<p>Examples of hazardous substances include asbestos, lead, mercury, and pesticides. Exposure to these substances can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, cancer, and neurological damage.</p>
<h2>How To Determine if a Substance is Hazardous</h2>
<p>It&#8217;s important to know if a <a href="https://safetyculture.com/health-and-safety/hazardous-materials/">substance is hazardous</a> before handling it. Some common signs of dangerous substances include warning labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and pictograms.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Warning labels</strong> are often found on <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Business--Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/FHSA-Requirements">hazardous products</a> and include information such as the type of hazard, precautions for handling the substance, and first aid measures.</li>
<li><strong><a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/safety-data-sheet/">SDS</a></strong> provides more detailed information about a substance&#8217;s hazards, including its physical and chemical properties, health effects, and safety precautions.</li>
<li><strong><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/safety-symbols/#what-are-ghs-pictograms-3">Pictograms</a></strong> are symbols used to visually represent the hazards of a substance, such as a flame for a flammable substance or a skull and crossbones for a toxic substance.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you are unsure if a substance is hazardous, it&#8217;s best to err on the side of caution and assume it is until you can confirm otherwise.</p>
<h2>How Are They Regulated?</h2>
<p>Various government agencies and laws regulate hazardous substances to protect public health and the environment. The <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/osha-compliance/">Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)</a> sets standards for workplace exposure to dangerous substances, while the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/waste-management-system/hazardous-waste-management/">Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)</a> regulates the storage, transportation, and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/hazardous-waste-disposal/">disposal of hazardous materials</a>.</p>
<p>The EPA also enforces the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which requires companies to report on and test the safety of new chemicals before they are introduced to the market. Meanwhile, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulates <a href="https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/haz-sub-fee.htm">hazardous waste generation</a>, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal.</p>
<p>In addition, the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the transportation of hazardous materials, including labeling and packaging requirements. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also regulates dangerous substances in food and drugs to ensure they are safe for consumption.</p>
<p>State and local governments may also have <a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-116">regulations for</a> hazardous substances, such as requirements for reporting spills or releases and restrictions on using specific chemicals.</p>
<p>[sc_cta title=&#8221;Digitize the way you Work&#8221; body=&#8221;Empower your team with SafetyCulture to perform checks, train staff, report issues, and automate tasks with our digital platform.&#8221; btn_txt=&#8221;Get Started for Free&#8221; btn_link=&#8221;https://app.safetyculture.com/sign-up&#8221;]</p>
<h2>Classifications</h2>
<p>The<a href="https://www.ntc.gov.au/codes-and-guidelines/australian-dangerous-goods-code"> Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code</a> identifies nine categories of hazardous materials. Materials are classified based on their physical and chemical properties, as well as the potential risks they pose.</p>
<h3>Class 1: Explosives</h3>
<p>Explosives are materials that can cause the sudden and violent release of energy, resulting in an explosion. This class includes various materials, from fireworks and ammunition to industrial explosives used in mining and demolition.</p>
<p>Transportation and storage of explosives require special precautions and regulations to ensure safety, including proper labeling, packaging, and handling procedures.</p>
<h3>Class 2: Flammable Gases</h3>
<p>Flammable gases can ignite quickly, causing explosions or fires. Examples of combustible gases include propane, butane, and methane. Various industries use these gases, such as welding, heating, and cooking.</p>
<h3>Class 3: Flammable Liquids</h3>
<p>Liquids that have the potential to ignite in the presence of a source of ignition are categorized as flammable substances. Vehicles, generators, and outdoor power equipment commonly use these power sources.</p>
<h3>Class 4: Flammable Solids</h3>
<p>Flammable solids are materials that have the potential to ignite on their own or produce combustible gases when exposed to water. The combustion of flammable solids can lead to the emission of hazardous gases.</p>
<h3>Class 5: Oxidizing Substances</h3>
<p>These substances can release oxygen and support combustion, making them extremely dangerous if improperly handled. Oxidizing substances can be found in various industries, including chemical manufacturing, mining, and transportation. They&#8217;re often used as catalysts or chemical reactions to produce other substances.</p>
<h3>Class 6: Substances Toxic to People</h3>
<p>Class 6 is categorized into two sub-divisions based on the ADG code:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Toxic substances</strong> &#8211; Can cause death, serious injury, or harm to human health through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact</li>
<li><strong>Infectious substances</strong> &#8211; May contain pathogens, such as micro-organisms like bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, parasites, fungi, and other agents like prions that can potentially cause diseases in humans or animals</li>
</ul>
<h3>Class 7: Radioactive Material</h3>
<p>These materials emit ionizing <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/radiation-safety/">radiation</a>, which can cause damage to living cells and tissues. Radioactive materials are used in medical facilities, research labs, and nuclear power plants.</p>
<h3>Class 8: Corrosive Substances</h3>
<p>They are chemicals that can cause damage to living tissue or other materials upon contact, such as skin, eyes, and metals. Examples of corrosive substances include acids, bases, and certain cleaning products. These substances can cause severe burns, respiratory problems, and other health hazards if not handled properly.</p>
<h3>Class 9: Miscellaneous Waste</h3>
<p>This category encompasses a wide range of hazardous substances that don&#8217;t fit into any other specific category. It includes items such as batteries, pesticides, and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/asbestos/">asbestos</a>-containing materials. The proper disposal of class 9 hazardous waste is crucial for human and environmental health.</p>
<h2>Health Effects of Hazardous Substances</h2>
<p>The health impacts of hazardous substances vary based on the specific type and the amount of exposure, including concentration and duration. Exposure to a dangerous substance can occur through inhalation, skin or eye contact, or ingestion. Possible health effects may include:</p>
<ul>
<li>poisoning;</li>
<li>nausea and vomiting;</li>
<li>headache;</li>
<li>skin rashes, such as dermatitis;</li>
<li>chemical burns;</li>
<li>congenital disabilities;</li>
<li>disorders of the lung, kidney, or liver; and</li>
<li>nervous system disorders.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Applying Labels and Safety Data Sheets for Hazardous Substances</h2>
<p>Employers are responsible for providing employees with access to <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/safety-data-sheet/">Safety Data Sheets</a> for all hazardous substances used in the workplace and maintaining a central register of such chemicals.</p>
<p><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/safety-symbols/">Warning labels</a> on hazardous substances must comply with the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) or other methods outlined by the Occupational Safety &amp; Health Administration (OSHA). It would also be beneficial to use signs and symbols compliant with <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/safety-symbols/iso-7000/">ISO 7000</a>.</p>
<p>Recommended guidelines for warning labels on hazardous substances include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hazard pictograms</li>
<li>Signal words (such as danger and warning)</li>
<li>Hazard statements (such as fatal if swallowed)</li>
<li>Precautionary statements (such as wearing protective gloves)</li>
</ul>
<p>To classify and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/safety-symbols/">communicate chemical hazards</a> internationally, the Global Harmonized System (GHS) uses pictograms, terminology, and data on chemical labels.</p>
<p>The Safety Data Sheet also provides essential details on safe product handling, which include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Impacts on health</li>
<li>Safety precautions</li>
<li>Guidelines for safe storage</li>
<li>First aid instructions for emergencies</li>
<li>Contact numbers for additional information</li>
</ul>
<h2>Reducing Exposure to these Substances</h2>
<p>Recommendations for decreasing contact with dangerous materials at work consist of the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Use non-hazardous materials whenever possible.</li>
<li>Substitute less hazardous alternatives for hazardous substances (for example, use detergent instead of chlorinated solvent for cleaning).</li>
<li>Separate hazardous substances from non-hazardous substances.</li>
<li>Purge or ventilate storage areas separately from other work areas.</li>
<li>Train employees thoroughly in handling and safety procedures.</li>
<li>Make sure <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/ppe-safety/ppe-requirements/">Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)</a>, such as <a href="https://marketplace.safetyculture.com/ppe/hand-protection/">gloves</a>,<a href="https://marketplace.safetyculture.com/eyewear/"> goggles</a>, and <a href="https://marketplace.safetyculture.com/ppe/respiratory-protection/">respirators</a>, is available.</li>
<li>Track the level of hazardous substances in the air and environment at the workplace with adequate monitoring equipment.</li>
<li>Consult regularly with employees to maintain and improve existing safety practices.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Keeping Written Records for these Substances</h2>
<p>OSHA requires recording hazardous substances at work, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/risk-assessment/">Risk assessment</a> details</li>
<li>Air and environment test results, if applicable</li>
<li>Employee health monitoring details, if applicable</li>
<li>Detailed records of all employees exposed to scheduled carcinogens</li>
</ul>


What is the Use of Hazardous Substances?

What are the Characteristics of Hazardous Substances?

What is the Impact of these Substances on the Environment?

Are There Any Consequences for Non-compliance With Regulations?

