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Process Safety Management
Overview
Unexpected releases of toxic, reactive, or flammable liquids and gases in processes involving highly hazardous chemicals have been reported for many years, in various industries using chemicals with such properties. Regardless of the industry that uses these highly hazardous chemicals, there is a potential for an accidental release any time they are not properly controlled, creating the possibility of disaster.
To help ensure safe and healthful workplaces, OSHA has issued the Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals standard (29 CFR 1910.119), which contains requirements for the management of hazards associated with processes using highly hazardous chemicals.
Process safety management (PSM) is addressed in specific standards for the general and construction industries. 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.
Standards
Process safety management (PSM) is addressed in specific standards for General Industry and Construction.
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Hazard Recognition
Provides references that help begin a PHA by recognizing process hazards.
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Evaluation and Control
Provides references that may aid in evaluating and controlling process hazards in the workplace.
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Additional Resources
Provides links and references to additional resources related to process safety management.
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Highlights
- Process Safety Management for Petroleum Refineries. OSHA Publication 3918, (2017).
- Process Safety Management for Explosives and Pyrotechnics Manufacturing. OSHA Publication 3912, (2017).
- Process Safety Management for Small Businesses. OSHA Publication 3908, (2017).
- Process Safety Management for Storage Facilities. OSHA Publication 3909, (2017).
- PSM Covered Chemical Facilities National Emphasis Program. OSHA Directive CPL 03-00-021, (January 17, 2017).
- Process Safety Management - Small Business Advocacy Review Panel. OSHA is initiating a Small Business Advocacy Review Panel in order to get feedback on several potential revisions to OSHA's Process Safety Management Program (PSM) standard.
- Petroleum Refinery Process Safety Management National Emphasis Program. OSHA Directive CPL 03-00-010, (August 18, 2009).
- Refinery NEP First Year Inspection Results. OSHA.
- Process Safety Management Depends on You!. OSHA Publication 3315, (2009).
Workers' Rights
Workers have the right to:
- Working conditions that do not pose a risk of serious harm.
- Receive information and training (in a language and vocabulary the worker understands) about workplace hazards, methods to prevent them, and the OSHA standards that apply to their workplace.
- Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses.
- File a complaint asking OSHA to inspect their workplace if they believe there is a serious hazard or that their employer is not following OSHA's rules. OSHA will keep all identities confidential.
- Exercise their rights under the law without retaliation, including reporting an injury or raising health and safety concerns with their employer or OSHA. If a worker has been retaliated against for using their rights, they must file a complaint with OSHA as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days.
For additional information, see OSHA's Workers page.
How to Contact OSHA
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742), TTY 1-877-889-5627.