What is a “STOP” program in HSE?

The “STOP” program in HSE is a behavioral based safety program designed to prevent injuries and occupational illnesses in the workplace. “STOP” in the STOP program means – Safety training Observation Programme. This program involves training, observation, corrections and STOP work authority.

This program is solely based on observation, since other actions to be taken will be determined by the observations made.

The observations made during the STOP program is recorded in a card called – STOP CARD.

The STOP CARD can be used for Near Miss, Hazard identification, Environmental events, etc.

The data gathered can easily be used to prevent injuries, prevent occupational illnesses and also monitor HSE trends in the workplace.

Importance of the STOP CARD data

The data is used to understand the types of risk behaviors, develop performance targets and to address behaviors targeted for improvement.

Use trended data to develop action plans and upgrade / customize training.

Share observations, trended data and performance targets with employees and other locations.

The last point of call in the STOP program in HSE is the STOP WORK AUTHORITY. This authority is effected when an unsafe act or condition is observed which could pose a risk to the workers.

All employees have the obligation to stop work anytime they feel that their safety or the safety of other employees is at risk.

“STOP” program in HSE steps

Here are steps that could be followed when implementing the “HSE STOP PROGRAM”.

This steps do not follow any standard:

Step One

Observe work as it is taking place: This includes:

Observing people’s activity

Observing people’s actions

Observing the surrounding environment.

Look for unsafe acts as well as good safety performance.

Look for detail and an overall impression.

Keep an open mind.

Step Two

If an unsafe act or condition is observed, stop the job immediately unless stopping the worker will create a greater hazard; discuss the situation with the individuals involved.

Be understanding. Try to make the workers understand why you had to stop the job by highlighting the risk they may be exposed to.

Ask them for suggestions on the safer way to do the job.

Step Three

Make recommendations with the workers input on how to correct the situation and complete the job safely.

Step Four

Complete the appropriate behavior observation card. Be sure to mark all the required boxes and provide a brief summary of the unsafe act and corrective action.

Step Five

Be specific and check the appropriate category and box(s) that apply.

Give brief description of observation in comment section.

List any corrective actions and dates they are to be completed.

Provide name of person(s) completing the observation.

Submit card for review and processing.

This data can be tracked and trended for management to improve. The behavior observation card should be shared with the entire crew so that everyone can benefit and work safer.