E&M in action
Safety Culture: indispensable for managing safety risks
From 2nd December 2024, the Safety Management System (SMS) will be mandatory. In the previous E&M Scope, we discussed what this means for everyone including yourself. This time, the focus is on Safety Culture.
The SMS consists of organisational structures, procedures and policies. Its purpose is to minimise safety risks within E&M. This can only succeed if there is a Safety Culture. All elements of the SMS aim to foster this Safety Culture, as shown in the figure below:
Independent and confidential The KLM SMS is committed to an independent culture. Therefore, reports at E&M are assessed objectively by Safety & Quality (S&Q). This department has a duty of confidentiality and is independent of the line organisation. This means that employees can confidently report (potentially) dangerous situations without fear. Reporting these risks is crucial because systems and processes can only be improved when issues are identified. This ensures a safer environment for both you and those around you.
Just Culture Every time a report is investigated, we look objectively at how the (potentially) dangerous situation arose and where the system or process in question can be improved to prevent a recurrence. KLM and E&M do not have a punitive culture, but a Just Culture. This is a crucial element, as it emphasises trust in the SMS, the company, and in each other. Everyone is free to report situations without fear of being held accountable later. Another important aspect is the informed culture, with the help of training and
Through training and regular organisation, we ensure that all personnel have the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely.
Would you like to know more? Chapter 5.1 of the Safety Management System Manual provides a complete explanation of Safety Culture.
Several articles on SMS will appear in E&M Scope in the coming period