Thank you to all of our speakers and attendees who attended EHS 2023!
Call for speakers open! Click on Speaker Info tab for details!
*scroll down to review schedule with track titles and sessions in each track by day. This will be updated regularly once speakers and sessions are confirmed.
For questions, contact:
Paula Lerash, CEM
Director of Education & Exhibits
Email: lerash@texaschemistry.org
Direct: (512) 646-6404
LEADERSHIP TRACK
June 2024
June 3, 2024
8:30AM - 9:30AM
UNDERSTAND Principle-Based Performance™
Tim Autrey, Founder, PPI
Room: Expo A1
Through this session, you will understand:
- WHAT each of the 7 Natural Principles is,
- HOW they’ve been discovered ‘in the field’ and vetted across industries, generations, and global demographics,
- HOW they impact our moment-to-moment mindsets & perceptions, and
- HOW these simple principles lay the foundation for the sustainability of any efforts to improve performance.
June 3, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Relationships, INFLUENCE, & Doing the 'Right Thing'
Bob Catinazzo, Executive Vice President - Client Services, PPI Global
Room: Expo A1
Through your participation in this session, you will understand:
- That no one cares how much you know until they know how much you care [about them]
- How ‘policing’ is NOT the solution
- How to integrate the Principles to directly target team member mindset & perception
- How mindset & perception impact choices, actions, & behaviors
June 3, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Harnessing Accountability: A Catalyst for Elevating Safety Performance
John Grubbs, Grubbs Consulting
Room: Expo A1
In this session, we will delve into the critical role of accountability as a driver for safety performance within the petrochemical sector. We'll explore how fostering a culture where every individual feels responsible for their actions and the safety of their colleagues leads to enhanced safety outcomes. Attendees will:
- Have better clarity for an accountable culture
- Gain insights regarding surprises on the job
- Learn how to stay in “Adult Mode” as leaders
- Improve skills to respond to excuses from others
June 3, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Engaging the Workforce: Fueling Safety Culture in Petrochemical Operations
John Grubbs, Grubbs Consulting
Room: Expo A1
In this session, we will explore the pivotal role of employee engagement in driving improvements in safety performance and fostering a culture of safety excellence. We will delve into the importance of cultivating a workplace environment where employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to actively participate in safety initiatives. Attendees will:
- Gain valuable insights into the connection between employee engagement and safety culture
- Learn actionable strategies for cultivating a more engaged and safety-conscious workforce
- Discover the Talent Retention Quadrant (TRQ) as a metric for employee engagement
- Explore simple yet powerful tools to enhance individual engagement on the job
June 3, 2024
3:00PM - 4:00PM
DIY Leadership Development: The Good, The Bad, and The What Were We Thinking!
Dr. Taylor Gilley
Room: Expo A1
Are you a “no” for CEO? Is the C-Suite life not for you? Do you have middle management staff hungry for more leadership development? Then, this is the session for you! Dr. Taylor Gilley from Houston Zoo will present her facility’s approach to in-house leadership development systems and programs. She will share the good, the bad, and the “what were we thinking” when it comes to developing a ground-up, leadership development program for staff. If you are a leader of leaders at your organization or if you just want some ideas for furthering your own development, join us for a lively chat. Dr. Taylor promises to send you home with some juicy ideas!
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK
June 2024
June 3, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Proactive Identification of Most Critical Human Factors
Michael Kennedy, Altamira
See Mobile App for Location
Critical human factors, i.e., the interface of humans with other humans, the equipment being operated, and the related policies and procedures are typically identified during a formal incident investigation following a significant process safety incident. The challenge is to proactively identify and effectively manage the most critical human factors, in order to avoid serious process safety incidents.
