SafetyMoves.com

Posted By Editor on July 29, 2010

The International Society of Automation (ISA) announced today that process safety expert David Cummings, Global Process Safety Management Competency Leader for DuPont Safety, Health & Environment (SHE), will deliver a keynote address at ISA Automation Week 2010 on 6 October in Houston, Texas, USA.

Cummings will address ISA Automation Week’s attendees on the topic of Marvel or Myth—a “Golden Hammer” to Manage Process Safety Risks. His presentation will explore the key elements required to implement and maintain a consistent and highly reliable program to prevent process incidents, including risk management systems, safety culture, operational discipline, and organization learning.

Cumming’s abstract states the following about his timely topic: “Serious process safety related fires, explosions, and toxic releases seem to be in the news every day somewhere in the United States or in other parts of the world. Beyond high visibility industry incidents like those at BP’s Texas City and Imperial Sugar’s Port Wentworth plants, incidents also occur in virtually all industry segments involving a myriad of hazardous materials and technologies.”

David Cummings serves as the Global Process Safety Management Competency Leader for DuPont SHE based in Wilmington, Delaware. He has overall responsibility for internal standards and policies, training, improvement strategies, auditing, and performance management systems relating to process safety across four global regions and 180 manufacturing locations. Cummings has over 30 years of experience within the safety and health field with a BS from Western Maryland College and an MS from Temple University in Occupational Health and Safety. He is an ABIH Certified Industrial Hygienist in Comprehensive Practice. In addition to various technical and management roles within DuPont, he has held previous positions within the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the US Navy, and the US Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).

“Process safety is on everybody’s mind these days and I’d imagine that any automation professional working in the process industry as well as other industries will benefit from attending David Cumming’s keynote address. Recent incidents have shown the impact these accidents can have, not only for the affected organization itself, but for the environment, humanity, wildlife, and the overall economy,” said Gerald Cockrell, ISA Automation Week technical program co-chair. “We could not have asked for a timelier topic when we invited Cummings to present at ISA Automation Week,” Cockrell continued.

ISA Automation Week 2010 takes place 4-7 October at the Westin Galleria in Houston, Texas, USA. It is an in-depth technical conference with a focused exhibit component featuring over 100 vendors. It will deliver critical knowledge on the theory and application of automation technologies in processing and manufacturing environments through vendor-neutral content across seven technical tracks. As an integral part of the conference, vendor exhibits will supplement technical sessions with hands-on, real-world solutions and networking opportunities. Each session has been designed with specific content for five identified career paths: Engineer, Technician, Management, Marketing, and Academia/R&D/Scientist. Using the PathFinder tool, attendees can create a unique combination of sessions covering topics across all tracks, for a comprehensive look at their professions.

Category: DuPont Safety | No Comments »
Tags: Process Safety Management

Posted By Editor on July 25, 2010

Paul Kenny and Frances Outram Wright have been appointed to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Board as non-executive directors.  Both appointments are for a three year term starting 1 October 2010.

The Health and Safety Executive is the national regulator for workplace health and safety.  It aims to prevent death, injury and ill health in Great Britain’s workplaces.

Mr Kenny, General Secretary of the GMB trade union, has been appointed as one of the Board’s employee interest representatives.  Mrs Outram Wright, who has extensive human resources management experience, has been appointed as one of the Board’s employer interest representatives, with particular responsibility for small firms’ health and safety interests.

Mr Kenny said:

“I am proud to be appointed to the HSE Board.  These days we hear  too little about the very real improvements health and safety has brought over the years.  As a Board member I will do my best to shift the focus to the true value of protecting workers from unsafe working practices, and to the wider benefits for business and society.”

Welcoming her appointment, Mrs Outram Wright said:

“I am delighted to be appointed to the HSE Board.   I have enjoyed a wide-ranging career in industry and am committed to the importance of occupational health and safety. I look forward to using this experience to ensure that employers‘ health and safety interests – particularly those of SMEs – are embedded in the work of HSE.”

1.         The appointments have been made in accordance with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) Code of Practice.  All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public.  In the case of the two new appointees:

• Paul Kenny has canvassed on behalf of the Labour Party, and spoken on behalf of candidates, in local and national elections;
• Frances Outram Wright has no political activities.

