"In the Beginning Was the Word": How to Form a Target Behavior Model in HSE?

From Words to Safe Behavior: The Role of Communication in HSE

In modern HSE, working with the human factor is becoming a key element of culture development. Denis Bannykh, Head of Training and Competence Development at Gazprom Neft PJSC, shares his experience in transforming safety approaches by changing employee mindsets. The speaker explains how proper communication and Leadership Behavioral Safety Audits (LBSA) help form a target behavior model where compliance becomes a conscious choice of the employee, rather than the result of external control.

Challenges of Implementing Behavioral Audits

The presentation details the typical problems managers face when conducting LBSAs. Often, a dialogue turns into a monologue or is accompanied by top-down pressure, which prevents the establishment of a trusting connection. Without trust, it is impossible to find out the true motives of unsafe behavior. The speaker shows by example that mixing audits, production control, and other initiatives reduces the effectiveness of each tool, leaving both parties with their own convictions.

VR Simulator for Practicing Communication Skills

To solve the problem of a lack of practice in conducting LBSAs, the company developed a specialized VR simulator. It is aimed at practicing the skills of establishing contact, conducting a dialogue using open-ended questions, and achieving a transformation of the employee's mindset. The simulator allows managers to practice in a safe environment, receiving feedback and analytics, which contributes to the formation of a sustainable skill of effective communication in HSE.

What you will learn from this webinar:

• How to use the right questions to shift an employee's priorities from comfort to safety?
• Why is it important to distinguish between intentional violations and unintentional mistakes during an LBSA?
• How to avoid typical mistakes when communicating with safety violators?
• What is the value of using VR technologies for training soft skills in HSE?