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Safety By Design – Implementation and Operation with Pam Tompkins CSP, CUSP

In this fifth installment of the Safety by Design series, host Nick welcomes back Pam Tompkins to discuss her article, “Safety by Design: Implementation and Operation”. Focusing on the ANSI/ASSP Z10 standard, Pam breaks down how utility and safety leaders can transition from planning to real-world execution. The conversation explores bridging the gap between “work as imagined” and “work as done,” emphasizing that operational units must take proactive ownership of safety protocols rather than treating safety as a standalone department responsibility. Key topics include operational planning, integrating front-line workers into rule development, effective change management, maintaining electrical and mechanical systems, and establishing strong contractor safety standards.

Key Takeaways

  • Operational Ownership: Safety cannot be bottlenecked in the safety department; operational leaders and front-line workers must take proactive ownership to integrate safety directly into daily procedures.

  • Proactive Change Management: Constant industry evolution requires structured change management to train employees, introduce new equipment, and ensure safety long before workers arrive at a job site.

  • Bridging the Gap: To align “work as imagined” with “work as done,” leadership must continuously seek feedback from front-line workers to eliminate operational flaws and impractical rules.

#UtilitySafety #SafetyByDesign #SafetyManagementSystems #WorkplaceSafety #IncidentPrevention