Integrating people, process and technology for a safer workplace.
The Challenge
Following the 2005 Buncefield explosion in the UK, where a fuel storage tank overfill led to a devastating disaster, regulators worldwide recognised the dangers of relying too heavily on human intervention to detect fuel leaks and emphasised the need for stronger emergency detection systems.
In response to these evolving global safety standards, Z took a proactive approach to further enhance their safety and quality practices. Driven by a commitment to protect their teams and surrounding communities, Z developed a new Hydrocarbon Detection System that automatically detects excessive hydrocarbon vapours and fluid buildups, triggering alarms so site staff can respond quickly and effectively.
Z knew that implementing this technology was only the beginning. To ensure its full effectiveness, the system needed to be fully integrated into Z’s operational practices. This required comprehensive training for Terminal Operators, not only in responding to the system alarms, but also understanding its essential role in risk mitigation. Z also aimed for organisation-wide awareness, embedding the system into the company culture to reinforce proactive safety measures and continuous improvement.
Our Partnership
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Z’s goal was to build on its safety-first culture, strengthening both technology and practical safety applications. This required more than knowledge alone; Z needed organisation-wide commitment and real, hands-on application. We partnered with Z to design a comprehensive solution where practical learning and managerial support became central. Terminal Operators received scenario-based training, enabling them to apply new safety measures directly in their roles. Managers of terminal staff took on a pivotal role, guiding discussions with teams to solidify safety practices, embedding them into the day-to-day workflow.
We also developed a company-wide animation to communicate Z’s safety vision across all levels, building a shared understanding and commitment among all employees. By aligning staff from operators to senior managers, our partnership with Z promoted a meaningful shift toward proactive safety practices.
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The Impact
After four weeks, 77% of Terminal Operators had completed the training and were operational with the new systems, gaining essential skills in responding to system alarms and understanding the critical importance of early detection in a high-stakes safety environment. Their managers now have a structured framework to guide discussions and reinforce applied safety practices with their teams.
The company-wide animation has helped build shared understanding of the system across Z, emphasising their commitment to early detection and proactive safety measures. This alignment has laid the groundwork for a safety culture that emphasises proactive readiness and a commitment to risk mitigation.