To help us operate at world-class levels, we have systematic operational excellence processes integrated into every aspect of our business. Our Operational Excellence Management System helps us protect people and the environment and maintain our reputation as a reliable and efficient energy provider.

Safety is our highest priority. For the fifth consecutive year, we improved our safety performance and reduced the rate of injuries severe enough to require days away from work by 25 percent compared with 2005. Our safety performance is among the top in the industry, and we continue to move toward world-class performance.

Our environmental performance also continued to improve. In 2006, we had 5 percent fewer oil spills, and volumes were significantly lower than in previous years. During the year, we also continued to generate greater energy efficiencies in our operations (see Efficient Energy).