June 3, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Improving Human Reliability in the Execution of Tasks with Critical Steps
Paul Briggs, ExxonMobil
Expo A2
ExxonMobil’s Enhancing Process Safety includes the application of human performance principles on defined Higher Consequence risk scenarios. It employs a toolkit named Critical Task Execution and a work process called Safety Critical Task Analysis (SCTA). SCTA is designed to help front line Operations and Maintenance workers in critical tasks where the consequences of human error have the potential to be severe. SCTA focuses on identifying error prone situations in critical tasks, and then recommending improvements to make the task easier to “get it right” each time it is performed.
June 3 (1:45PM) - 4 (2:45PM), 2024
RAGAGEP In Practice
Joseph Nunez, ExxonMobil
Expo A2
This session is a case study in applying the information contained in OSHA’s RAGAGEP in Process Safety Management Enforcement memorandum as an engineer in an owner/operator organization.
SUSTAINABILITY TRACK (Track Sponsored by Texas Brine)
June 2024
June 3, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Commitment by Kuraray America to Reduce Environmental Impact from Manufacturing
Melissa Whiteaker and Michael Brisbon, Kuraray
This presentation will focus on the efforts underway by Kuraray America to reduce environmental impacts of the manufacturing process.
June 3, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
A Systems Perspective for Navigating the Complexities of Sustainability
Dr. Rachel Meidl, Rice University
Room: Floral A1
Sustainability is multifaceted and touches every part of the value chain in our complex global system. The notion of sustainability is appealing because it has been presented as a win-win situation. However, success requires a means to measure the costs and benefits across life cycles to ensure presumed “solutions” do not shift risks and offset social, economic, or environmental gains. The challenging issues faced by society today require a holistic, cross-disciplinary, and multidimensional approach to achieve environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable solutions. Global energy production, resource demands, supply chain constraints, geopolitics, heightened environmental and social concerns, and the growing plastic waste crisis have spurred an increased focus on sustainable strategies.
June 3, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Utilizing Life Cycle Assessment in the Chemical Industry
Louise Shaffer, All4, LLC
Room: Floral A1
This presentation will illuminate the significance of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in advancing practices that account for the risks, impacts and opportunities of products and formulations from extraction through disposal within the chemical industry. Gain a tailored perspective on environmental impact assessments, industry-specific challenges, and collaborative strategies for a more sustainable future in Texas chemistry.
June 3, 2024
3:00PM - 4:00PM
2024 Green / Clean Energy Project EHS Implications
Brian Burdorf, TrinityConsultants
See Mobile App for Location
Many petrochemical manufacturers are exploring and pursuing green / clean energy projects based on market opportunities including federal funding initiatives. These projects range from production of specialized chemicals and materials that support clean energy priorities to projects that directly result in emission reductions (e.g., CO2). Even though they represent green and/or clean energy projects, they can trigger significant environmental, health, and safety (EHS) permitting, compliance, and community engagement requirements. As a result, “green” or “clean” does not necessarily mean easy permitting and compliance. This presentation provides petrochemical manufacturers the latest insight and guidance on EHS implications for green, clean energy projects.
LEADERSHIP
June 2024
June 4, 2024
3:00PM - 4:00PM
Principle-Based Performance - Safety Culture
Bob Catinazzo, Executive Vice President - Client Services, PPI Global
Room: Expo A1
In this session you will learn & understand…
- Relationships between Safety and mistakes on the job
- How ‘policing’ is NOT the answer (revisited)
- How blame fixes nothing
- How to inspire team members to do right things in right ways (even when no one’s watching)
SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARDS: BEST PRACTICES TRACK
None at this time.
INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE TRACK (Track Sponsored by JK, Inc.)
June 2024
June 4, 2024
8:00AM - 9:00AM
Heat Stress
Dr. Tommy Hysler, HASC
See Mobile App for Location
We all know that when the hot months approach, the risk of our workers experiencing a heat related illness is high. What are we doing to educate ourselves and our employees to the risk factors, preventative methods, and treatment for these preventable injuries. Telling our employees to just drink water will fail every time. Knowing how many days you need to acclimatize a worker to the heat, when to supplement electrolytes with water, and the early signs of an impending illness will help reduce the risk of a heat related injury. In collaboration with OSHA staff, this presentation will shed light on what you can do to assure your workforce has the knowledge and tools to decrease the risk and to offer long term solutions for these events.
