From The Pipe, Jan. 30, 2012
New SEQ Structure Improves Communication A new structure governing ATCO Gas’s Safety, Environment and Quality (SEQ) strategy is now in place. The new SEQ Steering Team (SEQST) met for the first time on Jan. 12. Bill Stephens, Senior Vice President and General Manager, also attended the meeting. The broad objective of the new structure is to help employees from across the company work together to improve safety, quality and environmental practices, but Bill pointed out that our current system is not broken. Rather, the new structure will help to elevate ATCO Gas’s safety performance from an already-firm foundation. Under the new structure, front-line employees—those most exposed to risk on the job—will have a more active role in the decision-making process. With three field employees sitting on SEQST, communication between in-scope and management will improve. The Natural Gas Employees’ Association (NGEA) also has an active role. Keith Hudson, NGEA President and Distribution Operator – Field, Edmonton North, attended the first meeting to help kick off the new initiative and show support. One of the in-scope employees on the team was also appointed by NGEA. SEQST will meet every other month. Their decisions are reported to the Executive Management Committee (EMC). You can view a diagram of the new SEQ structure on the ATCO Gas intranet. SEQST is looking for input and suggestions from the front line. If you have thoughts or ideas regarding safety, environment and quality, please talk to the in-scope rep in your region: • Calgary: Rod Schmidt, Distribution Foreman – Field, Calgary Operations • Edmonton: Adam Thomas, Meter Reader, Edmonton North • Districts: Eric Nissen, Distribution Operator – Field, Viking