Publication Date: April 27th, 2023
Several recent chemical spills across the country have threatened the environment and human health. From the recent plastics fire at a recycling plant in Indiana to the train derailment disaster in East Palestine, it’s no wonder these catastrophes are leading to a “Growing concern of chemical exposure,” according to NBC news.
To mitigate the risks associated with highly hazardous chemicals and processes, those companies handling such chemicals in sufficient quantity must develop a Process Safety Management (PSM) program under OSHA’s standard 29 CFR 1910.119. A PSM program is a systematic program that we develop to manage and mitigate the risks associated with highly hazardous chemicals. It is a set of guidelines, procedures, and practices that identifies your risks and controls the hazards associated with their processes, operating procedures, employee training, and emergency response planning. The goal of PSM is to prevent incidents such as fires, explosions, and chemical releases that could harm employees, communities, and the environment.
Our experts can develop your PSM program, along with conducting hazard assessments, such as a process hazard analysis (PHA). In addition, hazardous waste operations and emergency response (HAZWOPER) training should be considered for an emergency response to keep you compliant with OSHA standards. Our team here includes individuals from different subject matter areas, such as industrial hygiene, environmental engineering, and safety. We have an in-depth knowledge of chemicals used in the process and the hazards associated with them.
Developing a Process Hazard Analysis (PHA)
A PHA specifically analyzes potential hazards associated with a process or system, including chemical spills and other potential disasters. A PHA evaluates the safety risks of specific covered processes and evaluates the effectiveness of current control measures. PHAs help to improve safety culture while meeting the regulatory requirements of OSHA’s PSM standard.
How does the PHA process work? We conduct an in-depth analysis of the specific hazard associated with processes at your company and the potential consequences of a potential chemical release. Our team considers both internal and external factors that could contribute to a chemical release, such as equipment failure, human error, and natural disasters.
In conclusion, a process hazard analysis (PHA) is an effective tool for identifying and analyzing potential hazards associated with chemical releases from a process or system at your facility.
8 and 24-Hour HAZWOPER Training
We also offer two hands-on training courses for HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response). HAZWOPER is a set of regulations developed by OSHA that establish safety and health standards for workers who are involved in the cleanup of hazardous waste sites or who respond to emergency releases of hazardous materials.
OSHA requires HAZWOPER training for all workers who are exposed to hazardous waste or who may be called upon to respond to an emergency involving hazardous materials. These education days are essential to protect workers from the health and physical hazards of responding to hazardous chemical releases and to ensure the safe cleanup of these chemicals.
We offer a 24-Hour first-time training and an 8-hour annual refresher. The training includes:
∙ The nature of hazardous waste/chemicals and the potential hazards.
∙ The use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
∙ The safe handling and storage of hazardous waste.
∙ The proper use of emergency equipment and spill cleanup exercises.
∙ The procedures for responding to an emergency release of hazardous chemicals.
Considering what appears to be a recent increase of chemical releases, developing a PSM program and undergoing HAZWOPER training is more critical than ever. Chemical spills and toxic accidents have severe consequences, including damage to the environment, harm to wildlife, and risks to human health and safety—not to mention they will be costly.
Contact ISES today for more information on developing a customized PSM program and HAZWOPER training for your company.