SafeOperations; One Crew, One Boat, One Direction.

I fear too often we "Safety Pros" are seen as rivals with operations. Sometimes playing the part of an antagonist, placing safety's mission in conflict with operations. Let us see ourselves as one rower on a crew, propelling one boat in the same direction.

No one is first, we all finish together.

Safety must be an inclusive part of operations. To do that, safety must support the delivery of a profitable, high-quality product on time. Our position in the boat is to help ensure the crew gets to our destination without harming persons or the environment. I am not suggesting that we compromise on our crew members' safety, but we must find a way to do any task safely, and we must be in accord with the other rowers and the coxswain.

Find a way.

The Management or Coxswain sets the pace and controls the rudder. Still, to be successful and maximize the equipment and crew's capabilities. They need to appreciate that when safety is brought into a project late, it's likely because it's seen as being in a separate boat and not part of operations.

One Crew, One Boat, One Direction.

With safety coming in as an afterthought, it places safety in a conflicting position, often slowing progress and straining budgets. However, If safety is part of the whole, present at all project stages, starting with setting timelines, planning budgets, estimates are more accurate. Then when executing the project fused as "SafeOperations", getting there on time, under budget, without harm to persons or the environment is more likely.