Safety Culture

Our Safety Principles

To help direct our focus where it is needed the most, we conducted a study on the aspects of our operations that we believe have the biggest potential impact on safety. These are areas we might have had issues historically or where the potential impact of an incident is simply too severe to contemplate.

As a result, we have arrived at 6 separate topics for attention, of which each has assigned expectations which include minimum standards of operation, equipment and working conditions to ensure safe operation. 

Working at height 

Working at height is often required, however, we will only work at height with the required safety measures in place to prevent falls.

Use of pressure vessels

We operate pressure vessels so man-lids will never be opened without checking first that any pressure has been vented.

Confined space entry

People working inside tanks will be adequately monitored through a combination of supervision by a designated watcher and use of suitable lone worker devices.

Exposure to hazardous substances

We will carry out mental risk assessments before loading or discharge and know to stay out of ‘the line of fire’ at all times in case of an uncontrolled release.

Workplace transport

We shall ensure sufficient separation between vehicle activity and pedestrians and encourage drivers to ‘get out and look’ when manoeuvring.

Defensive driving

We will equip our drivers with defensive driving skills and an awareness of the risk of fatigue whilst driving to minimise the risk accidents on the roads. 

Safe Behaviours

In addition, as part of our safety culture, Suttons Group promotes safe behaviour in all situations in order to reduce any risks that our drivers or the public may face. 

• We will only undertake a task if it is safe, in accordance with procedures and we have been trained and authorised to do it.
• Before starting a task, we will always ask – what are the significant hazards and risks, are they under control, has anything changed since last time?
• We will always comply with the established rules, standards and procedures and will never take shortcuts.
• We will always stay alert, continually assess the risks and not be complacent.
• We will act immediately when we observe at-risk behaviours or conditions in order to control the risks.
• If we are in doubt, or if we feel the situation is unsafe, we will seek help from a colleague, supervisor or manager.
• We will always consider the safety of other people and not put them at risk by our actions, behaviours or decisions.
• We will always wear the correct PPE as the last line of defence.