FAQs About Hazardous Substances

Understanding Hazardous Substances

Safety

Safety Management

Hazardous Substances

<p>Preventive maintenance aims to minimize unexpected downtime, reduce repair costs, and improve the reliability and safety of equipment or systems. This<a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/maintenance/types-of-maintenance/"> type of maintenance</a> involves performing routine inspections, cleaning, lubrication, calibration, and replacing worn or damaged parts. Some of the common items or equipment that require it involve electricity, moving parts, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/solar-panel-maintenance/">solar panels</a>, and the like.</p>
<h2><b>When is it Required?</b></h2>
<p>The frequency of preventive maintenance needed for equipment depends on its type and usage. Setting the schedule according to manufacturer guidelines or industry standards is recommended to ensure a proactive approach instead of a reactive one.</p>
<p>Following a predictive maintenance schedule, which includes condition monitoring, requires accurate documentation of inspections and servicing, along with understanding the lifespan of the equipment. These records will help determine when preventative maintenance is necessary.</p>
<h2><b>Preventive Maintenance vs. Other Forms of Maintenance</b></h2>
<h3><b>Corrective Maintenance</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance is a proactive approach to maintaining equipment or facilities to prevent breakdowns and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs. Conversely,<a href="https://www.getmaintainx.com/blog/what-is-preventative-maintenance/"> corrective maintenance</a> is reactive and involves fixing equipment or facilities after they have broken down.</p>
<p>Preventive maintenance is generally more cost-effective than corrective maintenance because it helps avoid unexpected<a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/total-productive-maintenance-tpm/"> downtime</a> and repairs. It also helps extend the life of equipment and facilities, saving money in the long run.</p>
<h3><b>Predictive Maintenance</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance involves regularly scheduled maintenance tasks to prevent breakdowns and keep equipment running smoothly. On the other hand, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/predictive-maintenance/">predictive maintenance</a> uses data and analytics collected from experts, users, and past experiences to predict when maintenance will be needed, allowing maintenance to be scheduled only when</p>
<h3><b>Reactive Maintenance</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance allows for planned downtime and repairs, scheduling them during low production periods to minimize impact. It can also extend the lifespan of equipment and reduce the need for replacement. However, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/breakdown-maintenance/">reactive maintenance</a> involves fixing equipment only after it has already broken down. It&#8217;s also often called &#8220;run-to-failure maintenance.&#8221;</p>
<h2><b>Components</b></h2>
<p>Preventive maintenance consists of several critical components designed to keep equipment running smoothly and minimize the need for costly repairs or replacement. These components include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Preventing failure by replacing worn components</li>
<li>Preventing performance degradation by cleaning and restoring components</li>
<li>Reducing the risk of component or system failures</li>
<li>Increasing predictability and reliability</li>
<li>Educating experts on proper procedures and techniques</li>
</ul>
<h2>Types of Preventive Maintenance</h2>
<p>The main objective of preventive maintenance is to address problems even before they arise. As such, tasks related to it are done to anticipate, prevent, and prolong the process of equipment breakdown. Different industries operate differently and, as such, use <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/preventive-maintenance/preventive-maintenance-examples/">different types</a> of equipment, such as <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/transformer-maintenance/">transformers</a>, that require different maintenance methods.</p>
<p>Preventive maintenance comes in different types, depending on the worksite and business requirements, but these types fall under four main categories.</p>
<h3>Periodic Maintenance</h3>
<p>Also known as time-based maintenance, this is conducted on equipment and other assets at scheduled intervals throughout the year. Preventive maintenance scheduled weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually fall under this category.</p>
<p><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/periodic-maintenance/">Periodic maintenance</a> guidelines are based on the manufacturer’s recommendation or the mean time between failure (MBTF). The MBTF refers to the average time a machine or equipment operates between stops. Guidelines could also cover failure-finding maintenance (FFM) and risk-based maintenance (RBM) as subcategories.</p>
<h3>Performance-Based Maintenance</h3>
<p>Also known as meter-based maintenance, this is conducted when a specific meter reading indicates the need for an asset or piece of equipment to be repaired. Meter readings are based on time-based triggers, frequently used maintenance triggers. Common variables this maintenance category measures include hours used, the pressure generated, and the number of parts produced.</p>
<h3>Predictive Maintenance</h3>
<p>Predictive maintenance is considered the “middle ground” of maintenance; it neither overdoes nor underestimates maintenance procedures and does only what’s necessary to keep equipment in good running condition and prolong its lifespan. This advanced maintenance method uses modern technology like sensors to detect anomalies, automatically generate a work order, and assign it to a technician.</p>
<h3>Prescriptive Maintenance</h3>
<p>This is the data-driven approach to preventive maintenance that uses cutting-edge technology to transform gathered data into actionable insights. This maintenance method can analyze equipment conditions over time and assess operational risks by leveraging emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. It uses that data to provide specialized recommendations specific to an organization’s scenario and use case.</p>
<h2><b>Industries That Can Benefit from Preventive Maintenance Programs</b></h2>
<p>Organizations with assets to maintain can benefit from<a href="https://www.government-fleet.com/145442/how-to-implement-a-fleet-preventive-maintenance-program"> preventive maintenance schedules</a>. A few of the industries are listed below.</p>
<ul>
<li>Hotels</li>
<li>Restaurants</li>
<li>Manufacturing</li>
<li>Country Clubs</li>
<li>Facility Management</li>
<li><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/oil-and-gas-production/">Oil/Gas</a>/Utilities</li>
<li>Governments</li>
<li><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/fleet-safety/">Fleet Management</a></li>
<li>Property Management</li>
<li>Schools</li>
<li><a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/it-asset-management/">Information Technology (IT)</a></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Advantages</b></h2>
<h3><b>Enhanced Safety</b></h3>
<p>Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery can help minimize<a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/workplace-safety/"> safety hazards</a> and prevent accidents caused by equipment failure or malfunction. It can contribute to a safer work environment and reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.</p>
<h3><b>Longer Equipment Life</b></h3>
<p>Regular<a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/equipment/"> equipment maintenance</a> can prevent minor issues from turning into significant problems that could cause irreparable damage. It can save money on repairs and replacements and improve efficiency and productivity by ensuring optimal equipment functioning.</p>
<h3><b>Increased Productivity</b></h3>
<p>Research indicates that inadequate maintenance may result in a<a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/focus/industry-4-0/using-predictive-technologies-for-asset-maintenance.html"> 20% decrease in a company&#8217;s production capacity</a>. Proper upkeep of equipment and machinery can decrease the likelihood of unexpected downtimes, enabling employees to work without hindrance and enhancing productivity and efficiency.</p>
<h3><b>Cost Savings</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance can extend equipment lifespan, delaying replacements or upgrades. Keeping the equipment in good working condition can reduce energy consumption which can help businesses save money on utility bills.</p>
<h3><b>Energy Savings</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance can help identify opportunities for energy upgrades, such as replacing outdated equipment with more energy-efficient models or implementing energy-saving measures like insulation or LED lighting. Proper maintenance of electrical assets can lead to energy efficiency, which can benefit the environment.</p>
<h2><b>Disadvantages</b></h2>
<h3><b>Budget Constraints</b></h3>
<p>Implementing a preventive maintenance program can be costly, especially for small businesses with limited financial resources. The cost of equipment, tools, and materials needed for preventive maintenance can quickly add up, making it difficult for businesses to allocate necessary funds for other areas of the organization.</p>
<h3><b>Additional Resources Required</b></h3>
<p>Preventive maintenance may require more personnel, parts, and time to complete. It can be a high upfront cost for businesses, especially smaller companies with limited budgets. Moreover, preventive maintenance may require additional downtime for equipment, which can impact production schedules and revenue.</p>
<h3><b>Time-Consuming</b></h3>
<p>Regardless of the issues, preventive maintenance involves routine checks, equipment, and system maintenance. Planning and scheduling can also be challenging, requiring coordination between various departments and stakeholders. Failure to address these challenges can result in missed tasks or delays, which could increase the risk of equipment failure or downtime.</p>
<h3><b>Organizational Difficulties</b></h3>
<p>Implementing a<a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-43"> preventive maintenance program</a> requires significant planning and coordination across different organizational departments and teams. Keeping track of maintenance schedules, equipment status, and work orders can be challenging, especially if an organization has many assets to manage.<br />
[sc_cta title=&#8221;Digitize the way you Work&#8221; body=&#8221;Empower your team with SafetyCulture to perform checks, train staff, report issues, and automate tasks with our digital platform.&#8221; btn_txt=&#8221;Get Started for Free&#8221; btn_link=&#8221;https://app.safetyculture.com/sign-up&#8221;]</p>


What are Preventive Maintenance Responsibilities?

Why Does Preventive Maintenance Fail?

What is a Preventive Maintenance Checklist?

What Improves Preventive Maintenance?

