How do leading indicators differ from lagging indicators in process safety?

Leading indicators are proactive measures that can help predict future safety issues by assessing the effectiveness of safety processes and controls in place. They focus on behaviors, practices, and conditions that can signal potential problems before an incident occurs. For example, tracking the number of safety audits conducted, employee training programs, or maintenance activities can provide insights into how well the safety management system is functioning.

In contrast, lagging indicators are reactive and reflect what has already happened, typically measuring past incidents and outcomes, such as accident rates, injuries, or near misses. They provide an understanding of historical performance but do not offer predictive insights about potential future incidents.

The distinction between leading and lagging indicators is crucial in process safety because emphasizing leading indicators enables organizations to identify vulnerabilities and implement improvements before incidents take place. This proactive approach can significantly enhance safety culture and performance in an organization, making it essential for effective process safety management.