HSE Specialist Code of Conduct

The Human Factor as the Foundation of Safety

The development of HSE systems often comes down to the implementation of new digital tools and methodologies. However, the execution of any practice always remains with people. In his presentation, Ivan Drepin examines the concept of a professional code for an HSE specialist — a set of internal beliefs that helps not only in daily work but also during moments of difficult ethical and operational choices.

Why the HSE Department Needs an Internal Code

Having formulated principles solves several practical tasks at once. First, it ensures the qualitative selection of specialists for the team: the code serves as an informal "friend or foe" filter, allowing the true attitude of a candidate toward the profession to be revealed during the interview stage. Second, it is a tool for self-control. In crisis situations, when pressure is exerted on the specialist by the production unit, the code helps maintain a professional core and make decisions in favor of safety.

Seven Principles of Professional Ethics

The speaker examines in detail the seven points that form the foundation of the code:

• Responsibility for action and inaction. Ignoring a worker's request or missing a detail can lead to fatal consequences.
• There are no minor details in safety. Formal approval of instructions or postponing small tasks creates gaps in the overall safety system of the enterprise.
• Independence from positions and ranks. The rules are the same for everyone. Pointing out a violation to a top manager on site is not a breach of subordination, but a preventive measure to save their life.
• Rejection of formalism. Completing a task just to "tick a box" destroys trust in the HSE department.
• Openness to sharing experience. In the field of saving lives, there should be no corporate secrets. Best practices should be freely broadcast within the professional community.
• The word as the main tool. The ability to argue one's position before management and build a dialogue with line personnel is more important than administrative leverage.
• Awareness of the profession's importance. The specialist must personally believe that their main goal is saving lives and broadcast this confidence to those around them.

What you will learn from this webinar:

• How to use professional principles to evaluate candidates when hiring for the HSE department?
• What to do if the production unit demands compromises on safety issues due to missed deadlines?
• How to build communication with workers so they see the HSE specialist as a helper, not an overseer?
• How does a manager's personal example affect the level of safety culture at the enterprise?