Make safety performance part of `business as usual'; The level of confidence in corporate safety programs must increase to meet the challenging prospects of an industry in transition and the introduction of new technologies. A systematic program--applied all the way from the boardroom to the control room--is needed to integrate safety performance into routine operations

The dynamic environment caused by deregulation, new technologies, and changes in personnel underscore a need for vigilance, as well as a robust approach to risk management. Safety goals should be a high priority at every level of the power industry - from the plant floor to the industry associations. On the upside, many organizations have reacted to outside changes and achieved substantive upgrades in safety and operating procedures. Unfortunately, many factors are still present that increase the likelihood of accidents. Injuries related to boilers and pressure vessels during the last seven years show little discernible downward movement. Equipment-related accidents and resulting injuries and deaths occur throughout the power industry year after year, apparently at random. This article shares insights regarding plant systems and operating procedures, which will encourage examination of a plant's safety records and programs.