June 4, 2024
9:15AM - 10:15AM
Industrial Hygiene and Digital Transformation
Ben Chandler, GHD
The EHS Professional has a critical role in the recognition, evaluation, and control of workplace exposures to recognized health hazards during routine job activities. This presentation will explore new technology developed for the industrial hygiene industry to evaluate the health hazards for the purpose of determining the risks to human health. The latest real-time air monitoring instrumentation will be discussed including remote equipment capable of providing lower detection limits and immediate data presentation. The presenter will describe the capabilities of using new platforms for evaluating indoor air quality concerns, including the latest ambient air monitoring equipment. This presentation will also detail unique digital visualization and virtual reality training tools designed to enhance EHS Programs. The presenter will describe all aspects of hazard recognition, evaluation, and control related to this technology. Information provided in case studies shall focus on how EHS Professionals are relying on this new technology to provide solutions in the digital age.
June 4, 2024
10:30AM - 11:30AM
Truth or Consequences
Steve Mata, DuPont
See Mobile App for Location
The use of chemical protective clothing is a commonplace throughout the Texas and Louisiana Chemical Industry. When dealing with both Liquids and particulates, a key understanding of exactly what protection your approved PPE is providing is a must or consequences can result in unfavorable circumstances. This presentation provides a grounding on considerations for selecting the appropriate garment for the ultimate protection. The session will help to understand the key determinants of selecting a Fabric, Seam and Design for the hazard. Then adds the nuances that can lead to pitfalls such as Chemical Mixtures, elevated temperatures, no direct permeation data and much more. A final topic will focus on the need for both chemical and flame protection. How do you handle the Dual Hazard environment?
June 4, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Ethical Considerations Inherent to Occupational Safety and Health Research: Examining the Ethical Foundations of the Discovery of New Knowledge
Dr. Robert Emery, UT HSC Houston
See Mobile App for Location
It is reasonable to presume that during their working careers, most practicing occupational safety and health professionals have not been directly involved in the design, funding, and conduct of scientific research projects exploring a specific occupational health and safety issue. Inherent to such endeavors is a series of well-established ethical considerations that must be evaluated and affirmed that perhaps many practitioners do not fully appreciate. In this presentation, the basic precepts of conducting ethical research of all types will be described, as this provides the underpinnings for the vital work carried out by the profession and serves as the engine that creates new knowledge.
ENVIRONMENTAL TRACK: AIR (Track Sponsored by OxyChem)
June 2024
June 4, 2024
8:00AM - 9:00AM
Proposed Fenceline Monitoring in HON and Lessons Learned from RSR Implementation
Kari Ward and Jeremy Sell, Trihydro Corp.
See Mobile App for Location
In this presentation we will review the proposed fenceline monitoring requirements for HON facilities, including applicability determination, sample station siting using EPA Method 325A for passive diffusion sampling, sample station siting for summa canister sampling, sampling requirements, root cause analysis process, and corrective actions. We will also share lessons learned from assisting refineries with implementation and support of their fenceline monitoring programs.
June 4, 2024
9:15AM - 10:15AM
PM2.5: Scientific Background and Regulatory Landscape
Dr. Roberto Gasparini, Spirit Environmental
Room: Floral A1
This presentation will teach you everything you need to know about the science and policy around PM2.5. Scientifically, the importance of particle size will be explained, including how particle size distributions are presented. We will go over the science behind PM in the atmosphere, including primary emissions versus secondary formation. A discussion of PM sources – including natural, manmade, and industrial processes – will be presented.
