After 32 fatalities in 27 years, PSEG had to make major changes in the safety culture.

What was needed? A total commitment to transform the culture and a plan for action. Hundreds of people got involved. It wasn’t enough to say that safety is the #1 priority. Everyone - from meter readers, generating station workers, linemen, customer services representatives, office workers, supervisors, managers and senior management – had to believe it and get involved!

Results could not be expected overnight; patience was necessary. Most best-in-class companies achieve significant culture change in 3-5 years through constant reinforcement of the safety message, hard work, significant employee involvement, and consistent support from management.

PSEG was on its way:

• we benchmarked best-in-class companies,
• we took a long hard look at ourselves internally, and
• we got lots of people involved to develop a plan for action that is now being implemented.

A systematic approach would be required as the foundation for an accident-free work environment. Under strong leadership, PSEG has undergone a dramatic shift in its health & safety culture. The results have been overwhelmingly positive.