasing operational productivity, and enhancing crew wellbeing. SOL-X is an industry leading Behavioral Based Safety solution that combines an enhanced Control of Work with a holistic approach to Crew Wellbeing in improving worker health and safety culture. For more information, please visit https://sol-x.co ‍ ‍Media Contacts Magellan X Pte. Ltd. Alister Leong | Gladys Ng Chief Product Officer | Associate Director, Marketing & Comms. +65 9627 2765 | +65 9145 7766

The fatal danger associated with enclosed spaces is a major safety concern for hazardous industries such as shipping, oil and gas, chemicals etc. These industries are struggling to eliminate incidents despite the various new regulations introduced and control measures in place. Based on the USA market, from 2011 to 2018, 1,030 workers died from occupational injuries involving a confined space. The annual figures range from a low of 88 in 2012 to a high of 166 in 2017. This data is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI). From this, we can estimate the number of deaths resulting from occupational injuries would be even more on a global scale.What are some of the regulations at a glance?The Singapore Ministry of Manpower has created the Worksite Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009, and this has come into operation on 1 November 2009. This includes training of workers and supervisors, implementation, and evaluation of confined space entry permit etc.With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, the US Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards. Many of OSHA standards require employers to provide personal protective equipment, ensure that workers safely enter confined spaces, and provide training for certain dangerous jobs.The International Safety Management (ISM) Code requires companies to ensure that proper risk assessment and procedures are in place to prevent such incidents.UK’s Maritime and Coastguard agency released MGN 659 (M+F) 2022, a regulation governing the entry in enclosed spaces.Please download the whitepaper to find out more.

Understanding Human Factors, Behavioral Based Safety (BBS) and SOL-X’s Holistic Approach According to the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) 2019 report on “Annual overview of marine casualties and incidents 2019”, 2 out of 3 of all incidents between 2011 to 2018 were contributed by human factors. The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) also issued a briefing paper in October 2020 on “The OCIMF Human Factors Approach – A framework to materially reduce marine risk”. It aims to improve safety and environmental protection in the maritime industry by considering human factors when providing guidance and recommendation. BBS is the leading framework for operationalizing human factors. It is intended to address the effects of a given procedure, work method, selected control measures, trainings, machinery/equipment design, environmental conditions (human factors) etc. on how it influences a person to perform the task safely. SOL-X by SOL-X helps to facilitate and enable BBS cycles where BBS processes are digitalized and automated in near real time. ‍Read this white paper from SOL-X to find out how our SOL-X empowers the organization to take the necessary steps in improving the safety conditions and practices across all levels via metrics that are being measured and accessible in real time. Please download the whitepaper to find out more.

Find out how a leading ship manager with a global footprint and workforce size of more than 5,000 seafaring professionals, used SOL-X to increase crew productivity and compliance, freeing up more than 4,000 manhours per vessel per year. Leading ship manager selected our solution, an industry leading Behavior Based Safety system that combines enhanced Control Of Work with a holistic approach to Crew Wellbeing – improving worker health and safety culture. Download to know more. Download Now

We are proud to be featured in The Smart Maritime Network News under “Software, AI and Big Data”.‍Eaglestar to deploy crew management software from SOL-X.‍Shipmanagement company Eaglestar, headquartered in Malaysia, has agreed a deal with Singapore-based SOL-X to deploy the SOL-X system for crew management across its fleet.‍Read more to find out further details.

We are excited that SOL-X has been featured in The Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide under “International Shipping News”. ‍SOL-X selected by Eaglestar as maritime shifts towards safety solutions centered around human factors. ‍ Read more

