My experience in the TAPS system has been completely different.  While I cannot speak to the culture in 1989, I can speak to what I have personally experienced from 2007 through today.  Never in my career have I had such support in the field to do my job safely.   If I have an issue with a piece of equipment, it is quickly resolved.  If I have a suggestion that improves things I am given credit.  If I have a concern over safety, the operation is halted until all are on the same page and then we safely proceed.

Even more important than my experience in TAPS is that I still deploy every month around the world to solve other companies problems and get to see the other end of the spectrum.  I see systems where operations are dictated by the bottom line. It is not pretty.

No system with people is perfect, but the proof is in the pudding.  I see the millions of man hours performed without injuries and I see the dedicated professionals everyday that do their job 24/7/365 rain or shine.