FAQs About Preventive Maintenance

The Benefits of Preventive Maintenance

Facility Management

Maintenance

Preventive Maintenance

<h2>Importance</h2>
<p>Environmental <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/risk-management/">risk management</a> is a crucial measure that companies across industries should adopt, especially when planning a project that could impact people and their surroundings. The very first step in this process is risk assessment. Here are some reasons for its great value:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Identify and understand environmental risks</b> &#8211;  Threats come in all shapes and sizes. Aside from determining each one, this process ascertains the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the stressor.</li>
<li><b>Develop apt and effective solutions</b> &#8211; Getting detailed information as described above helps develop specific strategies for prevention and mitigation and prioritize tasks.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Promote sustainability</b> &#8211; The goal of sustainability is to “<a href="https://www.unep.org/evaluation-office/our-evaluation-approach/sustainable-development-goals#:~:text=In%20the%20preamble%20to%20the,the%20needs%20of%20the%20present">protect the planet from degradation… so that it can support the needs of future generations</a>”. Environmental risk assessment and sustainable development are completely interconnected concepts because practicing the former is a commitment to affirm the latter.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Compliance with duties and obligations</b> &#8211; Conducting an ERA before the onset of any project or when a high-impact <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/environmental-incident-report/">incident</a> occurs is a must. Environmental agencies across the globe set hefty fines and penalties on companies that fall short of standards or fail to comply with these regulations.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Ensure health and safety of all stakeholders</b> &#8211; Protecting people and the ecology is of utmost importance. Man-made disasters like <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/energy-environment/wp/2016/02/25/california-gas-leak-was-the-worst-man-made-greenhouse-gas-disaster-in-u-s-history-study-says/">gas leaks</a>, <a href="https://response.restoration.noaa.gov/oil-and-chemical-spills/oil-spills/largest-oil-spills-affecting-us-waters-1969.html">oil spills</a>, and <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/industrial-fires">industrial fires</a> cause injury, death, degradation of the environment, and a host of socio-economic problems. Many of these could be avoided if a thorough ERA was conducted.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Types of Environmental Risks</h2>
<p><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/workplace-hazards/biological-hazard-examples/">Environmental hazards</a> like air pollution or waste leachate cause great harm to humans and their surroundings, which is why taking every single one into account through ERA is critical. Here are the different kinds of environmental risks that organizations, especially those in highly regulated industries, should keep an eye out for.</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Chemical hazards</b> &#8211; Inhaling, swallowing, or coming into contact with these toxic <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/chemical-hazards/">chemicals</a> can cause serious injuries, disease, and even death. The <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2014/12/bhopal-the-worlds-worst-industrial-disaster-30-years-later/100864/">worst industrial accident</a> involving chemicals happened in India in the mid-1980s when a dangerous gas escaped from a factory, killing nearly 20,000 people, injuring over half a million others, and contaminating the land surrounding it up to this day.</li>
<li><b>Physical hazards</b> &#8211; Noise pollution, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/radiation-safety/">radiation</a>, and electromagnetic fields are examples of this environmental risk. The <a href="https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/safety-and-security/safety-of-plants/chernobyl-accident.aspx">Chernobyl accident of 1986</a> is supposedly the result of a faulty reactor operated by a poorly-trained employee. Aside from the fatalities during the days after the explosion, hundreds were diagnosed with Acute radiation syndrome. Clean-up of the site continues today.</li>
<li><b>Biological hazards</b> &#8211; These may be <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/biosafety/">invasive species, genetically-modified organisms, or disease-causing microbes</a>. Although there is no definitive report regarding its origins, the <a href="https://covid19.who.int/">COVID-19 virus</a> shut down the world for almost two years. It killed nearly seven million people, infected over 760 million others, and triggered a global economic crisis.</li>
<li><b>Habitat destruction</b> &#8211; Unchecked deforestation, mining, and urbanization negatively impact individual species and the global ecosystem. Experts suggest that <a href="https://blog.nationalgeographic.org/2019/09/25/the-global-impacts-of-habitat-destruction/">protecting just 50% of the total land and water mass can help save the planet</a>. Although statistics show that only 15% of land and 7% of the ocean is safeguarded, the goal is still attainable if world leaders fully commit to it.</li>
</ul>
<h2>How is Environmental Risk Assessed?</h2>
<p>Proper environmental risk assessment, whether it’s for human health, ecology, or both, observes the scientific process and considers these factors:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/hazard-identification/"><b>Hazard identification</b></a> &#8211; This answers the question: how much of the stressor is present? It involves collecting data about the various hazards and assessing their potential harm in an environmental medium (e.g., soil, water, and air) over a particular area.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Exposure assessment </b>&#8211; The next question asked is: how much is the exposure? This evaluates the likelihood and level of exposure to people, ecological receptors (other living organisms), and the environmental medium.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Consequence evaluation</b> &#8211; Also known as Dose-Response assessment, this answers the final question: how did or will the hazard affect humans or ecological receptors? This studies the hazard’s degree of toxicity and pathological threshold (e.g., concentration levels, length of exposure).</li>
</ul>
<p>Based on the information gathered by evaluating the aforementioned factors, the final step of the process can be accomplished:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Risk characterization</b> &#8211; This presents the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/qualitative-and-quantitative-risk-analysis/">quality and quantity of the risk</a>, forecasting the nature, probability, and gravity of its consequences today and in the years to come. This step is the most difficult of all because the information is rarely complete and details tend to get blurry along the way. The best way to deal with these uncertainties is to present them openly—data gaps and limitations included—so that proactive solutions can be determined.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Regulations</h2>
<p>Countries and states or provinces have specific agencies enforcing the law regarding environmental risks. They may have differences in regulations depending on the situation on the ground, but all have the same general agenda and adhere to the systematic approach described above. Below are some government ERA methodologies:</p>
<ul>
<li>United Kingdom’s <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/69449/pb13670-green-leaves-iii-summary-111107.pdf">Environment Agency</a></li>
<li>United States of America’s <a href="https://www.epa.gov/risk/ecological-risk-assessment">Environmental Protection Agency</a></li>
<li>Australia’s <a href="https://www.dcceew.gov.au/science-research/supervising-scientist/publications/ssr/environmental-risk-assessment-australian-perspective">Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water</a></li>
<li>India’s Ministry of <a href="https://moef.gov.in/en/eia-manual/">Environment, Forest, and Climate Change</a></li>
<li>Philippines’ <a href="https://apidb.denr.gov.ph/infores/uploads/DMO-2021-05.pdf">Department of Environment and Natural Resources</a></li>
</ul>
<p>[sc_cta title=&#8221;Digitize the way you Work&#8221; body=&#8221;Empower your team with SafetyCulture to perform checks, train staff, report issues, and automate tasks with our digital platform.&#8221; btn_txt=&#8221;Get Started for Free&#8221; btn_link=&#8221;https://app.safetyculture.com/sign-up&#8221;]</p>


Who conducts an environmental risk assessment?

When should the environmental risk assessment be conducted?

What are specific human activities that require environmental assessment risk?

How is environmental risk assessment different from environmental impact assessment (EIA)?

FAQs about Environmental Risk Assessment

What is Environmental Risk Assessment?

Business Processes

Operations

Environmental Risk Assessment

<p>Analyzing needs was first used specifically to improve methods of teaching English in schools. Today, companies across industries regularly use and benefit from a needs analysis.</p>
<h2>Why Perform Needs Analysis?</h2>
<p>All companies experience hitches in their processes that prevent them from approaching their goals. What sets thriving businesses apart from unproductive ones is how they get to the bottom of issues to develop strategies for success. Here are specific reasons why conducting a needs assessment is a must.</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Improves </strong><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/decision-matrix/"><strong>decision-making</strong></a> – The process requires laying out all the factors affecting the deficiency or failure in the organization. With the help of insightful analytics, you can make definite and logical conclusions that help inform better decisions.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Targets </strong><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/prioritization-matrix/"><strong>priorities</strong></a> – Companies have numerous problems. Finding remedies for everything all at once is both labor-intensive and expensive. Business needs analysis allows managers to rank these issues and deal with the most pressing ones first.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Drives better performance</strong> – More often than not, organizational difficulties are brought about by a lack of knowledge and skills. This activity points out who in the team struggles and what specific training or additional studies are needed to be more effective at work.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Enhances workflows</strong> – Organizational needs analysis can determine deficient operational elements or deteriorating equipment. Work efficiency is restored or increased through targeted interventions.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Creates a proactive culture</strong> – If done regularly, this practice fosters forward-thinking. Instead of being reactive to issues, employees are empowered to take initiative to benefit the whole organization.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Increases </strong><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/qfd/voice-of-the-customer/"><strong>customer satisfaction</strong></a><strong> and revenues</strong> – Gaining insights into your targeted audience helps you serve them better.</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Types</strong></h2>
<p>Whether you run a small start-up or a huge conglomerate, identifying and evaluating the needs of the organization and its stakeholders is a must. Understanding requirements will help businesses reap more benefits. Listed below are the kinds of needs analysis companies need to consider:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/training-evaluation/"><strong>Training</strong></a><strong> or Learning</strong> – Possibly the most common kind of needs analysis, this is focused on the employees. By comparing job descriptions and performance data, managers identify skills and knowledge their workers require so they can do their job efficiently.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Performance </strong>– This determines the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/gap-analysis/">gap</a> between current performance and expected performance in providing services, creating products, or accomplishing tasks in the operation.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Compliance </strong>– Often used in highly-regulated industries like healthcare and finance, this reviews the organization’s compliance with industry standards and government regulations. This involves going over policies and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/sop/">standard operating procedures</a> and conducting audits.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Organizational </strong>– This type of needs analysis evaluates the organization as a whole and looks at ways to improve resource management and daily operation. It takes into consideration the structure, culture, assets, and current workflows.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Financial </strong>– Here, businesses figure out how to reduce costs, increase revenues, and locate investments. Managers review financial statements, <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/trendanalysis.asp">analyze market trends</a>, and conduct customer surveys to complete their needs analysis.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Upholding Best Practices in the Process of Needs Analysis</h2>
<p>Different companies have specific methodologies for identifying and evaluating their needs. Listed below are <a href="https://training.lbl.gov/Resources/NeedsAnalysis.html">needs analysis questions</a> that should be asked throughout the activity. The best practices are also described per step to ensure success in this endeavor.</p>
<h3>What is your desired performance?</h3>
<p>This step identifies the purpose and the scope of the evaluation. This is also the part where company managers set goals for improvement.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practice:</strong> The devil is in the details, so company leaders must specify the purpose and delineate the scope of the activity. Objectives should also be clearly defined and achievable so stakeholders can feel valued when they fulfill them.</p>
<h3>What is the current performance?</h3>
<p>The second phase of the process is <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/data-collection/">information gathering</a>. This involves collecting data from various sources like employee interviews, past performance evaluations, customer surveys, financial reports, and market research.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practice: </strong>Managers can acquire accurate information through reliable collection methods. Digitizing and automation help in this matter because results are more precise. These also cost little time and effort.</p>
<h3>What are the gaps and corresponding causes?</h3>
<p>The third step involves detailed data analysis to characterize the gaps identified and detect their causes. Use quantitative and qualitative methods, such as statistics, content analysis, and in-depth reviews of case studies.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practice:</strong> Stakeholders must be involved in this phase of the needs analysis process to voice their concerns about the identified deficiencies and state reasons for the possible causes. Engaging relevant team members prevents finger-pointing and presents a more comprehensive view of the problem.</p>
<h3>What are the solutions offered?</h3>
<p>This phase involves presenting the findings to relevant stakeholders and developing solutions to benefit them and the organization.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practice:</strong> Managers should ensure actionable results. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/00076503211066595">Stakeholder participation</a> is also essential. Employees should be able to suggest solutions since they are involved in this task.</p>
<h3>How effective are the solutions?</h3>
<p>Many companies stop at the fourth step, thinking that providing solutions would end their problems. That shouldn’t be the case because monitoring employee training or new operating systems is crucial in ascertaining real progress.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practice:</strong> Digitization and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/automation-process/">automation</a> are critical in this process. Managers would not have a sweeping view of the whole operations and will surely miss important details without the help of these digital solutions.</p>