Singapore – 6 April 2021. SOL-X is pleased to announce that its product SOL-X has been selected by Eaglestar to extend the human factors approach to safety and operational excellence. ‍SOL-X provides assurance of safety and compliance by promoting positive crew behaviour change. The system’s near real-time safety operations monitoring capabilities, integrated permits to work management and crew wellbeing solution provides a more holistic approach to improving safety outcomes and “human reliability”. In addition, the standardisation of best practices can increase operational excellence fleetwide, saving approximately 4,600+* man hours per vessel annually. “We are pleased to be given the opportunity to partner with Eaglestar to meet the maritime industry’s ever-increasing demands for operational excellence, crew wellbeing, safety and compliance assurance. Today, 2 out of every 3 incidents and accidents in the maritime industry can be attributed to human factors. A paradigm shift is required to materially improve health and safety outcomes.” “At SOL-X, we are pioneering Behavioural Based Safety 4.0. Our approach to enhancing the control of work with near real-time line-of-sight, improving crew situational awareness and wellbeing is unique to the market. As a result, our customers have experienced increased crew productivity, improved safety culture, and business competitiveness.” said Nigel Koh, SOL-X Chief Executive Officer. Managing Director and CEO of Eaglestar, Captain Raja Sager said, “We are proud to deploy SOL-X across our managed fleet of over 67 vessels. Technology combined with the right expertise in the industry of ship management is pivotal in marking a new benchmark especially in the way we advance ourselves digitally. We are also confident that SOL-X can further heighten crew operational excellence with an integrated solution centred around human factors.” *Number is approximate and may differ depending on customer’s current practices. Based on data collected from customer usage of SOL-X. About SOL-X SOL-X is a leading Behavioural Based Safety company centred on human factors. Combining deep maritime knowledge with Internet of Things capabilities and predictive Artificial Intelligence, our focus is on improving safety and compliance outcomes, increasing operational productivity, and enhancing crew wellbeing. SOL-X is an industry leading Behavioural Based Safety system that combines an enhanced control of work with a holistic approach to crew wellbeing – improving worker health and safety culture. For more information, please visit https://sol-x.co/ Media Contacts Magellan X Pte. Ltd. Alister Leong / Gladys Ng Head of Product Marketing and Design / Product Marketing Manager +65 9627 2765 / +65 9145 6677 alister.leong@sol-x.co / gladys.ng@sol-x.co

Safety management systems (SMS) are vital in ensuring safe operations and compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. The Permit to Work (PTW) system is an essential part of a SMS for high-risk work onboard vessels. While there are constant efforts to improve safety, human actions still account for two-thirds of ship incidents*.Despite continued investments in training and the introduction of tighter regulations, these instances still occur, raising doubts over the effectiveness of current safety practices.Read this white paper from SOL-X to discover more about current industry trends and the key benefits of having a digital permit to work system, including increasing crew productivity, enhanced compliance and safety and contributions to sustainability.Please download the whitepaper to find out more.

