In 1995, the Kuparuk Drilling Group (KDG) recognized that safety performanc
e had continually improved since well construction commenced in the Kuparuk
River Field in 1981. However, it was also recognized that performance impr
ovement appeared to be losing momentum. Upon analysis of the trend, it was
noted that most efforts to reduce workplace risk were focused on: engineeri
ng controls; administrative controls and operating practices; and personal
protective equipment.
In order to return to improving safety performance, attain world class stat
us, and help employees return safely from the workplace to their families,
the KDG solicited input from the drilling contractor to develop and impleme
nt a proactive behavior-based safety program. Part of the development inclu
ded a goal-driven incentive, the Safety Performance Goals Program, which de
emphasizes safety statistics and fully complements the overall safety objec
tives.