What are the best practices for implementing and evaluating safety innovation projects?

Best practices for implementing and evaluating safety innovation projects include conducting thorough risk assessments using tools like Tenable OT Security for enterprise-level asset visibility, identifying vulnerabilities across the plant, conducting configuration and change audits, fine-tuning policies, and ensuring compliance with standards such as NIST, IEC 62443, etc. Additionally, engaging stakeholders at all levels for buy-in and input, implementing clear safety protocols and training programs, and continuously monitoring and reviewing performance are crucial. Regular feedback loops and data-driven evaluation help refine strategies and maintain a proactive approach to safety.

If you are not actively communicating with the workers that are dealing with the problem and/or "solution" then you are doing it wrong. It doesn't matter how much expertise, SME, etc., are involved if the workers that must deal with the issues are not heavily involved in the discussion then it probably is not the "best" solution, and possibly not even a good solution.

One thing that I have found helpful is once the problem has been identified, it is best to ask those who are involved first hand in the process. They will most likely be a great source for solutions to help correct the situation in a safe manner.

It is also beneficial to evaluate previously reported noncompliances or issues and analyze if the matter requiring a solution has been addressed already by peers.

Absolutely, defining the problem and opportunity is paramount in any safety innovation project. Understanding the root causes of safety issues, identifying gaps in current practices, and recognizing potential benefits are foundational steps. Utilizing methods like surveys, interviews, observations, audits, and incident reports helps collect and analyze relevant data. It's crucial to involve stakeholders, including managers, workers, customers, or suppliers, in this process to gain diverse perspectives and insights during problem identification and opportunity assessment. This collaborative approach sets the stage for effective safety innovation.

Exactly, generating and selecting ideas is a crucial step in the safety innovation process. Techniques like brainstorming, mind mapping, prototyping, and benchmarking can stimulate creativity and diversity. Evaluating the feasibility, desirability, and viability of ideas, considering factors like cost, time, resources, impact, and alignment with organizational goals and values, helps in the selection process. Prioritizing ideas based on their potential and value ensures that the safety innovation project focuses on the most impactful and feasible solutions.

Indeed, implementing and testing the selected ideas is a critical phase in the safety innovation process. Planning and executing actions to bring the ideas to life, whether through designing, developing, or acquiring new products, processes, or services, is essential. Testing and validating the ideas in real or simulated settings, while measuring their performance and impact on safety indicators and behaviors, provide valuable insights. Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of the implementation and testing process based on feedback and data ensure that the safety innovation is refined for optimal effectiveness.

PDCA = plan, do, check, act, aka continuous improvement cycle, etc. This is not a new concept that you are describing, you have basically beaten a dead horse and dumbed it down.

Involve, everyone that is going to perform the in the project, from operators to management. Then you can measure the innovations perfomance by doing surveys on site, and also by using/doing software programs, follow-up plans and other measures.

In my experience, evaluating and communicating the results of a safety innovation project is essential for driving continuous improvement and demonstrating the project's impact. Utilizing a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods allows for a comprehensive understanding of the innovation's effectiveness. By comparing the results with initial expectations and benchmarks, we can identify areas for further enhancement and refinement. Transparent communication with stakeholders is key, as it ensures buy-in, fosters trust, and promotes organizational learning. Sharing the successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the project enables us to inspire others and pave the way for future safety initiatives.