Bridging Safety and Security in Engineering with Dr. Bob Oates

Discover the unexpected synergy between safety and security engineering as I chat with Dr. Bob Oates, Associate Director at Cambridge Consultants. Prepare to learn how these often considered distinct fields align in their ultimate mission to prevent harm. Bob takes us on an insightful journey, sharing insights across his distinguished career, Bob leverages a fantastic example of the groundbreaking project delivering the world’s first commercial remotely operated ship he worked on whilst with Rolls Royce to bring the topic to life. We also unravel the vital role of systems engineering in managing risks and ensuring seamless communication among diverse teams.

Together, we explore the many considerations of safety and security in industries where the stakes are high, like shipping, aviation, and finance. We also speak around developments in post-quantum cryptography, to understand potential threats such as "harvest now, decrypt later" and the necessity of updating cryptographic practices. Bob and I emphasize the importance of preparing for these advancements, drawing parallels with safety systems to highlight the need for traceability and effective stakeholder communication. 

Takeaways

• Safety and security aim to prevent harm, whether accidental or malicious.
• Quality is the foundation of both safety and security.
• Systems engineering is crucial for connecting safety and security disciplines.
• Remote operations introduce unique safety and security challenges.
• Connectivity is a critical component for safety in remote systems.
• The integration of safety and security can lead to complex design challenges.
• Cryptography is essential for maintaining security in operational technology.
• Quantum computing poses new threats to traditional cryptographic methods.
• There is a skills shortage in both security and safety engineering fields.
• Understanding the value of cryptography is vital for stakeholder engagement.