SOL-X by SOL-X, is an industry leading Behavioral Based Safety system that combines an enhanced control of work with a holistic approach to crew wellbeing, in order to improve worker health and safety culture. A primary benefit of SOL-X is improved operational efficiency of Permit To Work (PTW) workflows. It is estimated that our customers experience an average of US$60,000 to US$180,000 in crew productivity gains annually per vessel after switching from paper-based solutions. Along with the fully integrated PTW system, the work on the go capabilities and paperless system have streamlined workflows, improving overall turnaround times. Furthermore, SOL-X’s near real-time capabilities have enhanced safety operations monitoring, and procedural compliance to work processes. ‍ Operational Excellence Reduces the time and effort required to complete the forms and to obtain authorization, as well as automatically save such documents in searchable formats. The time savings free up crew resources for higher value hands-on tool time, such as machinery and equipment maintenance. Enables better management of their work rest hours. ‍ Preparing Documents Automatically sets up the necessary documentation and workflows once the job is selected from the digital database of permits, reducing downtime spent on document management. ‍ Permit Request And Risk Assessment ‍‍Integrates Risk Assessment with Permit Requests, making it possible to prepare and submit them concurrently. This reduces repeated information, removes clerical errors, and provides a standardized and uniform risk assessment across the fleet. Furthermore, workflow protocols within the digital system ensure that all required fields have been completed, facilitating efficiencies on the subsequent approval process. Additional features such as pre-filled fields and pre-identified risks based on historical references and best practices, the system contributes to time savings – a 50% reduction, and a more robust risk assessment and permit request. ‍ On-site Checklists and Isolation Certificate SOL-X’s work on the go solution totally changes the way the crew approaches safety checklists onsite. The built-in validation and the step-by-step guide further assure managers of safety compliance as well as ease of completion – reducing more than a third of the time usually spent on these steps, while providing all crew visibility of real-time data across the vessel. ‍ Permit Approval An electronic review and approval system improves this process by eliminating the need to manually transport, scan and email the form. A well-implemented solution also automatically communicates the required approval requests directly to the Master and Office Superintendent, following a set of approval matrices aligned with each type of PTW requested. As it is a fully integrated PTW system, the review process is simplified for cross-references. Furthermore, a digital format makes it possible to incorporate pre-defined rules and alerts, and notifies the approver if any inputs exceed certain thresholds. This provides the Approving Authority near real-time access to relevant information for appropriate risk management and decision-making. SOL-X has reduced permit approval times by an average of 20 minutes when office approval is not required, and an hour when it is. This has shortened the waiting time between permit completion and crew execution of the actual job, while ensuring that the shore team is kept up-to-date when the vessel needs to communicate with them. ‍ Document Filing, Storage And Retrieval Documents are instantly stored and archived on the local server, and automatically tagged with searchable keywords – freeing up the crew to focus on higher value-added jobs. Cumulative effect on audit or inspection preparation, as documents can be easily retrieved and searched. ‍ Audit Preparation Since digital PTWs can be replicated from the vessel’s local server to onshore databases, they further facilitate audit preparation by compressing time and distance. This allows auditors to commence their review of permits and other documents remotely, without any interruption to the vessel crew. Furthermore, the available data can encompass the complete range of operational documents, thus providing a more comprehensive view of vessel operations. By eliminating the physical paperwork, ships can operate more sustainably on an environmental and operational level. The digital PTW system helps reduce the amount of paper required to process the PTW tasks each day and during audit/inspection, as well as improve space and document management onboard. It is estimated that a vessel uses an average of 39,000 sheets of paper annually for PTW-related documents onboard and in the office. This is equivalent to 5 trees per year, therefore converting to the digital format significantly reduces the carbon footprint of each vessel. ‍ For more details, please refer to our infographics on the distinctions between Digital PTW from SOL-X and Manual PTW.

Safety management systems (SMS) are vital in ensuring safe operations and compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. The Permit to Work (PTW) system is an essential part of a SMS for high-risk work onboard vessels. While there are constant efforts to improve safety, human actions still account for two-thirds of ship incidents*.‍Despite continued investments in training and the introduction of tighter regulations, these instances still occur, raising doubts over the effectiveness of current safety practices.‍Read this whitepaper from SOL-X to discover more about current industry trends and the key benefits of having a digital permit to work system, including increasing crew productivity, enhanced compliance and safety and contributions to sustainability.Please download the whitepaper to find out more.

SOL-X by SOL-X, combines an integrated digital Permit To Work (PTW) platform with near real-time visibility to critical frontline vessel operations. This can improve crew safety, enhance compliance to control of work practices, and increase operational excellence through streamlined workflows. ‍The purpose is to provide a framework to the crew, ship managers and owners for evaluating the benefits of a fully integrated digital permits management system enabled by real-time control of work data offered by our solution. ‍Key Benefits Increases crew productivity by freeing up an estimated 12 manhours per day per vessel. With SOL-X, PTW planning and execution are now more streamlined and standardized. This has resulted in quicker completion turnaround times for permits-to-work, risk assessments and safety checklists forms. The mobile work-on-the-go capability further extends crew flexibility shipwide, ensuring that the crew can focus on critical time on tool and not be burdened by administrative paperwork. ‍ Reduces PTW audit preparations to mere minutes Completed permits-to-work, risk assessments and safety checklist documents are now consolidated and stored in a single system. These documents are automatically synchronized from ship to shore onto the cloud in near real-time for easy access, further enabling new remote auditing capabilities for the shore team. Enhances compliance and safety With an integrated step-by-step PTW workflow system coupled with near real-time line of sight into ongoing safety operations, the crew and shore teams now have greater assurance that safety processes are being followed throughout the vessel. This visibility of ongoing safety operations has encouraged positive crew behavior change and improved procedural compliance for high-hazard work.In addition, operational reporting and data analytics through the SOL-X Office Portal enables the shore team to actively monitor vessel and crew performance. Over time, these actionable insights and leading indicators will enable key stakeholders to drive continuous process improvements, leading to increased safety standards fleetwide. Contributes to sustainability SOL-X integrated PTWs eliminate paper-based forms and, more importantly, are less labour-intensive. The crew is spared having to expend much time and effort in producing voluminous paper forms, which involves filling up many fields, proofreading and manually checking for errors before submitting for approval. With the validation protocols of its built-in forms, SOL-X can likewise reduce clerical errors and standardize fleetwide workflows over time. This will contribute to an improved crew safety culture.

