Mechanical Integrity Consulting and the Use of Special Emphasis Inspection Programs (SEIP)
Navigating OSHA Compliance Effectively
Understanding the Hazards of Welding Operations
Welding is important to many industries, including construction and manufacturing. Unfortunately, there are various hazards it presents to both the workers directly involved in the process and those using surrounding equipment. One of the most significant risks in welding operations is exposure to fumes and gases. These emissions contain substances like ozone, nitrogen oxides, chromium, nickel oxides,…
The Need for Robust Safety Programs – Lessons from the Foundation Food Group Tragedy
The recent report released by the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) regarding the liquid nitrogen release at the Foundation Food Group (FFG) facility in Gainesville, GA, in January 2021 is a stark reminder of the importance of robust safety programs in the workplace. The devastating incident claimed the lives of six workers…
HSE Performance Using Leading Indicators for Proactive Management
In Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) management, the terms “leading” and “lagging” indicators are commonly used. But what do these terms really mean to HSE performance and overall site culture? What distinguishes these indicators, and why should management prioritize leading indicators over lagging ones? Leading vs. Lagging Indicators Lagging Indicators are metrics that reflect the…
Understanding the Importance of Process Safety Management
In workplaces where the handling of hazardous chemicals is common, ensuring the safety of employees and the surrounding community becomes a top priority. This is where Process Safety Management (PSM) steps in as a vital framework mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States. PSM is not just a set…
OSHA’s Move from Hard Hats to Safety Helmets
In a move geared toward strengthening worker safety, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently announced a significant shift in head protection for its employees. The agency announced the replacement of traditional hard hats with more modern safety helmets for their employees, to increase the protection of staff during inspection…
Investing in Prevention – OSHA Compliance & Audits
In a recent news highlight, a company faced substantial OSHA fines totaling $596,221 following an inspection. Shockingly, every fine could have been prevented with proactive audits and gap closure plans. The violations ranged from willful to serious breaches of OSHA standards. Notably, the absence of a Hearing Conservation program led to a staggering fine of…
EPA Finalizes Methane Emissions Proposal
Last week the Biden Administration finalized a climate rule, mandating significant reductions in methane emissions from oil fields, with a primary focus on Texas, the largest oil and gas producing state in the U.S. The announcement was made during the 28th international United Nations climate summit in Dubai. The rule aims to restrict methane emissions,…
Steps to Cultivate a Strong Safety Culture
Safety in the workplace isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s the foundation of a healthy, productive, and thriving work environment. Establishing a culture that prioritizes safety requires deliberate steps, commitment, and involvement from every level of an organization. Here is a list to consider when focusing on creating a workplace that puts safety at the…