Prevention Policy Implications of Recommendations in the Chemical Industry: Perspectives from the US Chemical Safety Board (CSB)

Background and Objective Numerous US Chemical Safety Board (USCSB) investigations have identified gaps in the regulatory framework that fall short of protecting the health and safety of workers and the public. However, the inaction on these recommendations speaks to a regulatory system that is stymied and unable to advance policies that further prevention. This presentation will analyze a number of recommendations made by the USCSB to various regulatory entities and facilities and the actions or lack of action by the entities they are intended to benefit. The presentation assesses impact on prevention by highlighting results of these key recommendations to regulatory entities and facilities. This presentation will also address recommendations that offer a regulatory path forward. Methods Qualitative analysis of USCSB recommendations to various regulatory bodies and facilities produced from recent catastrophic chemical incidents. Results/Conclusions Results from this analysis of key regulatory and facility recommendations not only demonstrates missed opportunities to formulate policies that promote prevention of future chemical accidents, but also a path forward in recommendations that were successfully implemented.