Emergency Response

PHMSA proposes revisions to the pipeline safety regulations to require operators of gas distribution pipelines to update their distribution integrity management programs (DIMP), emergency response plans, operations and maintenance manuals, and other safety practices These proposals implement provisions of the Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act—part of the Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety […]

Earlier this year, a member of the SAFTENG FaceBook group posted a question about this type of system being used in a warehouse within the USA.  Many of us were caught off guard as it seemed very risky to drop the Oxygen level to 13% in an occupied space, even with all the alarms and

One common deficiency we encounter in our chlorine (Cl2) work is the management of these emergency response kits (e.g. A, B, and C Kits).  We find three common failures regardless of the type of Kit: Kit(s) is not inspected “routinely” Kit contents are not managed per their specific requirements (i.e.. hood gaskets) Personnel lack training

One of the audit findings that we believe to be an essential requirement certainly raises many folks’ blood pressure.  We get accused of “piling on” when we write up findings in our OSH and PSM/RMP audits regarding the incorrect testing of a facility’s employee alarm system(s).  And we use OSHA’s requirements, which are actually quite

The Chlorine Institute has updated its A, B, and C Kit manuals with some significant revisions.  Unfortunately, these manuals are no longer free to non-members, but if you utilize these kits in your emergency response program, they are a MUST-have.  Luckily they cost only $40.  Here is a peek at the B-Kit Manual revisions:

One of my pet peeves in safety is emergency egress lighting.  From not having any to having some serious deficiencies in the setup and functioning of the lighting.  OSHA has failed to establish a minimum lighting intensity for this emergency lighting.  OSHA has established the brightness for EXIT signs, but when it comes to the

At 1:30 p.m. on August 7, 2022, an employee worked as a production supervisor in his office when the deluge system alarm was activated. Approximately 30 seconds after the audible alarm was engaged, the foam generators were activated and began to disperse 2.2% high expansion foam.  The employee attempted to exit his office to reach

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) establishes requirements for federal, state, and local governments, Indian tribes, and industry regarding emergency planning and reporting on hazardous and toxic chemicals. Individual facilities are required to conduct emergency planning with state and local emergency planning committees, report accidental releases to the proper authorities, and report annually

Once again, I can not stress how valuable FM Global can be to your safety efforts.  Their Loss Prevention Data Sheets are FREE and some of the best guidance we can find.  Our profession is always complaining about spending money on ANSI, ASME, NFPA, etc. codes and standards. Yet, these Loss Prevention Data Sheets are