Which of the following are leading indicators of process safety performance you might track?

• A. Number of safety observations, completion of mechanical integrity testing, training completion rates, and completion of MOC reviews.
• B. Total annual production volume.
• C. Number of customer complaints.
• D. Average equipment age.

Answer: (A)

Leading indicators of process safety performance are proactive metrics that show how well your safety programs are functioning and can help prevent incidents. The best choice includes items that reflect ongoing safety activities: how many safety observations are made (which signals engagement with hazard recognition and safety culture), whether mechanical integrity testing is completed (ensuring equipment is maintained and safe to operate), training completion rates (demonstrating that personnel have the necessary safe-work knowledge), and whether management of change reviews are completed (ensuring changes don’t introduce new hazards). These measures are predictive and action-oriented, aimed at preventing problems before they occur.

In contrast, the other options describe outcomes or static attributes rather than proactive safety performance: total annual production volume is about output, not safety performance; the number of customer complaints reflects post-event issues rather than proactive safety work; and average equipment age is a static characteristic that doesn’t by itself indicate how effectively safety processes are being managed today.