ASSP Introduces Standards-Based User Groups

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) recently announced the launch of Standards-Based User Groups, or SBUGs, which are intended as networks for practitioners, technological innovators, and employers to collaboratively develop safety standards and implement them in real-world environments. SBUG participants will share methods and lessons related to standards; benchmark performance; develop repeatable, validated safety practices; influence voluntary consensus standards; and collaborate to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities. 

According to an ASSP press release, the software firm Avetta is the first to apply the SBUG model, integrating elements of ANSI/ASSP Z10, Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, and ANSI/ASSP Z16, Safety and Health Metrics, into a new Cultural Maturity Index. The CMI is intended to help organizations determine how well their safety systems perform in practice.

SBUG focus areas currently include fall protection, lockout/tagout, and AI. Safety professionals, technology providers, and employers can learn more about SBUGs and express interest in joining through the ASSP website. More information is available from an ASSP press release.