The Safety Award for Excellence (SAFE) Program was developed by the Bureau to recognize and commend operating companies and contractors that expend extra effort in conducting their operations in a safe and pollution-free manner by adhering to all regulatory requirements, employing trained and motivated personnel and going beyond mere compliance. Operators considered for this recognition take extra steps to enhance operational safety and environmental protection. Voluntary progression toward a Safety and Environmental Management Program (SEMP) approach such as development and implementation of American Petroleum Institute recommended Practice (API RP) 75 and API RP 14J is an example of such proactive behavior.

PRESENTATION OF THE AWARD

The Pacific OCS Region's SAFE awards are presented annually to the winner at public events such as the American Petroleum Institute Energy Information Night and Society of Petroleum Engineers Annual Awards Banquet. The award is a plaque signed by the Bureau Director and a citation signed by the Regional Director.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Pacific OCS Region's District Office evaluates the performance of all operating companies, including drilling contractors through the inspection program. The District annually compile all inspection data results. Based on that data and other performance-related factors, the District Office select SAFE winners each year. All District winners each year are automatically considered in the selection of the National SAFE winner.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTION

The Offshore Inspection Program provides the basic source of information for evaluation of candidates for the SAFE. Criteria considered in making the recommendations for the award follow:

• Record of Events: Control of fires, pollution containment, well control, number of fatalities.

• Operational Safety: Concern by management for personnel safety as reflected in (1) operational guidelines and instructions to field personnel in safe operating practices, (2) actual operational safety awareness by operating personnel, and (3) actual implementation of that policy in the field at the work site.

• Training Program: Exemplary training program that reflects awareness of safety and attention to personal qualifications of lessee or company employees.

• Operational Consideration: Age of platform/rig, overall condition of platform/rig, maintenance of equipment, and housekeeping.

• Administrative Review: Accuracy, completeness, and availability of required records.

• Pollution Prevention: Demonstrated performance on record of pollution control and prevention.

• Regulatory Awareness: Evidence that appropriate regulations are available and that field personnel are aware of regulatory requirements.

• Cooperation: Overall recognition by field management as to the importance of the inspection program and evidence of full cooperation with personnel in the timely completion of inspections.

• Technology: Significant development and utilization of new technology and practices.

• One-Time Events: Evidence of errands of mercy, acts of heroism, accident prevention, and efficient actions during emergency conditions.