Targets, projections or goals, are terms used to evaluate performance within a certain time frame. As we enter into the fourth quarter of 2003, it is the time of the year to review and evaluate EPIC’s performance on dive days, vessel utilization, safety statistics and program enhancements. Projected dive days are on target, which is a 10% increase over the previous year. Vessel utilization is at an all time high at EPIC, having a 30% increase over our best year. Program enhancements are lending themselves to shop and project management streamlining and efficiency.
However in the forefront of all these goals are EPIC’s safety statistics. This always seems to be a goal that is harder to achieve, because we will never be satisfied with status quo. Our DIVE 5TM behavior based safety and quality program, teaches us to continuously look for better and safer ways. Will we ever get there? Probably not. Will we ever stop trying? NEVER! Having said that, at a recent bi-weekly safety meeting a question was asked of those in attendance; divers, superintendents, captains, deckhands, engineers, shop personnel and managers, “What would you define as one of the most important elements of EPIC’s safety program?” Some of the responses were: “looking out for each other, caring”, “teamwork”, “commitment from everyone”, “confidence to call an All Stop, without fear of repercussions”, “EPIC’s diving procedures”, “training and education”, “good housekeeping mentality”, “support from upper management”. To further the discussion, we asked: “What has been the most advantageous vehicle used that helped them form these opinions?” the unanimous response was – “the bi-weekly safety meeting”, they all agree JHEA’s are important, daily meetings are important, however the platform they are given at the bi-weekly safety meetings prove to be the best line of communication, support, and education. The bi-weekly safety meetings give the employees the freedom to address safety concerns in front of the decision makers: VP Diving Operations, VP Marine Operations, Chief Operating Officer, and myself. At the same time it gives the decision makers the opportunity to understand the issues in the field while working with those on the front line to achieve success.
As we move into year-end, our “Number l” goal, target, projection still remains, “Safety”. We will not deviate from the plan, and we will continue to use the tools defined to assist us in accomplishing this goal. The probability of attaining the successes thus far and the probability of attaining future success is dependent on Epic’s safety program. We are proud of what we have accomplished and we are excited about the challenges ahead.
In closing, I invite you to be our guest at our bi-weekly safety meeting, by your participation, there is much more to be learned and shared. Together, we can all achieve great success.
Julie Rodriguez
CEO/President
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