What is process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals (HHC)?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) of Highly Hazardous Chemicals (HHC’s) standard, 29 CFR 1910.119, contains requirements for the safe management of hazards associated with processes that use, store, manufacture, handle, or move highly hazardous chemicals onsite.
What is the process safety standard for hazardous materials?
The process safety standard is located in OSHA’s 1910 Subpart H on hazardous materials. This section holds the major requirements for preventing or mitigating the effects of dangerous releases of toxic, explosive or flammable chemicals. OSHA’s 1910.119 standard is made up of a few sections that pertain to the management of hazardous chemicals.
What is the OSHA standard for Chemical Safety?
OSHA's standard emphasizes the management of hazards associated with highly hazardous chemicals and establishes a comprehensive management program that integrates technologies, procedures, and management practices.
What is the purpose of OSHA PSM?
Purpose of the OSHA PSM Standard To ensure safe and healthy workplaces, OSHA created the Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals standard. This standard contains requirements for the management of processes using highly hazardous chemicals.
What is the OSHA Process Safety Management standard?
As a result, OSHA developed the Process Safety Management (PSM) standard (issued in 1992), which covers the manufacturing of explosives and processes involving threshold quantities of flammable liquids and flammable gasses (10,000 lbs), as well as 137 listed highly hazardous chemicals.
What's the standard number for OSHA's Process Safety Management of highly hazardous chemicals?
1910.1191910.119 - Process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
What is OSHA's definition of a hazardous chemical?
A hazardous chemical, as defined by the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), is any chemical which can cause a physical or a health hazard. This determination is made by the chemical manufacturer, as described in 29 CFR 1910.1200(d).
What is process hazard analysis OSHA?
The process hazard analysis is a thorough, orderly, systematic approach for identifying, evaluating, and controlling the hazards of processes involving highly hazardous chemicals. The employer must perform an initial process hazard analysis (hazard evaluation) on all processes covered by this standard.
Who is required to implement a PSM program?
Section 304 of the CAAA requires that the Secretary of Labor, in coordination with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), promulgate a PSM standard to prevent accidental releases of chemicals that could pose a threat to employees.
Which of the following must be included in the information on the highly hazardous chemicals used in the process?
Information regarding the highly hazardous chemicals in a process must consist of the following: Permissible exposure limits. Toxicity. Reactivity data.
What does OSHA require for all hazardous substances?
All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must have labels and safety data sheets for their exposed workers, and train them to handle the chemicals appropriately.
What are the 4 types of chemical hazards?
Chemical hazardsskin irritants.carcinogens.respiratory sensitisers.
What is required for every hazardous chemical on a job site?
Employers must maintain copies of SDSs for all hazardous chemicals present in their workplaces. If you do not receive an SDS from your supplier automatically, you must request one. You also must ensure that SDSs are readily accessible to workers when they are in their work areas during their work shifts.
Which OSHA standard mandates the use of process hazard analysis?
In 1992, OSHA issued the PSM mandate (1910.119). This mandate requires employers to perform a process hazard analysis (PHA) of each PSM-covered process.
What requires a process hazard analysis?
A PHA is required by OSHA for any industrial process that makes use of hazardous chemicals. It identifies and analyzes data to provide information that will assist employers and employees in making decisions for improving safety and reducing the consequences of unwanted or unplanned releases of hazardous chemicals.
What does the process safety management PSM standard require with respect to operating procedures on covered processes?
Accordingly, PSM requires the investigation of each incident that resulted in, or could reasonably have resulted in, a catastrophic release of a highly hazardous chemical in the workplace. Such an incident investigation must be initiated as promptly as possible, but not later than 48 hours following the incident.
What is a PSM chemical?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) of Highly Hazardous Chemicals (HHC's) standard, 29 CFR 1910.119, contains requirements for the safe management of hazards associated with processes that use, store, manufacture, handle, or move highly hazardous chemicals onsite.
Does OSHA have a list of hazardous chemicals?
Most of OSHA's PELs for Shipyard Employment are contained in 1915.1000 – Toxic and Hazardous Substances, and are listed by chemical name. Most of OSHA's PELs for Construction are contained in 1926.55 – Gases, Vapors, Fumes, Dusts, and Mists, and are listed by chemical name.
How does the GHS numbering system compare to the NFPA numbering system?
With GHS, the lower the categorization number, the greater the severity of the hazard. This is opposite of the way numbers and severity relate to each other under NFPA and HMIS. For instance, with NFPA, the higher the number, the greater the severity.
What is the meaning of highly hazardous chemical?
A material that is toxic, reactive, or flammable and is capable of causing a process safety incident if released. These materials are included in OSHA's PSM Standard, 29 CFR 1910.119.
Who shall provide access to process hazard analyses and to all other information required to be developed under this standard?
Employers shall provide to employees and their representatives access to process hazard analyses and to all other information required to be developed under this standard.
What is a highly hazardous substance?
Highly hazardous chemical means a substance possessing toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive properties and specified by paragraph (a) (1) of this section.
How often should a process hazard analysis be updated?