June 4, 2024
10:30AM - 11:30AM
Hot Air Topics: Review of Upcoming Regulatory Changes
Aaron Hebert, BGE, Jean Leonard, BGE & Chris Ward, ALL4
See Mobile App for Location
Keep up with the latest in the world of Air Regulations. BGE and ALL4 are teaming together to present summaries of the proposed, and recently published, regulations that matter to you. We will focus on:
- HON [MACT Subparts F, G, H, and I]
- Group I Polymers and Resins [MACT Subpart U]
- Group II Polymers and Resins [MACT Subpart W]
- SOCMI Process Standards [NSPS Subparts III, NNN, RRR, IIIa, NNNa, and RRa]
- VOC SOCMI Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) [NSPS Subparts VVa and VVb]
- Storage Tanks [NSPS Kc]
We will also briefly touch on other regulations that may be adjacent to the chemical industry and other regulations that are anticipated in the future.
June 4, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Managing NSR Projects – Insight from Both Sides of the Fence
Katherine O. Reimann, EDGE Engineering
See Mobile App for Location
If you are an air practitioner, chances are you have worked on or managed at least one New Source Review (NSR) permit application, ranging from simple rule-based permitting up to a Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD)/Nonattainment NSR (NNSR) permit. If so, you know how detailed and complex the process can be; however, there are ways to optimize the workflow. At this session we will recommend management practices for optimizing NSR application projects involving consultants based on lessons learned from both the client’s and the consultant’s perspective. The discussion will focus specifically on determining project scope, handling changes, impacts of requested changes to the project, and making communication efficient and effective. Through a discussion of several example scenarios demonstrating the impact of the recommended practices to project metrics like schedule and budget, attendees will gain valuable insights into optimizing their own NSR projects.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK TRACK
June 2024
June 4, 2024
8:00AM - 9:00AM
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Process Safety Leaders
Gregg Kiihne, BASF
See Mobile App for Location
Stephen Covey’s magnum opus The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People has been used by millions of people worldwide to improve their levels of personal effectiveness. This presentation explores how these same Habits can greatly improve the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of process safety management programs when these Habits are adopted by the organization’s leaders. In addition, we will explore what these Habits look like in practice for managing process safety at different levels in the organization.
June 4, 2024
9:15AM - 10:15AM
Navigating Post-Incident Terrain: Strategies for Effective Response and Prevention
Brian Godfrey, ALL4
See Mobile App for Location
In the realm of Environmental Health and Safety, the occurrence of safety incidents is an inevitable reality. However, the true measure of an organization's commitment to safety lies not only in the prevention of incidents but also in the adeptness of its response. This session offers insights into the critical steps organizations must take in the aftermath of safety incidents. From immediate response protocols to thorough investigation methodologies, and just as importantly the corrective action process, it explores the pivotal role of post-incident analysis in shaping future prevention strategies. Actions such as claims management, return to work, training and it delves into the psychological aspects of incident management, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of learning rather than blame.
June 4, 2024
10:30AM - 11:30AM
OSHA-EPA Harmonization: Navigating Potential PSM Standard Changes and RMP Final Rule Compliance
Bryn LeBlanc, Ramboll
See Mobile App for Location
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initiated its Process Safety Management (PSM) rulemaking project in September 2022, exploring potential revisions to the PSM standard's scope and provisions. This undertaking coincided with the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposal of the Safer Communities by Chemical Accident Prevention (SCCAP) rule issued on August 30, 2022, marking the latest in a series of revisions since 2017. Following thorough public feedback, the SCCAP rule has been finalized by the EPA Administrator and awaits publication in the Federal Register. OSHA has yet to announce its alignment strategy with EPA's RMP changes. However, it's anticipated that OSHA will observe the outcomes of these rule changes before considering harmonization with the EPA RMP. Mrs. LeBlanc will outline the newly established compliance requirements under EPA's RMP Rule, identify areas of convergence with OSHA's PSM rulemaking, and offer industry-oriented implementation recommendations.
June 4, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Scenario Thinking in Managing Process Safety Risks
Brooke Beveridge, ExxonMobil
See Mobile App for Location
Enhancing Process Safety (EPS) has required a transition and culture shift for risk owners to categorize risks based on scenarios and make tough risk-based decisions as leaders. This presentation describes scenario thinking in managing process safety risks with examples from tank overfill and the ALARP (As Low as Reasonably Practicable) process.
