Sikkerhetsstopp

Sikkerhetsstopp is a safety-related term used primarily in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway, to describe a system or practice that halts operations or processes when a potential safety hazard is detected. The phrase translates literally to “safety stop” and is applied across a range of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, aviation, and public transportation.

The concept originated in the 1970s as part of broader industrial safety reforms, following a series of high-profile accidents that highlighted the need for proactive risk management. In Norway, the law requires that all employers implement "sikkerhetsstopp" procedures as part of their comprehensive workplace safety management plan. The regulations mandate that a stoppage be initiated automatically when predefined safety thresholds—such as toxic gas concentrations or equipment malfunction indicators—are exceeded. The stoppage must be accompanied by an immediate incident report and an investigation to determine root causes.

Typical implementation involves a combination of sensors, control systems, and manual oversight. In oil rigs, for example, a sudden rise in hydraulic pressure can trigger a safety lock that stops drilling operations until the issue is resolved. In aviation, a rapid descent of cabin pressure can invoke a safe stop of the aircraft’s flight systems to prevent further altitude loss.

The effectiveness of sikkerhetsstopp is measured through key performance indicators such as the number of stop events, response times, and corrective action success rates. Continuous improvement frameworks like ISO 45001 encourage companies to review stoppage incidents as part of their audit cycles. Overall, sikkerhetsstopp plays a critical role in reducing workplace accidents by ensuring that hazardous conditions are promptly neutralized before they can result in injury or damage.