Process Safety Management FAQs

Process Safety Management FAQs

What is PSM?

Process Safety Management is an analytical tool composed of organizational
and operational procedures, design guidance, audit programs, and a host of
other methods intended to prevent or minimize the consequences of
catastrophic releases of toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive chemicals.

  • Reference OSHA CFR 1910.119 and EPA 40 CFR 68 for complete details

What companies are subject to PSM?

PSM applies to companies that deal with toxic and reactive Highly Hazardous
Chemicals (HHCs) at or above the specified threshold quantity (TQ) as
defined by OSHA standards. It also includes

flammable liquids and gases defined by OSHA 1910.1200(c) in quantities of
10,000 pounds (4,535.9 Kg) or more. Common focus industries include
manufacturing, specifically those pertaining to petroleum products,
chemicals, transportation equipment, and fabricated metal products. Other
sectors include natural gas liquids, farm product warehousing, wholesale
trade, pyrotechnics/ explosives, as well as electric, gas, and sanitary
services.

  • Reference OSHA CFR 1910.119 and EPA 40 CFR 68 for complete details
  • Reference OSHA CFR 1910.119 and EPA 40 CFR 68 for complete details

What companies are not subject to PSM?

PSM does not apply to:

  • Retail facilities
  • Oil or gas well drilling or remote servicing operations that are normally
    unoccupied
  • Facilities where HHCs maintained fall below OSHA Threshold Quantity (TQ)
  • Reference CFR 1910.119 and 40 CFR 68 for complete details

I don’t have a PSM program yet. Can you help?

EN Consulting can help determine if you are subject to regulations and are
required to implement a formal PSM program. Our PSM experts can develop an
overall PSM program or individual element definition and program writeups.

I’ve completed a PSM program. What now?

PSM is often viewed as an initiative to be completed within a set period of
time; however, this attitude is not congruent with the intentions and
requirements of PSM. PSM is an ongoing initiative that must be maintained as
long as the covered processes are operating. Proper maintenance of PSM
programs can consume significant company resources; so many companies
utilize EN Consulting’s highly experienced team to provide efficient
coordination and maintenance of their PSM programs. Our experts can perform
a Process Safety Gap Assessment and scrutinize every aspect of your program
and facilities, following up with a detailed report that outlines gaps and
provides corrective measures to ensure you comply with OSHA regulatory
standards.

Who mandates PSM compliance?

On July 17, 1990, OSHA published in the Federal Register (55 FR 29150) a
proposed standard, Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals.
The standard provides requirements for the management of hazards associated
with processes using highly-hazardous chemicals to help assure safe and
healthy workplaces. Some states have adopted standards and enforcement
policies that may differ from those mandated by OSHA.

  • Reference CFR 1910.119 and 40 CFR 68 for complete details

What are the benefits of implementing PSM?

PSM programs help protect people, assets, and the environment. PSM may also
ensure process continuity (uptime), improve productivity, mitigate financial
loss, and avoid negative publicity from incidents.

Why consider PSM if it’s not mandated?

While PSM may not be a regulatory requirement for your facility, you are
required by OSHA and the EPA to operate your facility consistent with
industry-recognized good practices. PSM is a sound practice that helps
protect companies, employees, assets, and the environment. In the event that
levels of HHCs reach threshold quantity as defined by OSHA, your process
will become subject to PSM regulations.

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