Chapter 5 - Technical information and industry standards

Abstract

This chapter discusses the technical information and industry standards. All operational integrity and process safety programs are built on a foundation of complete, accurate, and timely technical information. The regulations and standards require that good written records be maintained so that outside auditors can evaluate the status of the integrity management systems. The development and management of high-quality technical information, particularly the safe upper and lower limit values, can be difficult and time-consuming but it is a vital activity. This chapter summarizes the technical information that should be available to operations, maintenance, and technical staff. Suppliers and generators of hazardous materials used in the workplace are required to document the specific hazards and related safety precautions and procedures. For employers using hazardous chemicals, the most important aspect of the written program in terms of MSDSs is to ensure that someone is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the MSDSs for every hazardous chemical in the workplace. The list of hazardous chemicals required to be maintained as part of the written program will serve as an inventory.