2.         The HSE Board has nine non-executive director members. Board members receive an annual remuneration of £16,781 for up to 30 days work a year.

3.         Robin Dahlberg and Hugh Robertson were re-appointed to the HSE Board on 1 April, for further three year terms.  Mr Dahlberg was re-appointed as the Board’s public interest representative and Mr Robertson as one of the Board’s employee interest representatives. Both re-appointments were made in accordance with the OCPA Code of Practice and Mr Robertson’s re-appointment followed an open  recruitment competition.

Paul Kenny

Paul was elected General Secretary of the GMB trade union in May 2006, having become Acting General Secretary in June 2005.  He spent his early working life at Fuller’s brewery in Hammersmith and then as an apprentice gas fitter, prior to working for Hammersmith Council as a park keeper where he first became active in the GMB.  In 1979 he started working for the GMB as a full time official and became London Regional Secretary in 1991 before being elected as General Secretary in 2006.

Frances Outram Wright

Frances has over 20 years’ experience – primarily in human resources management – as an Executive Director, Non Executive Director and consultant. She ended her private sector career in 2007, as Group Human Resources Director at the SHL Group Ltd, and is currently a Non Executive Director with the Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust.  She was previously a Non Executive Director, Vice Chairman and Senior Independent Director with the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and a Non Executive Director with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

1 April 2010 re-appointments

Robin Dahlberg

First appointed to the Health and Safety Commission (the HSE Board’s predecessor) in April 2007, Robin has 18 years experience at Managing Director/Chief Executive/Board Member level in organisations in the private, public and non-for-profit sectors.  For most of this time, Robin provided commercial IT solutions to major organisations in the city, to government and to multinationals.

He is currently Vice Chair of the Security Industry Authority and a Board Member of the Local Better Regulation Office. He is also Chair of the East End Citizens Advice Bureau and a volunteer Generalist Advisor at Westminster Citizens Advice Bureau.  He holds no other public appointments.

Hugh Robertson

First appointed to the Health and Safety Commission (the HSE Board’s predecessor) in April 2004, Hugh is a Senior Policy Officer on Health and Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation at the TUC. He was formerly Head of Health and Safety and Bargaining Support with the trade union UNISON.  He is also a board member of the British Occupational Health Research Foundation.

Hugh is a member and has canvassed on behalf of the Labour Party.  He has stood once as a candidate in a local election. He holds no other Public Appointments.

Category: HSE | No Comments »
Tags: Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on July 24, 2010

The Consultants H&S Forum comprising Halcrow, Atkins, Arup and Mott MacDonald has launched an industry leading health and safety assessment to the international construction community.

With construction workers three to four times more likely than other workers to suffer from fatal accidents at work (according to figures from the International Labour Organisation), the main driver is to reduce health and safety risks on international construction sites.

The four set up the Consultants H&S Forum with an objective to improve health and safety across the sector and to share good practice.

The Forum has worked with ConstructionSkills to develop a software program suitable for international applications to provide a health and safety test for construction projects. The computer-based test is conducted on location in company offices under local invigilation. A certificate is awarded upon the successful completion of 50 questions randomly selected from a bank of 500.

Peter Gammie, Halcrow’s chief executive, comments: “The application and approach to health and safety varies from region to region. The introduction of the international health and safety test across our business means that we have a real opportunity to save lives and reduce accidents on construction sites across the world. By establishing the test as a basic requirement we hope that other organisations will adopt this system – and in turn help raise international health and safety standards.”

Keith Clarke, chief executive at Atkins said: “Health and safety should have no boundaries. This is why is it is important that we work together through the Consultants H&S Forum to lead on and work with other stakeholders within the industry to improve health and safety standards globally. Design and engineering organisations can make significant contributions because of our client involvement and ability to reduce safety risk through design.”

Commenting from Mott MacDonald, chairman Peter Wickens said:”The industry’s major players have come together because the importance of health and safety in their businesses and on every project is paramount. They believe that 360,000 fatalities on construction sites worldwide is 360,000 too many. Accidents at work can be avoided using proactive health and safety management. We hope that this test will help train project managers and designers within our global operations and contribute to avoiding the terrible loss and waste caused by accidents in the construction industry.”

