The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of process safety management (PSM) for facilities handling hazardous materials. The course shows the scope of PSM, and explains briefly the meaning of its elements and components.
This course is based on the approach developed by the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. This approach was selected after reviewing several of the alternatives currently available, and was chosen because it is comprehensive, well supported by reference materials, tools and an organizational infrastructure, and is based on a benchmark of leading or good industry practice rather than on a minimum standard.
Organizations already practising PSM but using a different approach (e.g.API RP750) do not necessarily need to switch to the approach given here. They should however be aware of any items here which may not be addressed under their present PSM scope (e.g. human factors). They should also be able to demonstrate that they have alternative measures in place for proper control of those items.
This course describes the application of these PSM principles to prevent accidents at facilities that manufacture, store, handle or use hazardous materials.
The process safety management system suggested by the Center for Chemical Process Safety consists of 12 elements. These elements are intended to work in conjunction with traditional health and safety programs and applicable federal/provincial legislation. Some elements or components of PSM may be less applicable to some facilities, depending on the nature and degree of potential hazards involved. However, each item should be considered before assuming that it is not applicable. Nonetheless, a complete framework of PSM elements is recommended for each facility.