Process Safety Progress, Vol.27, No.1, 58-65, 2008
A revised program for operational discipline
The purpose of this paper is to review the development and implementation of a next generation approach to improving operational discipline (OD) programs at DuPont. in order to help sustain high levels of process safety management performance. DuPont defines OD as a deeply rooted dedication and commitment by each member of the organization to carry out each task, the right ways each time. Eleven organizational characteristics have been. used to help evaluate and drive continuous improvement of 01, which have now been simplified to four primary char. acteristics. Ultimately. though, it is individuals who do the day-to-day work required by PSM systems, and it is these actions that help determine if the organization is able to operate with high levels of OR With this in mind.. DuPont's program has been revised to include a new emphasis on individual characteristics of CD, based on knowledge. commitment, and awareness. Discussion will include why CD is important, bow OD can be characterized for both organizations and individuals, and how the revised program has been implemented.