What term describes a safety culture where violating standard operating procedures becomes the norm?

The term "normalization of deviance" specifically refers to the phenomenon where deviations from established protocols or standard operating procedures (SOPs) become accepted as routine behavior over time. This occurs when individuals or organizations begin to disregard safety measures or guidelines, often due to a perceived lack of negative consequences for these deviations. As a result, actions that were once considered violations of rules become normalized within the culture of the organization.

This concept is significant in the context of safety culture, as it highlights the dangers of complacency and the potential consequences of ignoring established protocols. In environments like firefighting or emergency response, where adherence to SOPs is crucial for safety and effectiveness, the normalization of deviance can lead to increased risks and potentially tragic outcomes. Addressing and overcoming this trend is essential for fostering a strong safety culture that prioritizes compliance with established procedures.