Which model do you prefer? The Classic Inverted PyramidThe conventional representation of the hierarchy of controls is an inverted pyramid structure conveying the prioritization of strategies. Current versions orient the pyramid differently, depending on the agency or application of the controls. The clearest conflict in visual representation between the inverted and typical pyramid is found […]
Up to 100 pounds of ammonia was released outside a public athletic club with indoor ice facilities. The leak happened during decommissioning work of an ammonia refrigeration condenser by a refrigeration contractor and resulted in the facility enacting their Ammonia Release Emergency Protocol. Multiple workers and members of the public were in the area at
The revised Code of Practice for Safety and Health at Work in Confined Spaces (CoP) will officially take effect tomorrow (November 30). The CoP was gazetted on May 31 this year, and a grace period of six months was provided to allow sufficient time for the industry to understand and prepare for the revised requirements.
Respondent operated a facility that manufactures ammonium phosphate fertilizers and sulphuric acid. EPA conducted an on-site investigation of Respondent’s operations at the Facility pursuant to CAA Section 112(r), EPCRA Sections 304-12, and CERCLA Section 103 on January 30, 2020 (the “Inspection”). Respondent has informed EPA that the Facility no longer has any ammonia onsite as
Any safety pro with one week of experience in the field will understand the abuses of “extension cords.” These cords may be the most common finding of any organization, and often, the professional may not be fully versed in the OSHA and NFPA 70 requirements. So, once again, I turn to the IFC for some
The day has arrived! The 2024 IFC recognizes the new GHS for Flammable Gases by breaking down CAT 1 Flammable Gases into 1A and 1B Flammable Gases. it also uses the phrase “Burning Velocity” (BV) which are defined and quantified as…
As we have discussed, the Chemical Safety Board (CSB) issued a Safety Study (CSB Safety Study: No. 2024-01-H, Remote Isolation of Process Equipment) discussing the untapped advantages when Remote Emergency Shut-Off Valves are used in hazardous processing. I have written about these requirements for all types of hazardous materials; this post is for Flammable Gases
Arc flash incidents pose significant risks to worker safety. However, there are three types of boundaries to consider when approaching energized electrical equipment. It is important to know all approach boundaries and who may cross them and remain safe. CLICK HERE for OSHA4474
According to OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.333 standard, “Conductors and parts of electric equipment that have been deenergized but have not been locked out or tagged … shall be treated as energized parts.” Even below 240V, arc flashes can occur. The clothes you wear under your PPE are equally important. Molten metal –or the arc flash
Those who follow my posts closely know I am a massive fan of bollards for physically protecting hazardous materials processes. These simple and inexpensive posts have saved my butt over my career more times than I can count, and yet so many still are unaware of their need and requirements. But these bollards are for
Growing up in the Process Safety world with OHSA’s PSM and EPA’s RMP standards, I thought everyone had a “Safety Management System.” In school, we learned about OSH Management Systems and all they could do for a business. However, when I started consulting in 2005, I realized that SMSs were elusive in industrial facilities. Even
In light of the recent HSE video showing a 30′ silo exploding and going airborne for 9 seconds, I thought it might be fitting to offer some guidance on how to SAFELY perform HW on these “used containers.” OSHA’s 1910.252 standard provides no advice other than to say that we must be “absolutely certain” that
