Step Change in Safety and IChemE Safety Centre Unite for Enhanced Energy Safety

In a landmark collaboration aimed at bolstering safety standards across the energy sector, Step Change in Safety has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Safety Centre. This strategic partnership is set to develop safer processes and equipment, safety procedures and risk management strategies to balance industrial needs with environmental requirements while preserving worldwide resources. It also stands to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing in safety practices, with a shared goal of ensuring safer work environments for the energy workforce.

The MoU formalises a framework for collaboration between the two organisations, enabling joint initiatives and activities that address critical safety challenges in the energy industry, and will be built around:

1. Cooperation
2. Process Safety Education and Awareness
3. Process Safety Methodologies
4. Thought Leadership

By combining Step Change in Safety’s extensive experience in delivering practical safety solutions with IChemE Safety Centre’s technical expertise and global network, the partnership is poised to deliver significant benefits.

Craig Wiggins, CEO of Step Change in Safety, comments on the MoU:

“This partnership with the IChemE Safety Centre represents a pivotal step in advancing safety standards across the energy sector and represents another step forward in aligning efforts with industry bodies to prevent incident and injury across the energy industry through active leadership, member collaboration and workforce engagement. By joining our efforts and resources, we can collectively address the complexities of safety challenges with greater efficiency and impact. Our shared vision is to ensure that every energy worker returns home safely every day.”

Craig Wright, Process Safety Specialist, IChemE Safety Centre, says:

‘’The collaboration with Step Change in Safety underscores our shared commitment to ensuring that safety remains a top priority in every aspect of industrial operations with our shared commitment to fostering proactive leadership, facilitating member collaboration, and engaging the workforce to prevent incidents and injuries. Together, we aim to tackle the complexities of process safety with greater efficiency and deliver tangible benefits to the organisations and industries we serve. By combining our collective expertise, we are better positioned to develop innovative and effective solutions that will strengthen safety outcomes across industries and nations during the energy transition.

The partnership exemplifies a shared vision for making safety excellence a cornerstone of industrial operations worldwide. Together, we are united by a vision to build a safer, more sustainable industry – one that prioritises process safety, protects the environment, and ensures the well-being of all workers while fostering long-term resilience and responsible operations.

I launched my career in the UK Oil and Gas Industry, where Step Change in Safety played a pivotal role in shaping the professional journey I’ve had the privilege to experience. It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I have played my part in bringing this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to fruition.’’

The collaboration highlights a commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge-sharing, as both organisations leverage their expertise to address pressing safety concerns. Initiatives stemming from the MoU will focus on areas such as hazard identification, risk management, and fostering a culture of safety excellence.

With safety at the core of their missions, Step Change in Safety and IChemE Safety Centre aim to set new benchmarks for best practices in the energy industry.