John Miles, Arup group board, health and safety director, said: “For any engineering firm, not only are people our most important asset, they are our only asset. It is therefore vital that we look after the safety of our staff in particular those working in countries where potentially standards of occupational health and safety are challenging. With this international assessment as part of our health and safety toolkit, we can establish a competency based approach to our General Site Safety training which will ensure that we encourage best practice across the industry.”

The Consultants H&S Forum will be co-ordinating the international implementation of the assessment with ConstructionSkills with initial focus on the Middle East, followed by India, Asia Pacific, Africa, Europe and North America.

The international health and safety assessment forms part of a suite of products on offer from ConstructionSkills – the leading sector skills council and industry training board.

Category: Arup, Atkins, Halcrow, Mott MacDonald | No Comments »
Tags: Construction, Health & Safety, Health & Safety Software

Posted By Editor on July 21, 2010

Wildeck, Inc., the largest manufacturer of mezzanines, material lifts, and safety guarding products in North America, has appointed Michael R. Galezio to the position of Quality Assurance/Safety Manager for its North American operations.

Michael Galezio“We continue to expand our portfolio of material handling and safety products that can improve the efficiency, safety, and profitability of distribution centers, warehouses, and manufacturing operations.” stated Keith G. Pignolet, President of Wildeck, Inc. “To more effectively coordinate our ‘lean’ manufacturing initiatives and continue to manufacture the high quality products we are known for in the industry, I am extremely pleased to welcome Michael to our ‘Employee-Owned’ Wildeck team.”

To support the company’s aggressive business growth, Galezio will report directly to the President and will be responsible for facility and personnel safety, and streamlining company procedures to reduce cycle times and improve work-flow. The company is a leading U.S. manufacturer of pre-engineered mezzanines; integrated mezzanine/crane systems (MezzCrane™); vertical material lifts (VRCs); and one of the industries most extensive line-up of safety guarding products; including guard rail, rack protectors, machine guards, stair systems, ladders, safety gates, and more.

Michael is a graduate of Yavapai College, Prescott, Arizona with a degree in Manufacturing Technologies. He brings over 18 years of industry related quality and lean experience to Wildeck from several manufacturing companies. Previous accomplishments as a Quality and Manufacturing Engineer have included upgrading production routing formats and providing detailed work instructions for production personnel. He also managed, maintained and upgraded ISO 9000:1994 programs to stringent ISO 9001:2000 Standards; and participated in, and led, Lean Manufacturing Initiatives (Kaizen) to reduce and eliminate waste in multiple production cells.

Galezio also streamlined First Piece Inspection Systems, reducing average inspection time by approximately 55%, and has led Value Stream work teams in coordinating Lean and 5-S activities, resulting in a 50% scrap reduction for that company.

Wildeck, Inc. – based in Waukesha, WI – is the largest manufacturer of mezzanines, vertical lifts, and safety guarding products in North America. Wildeck products are used throughout distribution centers, warehouses, manufacturing operations, and back-room storage facilities for the safe and efficient handling, storage and movement of materials. For more than 30 years, the company has grown through a dedicated and experienced network of customer-service-oriented dealers and systems integrators, nationwide.

Wildeck, Inc. is a subsidiary of Holden Industries, an ESOP company.

Category: Wildeck | No Comments »
Tags: Quality Assurance

Posted By Editor on July 14, 2010

Apache Corporation has announced that David Carmony has been promoted to be vice president – Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S).

“Apache has always had a strong safety culture,” said G. Steven Farris, Apache’s chairman and chief executive officer. “David will work with me and our regional operating units to ensure that our EH&S programs continue to improve and our standards remain at the highest levels as the company’s operations grow around the world.”

Carmony has been the Gulf Coast Region’s vice president – Drilling, Production and Construction Engineering since 2006, having served as the region’s drilling and production engineering manager since 2003. He joined Apache in 1993 as production engineer for the Southern Region.

Prior to joining the company, he was a production, drilling and reservoir engineer for Pacific Enterprises Oil Co. and Terra Resources, and a production engineer for Mitchell Energy. David received his bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

Apache Corporation is an oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Canada, Egypt, the United Kingdom North Sea, Australia and Argentina.

