Statoil had two fatal accidents in connection with operations last year. This is the same number as in 1999 and 1998.
One person died in a traffic accident in Poland and a seaman on the Danish vessel MĂŚrsk Seeker was killed while working at the Veslefrikk B platform in the North Sea. In addition, two people lost their lives while working for Navion, in which Statoil has an 80 per cent interest.
Vice president for safety Geir Pettersen says it is depressing to have to record fatalities connected with Statoilâs activities.
âThis is something that we can never accept. We must work with renewed energy to ensure that we reach the ambitious goals we have set for zero personal injury and damage to the environment and zero incidents and loss,â he says.
Work-related injuries show a slight decline in 2000, whereas the frequency of incidents with high potential loss has increased. Since this type of incident can lead to accidents, Mr Pettersen is very concerned and is analysing them with a view to initiating lasting improvement measures
The improvements concern the redesign of facilities and equipment. Other measures include changing work procedures and practices. Even after so many years doing the same job onshore and offshore Mr Pettersen believes it is possible to change practices, conduct and attitudes.