What is PSM?

PSM is process safety management, a standard that was created by OSHA to prevent the release of highly hazardous chemicals and, in the event that an accidental release does occur, helps to minimize the consequences. A facility that correctly implements the PSM standard actively works to prevent disasters that concern dangerous substances through communication, training, and hazard analysis. Employees learn how to safely handle and store hazardous chemicals, and they become familiar with detailed operating procedures so they can follow standardized shutdown operations during a release. PSM also helps to establish emergency planning and response.

“Highly hazardous chemicals” are chemicals that have been classified to have the potential to cause a catastrophic event due to their toxic, flammable, reactive, or explosive properties. OSHA maintains a list of highly hazardous chemicals; currently, there are more than 130 of them. Any company that uses one or more of these chemicals is required to adhere to OSHA’s PSM standard. If your facility handles, transports, or stores any chemicals on the list, OSHA requires you to compile process safety information and conduct a process hazard analysis. These determine the specific hazards that your facility’s chemicals pose and are the foundation for establishing safe and appropriate operations.

PSM Requirements

On top of gathering safety information and conducting a hazard analysis, OSHA’s process safety management standard, 29 CFR 1910.119, breaks down 14 elements that work together to establish an effective PSM program:GHS Hazardous Chemicals

  • Operating Procedures
  • Process Safety Information
  • Process Hazard Analysis
  • Mechanical Integrity
  • Hot Work
  • Management of Change
  • Trade Secrets
  • Employee Participation
  • Training
  • Contractors
  • Emergency Planning and Response
  • Pre-startup Safety Review
  • Incident Investigation
  • Compliance Audits

While the release of hazardous chemicals can happen at any time, process safety management helps to reduce the risk and level of danger. This essential standard ensures that employers fully understand the chemicals that are within their facility and the necessary precautionary measures to take. It also ensures that employees understand how to handle these chemicals safely and what to do in the event of an emergency. By implementing PSM, many companies can reduce the possibility of a catastrophic chemical release.


Additional PSM facts:

 

View all Safety Q&A

 
 

Free Samples

Get samples of our most popular products so you can see the quality before you buy.

 
Other FREE Resources:

Helpful Resources