Training for Success in Process Safety Management, 1995 Engineering Conference Proceedings

Andrew Williford

Training Systems, Inc.

Pulp and Paper manufacturing facilities throughout the United States have struggled to comply with the requirements of OSHA’s Process Safety Management directive 29 CFR 1910.119. With a mill-wide perspective on training, facilities establish the building blocks for PSM compliance and technical skills development. The objectives of this paper are to outline the requirements of the PSM code, to show the importance of training as part of the PSM directive, and to show how PSM can fit into your total training, quality, and standardization programs. Compliance must be considered a grassroots effort. The standard presents a comprehensive management program: a holistic approach integrating technologies, procedures, and management practices. The results of a holistic approach to PSM are positive to say the least. Decreasing the possibility of a catastrophic release of highly hazardous chemicals is only one advantage of a successfully implemented program. Increased employee knowledge and communication in process areas is established. In addition, facilities can expect lower maintenance costs due to fewer equipment failures, lower operating costs due to increased procedural and process knowledge, and increased efficiency due to timely record keeping and documentation updates.