When is it best to conduct a needs analysis?

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Needs Analysis

<p>Enhancing energy efficiency can also mean changing behaviors and habits within the company. This could involve switching to <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/hvac-systems/">HVAC systems</a> that consume less power, changing the ways people operate machines, and building an overall culture that revolves around energy-efficient practices.</p>
<h2>Why Implement Energy-Efficient Strategies?</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Implementing energy efficiency offers economic, social, and environmental benefits to an organization.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> To start, focusing on energy efficiency brings the costs of running a business down. This is because you’ll be spending less on power, which can shift your profit margins and boost income.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On top of that, modern markets highly encourage environmentally friendly practices.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> If organizations show that they prioritize energy efficiency, this reflects well on the overall reputation. This is especially true when trying to reach mass markets with your products or services.</span></p>
<p>Lastly, energy-efficient practices <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/reduce-carbon-footprint/">reduce a company’s carbon footprint</a>. Many countries rely on unsustainable methods to produce energy. So, the less energy organizations use in their operations, the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/reduce-carbon-footprint/corporate-carbon-footprint/">less impact they have on the environment</a>. This is why energy efficiency is very important for modern companies.</p>
<h2>Energy-Efficient Practices and Technologies</h2>
<p>There are many ways to increase energy efficiency in your company. Different industries require different tools, so every company has a unique approach to energy efficiency. But to give you a place to start, here are some basic energy-efficient practices and technologies you can adopt within your organization.</p>
<h3>Changing the Lightbulbs</h3>
<p>This may seem very simple, but it can go a long way in terms of energy efficiency. Switching to LED bulbs in your organization can drastically reduce your power intake. On top of that, modern LED bulbs are very bright and available in many different colors, making it easy to choose the perfect fit for the workspace.</p>
<h3>Modifying HVAC Systems</h3>
<p>Just like with lightbulbs, HVAC systems have become much more efficient in recent years. Heating and cooling the workplace can cost a lot for businesses. But if you upgrade to modern HVAC systems, you’ll find yourself controlling the workplace climate much easier while using less power.</p>
<h3>Remodelling the Workspace Around Energy Efficiency</h3>
<p>Another way to improve energy efficiency is to <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/remodeling/commercial-remodeling/">remodel the workplace</a>. For example, you can add more windows or move things around to bring in more natural light, reducing the amount of artificial light needed. You can also put better insulation in the walls to reduce the need for cooling and heating.</p>
<p>There are many ways to remodel your space to increase energy efficiency, giving you endless options.</p>
<h3>Sustainable Power Sources</h3>
<p>One major switch companies can make to boost energy efficiency is <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/switch-energy-supplier/">changing their power source</a>. Sustainable power has grown a lot in recent years, and nowadays, organizations can buy solar panels and similar technology to power certain aspects of their business. That way, you rely less on fossil fuels and other unsustainable <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/energy-sources/">energy sources</a>.</p>
<h2>5 Things Households and Businesses Can Do To Reduce Energy Costs and Remain Energy Efficient</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Despite the rising demand and costs of energy, consumers can find ways to minimize energy consumption and, ultimately, the impact of rising energy prices. Here are 5 tips on how to reduce energy costs and ensure high efficiency for energy-powered devices:</span></p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Make sure that appliances are in good working order</strong> &#8211; <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/hvac-systems/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">HVAC</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/hvac-systems/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">water heaters</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and refrigerators are among the top energy consumers in homes and businesses. Having well-maintained appliances or keeping them in good working order means that the energy that these appliances consume is being used efficiently.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Unplug electronics when not in use</strong><b> &#8211; </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">It may seem trivial but electronics that are plugged even though they are not turned on still consume energy. Consider using power strips with switches to ensure that plugged electronics do not consume energy when they’re not in use.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Turn off the lights when they’re not in use and utilize natural lighting</strong><b> &#8211; </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to the use of more energy-efficient LED light bulbs, turn off the lights when they’re not in use. Also, consider opening those blinds to let natural light in on bright sunny days.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Invest in renewable/sustainable energy</strong><b> &#8211; </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Solar and wind energy are renewable sources of energy that, given the opportunity, you may want to consider for the long term. Solar panels may seem costly at first but they pay for themselves over time for your household or business.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><strong>Look into aligning with energy-saving schemes </strong><b>&#8211;</b><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/energy-savings-opportunity-scheme-esos/">Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme</a> (ESOS) and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/iso-50001/">ISO 50001</a> are just two of existing frameworks or schemes that your business can use in order to become more energy-efficient and in compliance with regulations and industry standards. You can also conduct energy audits in order to be more aware of how your organization is consuming energy.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Energy Efficiency Standards and Directives</h2>
<p>Various energy efficiency standards are in place to help organizations reduce their energy usage. Here are some of the most prominent ones that are implemented in different locations:</p>
<h3>U.S Department of Energy (DOE)</h3>
<p>The DOE has <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/standards-and-test-procedures">numerous standards</a> for different appliances in place. This ensures that the appliances and equipment are energy-efficient before they hit the market. Those that have undergone testing under these standards include plumbing, lighting, and industrial appliances.</p>
<h3>European Commission</h3>
<p>The European Commission has established an <a href="https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-targets-directive-and-rules/energy-efficiency-directive_en">energy efficiency directive</a> in an effort to become a carbon-neutral continent by 2050. The directive includes various efforts to reduce consumption rates around the continent, which applies to many organizations.</p>
<h2>Challenges in Implementing Energy Efficiency</h2>
<p>The biggest barrier to implementing energy efficiency for organizations and personal households is financial. While shifting to energy-efficient appliances and practices can save money over time, they come with a high initial cost. This initial cost is too high for some businesses, which delays them from implementing energy-efficient practices.</p>
<p>On top of that, managing and maintaining a company’s energy efficiency culture is a major effort. It takes a whole team to implement energy efficiency, and many organizations don’t have the manpower or resources for it.</p>
<p>That said, energy efficiency remains a key issue that is crucial in achieving sustainability in the future.</p>
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<h2><b>What is an Incident Response Plan (IRP)?</b></h2>
<p>An<a href="https://www.cynet.com/incident-response/"> Incident Response Plan (IRP)</a> is a set of written policies and procedures that help organizations effectively respond to security incidents. It outlines the steps taken in response to a breach, from identifying and assessing a threat to documenting evidence and recovering. This plan helps ensure that a company spot patterns in malicious behavior, minimize the risk of further damage, and guides workers dealing with an attack.</p>
<p>The IRP should include the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Policies on identifying threats.</li>
<li>Assessing the impact of attacks.</li>
<li>Investigating potential breaches.</li>
<li>Containing an attack&#8217;s effects.</li>
<li>Recovering systems or data affected by an incident.</li>
</ul>
<p>It should also include information regarding communication protocols and systems inside and outside the organization. An IRP should be regularly reviewed and tested to maintain current effectiveness standards.</p>
<h2><b>Incident Response Frameworks</b></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.exabeam.com/incident-response/steps/">Incident response frameworks</a> exist to enable organizations to formulate standardized response plans. Large organizations with considerable security knowledge and experience usually create these frameworks. Two commonly used frameworks are those established by NIST and SANS.</p>
<h3><b>NIST Framework</b></h3>
<p>The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a U.S. government agency that has created the NIST incident response framework for cybersecurity efforts. This comprehensive framework outlines how to create an IRP, an incident response team, and a communication plan and provides for various training scenarios.</p>
<p>In this framework, incident response is condensed into four steps:</p>
<ol>
<li>Preparation</li>
<li>Detection and Analysis</li>
<li>Containment, Eradication, and Recovery</li>
<li>Post-Incident Activity</li>
</ol>
<p>NIST believes that containment, eradication, and recovery are all intertwined. You should aim to identify and remove threats within your systems on time, not waiting for all threats to be discovered first. </p>
<p>Recovery also takes on different forms depending on the recovered asset, with some having priority over others. Depending on the severity of the attack, it may be prudent to defer recovering certain high-priority assets.</p>
<h3><b>SANS Framework</b></h3>
<p>System Admin, Audit, Network, and Security (SANS) is a private research and education organization. The SANS incident response framework is one of their significant contributions to<a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/internet-safety/"> cybersecurity</a>.</p>
<p>Each of the six phases in the SANS framework is called a phase, and they are as follows:</p>
<ol>
<li>Preparation</li>
<li>Identification</li>
<li>Containment</li>
<li>Eradication</li>
<li>Recovery</li>
<li>Lessons Learned</li>
</ol>
<p>The SANS framework provides basic descriptions of the phases and an IR checklist for each stage. Additionally, two templates with system commands are included for the preparation and identification phases.</p>
<h2><b>Who is Responsible for Incident Response?</b></h2>
<p>An incident response program needs a coordinated cross-functional team from different parts of the organization to effectively implement and execute security policies, processes, and tools. It&#8217;s their responsibility to complete the steps and processes involved in incident response.</p>
<h3><b>Types of Incident Response Teams</b></h3>
<p>Typically, incident response teams fall into three categories:</p>
<ul>
<li>Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT)</li>
<li>Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT)</li>
<li>Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT)</li>
</ul>
<p>Typically, the objectives and roles of these acronyms are the same. However, CERT is a Carnegie Mellon University registered trademark, so companies must obtain authorization.</p>
<h4><b>Security Operations Center (SOC)</b></h4>
<p>Another term frequently used during incident response team conversations. SOC covers the personnel, technology, and processes responsible for an organization&#8217;s security program.</p>
<p>SOC teams are primarily responsible for incident response, but they may have other tasks within an organization. Other responsibilities of SOC teams are asset discovery and management, maintaining activity records, and ensuring adherence to regulations.</p>
<h3><b>What Does an Incident Response Team Do?</b></h3>
<p>An incident response team&#8217;s primary objective is to detect and respond to security incidents and minimize their business impact. Therefore, team responsibilities typically align with phases outlined in incident response plans and frameworks. Among the team&#8217;s tasks are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Prevent and prepare for security incidents</li>
<li>Prepare an incident response plan</li>
<li>Manage, update, and test the incident response plan before implementing it</li>
<li>Conduct tabletop exercises on incident response</li>
<li>Analyze program initiatives based on metrics</li>
<li>Analyze<a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/incident-response"> security events</a></li>
<li>Isolate systems, quarantine threats, and contain security events</li>
<li>Find root causes of threats, eliminate them, and remove them from production environments</li>
<li>Assist in the recovery of affected systems after threats</li>
<li>Document and analyze the incident, as well as identify ways to prevent similar events in the future and improve future response efforts</li>
<li>Regularly review and update the incident response plan</li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Building an IR Team in Your Organization</b></h2>
<p>When it comes to incident response, having an effective incident response is vital. Here are the key aspects to consider when building an incident response team in your organization:</p>
<h3><b>Incident Response Team Models</b></h3>
<ul>
<li><b>Central</b> &#8211; A centralized team manages IR for the whole organization.</li>
<li><b>Distributed</b> &#8211; Multiple teams coordinate their efforts as needed. Typically, each unit is responsible for one part of the IT infrastructure, one location, or one department.</li>
<li><b>Coordinated</b> &#8211; The central team serves as a command center or knowledge base for distributed teams. Often, central teams monitor systems and assist distributed teams when necessary.</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Selecting a Team Model</b></h3>
<p>Use the questions below to guide you on which team model is best for your organization.</p>
<ul>
<li><b>What availability do you need?</b> &#8211; Determine whether you would like 24/7 response availability and at what level. For example, can teams respond remotely, or must they be present on-site? Ideally, your team is available in real-time and in person.</li>
<li><b>What level of staffing do you want?</b> &#8211; You should decide whether you want full-time or part-time staff for your team. A part-time team is best for boosting response time. On the other hand, having a full-time team ensures a consistent, organized, and timely response.</li>
<li><b>How much expertise is needed?</b> &#8211; Companies should consider having external security specialists available to support their internal teams, as additional knowledge can improve response operations.</li>
<li><b>What is your budget?</b> &#8211; Establishing a realistic budget for your IR team is critical to address the issues mentioned above adequately. Allocation of funds should also be taken into consideration when forming the team.</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Incident Response Team Members</b></h3>
<p>The composition of an incident response team and the roles of its members depend on the organization&#8217;s requirements. Some members may have more than one role. However, a typical incident response team consists of the following members:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Technical team</b> &#8211; This incident response team comprises IT and security members with technical proficiency across company systems. It usually has a manager, coordinator, lead, analysts, responders, researchers, and forensics analysts.</li>
<li><b>Executive sponsor</b> &#8211; In most cases, this is the company&#8217;s Chief Security Officer (CSO) or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).</li>
<li><b>Communications team</b> &#8211; PR representatives and others in charge of internal and external communications are included in this category.</li>
<li><b>External stakeholders</b> &#8211; May include employees from different organizational departments, such as IT, the legal department, HR, PR, security, and facilities.</li>
<li><b>Third parties</b> &#8211; These external members are consultants, external legal representation, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), managed security service providers, cloud service providers (CSPs), vendors, and partners.</li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Steps in Creating an Incident Response Plan</b></h2>
