Q&A with Elie Sawwan: Building a strong HSE culture together

We asked Elie Sawwan, VP, HSE and Supply Sustainability to share his thoughts on the importance of safety culture, what safety means to him personally, and why keeping HSE at the forefront every day of the year matters. 

What does it take to build a strong HSE culture at Valmet?

Building a strong HSE culture starts with the choices we make every day. It means caring for one another, following safe ways of working, and speaking up when we notice risks or opportunities to improve. Systems and processes are important, but they only become effective when people use them with the right mindset.

At Valmet, everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and healthy workplace. Whether we work on a customer site, in a workshop or in an office, our actions matter. When HSE is part of everyday thinking and decision-making, we protect people, the environment, improve the way we work, and support our Zero Harm mindset.

It is a continuous journey, and the most important thing is that we keep learning, improving and looking after each other.

What does HSE mean to you personally?

For me, HSE is about caring for people. It's about developing that sense of chronic unease for people's safety and wellbeing. Think about it this way. If Valmet tomorrow organizes a kids' workshop tour, wouldn't you be asking many questions before you let your kids participate to make sure they are safe during the activity? So, the same sense of care and unease must be given to your employees and colleagues who are on the shop floor every day. Always asking what could possibly go wrong when we execute our daily tasks can help us build that mindset and prevent harm.

Behind every safety observation, discussion or improvement action, there are colleagues and families at stake. And I believe HSE starts with awareness and respect. Understanding the task or job, appreciating the potential risks, and above all, respecting the people around us. We all have the ability to influence HSE through our own actions, wherever we are. Small choices can make a significant difference. 

September is HSE Month at Valmet. What are your reflections on this year's event?

HSE Month is a great opportunity to bring safety, health and environmental topics into everyday conversations across Valmet. It gives an opportunity to learn from one another, share experiences and strengthen our commitment to safe and sustainable ways of working.

What I particularly appreciate is that HSE Month engages people across different businesses, functions and locations. It reminds us that HSE is a shared responsibility and that everyone can contribute.

For me, the campaign is also a reminder that HSE is not limited to one month. It is something we need to maintain in our daily work, decisions, and conversations throughout the year. By learning from each other and sharing good practices, we can continue to strengthen safe and sustainable ways of working across Valmet.