Why do incidents concerning Permit To Work tasks recur?According to the EMSA 2019 report on “Annual overview of marine casualties and incidents 2019”, 2 out of 3 all incidents (between 2011 to 2018) were contributed by human factors. The top factors include (1) lack of safety awareness, (2) inadequate work methods, and (3) poor planning and coordination. The Permit to Work (PTW) system is an essential part of any Ship Management System (SMS) for high-risk work onboard vessels, in compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. PTWs are used to manage many aspects of the ship’s operations, such as ensuring procedural compliance for high-hazard jobs, reducing safety incidents, and mitigating overall risk exposure. Even with these safeguards, incidents related to PTW tasks continue to happen at an alarming rate. ‍ Captain Daniel Alcantara Head of HSSE and Solution Delivery 30Y+ experience in leadership positions with NOL and AET Ship Management Head of Documents & Systems, Marine Superintendent & HSSEQ Master COC, Class 1

The OCIMF has recently came up with this framework in October 2020, highlighting that incidents are caused by human factors at work. Further investigation highlighted that most mistakes, actions and decisions are the result of the way the workplace is set up, how work is designed, equipment, and control measures and how leaders influence the organizational culture. ‍On the other hand, human factors are the physical, psychological and social characteristics that affect human interaction with equipment, systems, processes, other individuals and work team(s). There has been an increasing focus on human factors in creating a step change in safety operations. ‍OCIMF aims to improve safety and environmental protection in the maritime industry by considering human factors when providing guidance and recommendations. This paper outlines how OCIMF will integrate human factors into its activities and contribute to making our industry progress on human factors. It includes: A set of principles that guide OCIMF’s actions on human factors An overall goal for OCIMF A framework to understand how human factors impact operations Opportunities to take action ‍Learn more about this information paper which outlines OCIMF’s approach to human factors ‍ Captain Daniel Alcantara Head of HSSE and Solution Delivery 30Y+ experience in leadership positions with NOL and AET Ship Management Head of Documents & Systems, Marine Superintendent & HSSEQ Master COC, Class 1

Using Leading Indicators to improve Safety and Health Outcomes‍“Today, Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) practitioners continue to rely on injury rates, absenteeism, and other lagging metrics despite the growing acceptance of the fact that these failure-focused measures are ineffective in driving continuous improvement efforts. ???????????????????????????? ????????????????????????????????????????, on the other hand, appear to offer a more useful gauge of EHS activity by providing early warning signs of potential failure and, thus enabling organizations to identify and correct deficiencies before they mature into accidents and injuries.” ‍– Campbell Institute, Transforming EHS Performance Measurement Through Leading Indicators ‍ Leading indicators are proactive measures as compared to lagging indicators. They are important as they can tell whether your safe and health activities are effective at preventing incidents. A good safety and health program uses leading indicators to drive change and lagging indicators to measure effectiveness. ‍They can play a vital role in preventing worker fatalities, injuries, and illnesses, as well as strengthening safety and health outcomes in the workplace. In addition to the social benefits, employers that use leading indicators to find and fix hazards can realize direct savings in their bottom line – production costs, workers’ compensation costs and other legal and regulatory costs that are commonly associated with incidents. ‍Leading indicators are a valuable tool regardless of whether you have a safety or health program, what you have included in your program, or what stage you may be at in your program. Learn more from this insightful read from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). ‍ Captain Daniel AlcantaraHead of HSSE and Solution Delivery 30Y+ experience in leadership positions with NOL and AET Ship Management Head of Documents & Systems, Marine Superintendent & HSSEQ Master COC, Class 1 (Photo credits: Image from OSHA document on Using Leading Indicators to improve Safety and Health Outcomes)