Re: Hard Hats and Hi-Viz...
When developing a task risk assessment process for a number of offshore drilling operations (for use by the drill crew) I set a rule a few basic rules:

• There should be no reference to what should be "givens" (e.g. if local rules already stipulate basic PPE requirements, assume it will be worn). That doesn't assume those givens will be realised, but processes for enforcement of those should already be in place. A task risk assessment needs to focus on what is not a given, that is different to the norm or an introduced hazard.

• The written report (usually a standardised format) should not normally exceed one page. If it needs more, the assessment probably needs to be elevated beyond local crew.

• Every non-standard action (i.e. the risk mitigations needed as a result of the assessment) should be itemised on the work permit - and in a box next to where the crew members sign it.

Not perfect, and wasn't liked by some of the company HSE management, but they were overruled whilst I was working there - and we didn't have any significant accidents whilst it was in place. After I left, HSE enforced their system that was probably sponsored by the local stationery supplier!

I wasn't part of the HSE department - I was hired direct by the company drilling management. //

Re: Hard Hats and Hi-Viz...
it generates a culture where people fly back to the shore in the same physical condition that they had when they flew out.

And that, and only that, is and should be the reason for any mandatory PPE and surrounding safety procedures.

One of the biggest issues I have with idiotic H&S rules is that they damage the core idea of care and attention to the health of staff in dangerous environments. They should be sane and safe, and not some power exercise by wannabe mini dictators because it devalues the whole concept.