Safety in Focus: Lessons from a Bourbon Distillery for Healthcare Practices

When a Bourbon Distillery Outshines a Hospital in Safety

It sounds alarming, doesn’t it? The idea that a distillery could pull ahead of a hospital when it comes to safety practices is a conversation I recently had over a cup of coffee—and trust me, it’s worth exploring further. I had the chance to visit a renowned bourbon distillery in the heart of Kentucky, and I walked away with an eye-opening experience that shook me to my core.

Now, picture this: a well-organised Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) board right there in the distillery. Each lock was labelled, and every tag outlined a clear process. This wasn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it was a culture rooted in safety. Everyone working in that distillery seemed fully on board with keeping safety as their top priority, and it made a visible difference in the way the operation ran. It was impressive.

What Would You Expect from Healthcare?

In contrast, during some of my interactions with hospitals, I’ve encountered a rather disheartening reality. Sure, we see the cutting-edge technology and witness the dedication of healthcare professionals, yet when it comes to equipment safety, things look quite muddled. LOTO practices can be alarmingly absent. In certain facilities, you may even stumble upon little more than a sign saying: “Do not start the machine when people are inside.”

Now, let’s pause for a moment. In a place dedicated to saving lives, shouldn’t safety be as paramount as it is in manufacturing? Both environments—hospitals and distilleries—face tremendous pressure, whether it’s meeting production goals or responding to urgent patient needs. It’s unsettling how shortcuts can slip through the cracks when time is tight and demands are high, and when that happens, safety often takes a back seat.

The Real Meaning of Lean

This brings us to a crucial insight: Lean management isn’t just about efficiency or cutting costs; it should always encompass safety as well. As I often say, “There is no Lean without safety. There is no respect for people if lives are at risk for the sake of production.” This adage rings true across various sectors—particularly in healthcare.

As leaders, it’s our duty to set the example and foster a culture that champions safety. It’s a reckless gamble to prioritise output over the safety of your team or your patients. When we allow this mindset to take root, we risk undermining the very purpose of our roles. There’s far too much at stake.

Shifting the Narrative

So, how do we shift this narrative within healthcare? First, it requires an unwavering commitment from the top down. Leaders must advocate for more robust safety protocols and ensure everyone, from the janitor to the surgeon, understands the importance of these practices.

It’s not just about avoiding legal ramifications; it’s about creating an environment where employees feel safe and valued. Additionally, involvement in safety training shouldn’t be an “optional” aspect of the job. It should be an integral part of everyday operations, emphasising a culture of transparency and alertness.

Here’s where a personal insight comes in: during my early days at Virgin, I found myself in situations where swallowing my pride meant admitting mistakes. Instead of pointing fingers, we focused on refining our safety protocols. It created an atmosphere where everyone felt responsible. If I learned anything, it’s that when teamwork and safety go hand in hand, everyone wins, and lives can be saved.

In Conclusion: Your Turn

So, I ask you—what has your experience been with LOTO safety practices, particularly in healthcare? Have you witnessed a culture prioritising safety in your organisation or seen the risks when it takes a backseat? I’d love to hear your thoughts. After all, our collective wisdom can help shape a brighter, safer future for everyone involved.

Let’s keep this conversation going. Safety is not just a protocol; it’s a way of life.

#CitySkills #SafetyFirst #HealthcareLeadership