<h3><b>Prepare</b></h3>
<p>The first preparation phase includes a risk assessment to determine any potential vulnerabilities and the priority of assets. Incident responses will be based on this information, and systems can be configured to address identified vulnerabilities and focus protection on high-priority assets. Policies and procedures should then be revised or created, including a communication plan with roles and responsibilities during an incident.</p>
<h3><b>Identify</b></h3>
<p>When preparing for an incident, teams must determine what tools and procedures they will use to identify<a href="https://github.com/meirwah/awesome-incident-response"> suspicious activity</a>. If an incident happens, they must establish the type of attack, source, and attacker&#8217;s motives. Keep a record of all evidence collected throughout an investigation and any information you may need to locate an intruder.</p>
<h3><b>Contain</b></h3>
<p>When an incident happens, steps are taken to contain it and minimize any possible harm. There are usually several subphases involved in containment:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Short-term containment</b> &#8211; Threats can be isolated, e.g., by isolating the attacker&#8217;s current network area or taking infected servers offline and redirecting traffic to a failover.</li>
<li><b>Long-term containment</b> &#8211; Unaffected systems are subject to extra access controls. Newly clean and patched systems and resources are prepared for recovery.</li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Eradicate</b></h3>
<p>When all necessary containment steps are taken, the full scope of an attack is made visible. Teams must then identify all compromised systems and resources to remove attackers and malware. This process should continue until no traces of the attack remain. Some cases may require restarting systems with clean versions to recover fully.</p>
<h3><b>Recover</b></h3>
<p>In this phase, teams attempt to restore any lost data while bringing updated replacement systems online. If that is not possible, they must identify when the last clean copy of data was created and restore it. This phase ends with monitoring systems for some time to detect if attackers return.</p>
<h3><b>Learn</b></h3>
<p>The assessment of an incident is crucial for identifying and eliminating any security vulnerabilities. It could include <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/patch-management/">patch management</a>, staff training, and introducing technologies to detect internal threats. These procedures should be put in place to prevent another similar incident from taking place. Incorporate all these preventative measures into your security incident response plan.</p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ATEX directive regulates the products used in such locations and the best practices for working safely in them. It includes providing suitable personal protective equipment such as chemical-resistant clothing, respirators, and face shields.</span></p>
<h2><b>What is an Explosive Atmosphere?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Under the</span><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/dsear/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, an explosive atmosphere is described as a mixture of dangerous substances in the form of gases, vapors, mist, or dust with air in atmospheric conditions that ignites and spreads combustion to the unburned entire mixture.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In atmospheric conditions, the temperature and pressure are between –20°C and 40°C and 0.8 to 1.1 bar, respectively.</span></p>
<h2><b>What are the Applicable ATEX Directives?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Two European directives control ATEX, as follows:</span></p>
<h3><a href="https://osha.europa.eu/en/legislation/directives/21"><b>Directive 99/92/EC</b></a><b> (also known as “ATEX 137” or the “ATEX Workplace Directive”)</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This directive sets out the minimum requirements for improving workplace safety in potentially explosive atmospheres. It requires employers to assess the risks in their workplace and take appropriate measures to limit any potential danger arising from flammable substances or dust explosions.</span></p>
<h3><a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014L0034"><b>Directive 2014/34/EU</b></a><b> (also known as “ATEX 114” or the “ATEX Equipment Directive”)</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The core purpose of the ATEX Equipment Directive is to ensure that any equipment or</span><a href="https://news.nilfiskcfm.com/2017/03/atex-certification-applicable-north-america/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">protective systems</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> used in hazardous areas follow certain safety requirements according to the legislation outlined in</span><a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014L0034"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Annex II</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of this directive. These requirements are intended to reduce the risk of accidental fires or explosions due to faulty design or </span><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/gmp/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">manufacturing practices</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p>[sc_cta title=&#8221;Achieve ATEX Compliance with SafetyCulture&#8221;]</p>
<h2><b>What is the Difference Between ATEX and IECEx Certifications?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">IECEx System, or International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres, helps build confidence in the safety of Ex equipment worldwide. In contrast, ATEX is a mandatory application limited to Europe. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">IECEx aims to accomplish the following:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reduced certification and testing costs for manufacturers</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aim to reduce product development time</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Increase product evaluations confidence globally</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Establish a centralized international database</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Make equipment and services more internationally recognizable through IECEx certification</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In contrast, ATEX certification differs from IECEx certification in several fundamental ways.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Jurisdiction</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8211; ATEX is an adaptation to match the EU needs that many companies outside the EU still follow.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Standards</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8211; ATEX has its own</span><a href="https://new.abb.com/motors-generators/motors-and-generators-for-explosive-atmospheres/ehsr"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that must be met, although many companies adhere to</span><a href="https://www.iecex.com/archive/paris/docs/Guide_IECEx_ATEX_Comparison.pdf"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> standards to demonstrate compliance.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Certification</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8211; ATEX services are provided by organizations called ExNBs. These are specific to the EU and issue EU Type Examination Certifications. The IECEx Management Committee, with a single international process, oversees IECEx certification. IECEx certification bodies and IECEx testing labs are issued certificates of Conformity and recognized globally.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Potential Applications for ATEX/IECEx-Certified Equipment</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Below are some potential applications for ATEX/IECEx-certified equipment:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Production facilities for food, pharmaceuticals, painting, manufacturing, etc., where explosive atmospheres may exist</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Refineries or processing plants for oil, gas, or chemicals</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Explosive atmospheres containing hazardous gases or materials, such as mining sites</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Power plants and other industrial facilities (e.g., refineries, foundries) with potentially hazardous atmospheres</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Different ATEX Classifications</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Employers must classify hazardous explosive atmospheres and equipment into different zones and category types according to the probability of hazard formation and the area where the equipment will operate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">DSEAR</span><a href="https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/2776/schedule/2/made"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Schedules 2, 3, and 4</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> describe the various classifications.</span></p>
<h3><b>Classification of Equipment</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Equipment is classified into groups and categories based on their markings under the ATEX directive.</span></p>
<h4><b>Group I</b></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It includes equipment intended for use in underground and surface mining areas, likely to be endangered by fire and/or combustible dust.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Category M1</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – The equipment in this category must remain functional under explosive conditions and must have integrated explosion protection measures to ensure:</span>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">That when one integrated measure fails, a second measure provides a sufficient level of safety; or,</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">That it provides a sufficient level of safety occurs when two faults happen independently.</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Category M2</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – The equipment in this category is designed to de-energize in the event of detecting an explosive atmosphere.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4><b>Group II</b></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It includes equipment that may become endangered by explosive atmospheres in other places, such as equipment listed in Annex I of the Directive as Categories 1, 2, and 3.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Category 1</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – This category includes equipment certified to remain within the operational parameters stated by the manufacturer and to provide a high level of protection in areas where explosive atmospheres are highly likely to occur and are present continuously, for long periods, or frequently caused by various gas, vapor, mist, or air/dust mixtures.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Category 2</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – This category includes equipment designed by manufacturers to meet operation specifications in hazardous areas likely to include explosive mixtures of air, gases, vapors, mists, and/or dust.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Category 3</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – This category includes equipment designed to operate within the manufacturer&#8217;s stated conditions and typically offers adequate protection for its intended use. The areas this equipment operates may intermittently contain explosive gases, vapors, mists, or air/dust mixtures, but typically for a limited time.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Classification of an Area</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Potentially explosive areas are classified as Zones (European and IECEx methods) or Classes and Divisions (North American method) according to their likelihood of containing explosive atmospheres.</span></p>
<div class="table">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><b>European &amp; IECEx Classification</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><b>Definition of Zone or Division</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><b>North American Classification</b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 0 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Areas where explosive mixtures are continuously present or present for long periods. </span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class I Division 1 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 20 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class II Division 1 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 1 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Areas which are prone to explosive mixtures under normal conditions.</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class I Division 1 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 21 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class II Division 1 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 2 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An area in which explosive mixtures will not occur in normal operation and, if they do, only last briefly.</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class I Division 2 (gases)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zone 22 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Class II Division 2 (dusts)</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h2><b>Product Marking</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As part of the ATEX directive, the product must be marked with the CE mark, the &#8216;EX&#8217; mark, and the ATEX certification mark.</span></p>
<div class="table">
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><b>Heading</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><b>Mark</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><b>Use</b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><b>Explosion Protection</b></p>
</td>
<td>&nbsp;</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">according to ATEX directive</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><b>Equipment Group</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Used in underground mines</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">II</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intended for use everywhere else</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="3">
<p><b>Equipment Category</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Premises where an explosive atmosphere exists continuously, for a long period, or frequently</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Equipment intended to be used in areas likely to have an explosive atmosphere in normal operation requires high protection.</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">3</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Equipment that must provide a normal level of protection to areas where an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to occur during normal operations.</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><b>Environment</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">G</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Flammable gas-certified equipment</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">D</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Suitable for use in dusty environments</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="3">
<p><b>Protection Type</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">d</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Flameproof</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ia</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intrinsically safe</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">e</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Increased safety</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2">
<p><b>Gas Group</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mines</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">II</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Above-ground surface industries</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="3">
<p><b>Gas Sub Group</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Less easily ignitable gases, e.g., propane</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">B</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Combustible gases, e.g., ethylene</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">C</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Easily ignitable, e.g., hydrogen or acetylene</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td rowspan="6">
<p><b>Temperature Classification</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apparatus classified as hazardous is classified according to its maximum surface temperature at an ambient temperature of 40°C, or as specified otherwise. </span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">450ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">300ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T3</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">200ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T4</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">135ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T5</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">100ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">T6</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">85ºC</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>


