This article illustrates how the findings from research work have been used to develop practical tools for the assessment of safety management systems and attitudes to safety at Major Hazard sites. In describing the process of developing such tools some mention is made of the research work itself, although this is mainly by reference to published material, and some reference is made to the process of initiating research work and managing it, The paper, therefore, seeks to emphasise the practical utility of research work in the field of health and safety. The author fully acknowledges the wide range of contributions made by other workers to the outcomes of the work.