INDUSTRY BEST PRACTICES TRACK
June 2024
June 5, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Improving Employee Training & Engagement
Lewis Chambers, George Fischer Central Plastics
See Mobile App for Location
This presentation will provide details of how Georg Fischer LLC has improved EHS performance and improved training effectiveness by engaging employees and making training fun. The presentation will also highlight Georg Fischer's Safety Week. A fun and entertaining week of safety training and employee engagement. Below is an outtake from an article written about GF's Safety Week. GF Central Plastics EHS Week Sets the Bar for Safety Excellence!
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Kuraray America’s Journey towards Renewable Feedstocks
Charles Neal, Kuraray
See Mobile App for Location
This presentation will focus on Kuraray America’s adoption of the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification Plus (ISCC+) system – a viable, international, and transparent certification of biomass derived raw materials. Through compliance with its rigorous sustainability and carbon reduction criteria, Kuraray is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its chemical manufacturing processes using renewable feedstocks like bio-ethylene.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Operational Excellence through Digital Transformation and Safety Culture
Richard Bass, Kuraray
See Mobile App for Location
In modern industrial environments, fostering a robust safety culture is paramount to ensure the well-being of employees and the efficiency of operations. This presentation delves into the intersection of safety culture, 5S implementation, and digital transformation, exploring how these elements synergize to create safer and more productive workplaces.
The objectives of this presentation are threefold: first, to elucidate the fundamental principles of safety culture and its significance in organizational success; second, to examine the methodology, benefits and journey of implementing the 5S system (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) as a cornerstone of safety and efficiency improvement efforts; and third, to showcase the transformative potential of digital technologies in augmenting safety initiatives and streamlining processes.
Key points include clarifying the link between safety culture and organizational performance, detailing the step-by-step process of 5S implementation, and illustrating how digital tools such as ePAS, Go Plant, eTracker and the Wi-Fi/WI hart network, can enhance safety practices and enable proactive risk mitigation.
This presentation underscores the importance of proactive safety measures, emphasizes the role of employee engagement and continuous improvement in sustaining safety culture, and provides actionable insights for organizations seeking to optimize safety, efficiency, and resilience in an ever-evolving industrial landscape.
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between safety culture, 5S methodology, and digital innovation, empowering them to spearhead transformative initiatives that prioritize safety while driving operational excellence and organizational success.
June 5, 2024
3:15PM - 4:15PM
Optimizing Safety Training in the Energy industry Using Adult Learning Theories & Techniques
Richard Hannah, HASC
See Mobile App for Location
In order to meet safety and compliance requirements, contractors working to support the energy industry must have a full understanding of safety processes and procedures, including (PSM) regulations, and understand how it can affect their ability to work safely. For over 30 years the Health and Safety Council (HASC) has been focused on delivering training for contractors and workers who support the energy industry, including PSM new hire training. HASC has released several new courses for major refiners and to support new hire PSM training that utilizes adult learning techniques and innovative delivery techniques to help workers stay as safe as possible on jobsites in the energy industry.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK
June 2024
June 5, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Effective Transfer of Process Safety Knowledge in the Workforce
Tekin Kunt & Anthony Do, PSRG
With experienced employees retiring and a fresh influx of new hires, the challenge of effectively transferring Process Safety Knowledge (PSK) has never been more critical. Traditional employee-to-employee PSK transfer methods prove to be inefficient, demanding substantial time investments and overlapping availability that can span from six months to a year. This session will explore the necessity of a deliberate Process Safety Knowledge Management (PSKM) system. A robust PSKM system equips organizations with the tools and methodologies required for capturing, organizing, maintaining, and delivering PSK efficiently, ensuring that it is readily accessible to newcomers and the entire workforce as needed. Join us as we dive into the foundational elements of creating and implementing a successful PSKM system that allows continuous access to vital process safety knowledge in the face of evolving workforce dynamics.