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<h2>Emergency Preparedness vs. Emergency Response: What&#8217;s the Difference?</h2>
<p><a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/emergency-preparedness-and-response/emergency-preparedness/">Emergency preparedness</a> is the planning and practice to ensure a safe, swift, and effective <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/programs/emergency-preparedness/index.html">response in any emergency</a>. It involves risk assessment and prevention strategies and stockpiling critical supplies such as food, water, medical equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other necessities before an emergency. Emergency preparedness ensures people have the knowledge, skills, and supplies to stay safe.</p>
<p>On the other hand, the emergency response occurs in the immediate aftermath of an emergency. It typically involves first responders like firefighters or police officers responsible for rescuing individuals from harm&#8217;s way and mitigating further damage. In addition, it also includes providing medical care to those affected by the emergency. It can consist of <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/emergency-evacuation-plan/">evacuation plans</a> for securely transporting people away from the crisis zone and basic medical assistance until more specialized treatments are possible.</p>
<p>These plans are carefully crafted by experienced <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/emergency-management/">emergency management</a> professionals and should be regularly reviewed and updated.</p>
<h2>Types of Emergencies</h2>
<p>A comprehensive <a href="https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Emergency-Preparedness-and-Response">emergency preparedness and response plan</a> encompasses a variety of potential emergencies, ranging from natural disasters to public health emergencies, with each type of emergency requiring different planning and response strategies.</p>
<p>An <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/emergency-response-plan/">emergency plan</a> might include the following types of emergencies:</p>
<h3>Natural Disasters</h3>
<p>Hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires can strike anywhere. It can cause tremendous damage and disruption in any area. Preparing for a natural disaster before, during, and after it occurs is essential.</p>
<p>Before any natural disaster, it&#8217;s critical to have a <a href="https://safetyculture.com/checklists/disaster-preparedness/">disaster preparedness plan</a> in place. The plan should include where to go and actions to take if a calamity strikes. It should also include information on evacuation routes and survival kit necessities.</p>
<p>During the event itself, the most important thing is staying safe. Follow all instructions from local authorities and keep away from areas declared unsafe. Remain calm and make sure those around you remain calm as well. After the event passes, continue following instructions until it is deemed safe and begin the recovery process.</p>
<h3>Man-Made Disasters</h3>
<p>Man-made disasters can be some of the most devastating events due to their suddenness and potential for large-scale impact. Terrorism, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/chemical-hazards/">chemical spills</a>, and nuclear accidents are some examples that can wreak havoc on both people and the environment.</p>
<p>There should be clear protocols for responding to this type of disaster. It includes having personnel ready to respond to the event, evacuation plans, and communication systems. The communication should have internal communications between people within the organization and external contact with those in management positions or government agencies.</p>
<p>Emergency response teams should have access to medical supplies, communication equipment, <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/ppe-safety/ppe-requirements/">Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)</a>, and <a href="https://marketplace.safetyculture.com/">other essentials</a>.</p>
<h3>Public Health Emergencies</h3>
<p>Disease outbreaks and pandemics can have devastating consequences for the health of communities and the economy. COVID-19 has acted as a wake-up call to many countries regarding their lack of preparedness for major public health emergencies.</p>
<p>Government agencies, organizations, and the community should have plans in place for how to respond to such events. A <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/programs/epr/default.html">public health emergency</a> plan should include the steps necessary to prevent, detect and respond to any public health hazard or crisis. This plan should also consider the needs of vulnerable populations, including those with pre-existing medical conditions or disabilities.</p>
<p>Organizations and communities should prepare themselves by keeping face masks, gloves, sanitation products, and other items on hand during an outbreak or pandemic. Having enough supplies on hand will help ensure their safety if they cannot access outside resources for whatever reason due to the emergency.</p>
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<h2>Creating an Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan</h2>
<p>Creating an emergency plan requires some common elements, but no one-size-fits-all approach exists. Here are some tips for preparing an emergency plan:</p>
<h3>Assess Safety Risks</h3>
<p>Prioritizing potential emergencies based on likelihood and importance allows for a more efficient allocation of resources. For example, facilities away from coastlines and earthquake zones don&#8217;t need to allocate too many <a href="https://safetyculture.com/health-and-safety/earthquake-response/">resources to prepare for earthquakes</a> and hurricanes. It&#8217;s essential to be aware of potential risks while ensuring that the time spent responding to them is not excessive.</p>
<p>The risk assessment should consider all potential hazards at the facility using an all-hazards approach. Utilizing a <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/risk-assessment/5x5-risk-matrix/">risk matrix</a> can assist in pinpointing areas that require investment. This matrix allows the facility or security manager to categorize each risk or emergency according to how it might impact the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/workplace-safety/site-safety-training/">site</a> and how likely it is to occur.</p>
<h3>Identify Potential Emergencies</h3>
<p>While it is difficult to anticipate future events, consulting with experienced individuals within your organization can help you gain insight into potential crises. When creating an <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/emergency-response-plan/">emergency response plan</a>, consider the company&#8217;s employee incident history and records and any other conditions that could be relevant in an emergency, such as mental health issues or hazardous equipment.</p>
<h3>Create a Team</h3>
<p>Individual workers are more likely to take appropriate action if they understand emergency response plans developed collaboratively. Each employee may be considered a first responder and will likely adhere to the principles of observance and communication.</p>
<p>Assembling a team of subject matter experts from different departments can help determine the overall scope of the plan, including a cycle of the five phases of emergency management.</p>
<ul>
<li>Prevention</li>
<li>Mitigation</li>
<li>Preparedness</li>
<li>Response</li>
<li>Recovery</li>
</ul>
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<h3>Identify and Designate Communications</h3>
<p>Rapid response to emergencies requires reliable communication. The emergency response plan should specify which personnel will communicate with each other and how communication will occur during an emergency. Develop internal emergency protocols to outline how personnel within the organization will be notified and instructed during and after an incident.</p>
<h3>Assess Safety Resources</h3>
<p>An emergency response plan should identify potential hazards and include preventive measures such as inspections and replacements of hazardous materials. Smoke alarms, fire code inspections, stair railings, and walkways require regular monitoring and upkeep for safety reasons.</p>
<h3>Test the Plan</h3>
<p>Creating a plan is only the beginning of testing its efficacy. Conduct training, drills, and exercises to familiarize personnel with the emergency response plan and develop strategies for responding to similar incidents. Review the plan annually to ensure it&#8217;s up-to-date and appropriate for current safety needs.</p>