At least every five (5) years after the completion of the initial process hazard analysis, the process hazard analysis shall be updated and revalidated by a team meeting the requirements in paragraph (e) (4) of this section, to assure that the process hazard analysis is consistent with the current process.
What is process in chemical?
Process means any activity involving a highly hazardous chemical including any use, storage, manufacturing, handling, or the on-site movement of such chemicals, or combination of these activities. For purposes of this definition, any group of vessels which are interconnected and separate vessels which are located such that a highly hazardous chemical could be involved in a potential release shall be considered a single process.
What is the purpose of the Hazards section?
This section contains requirements for preventing or minimizing the consequences of catastrophic releases of toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive chemicals . These releases may result in toxic, fire or explosion hazards
What is 1910.119?
1910.119 (a) (1) (ii) (A) Hydrocarbon fuels used solely for workplace consumption as a fuel (e.g., propane used for comfort heating, gasoline for vehicle refueling), if such fuels are not a part of a process containing another highly hazardous chemical covered by this standard; 1910.119 (a) (1) (ii) (B)
Who performs hazard analysis?
The process hazard analysis shall be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations, and the team shall include at least one employee who has experience and knowledge specific to the process being evaluated. Also, one member of the team must be knowledgeable in the specific process hazard analysis methodology being used.
What is OSHA process safety management?
OSHA’s process safety management standard addresses specific components of the construction industry, but also contains regulations that apply across all sectors. If you’d like to find out more about the agency’s process safety management standard, check out the following information.
What is the process safety management standard for construction?
The process safety management standard for construction is similar in structure to the general industry regulations, but its specifics are different. The standard for construction is OSHA 1926 Subpart D. Appendix A, the list of highly hazardous chemicals and reactives, is a mandatory component of the standard in construction, while the other appendixes are not required. Like the standard for general industry, Appendix B contains a block-flow diagram and simplified process-flow diagram, Appendix C contains guidelines and recommendations for employers and staff members to meet the standard and Appendix D includes sources for further information regarding safety precautions around dangerous chemicals and materials.
Is OSHA a daunting task?
Reviewing OSHA’s specific requirements can be quite daunting, especially when you’re looking for solutions immediately. We will include a sort of elevator pitch for OSHA’s process safety management standard.
Is manufacturing dangerous?
Individuals working in the manufacturing industry come into contact with dangerous materials and chemicals regularly throughout their day-to-days. Even the most careful employees may experience an incident that puts themselves and others at risk of exposure to harmful toxins. OSHA developed this standard to put employers responsible for providing their workers with the tools and knowledge they will need to stay safe in the manufacturing space.
What do chemical safety managers need to do before proceeding with the other elements?
Before proceeding with the other elements, chemical safety managers will need to develop a plan of action on implementing employee participation in the PSM program. Additionally, chemical safety managers must consult with employees on how to proceed with each element as well as provide access to information relevant to the program.
What is Process Safety Management?
Process safety management is a regulatory standard issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for processes that use Highly Hazardous Chemicals (HHCs). The OSHA process safety management standard contains requirements for preventing catastrophic releases of toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive chemicals.
What is process hazard analysis?
A process hazard analysis (PHA) is an evaluation of the hazards in the process. It should address any previous PSM incidents, engineering and administrative controls, and consequences of control failure.
What is the flashpoint of a flammable liquid?
OSHA states that the process safety management standard applies to any process that involves a chemical with quantities at or above the specified threshold listed in Appendix A and any process that involves a Category 1 flammable gas or a flammable liquid with a flashpoint below 100 °F (37.8 °C) and in a quantity of 10,000 pounds (4535.9 kg) or more.
How to evaluate the effectiveness of the PSM program?
Evaluate the effectiveness of the PSM program through field inspections of the safety and health conditions and practices. Create and follow-up on corrective actions and document the results.
Where to find HHCs in OSHA?
While the full list of HHCs can be found in Appendix A of the OSHA PSM standard, it might also be helpful for chemical safety managers to know the basic definitions of toxic, reactive, flammable, and explosive. These are properties or characteristics of HHCs.
How often do chemical safety managers need to conduct compliance audits?
Chemical safety managers must conduct compliance audits at least every 3 years to check if the site’s PSM program adheres to all of the elements. They will also need to determine and document an appropriate response to each of the findings in the compliance audit reports. Organizations are required by the PSM standard to keep the two most recent compliance audit reports.
What is the role of OSHA in process management?
OSHA requires employers to consult with employees and employee representatives regarding the development of process hazard analyses and other elements of process management. They must also provide employees and their representatives with access to process hazard analyses as well as all relevant information.
What Is Process Safety Management (PSM)?
Process safety management (PSM) is a regulation put into motion by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It was designed as a tool to help companies prevent highly hazardous chemicals (HHCs) from being mishandled or released. PSM elements include several requirements that involve the handling, using, moving, storing or manufacturing of these harmful HHCs.
What is required for a process hazard analysis?
Prior to conducting any process hazard analysis, employers are required by OSHA to develop a compilation of written PSM safety topics. This will help the employer and employees to understand the potential hazards of working with highly hazardous chemicals.
