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Andrea Valenzuela, Technical Works Inspector (ITO) in Risk Prevention Inspection for the People Services Division at ENAP Bio Bio, shares insights into her professional experience, achievements, and future perspectives in risk management.
With over 20 years of experience in safety and risk prevention, Andrea has become a key professional at ENAP Bio Bio. She plays a pivotal role in a division that not only oversees safety in the field but also fosters a comprehensive preventive culture. Her leadership has enabled the implementation of innovative strategies that have positively impacted worker safety and well-being, positioning the company as a benchmark in the energy sector.
The Risk Prevention Inspection Service: A Key Pillar at ENAP Bio Bio
The Risk Prevention Inspection Service at ENAP Bio Bio, where Andrea performs her role, is a unit whose primary mission is to ensure a safe work environment for employees and contractors. This service collaborates closely with various operational and administrative areas of the company, spearheading activities such as field inspections, compliance audits, and specialized training.
Andrea emphasizes that her role as an ITO extends beyond inspections:
“Our work is not just reactive; we aim to identify risks before they materialize and establish proactive controls to protect both people and facilities.”
This proactive approach has translated into pioneering initiatives in the sector, ranging from the use of advanced technologies to the creation of protocols specifically tailored to ENAP Bio Bio’s operations.
Services and Activities in 2024
Key Activities Related to Risk Prevention in 2024:
“In 2024, our activities focused on strengthening the safety culture through periodic training sessions, field inspections led by managers and contract administrators, internal audits, awareness campaigns on personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, self-care courses like Safestart, critical risk identification, and emergency drills. All of this enhanced our incident response capabilities and increased worker engagement in prevention.”
Notable Projects or Initiatives:
“Among the year’s most important projects, we highlight the update of the critical risk management program, the coordination of practical training sessions on fire extinguisher use and emergency responses, and leadership in accident and incident investigations. Additionally, we reinforced our field presence, working closely with contractors and administrators to ensure operations met the highest safety standards.”
New Tools, Technologies, or Methodologies Implemented:
“In 2024, we incorporated innovations such as drones for inspections in hard-to-reach areas, real-time monitoring systems for work at heights, and risk analysis methodologies that include pre-visualization of work areas. We also launched a digital contract page that allows for real-time information management and facilitates decision-making based on data updated weekly.”
2024 Performance Review
Evaluation of Risk Prevention and Occupational Safety Performance:
“This year was very positive in terms of safety. We significantly reduced accident rates and improved response times to minor incidents. These results would not have been possible without the team’s commitment and the effective strategies that allowed us to anticipate risks.”
Key Performance Indicators:
*”In 2024, we achieved major milestones, including:
- A 15% reduction in the accident frequency rate compared to 2023.
- Zero fatal accidents, underscoring our commitment to safety.
- Over 95% compliance in safety audits.
- More than 80% of workers actively participated in training sessions, enhancing their preventive awareness and skills.”*
Goals and Challenges for 2025
Key Objectives:
*”For 2025, we aim to consolidate a safety culture based on preventive behavior and self-control. Our main objectives include:
- Implementing an integrated risk management system with digital monitoring for contractor companies.
- Maintaining an accident rate trending toward zero.
- Promoting innovation in safety through the adoption of new technologies.”*
Anticipated Challenges and Strategies to Address Them:
“One of the biggest challenges will be adapting to new regulations that will take effect in February 2025. To address this, we will conduct specific training sessions and establish partnerships with external experts. Additionally, we will continue advancing in the integration of emerging technologies, such as digital tools that enhance the scheduling and execution of our preventive activities.”
Continuous Improvement Projects:
“Among the improvement initiatives, we highlight the development of a safety training program for operational leaders, focused on strengthening the Joint Health and Safety Committee at the ENAP Bio Bio branch, and the automation of routine inspections through digital applications.”
Christmas and New Year Events 2024
Special Activities and Their Impact:
“During the holidays, we organized activities that included planning, coordination, and risk management alongside various departments and contractors. These efforts were recognized by ENAP leadership as an example of effective collaboration.”
Worker Participation:
“Over 80% of staff and contractors participated in activities with their families, fostering a sense of community and belonging.”
Personal Perspective
What Working in Risk Prevention Means to Her:
“For me, being an ITO at ENAP Bio Bio is a great responsibility. My goal is to ensure that every worker returns home safe and sound. This role allows me to contribute to people’s well-being and the safe continuity of operations.”
Core Values and Principles:
“My principles are integrity, proactivity, and a commitment to continuous improvement. I believe in leading by example and fostering teamwork.”
Andrea Valenzuela’s experience demonstrates how a comprehensive approach to risk prevention can transform an organization. Her innovative vision and commitment position her as a key leader to tackle the challenges of 2025 with excellence.
