Brief History
The National Service, Transmission, Exploration & Production Safety (STEPS) Network is an all-volunteer organization which was founded in 2003 in South Texas by OSHA and Industry in an attempt to reduce injuries and fatalities in that region. The effort was successful, and STEPS has continued to grow, currently including eighteen independent regional networks serving twenty producing states. Eleven of the networks have signed formal alliances with OSHA, and the National STEPS Network signed a formal Alliance with OSHA and NIOSH on December 2, 2014, and renewed on December 1, 2016.
The National STEPS Network includes Operators and Contractors in the Oil and Gas Exploration, Production and Product Transmission industry as equally valued members in partnership with OSHA, NIOSH, API, AESC, IADC, IPAA, other trade associations and educators across the country.
The Network's vision is “Incident Free Operations” in the exploration and production of oil and gas.
Objective
The National STEPS Network promotes safety, health and environmental improvement in the exploration and production of oil and gas in US onshore operations. The National STEPS Network fosters a work environment that relies upon open communication and trust.
Scope
The National STEPS Network includes Operators and Contractors in the Oil and Gas Exploration, Production and Product Transmission industry as equally valued members. The STEPS Network encompasses the geographic region within the Americas.
Methods
The STEPS Network will:
- Meet periodically to share and discuss safety, health and environmental incidents, best practices and related issues.
- Establish focus groups to address specific issues.
- Work with others interested in the advancement of worker health, safety, security and the environment.
Resources Required
Member companies designate representatives to participate in meetings, contributing knowledge, information and support.