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<p>Safety leadership also involves providing training and resources to employees so they can work safely and confidently in their jobs. By investing in employee safety, organizations can create a safer working environment while boosting productivity and reducing costs associated with accidents or injuries.</p>
<h2>Safety Leaders vs. Safety Managers</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/19549-safety-leadership-seven-practices-of-great-safety-leaders">Safety leaders</a> and <a href="https://advancedct.com/the-difference-between-managing-safety-and-being-a-safety-leader/">safety managers</a> both play essential roles in ensuring workplace safety, but they have different approaches. Safety leaders are proactive in identifying potential risks and taking action to prevent them. In contrast, safety managers tend to focus on compliance with regulations and responding to incidents afterward.</p>
<p>A safety leader actively promotes a <a href="https://blog.safetyculture.com/safetyculture-news/better-safety-culture">safety culture</a> within their organization. They go beyond simply enforcing policies and procedures – they create an environment where safety is a core value ingrained in the company&#8217;s culture. Safety leaders constantly look for ways to improve safety protocols and mitigate potential hazards before accidents occur.</p>
<p>On the other hand, safety managers are responsible for ensuring the company complies with various <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/occupational-health-and-safety/">occupational health and safety</a> laws. They monitor workplace activities to ensure workers follow established protocols, investigate any incidents or accidents, and document any violations of <a href="https://www.icsi-eu.org/en/mag/safety-leadership-definition">safety policies</a>.</p>
<h2>The 4 Safety Leadership Goals</h2>
<p>Establishing and maintaining a positive safety culture within your organization is crucial for effective safety leadership. While external factors can influence your progress, prioritizing factors within your control will assist in achieving your safety objectives.</p>
<p>Below are the four main goals you should focus on as a safety leader:</p>
<h3>1. Build Trust</h3>
<p>Trust is critical for effective safety leadership. Earning the trust of your company&#8217;s executives is crucial to obtain funds and receiving approval for company policies. Additionally, when trust is absent, employees have a lower tendency to comply with instructions or procedures. The confidence of individuals within a group is essential for achieving safety leadership objectives and implementing initiatives2z</p>
<h3>2. Uphold Regulatory Policies</h3>
<p>Safety leaders function as enforcers of regulations on a smaller scale, similar to the <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/osha-compliance/">Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)</a> agents. They are responsible for ensuring the company complies with occupational safety laws at all levels and taking proactive measures to prevent incidents. One of the responsibilities includes investigating accidents and health and safety hazards to minimize potential company liability.</p>
<h3>3. Improve Business Resilience</h3>
<p>A fundamental objective of safety leadership is to recover from and potentially enhance outcomes following a significant occurrence. Because the longer the duration of business stagnancy or difficulty, the greater the probability of ongoing harm or subsequent risks. Efforts should be made to enhance the company&#8217;s resilience to minimize incidents&#8217; impact on employees and business operations.</p>
<h3>4. Protect Employees</h3>
<p>The main goal of safety leadership is to secure the welfare of employees and prevent any possible harm. Decisions are made to protect the well-being of employees and prevent undue injury or illness. As a safety leader, you advocate for policies, equipment, and efforts to create a safe work environment and enable employees to perform their duties.</p>
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<h2>How To Be an Effective Safety Leader</h2>
<p>To be an effective safety leader, you must have the skills and knowledge to lead with integrity. Safety industry leadership requires a focus on technical know-how and organizational acumen. You must provide clear direction and instruction to all stakeholders and foster collaboration among team members.</p>
<p>Here are some tips for being a successful safety leader:</p>
<h3>Be Growth-Oriented, Not Blame-Oriented</h3>
<p>It&#8217;s essential to focus on learning and personal growth resulting from accidents. Terminating an employee following a safety violation may seem like a quick fix, but it could jeopardize trust and employee morale without proper investigation.</p>
<p>Using incidents as learning opportunities can be valuable when approached with transparency and cooperation. Preventing similar problems from occurring in the future requires <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/incident-management/incident-investigation/">investigation</a> and adaptation of procedures. It will establish a safety culture based on positivity instead of using fear to prevent harm.</p>
<h3>Simplify Safety</h3>
<p>Here are some ways to establish a workplace prioritizing safe practices:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ensure that safety equipment and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/ppe-safety/ppe-requirements/">Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)</a> are easily accessible and inspected regularly for damage.</li>
<li>Demonstrate or run drills on necessary procedures frequently and explain safety policies in an easy-to-understand manner.</li>
<li>Regularly train all employees on safety procedures.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Communicate Regularly</h3>
<p>Provide regular feedback to superiors and staff to ensure consistency. Then, establish an effective communication pattern to guarantee that important messages like safety advisories and emergency notifications are acknowledged. A two-way communication system enables the organization to perform safety wellness checks with employees or ask for safety requests and needs.</p>
<h3>Establish a &#8220;Safe Space&#8221; for Safety</h3>
<p>To encourage prompt reporting of <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/workplace-hazards/">workplace hazards</a>, establish a secure environment for employees to communicate their observations and encounters. Ensuring a culture where individuals feel comfortable reporting safety concerns on time can prevent incidents from occurring.</p>
<p>For example, one-on-one meetings or regular office hours provide employees with a safe environment to discuss matters without fear of retaliation. It can help build trust and promote positive relationships.</p>
<h3>Become a Safety Advocate</h3>
<p>Ensure the promotion of safety above all other considerations to lead by example for the rest of the company. Prioritize <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/workplace-safety/">workplace safety</a> over speed and profit, regardless of the audience—board members or new employees undergoing training. Incorporating this fundamental principle into your organization can assist in defining guidelines for procedures.</p>
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<h2>How To Get Safety Buy-in</h2>
<p>The ability to lead powerfully and effectively can significantly impact your safety efforts. However, effective safety leadership can face challenges if there is a lack of commitment to safety from management or employees.</p>
<p>Here are some suggestions for encouraging safety compliance within your company:</p>
<h3>Leadership Buy-in</h3>
<p>When seeking support from management, there may be factors beyond your control to consider. Nevertheless, attempting to change their perspective can be worthwhile. Even in cases where safety measures come at a high cost, presenting compelling data can demonstrate the long-term benefits of prioritizing a safer work environment.</p>
<h3>Use Factual Data</h3>
<p>Gather factual data on safety risks that pertain to your company to demonstrate the tangible impact of safety. Additionally, you may utilize cost information regarding employee compensation for injuries or illnesses to sway upper management.</p>
<h3>Bring Up Brand Reputation</h3>
<p>Safety discussions can positively impact a brand&#8217;s reputation when considering preventable past incidents. Analyzing revenue data may help understand the influence of importance on financial performance.</p>
<h3>Make Use of Examples From Previous Incidents</h3>
<p>Analyze previous investigations or records of incidents to illustrate their effect on the company&#8217;s sustained growth. The identified areas provide insight into where security measures may require improvement.</p>
<h3>Employee Buy-in</h3>
<p>While employees may not sway much over workplace policies, they are responsible for ensuring safety. Despite being aware of its significance, some employees may resist safety protocol changes if it could impact their workload or lead to disciplinary action.</p>
<p>Here are some tips for presenting your ideal culture of safety to workers:</p>
<h4>1. Ensure Safety Through Incentives</h4>
<p>Incentivize employees to abide by safety practices and incorporate safe behaviors into their daily work through rewards, including safety accolades. The incentives offered will promote a secure and constructive workplace atmosphere.</p>
<h4>2. Demonstrate the Benefits Clearly</h4>
<p>Illustrate how safety initiatives can enhance the well-being of workers. It is essential to highlight the protective benefits of this measure to minimize work stoppages and reduce the occurrence of lost wages.</p>


