PreAccident Investigation Podcast
PAPod 535 - Reimagining Safety: Lessons from the Resilience Master
Mar 1, 2025
David Woods, a professor and pioneer in resilience engineering at The Ohio State University, discusses the nuances of safety and adaptability in complex systems. He highlights the importance of balancing comfort with safety in engineering decisions, using personal anecdotes from a nuclear control room. Woods also warns against the dangers of compromising on safety, referencing the Boeing 737 MAX incidents. The conversation emphasizes building resilient systems, understanding interdependencies, and fostering innovation to tackle today's challenges.
34:06
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Quick takeaways
- Navigating the balance between innovation and adherence to safety fundamentals is crucial for effective risk management in complex systems.
- Establishing reciprocity and effective communication among organizational roles enhances adaptive capacity in safety systems, fostering resilience and responsiveness.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Compromise in Safety
Compromise plays a crucial role in safety practices, requiring a delicate balance between pushing boundaries and adhering to established norms. It is important for safety professionals to navigate these compromises thoughtfully, as an unwillingness to compromise may hinder progress in safety measures. Conversely, compromising too much can lead to significant shortcomings in safety protocols. This ongoing tension between innovation and risk management highlights the need for continuous reflection on what constitutes appropriate compromise in safety contexts.
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