Category: Apache Corp | No Comments »
Tags: Environment Health Safety & Security

Posted By Editor on July 7, 2010

3M announced today it has acquired Dailys Ltd., a supplier of non-woven disposable protective clothing, primarily chemical protective coveralls for industrial use. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“This acquisition supports our strategic direction by broadening our protective apparel portfolio,” said Julie Bushman, vice president and general manager, 3M Occupational Health and Environmental Safety Division. “Adding products from Dailys will accelerate our presence in disposable protective clothing not only in the U.K. but globally as well,” said Jim McSheffrey, managing director, 3M United Kingdom.

“3M’s culture of innovation fits well with our own,” said David Sallon, chairman, Dailys Ltd. “Its research and development capabilities, along with global reach, will help to expand and grow our business,” added Benjamin Sallon, co-managing director, Dailys Ltd.

Dailys employs 26 people and is located in Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom.

Category: 3M, Dailys | No Comments »
Tags: Occupational Health & Safety, Protective Clothing

Posted By Editor on June 29, 2010

The Global Corporate Consultancy (GCC) of Delta Consultants, an Oranjewoud company, announced that Bob Lanham has joined its group as an Associate.

“Bob brings additional years of real life experience to the GCC team, especially in the packaging and beverage sectors”

A former Vice President of Environmental, Health, Safety & Security with the Anheuser-Busch Packaging Group, Mr. Lanham has more than 25 years of progressive experience in the manufacturing sector. He is a recognized leader in the packaging industry, serving as the EHS Subcommittee Chairperson of the Can Manufacturers Institute and as an EHS Subcommittee member for the Glass Manufacturing Industry Council.

Mr. Lanham has unique skills and expertise in sustainable packaging manufacturing and is keenly aware of supply chain challenges and opportunities.

“Bob brings additional years of real life experience to the GCC team, especially in the packaging and beverage sectors,” says John Platko, GCC Managing Partner.

Mr. Lanham is a registered professional engineer and will be based in St. Louis, Missouri.

Global Corporate Consultancy

The GCC delivers sustainable results, from strategy through implementation. Believing the best sustainability programs integrate sustainability into core business practices, our experts partner with clients to identify and act on business-relevant social and environmental opportunities. Through fit-for-purpose and uniquely innovative solutions, clients benefit from reduced business risk, new opportunities and long-term competitive advantage.

Delta Consultants

Delta is a full-service, global consulting firm providing innovative and sustainable environmental, health and safety (EHS) solutions for multinational clients. Delta has experience in more than 130 countries around the world. Delta is a subsidiary of Oranjewoud N.V. Delta, together with the entire Oranjewoud organization, offers multinational EHS consulting capabilities with more than 3,700 employees. In addition, Delta provides the diversity, strength, and global capacity of over 4,800 consultants in 165 offices on 6 continents through the Inogen Environmental Alliance.

Oranjewoud N.V.

Oranjewoud N.V. is a leading consultancy and engineering firm in The Netherlands, Belgium and France. The company offers high quality services in the broad areas of infrastructure, urban development, construction, nature and landscaping, the environment, safety and compliance, and sports and leisure facility construction. Oranjewoud provides services for the entire project chain: from the planning stage, to advice, design and supervision to contracting, management and operation. Oranjewoud N.V. (ORANW) is listed on the NYSE: Euronext market in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Category: Delta Consultants, Oranjewoud | No Comments »
Tags: Environment Health Safety & Security

Posted By Editor on June 24, 2010

Leading Asbestos Removal Contractors Silverdell (UK) Limited, has announced the recent appointment of Justin Busk who steps into the role of Head of Health and Safety.

Justin joins Silverdell from ISG Plc where he was a Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Manager working on the Olympic Village. His new role gives him full responsibility for the health, safety and welfare for all company employees and all UK operations. Justin will maintain Silverdell’s health, safety, environmental and quality systems (ISO 9001, 18001 and 14001) and will be reporting to Silverdell’s Managing Director, David Rhodes, he will also assist with the development and management of company policies.

David Rhodes said: “We are thrilled to have Justin on our team. His appointment as Head of Health and Safety will allow us to continue to deliver excellent standards in our health, safety, quality and environmental programme”.

He went on to say: “Justin will be an integral part of the company and will also chair our monthly health and safety committee meetings, and deliver internal training through SAFE (Silverdell Academy for Excellence). We welcome Justin to Silverdell and we are extremely confident that he will be an invaluable asset to the business”.

