Developing a "culture of safety"

The UN Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015, the predecessor to the Sendai Framework, had five priorities. Strand three directly called for the development of a “culture of safety”, as follows: “use knowledge, innovation and education to build a culture of safety and resilience at all levels”. As Hopkins (for literature reference see original source document) states, the approach has to go hand-in-hand with a clear understanding that institutions themselves must lead by example: “…it is only if the organisational element is seen as a fundamental, that the concept of safety culture can be of any value in avoiding disaster in hazardous industries”.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Norms/values, Rule of law

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Prevention, Preparedness

Types of Actors Concerned: Local authorities, Entrepreneurs, Government, UN and other international organisations

Recommendations:

• Develop a personal “culture of preparedness”