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<p>Safety performance examines various factors, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>workforce experience and qualifications;</li>
<li>machine maintenance schedules;</li>
<li>safety equipment features;</li>
<li>technical specification standards; and</li>
<li>compliance reporting requirements.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Reasons for Measuring Safety Performance</h2>
<p>Below are some of the reasons for measuring safety performance:</p>
<ul>
<li>Can be a navigational tool</li>
<li>Can be an early warning sign</li>
<li>Can alter behavior</li>
<li>Used to implement strategies and policies</li>
<li>Used for trend monitoring</li>
<li>For improvement prioritization</li>
<li>For improvement project evaluation</li>
<li>Input into bonus and incentive systems</li>
<li>Used as a marketing tool</li>
<li>For benchmarking</li>
<li>Increased motivation</li>
</ul>
<h2>How is it Measured?</h2>
<p>Organizations may use different measurement systems to predict safety performance and improve results. However, two primary types of metrics are used for evaluating this.</p>
<h3>Lagging Metric</h3>
<p>As an example of a lag metric, one could consider a <a href="https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/performance/fed-measures/safety.aspx">safety measure</a> evaluating an event, an indicator, or an already occurring outcome. The objective is to prevent future accidents by assessing them afterward.</p>
<h3>Leading Metrics</h3>
<p>Lead metrics are a safety measure used to investigate the effectiveness of key work processes, operating disciplines, and other proactive measures in predicting incidents. This type of metric may involve participation in training and awareness initiatives.</p>
<p>If collected over time, data from lead metrics can help to identify any drops in the efficiency of safety systems before any accidents happen, allowing corrective measures to be taken.</p>
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<h2>5 Key Safety Metrics to Improve Performance</h2>
<p>Using the following five safety metrics, an organization can improve its <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/ehs-compliance/">Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS)</a> performance:</p>
<h3>1. Incidents and Near-Misses</h3>
<p>This metric measures the frequency of incidents and <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/near-miss-reporting/">near-misses</a> that have happened in the past. The data obtained from analyzing this metric can help identify any patterns or trends that could be linked to processes, operations, or other safety factors.</p>
<h3>2. Inspections</h3>
<p>Incident metrics can provide valuable insights into safety performance. Injury and illness data, however, only provides a partial snapshot. Regularly inspecting the workplace and equipment, as well as assessing potential hazards, can prevent workplace incidents.</p>
<h3>3. Observations</h3>
<p>By utilizing behavior-centric safety data, you can monitor employee behavior daily and identify opportunities for improving workplace procedures. Furthermore, it can measure the use of safe practices among employees and offer a chance to recognize their positive efforts.</p>
<h3>4. Training</h3>
<p>Assessing the effectiveness of a <a href="https://safetyculture.com/training/">training program</a> requires monitoring attendance and pass rates. It lets you ensure employees participate in their required training and comprehend the material. These should be the initial metrics evaluated when assessing your training program.</p>
<h3>5. Safety Suggestions and Hazards</h3>
<p>Developing an employee safety culture require a two-way feedback system. It can allow employees to report unsafe conditions or hazardous situations at work.</p>
<p>Management can use this information to implement <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/safety-performance/safety-performance-improvement/">safety improvements</a> and corrective actions. Additionally, it gives them insights into potential areas for improvement and encourages employee engagement in workplace safety initiatives.</p>
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<h2>Types of Safety Performance Measures</h2>
<h3>Results Measures</h3>
<p>Results measures are critical in understanding the nature and causes of accidents. They can be broken down into units, such as the number of people injured or killed, the amount of property damage, and other associated costs.</p>
<p>By analyzing the financial costs of an accident in terms of dollars per unit, you can gain a clearer insight into the economic burden caused.</p>
<p>Furthermore, results measurements must be accurate to abide by all legal and insurance regulations.</p>
<h3>Activity Measures</h3>
<p>Activity measures are vital for measuring the success of preventive measures to reduce workplace accidents. By tracking behaviors and performance linked to accident prevention, organizations can better understand how their strategies and initiatives are working to <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/risk-assessment/">reduce risk and improve safety</a>.</p>
<p>Activity measures can assess outcomes at both the supervisor/workgroup level and the organizational level, allowing companies to identify areas of improvement or where additional resources may be necessary.</p>


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<p>Natural gas burns much cleaner than other fossil fuels like crude oil and petroleum products. It also produces significantly fewer greenhouse gases for every unit of energy produced. And since the Earth is abundant with natural gas, many people are looking at this natural resource as the future of energy.</p>
<h2>Benefits of Natural Gas</h2>
<p>There are many benefits to natural gas, which is why many industries and governments are paying close attention to it. This is a very versatile fuel source that emits less pollution than other fossil fuels and is also much more abundant. Here are some other key benefits of using natural gas:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3>Clean Burning</h3>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Natural gas burns much cleaner than other fossil fuels, such as petroleum. This makes it a much more efficient energy source for heating and generating power.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3>Abundance</h3>
</li>
</ul>
<p>There are massive reserves of natural gas worldwide, making it the most abundant fossil fuel available. While it isn’t a source of <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/renewable-energy/">renewable energy</a>, we currently have huge reserves of it, making it a better option than other depleting fossil fuels.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3>Versatility</h3>
</li>
</ul>
<p>There are many ways to use natural gas. Currently, this fuel is used for power generation, heating, cooking, and transportation.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3>Lower Greenhouse Emissions</h3>
</li>
</ul>
<p>A major concern when using fossil fuels is the massive amounts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that come from burning them. However, natural gas produces much lower GHG emissions, which is why it’s a very promising energy source.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3>Stability</h3>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Unlike other fuel sources, natural gas isn’t subject to volatile market prices, so it’s much more reliable.</p>
<p>[sc_cta title=&#8221;Transform the Way You Produce and Use Natural Gas with SafetyCulture&#8221;]</p>
<h2>Environmental Impacts of Natural Gas</h2>
<p>While natural gas offers many benefits and looks like a great energy source for the future, there are some major concerns about its environmental impact. Remember, natural gas is non-renewable, and even if it produces much fewer emissions than other fossil fuels, it isn’t a 100% clean fuel.</p>
<p>Natural gas is mostly made of methane which is much more potent than carbon. This poses a major risk as this gas can leak out and pollute the air during transportation, production, and processing. So, it’s very important for industries to figure out a solution for these potential emissions before fully adopting natural gas as an energy source.</p>
<p>Additionally, natural gas can also pollute the water. During extraction, many industries use fracking to extract natural gas from the ground. While this releases a lot of natural gas from the rocks, it requires the injection of water, sand, and other chemicals deep into the ground, which contaminates water sources.</p>
<p>This is why natural gas is largely seen as a fuel source that we can use while transitioning to renewable energy. But further down the line, it would be best for us to completely stop using fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric.</p>
<h2>How It’s Produced</h2>
<p>Natural gas is trapped deep underground. To access the natural gas, teams drill into the ground to release the gases and capture them. From there, the gases are transported to processing plants through pipelines. At the processing plant, different processes are used to remove water, sand, dirt, and any other impurities from the natural gas.</p>
<p>After the processing, the natural gas can be stored in tanks and used for heating and power generation.</p>
<p>That said, one of the most common extraction methods for natural gas is <a href="https://safetyculture.com/topics/fracking/">fracking</a>. This involves injecting water and other compounds deep into the ground to break apart rock formations and release the gas trapped inside. This can contaminate water sources and have a major impact on the environment. This is also why fracking isn’t the recommended extraction method for natural gas.</p>
<p>There have been recent developments in the world of “<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/140319-5-technologies-for-greener-fracking">green fracking</a>,” which promises to be a less harmful alternative to traditional fracking. However, further research is required before we can adopt green fracking processes throughout the industry.</p>
<h2>Natural Gas vs. Other Energy Sources</h2>
<p>To understand whether or not natural gas is the right energy source for the future, it’s best to compare it with other common fuel sources. Here’s how natural gas stacks up when compared to coal, oil, and renewable energy sources.</p>
<h3>Natural Gas vs. Oil</h3>
<p>Natural gas, while still a fossil fuel, burns much cleaner and more efficiently than petroleum, which is the most common fossil fuel we use for power generation right now. It also generates significantly fewer carbon emissions than oil for every unit of energy produced.</p>
<h3>Natural Gas vs. Coal</h3>
<p>Just like with oil, natural gas produces far fewer carbon emissions for every unit of energy it produces compared to coal.</p>
<h3>Natural Gas vs. Renewable Energy Sources</h3>
<p>When it comes to environmental impact, nothing can beat renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources produce zero carbon emissions and are much better in the long term. However, the technology behind renewable energy needs to develop a bit more before it can fully take over fossil fuels.</p>


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Oil and gas production manager or supervisor with digital tablet checking natural gas supply and distribution in refinery plant

Agriculture Safety

Natural Gas

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