The CSB has Released a Safety Digest on Worker Participation to Help Prevent Catastrophic Chemical Incidents
CSB Board Member Rick Engler said, “Worker engagement is key to an effective process safety program. After all, it’s employees who are so often in direct contact with the hazards — and have the experience and knowledge to help prevent them.”
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) has found that worker participation is an essential element to improve process safety and prevent chemical incidents. Existing federal regulations require worker participation in matters of process safety, and industry standards similarly call for worker participation. Yet, CSB incident investigations have identified missed opportunities for
workers to effectively participate in process safety activities facilities where they work, typically in proximity to the most serious hazards. A lack of effective worker participation can lead to an increase in the risk of injury to workers and, in the event of a serious safety incident, can adversely impact the company and members of the public who live near these industrial facilities. This digest summarizes four CSB investigations where ineffective worker participation contributed to a major chemical incident or otherwise provided insights into opportunities for improved practices. It highlights key lessons and offers guidance to help ensure effective worker participation.
To view the entire digest visit this link.
Effective employee participation keeps the PSM/RMP system accurate and greatly increases the effectiveness of the plan in improving and responding to incidents. No manager or engineer knows as much useful safety information concerning your process those who operate that process on a daily basis.
