The Relentless Pursuit of Excellence: Nine Energy’s Journey with TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis

Background

In 2017, Nine Energy Service found itself facing a concerning trend: a rise in incident rates across its operations, leading to an increase in the total recordable incident ratings (TRIR). Rather than accepting this as the status quo, the company was determined to change the narrative. They set out on a mission to enhance their safety performance through a more structured and dependable approach. This quest led them to TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis, which kicked off as a pilot program in one division. The results exceeded their expectations, transforming this initiative into a bold, organization-wide commitment to safety. Today, Nine proudly champions a culture that values safety and resilience at every level, ensuring that protecting their team, partners, and community is always the top priority.

Challenges

Every company’s journey has its ups and downs, and Nine is no exception. The challenges posed by the 2020 pandemic-intiated workforce reductions and disrupted operations, which, while temporarily lowering incident numbers, also obscured underlying systemic issues. Fast forward to 2023, a change in leadership and renewed priorities highlighted a troubling trend: incident rates began to climb again. This spike served as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining a consistent focus on safety and the necessity for thorough investigations to uncover and address underlying
concerns.

TapRooT® Implementation

• 2018: TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis was introduced in one division and rapidly expanded across the organization after early successes.
• 2020: Despite operational slowdowns, TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis remained a key investigative framework.
• 2021–2023: Investigations revealed lapses in consistency. Leadership transitions highlighted the need for renewed focus.
• 2024: Nine reinforced its commitment to TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis, taking a proactive approach by applying it to not just OSHA recordables, but also extending this vital analysis to first aid incidents and minor events through the SnapCharT® Diagram. Each investigation is more than just a report; it’s a chance to unearth hidden safeguards, address communication breakdowns, and uncover systemic vulnerabilities. This thorough examination not only enhances safety but also strengthens the entire organizational framework, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Results

• Recordable Injury Reductions: TRIR fell from 0.74 in early 2024 to 0.49 by year-end.
• All-Injury Reductions: A 27% decrease in all injuries (from first aid through reportable incidents) while maintaining record man-hours and record profits.
• Division Turnaround: One of Nine’s divisions reached an impressive milestone by achieving 17 consecutive months without any recordable incidents. Not to be outdone, another division has also raised the bar by completing 13 months without recordable incidents.

Innovations and Solutions

Heat Management

After conducting thorough investigations using TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis, it became clear that the existing guidelines on heat safety were falling short. In response, Nine took proactive steps by rolling out an innovative Heat Management Standard Operating Procedure. This new approach introduced hydration testing devices, empowering workers to evaluate their hydration levels before heading out to the field. As a result, the company not only eliminated incidents of heat stroke but also significantly reduced cases of dehydration, ensuring a safer and healthier work environment for everyone.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Following slip-and-fall incidents that raised concerns, Nine took action to enhance safety. Nine’s investigations identified key hazards, prompting a thorough reassessment of risks. Nine introduced slip-resistant materials on their equipment, rebuilt platforms for greater stability, and upgraded signage to ensure everyone stays informed. In collaboration with their safety committees, Nine crafted and executed practical solutions that prioritize the well-being of everyone on-site.

Safety Communication

Gone are the days of static bulletin board postings! Now, Nine has a dynamic safety broadcasting system that delivers real-time updates, instant incident alerts, and valuable training content across all 28 districts. Staying informed and connected like never before!

Recognition and Engagement

Nine introduced an exciting token-based recognition system designed to celebrate and reward safe behaviors among workers. With categories like bronze, silver, gold, and platinum tokens, employees not only gain recognition but also secure entries into a drawing for a brand-new Ford F-150! This initiative, coupled with its “Stop Work Champion” recognition and incentive programs, has fostered a vibrant culture of ownership and accountability across all levels of the company.

Leadership Commitment

Ann Fox, Nine’s President and CEO, has always placed safety at the forefront of her priorities. Whether she’s making site visits or leading Incident Review Board meetings alongside the entire leadership team, she consistently communicates high standards for safety performance. Her hands-on approach not only reinforces executive accountability but also fosters a culture of engagement among frontline employees, demonstrating her commitment to a safe working environment for everyone.

Nine’s HSE Director, Steven Simpson made a powerful point: “If you merely chase recordable incidents, your progress will always hit a ceiling. To truly achieve greatness, you must cultivate ambition. Embrace the TapRooT® RCA method for everything – from first aid cases to thorough audits. It’s about transforming our approach and striving for excellence at every level! That’s how you change culture.”

Looking Ahead

With TapRooT® Root Cause Analysis embedded not only in incident investigations but also in audits, inspections, and leadership reviews, the company is building a resilient system that continuously drives improvement. The “relentless pursuit of excellence” guides every initiative, ensuring that safety remains a core value – not just a priority.