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Management of Change: Perhaps the most Challenging Aspect of Process Safety
David Drerup, Operational Sustainability
Management of Change (MOC), when implemented properly, can both minimize the effects of risks and encourage sound organizational decision-making, which enhances production and the bottom line. In this presentation, we’ll delve into why MOC continues to be challenge even the most progressive organizations, along with how companies can seek to advance their MOC program to get beyond the basics required by compliance (i.e., equipment and procedure changes) to derive more business value and not use it solely as a compliance tool. Finally, we will try to make the case for how MOC can lead to a more reliable, and profitable organization while being integrated into maintenance and operations.
June 5, 2024
3:15PM - 4:15PM
The Importantce to Bring PSM to the "Shopfloor and the Field"
Nelson Rodriguez-Garcia, Kuraray
Session description coming soon!
ENVIRONMENTAL TRACK : WATER & WASTE (Track Sponsored by Pure Salt)
June 2024
June 5, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Industrial Water Reuse: A Path Becoming Water Positive
Chip Cagle & Marie Delia, Veolia North America
See Mobile App for Location
This session will provide an overview of regulatory development, policy update (e.g., Tax Credit), funding opportunities, and market landscape related to industrial water reuse. It will also share lessons learned and best practices of identifying and prioritizing industrial water reuse opportunities as well as technology selections and operational excellence, with specific examples from the chemical industry. This session is intended to help organizations to better plan and implement water reuse projects to achieve your company's water sustainability goals.
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
The PFAS Road Goes on Forever
Stephanie Bergeron Perdue, Baker Botts
This session will address the status of EPA’s strategic roadmap for action under SDWA, CWA, CERCLA, CAA and TSCA. EPA announced in October 2021 a comprehensive, multi-office plan based on three central directives to research, restrict and remediate PFAS. Three years later, there are multiple proposals poised for adoption and final, effective rules. This session will also address other PFAS crossings, including toxicity assessments and enforcement.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Risk Management Strategies for Water Treatment and Supply: What does your Water Safety Plan tell you?
Lathika Varanasi, CEC
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This presentation addresses key risk management strategies for water treatment and supply systems, through the framework of a Water Safety Plan which every system should have in place. Highlighted strategies include identifying operational monitoring parameters, applying monitoring and maintenance approaches, implementing control measures and emergency preparedness measures. Strategies are identified to ensure that there is early detection and curtailment of contamination issues and other threats, and Operators can consistently provide safe and clean water. Examples of the highlighted strategies and their respective benefits will be discussed.
June 5, 2024
3:15PM - 4:15PM
TCEQ Update: Lead & Copper Rules
Seth Kramer, TCEQ
See Mobile App for Location
Presenters from TCEQ Water Supply Division will provide an update on new drinking water regulations and the upcoming changes to the Lead and Copper rule.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE (Track Sponsored by inFRONT)
June 2024
June 5, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Technology Trends and the Future of Emergency Response
John Barth, inFRONT
Room: Floral A2
Through Platform Technology, Cloud Services, AI and other technology trends, how can we more effectively ensure emergency readiness and response? Other topics we will cover include location services, predictive analytics, etc.
