Case Study: Behavior-Based Safety Program Transforms Safety Culture at Sea
SEAL SmartCard R+ System Dramatically Reduces Incidents and Improves Safety Culture for Horizon Lines
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ABOUT HORIZON LINES
-Major container shipping company
-Based in Charlotte, North Carolina
-Unique challenges of maritime operations
-Founded in 1956
Horizon Lines aimed to improve safety practices and reduce injury rates among its unionized workforce operating in challenging maritime conditions.
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AT A GLANCE
CHALLENGES:
-High-risk maritime environment with unpredictable hazards
-Predominantly unionized workforce with frequent rotation
-Limited communication (no internet or cell phone service for rank-and-file workers at sea)
-Cultural shift needed from individual safety focus to team-oriented approach
-Initial resistance from senior management to invest in new safety programs
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OBJECTIVES
-Reduce incident and injury rates beyond improvements achieved through the International Safety Maritime Code
-Implement a behavior-based safety program
-Create a cultural shift towards proactive safety measures and teamwork
-Overcome logistical challenges of implementing a program for workers at sea
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SOLUTION
The SEAL SmartCard R+ System, a customized behavior-based positive reinforcement program, adapted for maritime use with paper-based implementation
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BENEFITS + RESULTS
Dramatic Reduction in Injuries:
50-60% additional reduction in injury rates on top of previous improvements
Cultural Transformation:
Shift from an "every man for himself" mentality to a team-oriented safety culture
Improved Communication:
Workers began offering suggestions for safer and more efficient procedures
Significant Overall Impact
In the first 90 days, 64% reduction in safety incidents and 60% reduction in recordable incidents
Cost Savings
Despite initial investment, the program led to cost savings through incident reduction
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TESTIMONIAL
"We had what we considered a robust program. But when we brought the Sims group in and implemented the program, we basically saw an additional 50 to 60% reduction in our injury rates. So we, it was really a significant improvement over what had already been a significant improvement... It definitely worked for us. And it made the switch to a performance-based, positive reinforcement-based system, a cultural change in that direction absolutely positive."
-Captain Mike Bowman, Retired Director of Marine Services, Horizon Lines
