Q.

Why do you need PSM written programs?

A.

OSHA's PSM rule mandates written programs for the employee participation, mechanical integrity, management of change, and emergency planning and response elements. Written programs for other PSM elements, although not specifically required, may be a practical necessity, since the PSM activities they represent (e.g., process safety information, process hazard analysis, safe work practices, pre-startup safety review, compliance audits) may be new to many people in the plant. Furthermore, having written programs is good practice for ensuring that your PSM activities (e.g., operating procedures, training, contractors, incident investigation) are implemented uniformly within your facility or across your company. And remember, EPA's risk management program rule (40 CFR Part 68) also requires companies to develop PSM written programs.

Q.

How are PSM written programs developed?

A.

If pertinent management practices already exist in your plant, then an ABS Consulting PSM specialist simply identifies the existing roles, responsibilities, functions, and products of the management system, and documents it in an organized fashion. If a PSM activity is new or must be considerably improved at your facility, the PSM specialist will work with you and your personnel to define the essential features of the management systems that are practical and fit within your plant's organizational culture. Then, these features and performance expectations are recorded in a formal written document.

Q.

What PSM services does ABS Consulting provide?

A.

• Model-written PSM program manuals
• Develop model corporate written programs
• Help customize written programs with plant-specific PSM system features
• Provide customized hard copies and/or electronic copies of PSM written programs
• Educate and train your personnel, and install the written programs in your facility
• Assess the performance and effectiveness of a PSM program

ABS Consulting engineers are experts at developing and implementing PSM programs. We have performed numerous PSM audits and understand what PSM activities and features are practical and efficient. Because we recognize that all companies are not the same, we tailor programs to suit your unique needs. We have developed many PSM programs for clients, consistently delivering programs that satisfy regulatory requirements and fit each company's organizational culture. ABS Consulting has model written programs for all of the OSHA PSM elements; we will work with you to customize them for your company/facility. Based on your needs, we can provide any or all of the services and products listed in the box at the right. Working with us also opens our wealth of process safety knowledge to you even after the job is over through our newsletter, other mailings, updates on this web page, and periodic contact from our team of experts.

Q.

What are the typical costs and delivery schedules related to ABS Consulting's PSM services?

A.

We can produce individual written programs for your facility within a matter of a few weeks or produce an entire PSM program manual within 1-3 months. The cost for preparing written individual PSM programs depends on the complexity of the programs. We can develop individual programs, combinations of programs, and entire PSM program manuals, or we can review and update your existing PSM manuals. Call us and ask for a specific proposal tailored to meet your needs.