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
The Bystander Effect
Jordan Burklow, LyondellBasell
Room: Floral A2
After the tragic events that occurred in New York City related to the murder of Kitty Genovese, a new study in the field of Psychology was opened which gave light to what is known as "The Bystander Effect" which found that as work group sizes grow, our likelihood of intervening in an emergency situation goes down. By understanding the key components of what leads to the Bystander Effect, and the ways in which we can collectively combat this phenomenon, we can equip our workers with the tools needed to ensure they intervene when presented with at-risk or emergency situations.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Firefighting Application Techniques and Challenges
Stephen Pepper, CTEH
Room: Floral A2
This presentation will focus on application techniques and challenges of new generation synthetic fluorine free firefighting foam (SFFF) on gasoline in depth. The new SFFFs do not have the film formation capabilities of legacy AFFF when applied to class B liquid fires. The loss of film formation in the suppression of class B fires makes application technique critical to successful extinguishment. Application techniques were recently tested on several new SFFF formulations using pit fires with hot objects in the pool on straight gasoline, E15 Gasoline, and Denatured Ethanol. The firefighting evolutions utilized commercially available proportioning and application equipment to complete extinguishment. Application rates started at NFPA recommended application rate of 0.10 gpm/ft2. and we were able to demonstrate a critical successful application rate of 0.03 gpm/ft2.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Evaluating the Impact of Drone Propwash on Air Quality Monitoring in Plume Environments
Phil Baker & Jonathan Barket, CTEH
Room: Floral A2
This pioneering study explores the effect of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) – drone – propwash on drone-mounted air quality measuring equipment, specifically in the context of plume monitoring from burning crude oil. This session will cover key findings of this research. This advancement opens new possibilities for more effective and reliable airborne environmental monitoring, especially in emergency response scenarios involving hazardous emissions.
LEADERSHIP
June 2024
June 5, 2024
8:30AM - 9:30AM
How to Grow a Culture of One Team with One Goal having One Conversation
Tim Autrey & Bob Catinazzo, PPI Global
Room: A1
Bob Catinazzo kicks off this final session of the PPI Series by revealing the Next-Gen Mindset- how to role model, reinforce, and promote Principle-Based Behaviors.
Bob will then reveal a simple 4-step share-ask sequence that ‘puts feet to’ the entire Principle-Based approach; a recipe for how to engage with, provide feedback to, and inspire team members such that needful areas are addressed while relationships are enriched, which is essential to growing and strengthening a One Team Culture.
This is a recipe you can put to immediate use.
Tim Autrey wraps up this session with Q&A, giveaways, and an overview of a library of online resources available for embracing and leveraging Principle-Based Performance Improvement™ (PPI).
EHS LEADERSHIP TRACK
June 6, 2024
9:00AM - 10:00AM CST
Leading in the Digital Age: Safeguarding Culture Amidst Dispersion and Disconnection
Jim Spigener, DEKRA
Room: Expo A1
This session will emphasize the critical role and responsibility of leadership in preserving and nurturing organizational culture, particularly in the context of dispersed and disconnected teams in the digital age. In an era where physical separation is easier, misinformation is widespread, and data inundates us, the need for enhanced collaboration and connectivity is paramount.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM CST
Teaming for Operational Excellence
Angela Fall, Chevron
Room: Expo A1
This session will provide information on how we have teamed with our business partners to create a safe, reliable and feedback driven culture.
June 6, 2024
1:15PM - 2:15PM
Protecting Your Company's Reputation During a Crisis
Mary Jane Mudd, EHCMA
Room: Expo A1
How would you speak on behalf of your company if a significant incident occurred? How would you interact with media, employees, family, colleagues and the community? MaryJane Mudd, Executive Director of the East Harris County Manufacturers Association and longtime crisis communications professional, will discuss how to use strategic, effective communication to help protect your company’s reputation during a crisis. Crisis communications basics will be covered as well as how citizen journalists and social media can help – or distort – our messages. The program will consist of lecture, a short role-play and Q&A.
June 6, 2024
2:30PM - 3:30PM
How Engaged Leadership Reflects My Purpose
Stacy Putman, INEOS
Room: Expo A1
Leadership requires you to show up, make a difference and inspires others because not only do they matter but you matter.
The many distractions at work as well as the differing views of careers today can create a puzzle for a Leader to solve who wants to see their team aligned and productive. Retention can be another challenge for us while we are also supposed to be working on inclusion and belonging efforts. How does the purpose of a Leader serve to solve the puzzle?
