Estudo do estágio de maturidade da cultura de segurança de uma rede de revendas de GLP em Salvador - Bahia

Abstract

The Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) distribution industry in Brazil faces significant challenges regarding operational safety, particularly within reseller networks. Despite the product’s importance for the national energy matrix and both residential and commercial supply, incidents related to inadequate handling, lack of standardized procedures, and the low maturity level of safety culture are still recurrent in part of the sector. In this context, the present study aimed to study the maturity stage of the safety culture in an LPG reseller network located in Salvador, Bahia. The research is grounded in well-established theoretical models that conceptualize safety culture as a set of values, practices, and collective behaviors that evolve through maturity stages. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data collection involved questionnaires covering six dimensions (leadership, commitment, involvement, information, communication, and organizational learning), along with a documentary evidence checklist. The sample consisted of 289 workers from 82 reseller companies. Results indicated an intermediate stage of safety culture maturity, between the reactive and bureaucratic stages, with significant variations across sociodemographic and organizational profiles. Positive correlations were identified between safety culture maturity and education level, age, and length of employment. Smaller resellers demonstrated higher levels of safety culture maturity. The findings suggest that advancing the maturity of safety culture within resellers depends on consolidating clear policies, implementing continuous training programs, and strengthening safety-oriented leadership. Furthermore, the development of monitoring tools and performance indicators is recommended to systematically track safety culture progress. This study contributes to the understanding of the current panorama of safety culture in the LPG distribution sector and provides practical insights for managers seeking to enhance operational reliability and reduce risks associated with reseller activities.