Category: ISG, Silverdell | No Comments »
Tags: Asbestos Removal, Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on June 14, 2010

David Cameron has appointed former Trade and Industry Secretary Lord Young of Graffham to conduct a Whitehall-wide review of “the operation of health and safety laws and the growth of the compensation culture.

Announcing his appointment, David Cameron said:

“I’m very pleased that Lord Young has agreed to lead this important review. The rise of the compensation culture over the last ten years is a real concern, as is the way health and safety rules are sometimes applied. We need a sensible new approach that makes clear these laws are intended to protect people, not overwhelm businesses with red tape. I look forward to receiving Lord Young’s recommendations on how we can best achieve that.”

Lord Young added:

“Health and safety regulation is essential in many industries but may well have been applied too generally and have become an unnecessary burden on firms, but also community organisations and public services. I hope my review will reintroduce an element of common sense and focus the regulation where it is most needed. We need a system that is proportionate and not bureaucratic.”

Category: Health & Safety | No Comments »
Tags: Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on June 14, 2010

The United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association has promoted Andy Roberts to Director of Environment, Health & Safety.

Roberts joined UKPIA in June 2007 and was then seconded to the DTI as head of downstream oil. He returned 2010 and started his new role on 1st May 2010.

Category: UKPIA | No Comments »
Tags: Health & Safety, HSE

Posted By Editor on June 13, 2010

Robert E. Brackett, Ph.D. has been named by President John Anderson as the new director and vice president of the National Center for Food Safety and Technology (NCFST) at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT). Brackett will be responsible for management of the center and will continue to improve its stature as a national and international leader in the field. Brackett will report directly to IIT’s Provost, Dr. Alan W. Cramb.

Brackett most recently served as senior vice president and chief science and regulatory officer for the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA), a position he has held since 2007.

“I am excited to be joining such a highly respected research institute,” said Brackett. “NCFST’s past successes are only a foreshadowing of what I believe a strong collaboration of academia, industry and government can do to advance food safety and nutrition in the U.S. and beyond.”

Brackett has nearly 30 years of experience in scientific research in industry, government and academia. Prior to his position at GMA, he worked at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (FDA CFSAN), where he started as a senior microbiologist in the Office of Plant and Dairy Foods and Beverages in 2000. After several promotions, Brackett was appointed CFSAN Director, where from 2004-2007 he provided executive leadership to CFSAN’s development and implementation of programs and policies relative to the composition, quality, safety and labeling of foods, food and color additives, dietary supplements and cosmetics. Earlier in his career, Brackett held professorial positions with North Carolina State University in Raleigh, and the University of Georgia in both its Department of Food Science and Technology and the Center for Food Safety and Quality Enhancement.

“I am delighted to report that after an intensive search, we have found an ideal leader in Dr. Brackett, whose career has earned him international recognition as a visionary in the areas of food safety, defense and nutrition,” stated NCFST interim director and IIT Vice President Darsh Wasan. “His extensive professional experience in academic research, government and industry is directly in line with NCFST’s mission to create a forum in which these three stakeholder groups can work together to address food safety and nutrition issues in a proactive manner to enhance public health.”

Brackett is a fellow in the International Association for Food Protection and American Academy of Microbiologists, and a member of the International Association for Food Protection, Institute of Food Technologists, and the American Society for Microbiology. He has been honored with the FDA Award of Merit, the International Association for Food Protection’s President’s Appreciation Award, and most recently, the William C. Frazier Food Microbiology Award.

The National Center for Food Safety and Technology (NCFST) is a unique research consortium located at the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Moffett Campus (near Chicago) in Summit-Argo, IL, composed of scientists from the FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) and the food industry. NCFST’s research addresses the food safety implications of emerging technologies in food processing and packaging and supports the development of safe food with health-promoting properties from farm to fork. For more, visit www.iit.edu/ncfst.

Category: Uncategorized | No Comments »
Tags: Food Safety

Posted By Editor on June 13, 2010

New Zealand Health Minister Tony Ryall has announced an interim board of a new independent Health Quality and Safety Commission (HQSC).

The Government has also disestablished the Quality Improvement Committee.

The HQSC was suggested by the ministerial review group last year. It will help improve public safety and service quality across the health sector.

The board would be chaired by Auckland University’s Alan Merry.

