Implementation of Hazardous Materials Communication (HAZCOM) Program in A Petroleum Company Facilities

Abstract

Abstract Scope: This paper introduces Hazardous Materials Communication Program (HAZCOM) program that was introduced to the oil company management to develop hazardous materials communications in 1999. The Hazardous Materials Communication Program is a comprehensive system for communication of the hazards to employees by providing information, concepts, and training program for employees on the safe handling and use of hazardous substances throughout in an industrial work environment. The HAZCOM program is one of the fundamental elements of the occupational health and safety practices and procedures in today's industrial work environment. The program elements are: Chemical risk assessment (CRA).Training of all employees.HAZCOM in-house labeling for all chemical containers.Development of Chemical Hazard Bulletins (CHBs).Field audit. Methods: HAZCOM Program implementation was introduced at company major facilities including five refineries, nine gas plants and one oil producing plant. Designated project team for each facility performed a chemical risk assessment including (1) identification of hazardous materials and a complete inventory, (2) a risk assessment, (3) chemical storage conditions and compatibility, (4) methods of transfer, handling and unloading, (5) hazard control measures, and (6) use and maintenance of personal protective equipment. Conclusions and recommendations were made allowing potential problems to be prevented. The remaining elements of HAZCOM Program were also implemented by the project team who is responsible for each facility as per implementation plan. The HAZCOM Program implementation started in 1999 and completed at fifteen facilities by end of 2001. The program implementation for the remaining major facilities is in progress during the year of 2002. Results & Conclusion: The potential problems identified by the chemical risk assessment are to be addressed within the guidelines of three industrial hygiene programs: (1) a hazardous materials communication program, (2) a comprehensive occupational health hazard assessment program, and (3) a chemical emergency response preparedness program. These three programs make a comprehensive Hazardous Materials Protection Program encompassing an effective strategy to control workplace hazards, prevent accidents, and protect the worker health and environment. The HAZCOM Program including chemical risk assessment establishes potential chemical risk to employees and facilities for a new plant process or the status of chemical risk at existing facilities. Properly designed and applied programs targeting these hazards can effectively control hazards and reduce the risk to employees and the work environment. Areas of Interest: Health and the Working Environment: 45-Chemicals and Other Workplace hazards, 51-Industrial Hygiene, 48- Exposure Assessment