ENVIRONMENTAL HOT TOPICS TRACK (Track Sponsored by Mitsubishi Chemical)
June 6, 2024
9:00AM - 10:00AM
SB-900 – New Program Regulating the Safety of Aboveground Storage Vessels
Shannon W. Frazier and Shelley Naik, TCEQ
See Mobile App for Location
30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 338 adopts the requirements of Senate Bill 900 that amended the Texas Water Code. This is a new program regulating the safety of aboveground storage vessels with a capacity of 21,000 gallons (500 barrels) or more at petrochemical plants, petroleum refineries, and bulk storage terminals. TCEQ speakers will provide information on the implementation and deadlines associated with this new program. This is a combined session with our Environmental Hot Topics and Process Safety Track.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
Update on EPA’s 2024 RMP Revisions
Scott Elliott, Baker Botts
See Mobile App for Location
For the third time in seven years, EPA has finalized sweeping changes to the RMP rule. This presentation will provide an overview of the key changes to the RMP rule and what facilities should be considering as they implement these new requirements. This is a combined session with our Environmental Hot Topics and Process Safety Tracks.
June 6, 2024
1:15PM - 2:15PM
TCEQ Happenings: Regulatory Updates and Legislative Preview
Brian Christian and Richard Hyde
See Mobile App for Location
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) recently underwent a review by the Sunset Commission of Texas which resulted in a number of changes to how that agency does business. Many hot-button issues, including environmental justice, emissions events, and public participation in permitting were part of the debate and can be expected to come around again when the Legislature convenes in January 2025. Additionally, recent Federal actions will significantly impact air quality planning and permitting at TCEQ. This presentation will analyze the issues and look downrange at what to expect in the months and years to come.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK (Track Sponsored by Indorama)
June 6, 2024
9:00AM - 10:00AM
SB-900 – New Program Regulating the Safety of Aboveground Storage Vessels
Shannon W. Frazier & Shelley Naik, TCEQ
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30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 338 adopts the requirements of Senate Bill 900 that amended the Texas Water Code. This is a new program regulating the safety of aboveground storage vessels with a capacity of 21,000 gallons (500 barrels) or more at petrochemical plants, petroleum refineries, and bulk storage terminals. TCEQ speakers will provide information on the implementation and deadlines associated with this new program. This is a combined session with our Environmental Hot Topics and Process Safety Tracks.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
RMP Rule Making Update
Scott Elliott, Baker Botts
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Session description coming soon. This session will be combined with the Process Safety Track.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
API 752/753/756 Updates: What does this mean for your facility?
Joshua Bruce-Black, BakerRisk
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API recommended practices 752, 753, and 756 provide guidance to manage risks from process-related explosion, fire, and toxic hazards on permanent buildings, portable buildings, and tents. The latest editions of these critical safety standards were released in January 2024. This presentation will discuss key changes to the RPs including around the siting evaluation process and criteria, management of change and revalidation, expanded sections on fire and toxic hazards, and updated zoning methods and siting for essential/non-essential personnel in portable buildings and tents.
ACC SAFETY & SUSTAINABILITY WORKSHOP
June 6, 2024
8:30AM - 11:30AM
Connecting Safety and Sustainability with Industry Perception and Policymaking
Danny Forest, Director, Data Analytics, Responsible Care
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Join this engaging session with the American Chemistry Council, the Texas Chemistry Council and the Louisiana Chemical Association as we explore how environmental, health and safety impact public perception, influence government affairs, and support effective communication and engagement strategies. Participants will gain valuable insights on current industry perception, local and federal policy priorities and effective messaging and communications strategies, including fostering a deeper understanding of industry's contributions to society and our communities. Presenters will share how ACC’s industry-wide program, Responsible Care, helps drive our industry performance, influence policies and impact public perception. Additional focus will include industry associations are collaborating to tackle emerging challenges and enhance safety and environmental stewardship. This unique gathering is not just a conference session—it's a strategic dialogue on supporting the chemical industry's role in a sustainable future, making it a must-attend for professionals seeking to elevate their impact in environmental, health, and safety fields.
PLANT MANAGER ROUND TABLE (Plant Managers Only)
June 6, 2024
1:00PM - 4:00PM
Plant Manager Round Table
Facilitator information coming soon
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This is a closed door session that is for Plant Managers Only.
