Safety case process in Cuba: Transition from theory to practice

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Cuban Major Hazard/Safety Case regulations require that Facility Operators produce Operational Safety Cases with the aim of demonstrating that they can manage their risks of major accidents during facility operation to a level that is As Low as Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).The production of a good quality, fit-for-purpose Safety Case is a complex issue and must be cautiously approached by Facility Operators. Lessons from the Victoria Safety Case implementation and the Nimrod Review highlighted the need to ensure that a robust Safety Case process is in place before starting the work. This is of paramount importance in ensuring the process of production of the Operational Safety Cases delivers a final product – the documented Safety Case - that is Succinct, Home-grown, Accessible, Proportionate, Easy-to-understand and Document-lite (SHAPED).This paper provides insights into the manner in which the Safety Case production process is carried out by Facility Operators in accordance with a Safety Case Preparation Plan, which must previously be accepted by the Regulator. The Plan must be written in a way that defines the Safety Case process, emphasizes ownership and leadership of the process by the Facility Operator, maximizes workforce involvement in the production of the Safety Case deliverables and demonstrates and facilitates accessibility and usability of the final product – the documented Safety Case.The paper also provides information on the ‘Pilot’ Safety Case strategy which is a step-by-step, case-by-case process, currently being implemented by the Regulator, to lessen the burden of compliance with Safety Case requirements stated in the Regulations. According to this strategy, the entry of Major Hazard Facilities (MHFs) into the new regime will take place gradually and will not be linked to any specific licensing process.