What is the purpose of the OSHA PSM?
Purpose of the OSHA PSM Standard. To ensure safe and healthy workplaces, OSHA created the Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals standard. This standard contains requirements for the management of processes using highly hazardous chemicals. These efforts help to prevent and minimize catastrophic releases of toxic, flammable, ...
What is a PHA?
Process hazard analyses (PHA’s) are designed to identify, evaluate, and control the hazards of processes involving extremely hazardous chemicals. Employers are required to adhere to one or more of the following methods in order to determine and evaluate the hazards involved in the process:
How often should an employer conduct a safety audit?
Employers are required to conduct a process safety management audit at least once every three years. These audits will confirm that the practices and procedures developed under the standard are satisfactory and are being followed.
What industries use process safety management?
The process safety management standard applies to industries that use highly hazardous chemicals, including by not limited to: Manufacturing industries (especially those pertaining to chemicals, fabricated metal products, and transportation equipment) Construction industries. Electric, gas, and sanitary services.
What is process hazard analysis?
A process hazard analysis (PHA), sometimes called a process hazard evaluation, is an organized and systematic effort to identify and analyze the significance of potential hazards associated with the processing or handling of highly hazardous chemicals. The PHA focuses on equipment, instrumentation, utilities, human actions (routine and nonroutine), and external factors that might impact the process. Determine and document the priority order for conducting PHAs that includes such considerations as the extent of the process hazards, the number of potentially affected employees, the age of the process, and the operating history of the process.
What is a safety data sheet?
Safety data sheets (SDSs) meeting the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard (20 CFR 1910.1200 ) may be used to comply with information on the hazards requirement to the extent they contain the required information.
What is a pre-start-up safety review?
Pre-start-up safety review. The initial start-up procedures and normal operating procedures need to be fully evaluated as part of the pre-start-up review to ensure a safe transfer into the normal operating mode for meeting the process parameters. Piping and instrument diagrams (P&IDs) are to be completed along with having the operating procedures in place and the operating staff trained to run the process before start-up. Any incident investigation recommendations, compliance audits, or PHA recommendations need to be reviewed as well to see what impacts they may have on the process before beginning the start-up.
What is a PSM rule?
The PSM rule is a performance-based rule; that is, it does not prescribe how each element is to be implemented.
How to determine if a process is covered by PSM?
If several distinct and separate processes at a facility use the same highly hazardous chemical, coverage is determined by comparing the maximum intended inventory of each process to the appropriate total quantity for the chemical. Do not add up the inventory of all processes to determine whether the facility is covered.
Why should procedures be written at a level of detail?
Generally, procedures should be written at a level of detail so that an experienced operator who is not familiar with a particular process unit could run the unit with minimal supervision or help from other operators, or the least experienced operator released for unsupervised work could run the unit.
What is mechanical integrity?
Mechanical integrity program. Establish and implement written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of process equipment. Elements of a mechanical integrity program include the identification and categorization of equipment and instrumentation, inspections and tests, testing and inspection frequencies, development of maintenance procedures, training of maintenance personnel, the establishment of criteria for acceptable test results, documentation of test and inspection results, and documentation of manufacturer recommendations as to meantime to failure for equipment and instrumentation.
What is PHA in OSHA?
The key provision of PSM is process hazard analysis (PHA), which is a thorough, orderly, systematic approach for identifying, evaluating, and controlling the hazards of processes involving highly hazardous chemicals. OSHA believes that the PHA should be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations, ...
What is the purpose of process safety management?
The major objective of process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals is to prevent unwanted releases of hazardous toxic, reactive, flammable or explosive chemicals especially into locations which could expose employees and the community to serious hazards.
Why do employers need to compile process safety information?
Employers must compile written process safety information in order to identify and understand the hazards posed by those processes involving highly hazardous chemicals. Process safety information must include information on the hazards of the highly hazardous chemicals used or produced by the process, and information on the technology ...
Why is process safety important?
The process safety information provides the basis for identifying and understanding the hazards of a process and is necessary in developing the process hazard analysis (PHA) and may be necessary for complying with other provisions of PSM such as management of change and incident investigations.
How to implement OSHA?
OSHA requires that employers: 1 Develop a written plan of action regarding employee participation; 2 Consult with employees and their representatives on developing process hazard analyses and other elements of process safety management; and 3 Provide to employees and their representatives access to process hazard analyses and to all other information required under the rule.
Why is a safety review required?
Before introducing any highly hazardous chemical to a process, a safety review is required for new and modified facilities to confirm that the construction and equipment are in accordance with design specifications; to assure that adequate safety, operating, maintenance and emergency procedures are in place; and to assure process operator training has been completed. The review must also confirm that a PHA has been performed for new facilities and the recommendations have been resolved or implemented before startup.
How many pounds of flammable liquids are in a PSM?
In each industry, PSM applies to any of more than 130 specific toxic and reactive chemicals in listed quantities on site in one location (see Appendix A of standard); it also includes flammable liquids and gases in quantities of 10,000 pounds (4,535.9 Kg) or more.