Other appointments to the interim board were chair of the New Zealand Medical Association Peter Foley, director of nursing for Pegasus Health Shelly Frost, Middlemore intensive care specialist David Galler, former chief executive of Nurse Maude Association Anthea Penny, ACC senior medical advisor Peter Jansen and Counties Manukau District Health Board chief executive Geraint Martin.

The interim board will hold its first meeting in Auckland this week.
Ian Powell, of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialist, welcomed the announcements and said it was important for the board to provide greater focus on quality and safety in the health system.

Category: HQSC | No Comments »
Tags: Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on June 9, 2010

ENVRON has announced the opening of the firm’s downtown Boston, Massachusetts, office.

Corey Briggs will focus on health and safety and industrial hygiene services. The downtown Boston team will work closely with the firm’s the Groton office practitioners to deliver value-added solutions to address clients ever-changing environmental, health and safety, and energy challenges.

Corey has over 28 years of experience assisting clients with technical and management problems related to occupational health, industrial hygiene, and potential employee workplace exposures, personal and equipment safety, and occupational health and safety (OHS) regulatory compliance. He has provided services to financial institutions; insurance companies; real estate/property management companies; industries such as aerospace, specialty chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, electric utility, manufacturing, and pulp and paper; and federal, provincial, state, and local agencies.

About ENVIRON:

Founded in 1982, ENVIRON is a global employee-owned environmental and health sciences consultancy. From more than 75 strategically placed offices throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia, ENVIRON’s worldwide network of over 1,100 professionals combines resources across geographic boundaries and technical and scientific disciplines to provide clients with the best, most responsive team—whether responding to existing challenges, evaluating opportunities to improve performance or seeking to reduce future liabilities. The ENVIRON Foundation provides financial assistance to endeavors that promote protection of human health and a sustainable global environment, particularly those related to the impact of chemicals and the use of the earth’s resources.

Category: ENVIRON | No Comments »
Tags: Health & Safety, Industrial Hygiene

Posted By Editor on June 9, 2010

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba)’s Chief Executive, Laurent Schmitt announced the appointment of Hussain Ali Al-Qassab as the new manager of Alba’s Safety, Environment and Security Department.

Mr. Al-Qassab has been with Alba for nearly 20 years, and has been in senior positions in the reduction services, process control and in the safety and security departments. He has been a team leader in Alba’s SmartWay team, and also participated in many industrial conferences, seminars and courses.

Commenting on the appointment of Hussain Ali Al-Qassab as Alba’s new Safety, Environment & Security Manager, Alba’s Chief Executive, Laurent Schmitt said:

“Hussain Ali Al-Qassab will be responsible for one of the key departments in Alba that have been at the heart of the company’s success story. Alba’s safety records have been phenomenal and have strengthened the company’s reputation as having one of the safest working environments in the world. This is partly due to the processes and procedures that the department has introduced, which have been supported by everyone in Alba. His appointment as the new safety, environment and security manager underlines the critical role that Bahraini nationals play in decision making, and in enabling the company to compete on a global scale.”

Hussain Ali Al Qassab has received a post-graduate certificate in light metals reduction technology from the College of Engineering, University of Auckland in New Zealand. He has also received a diploma in fundamentals of aluminium production and a diploma in international course on process metallurgy of aluminium from the Norwegian University of Science & Technology.

Category: Alba | No Comments »
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Posted By Editor on May 30, 2010

Ndevr today announced the appointment of Matt Drum to the position of Senior Environmental Consultant. Drum will be working in Ndevr’s newly established Environmental Consulting division assisting client companies with their compliance needs related to the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) legislative framework and minimising their reporting costs and future liabilities.

Drum comes to Ndevr with a wealth of experience in environmental reporting and consultancy. He was previously an Assistant Director within the Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Office of the Department of Climate Change and played a key role in developing the NGER Regulations 2008; subsequently writing the NGER Guidelines.

In addition, Drum has experience consulting with industry while in government and assisted in developing sector-specific reporting methodologies via member groups such as the Australian Constructor’s Association, the Property Council of Australia, the National Generator’s Forum and the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association. Likewise, he worked closely with the teams drafting the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme legislation, and gave a voice to the practical concerns of industry groups from various sectors.

“Matt has a rare combination of legislative knowledge and consulting skills specific to environmental compliance and reporting which makes him a very welcome addition to the Ndevr team,” commented Maureen Clifford, CEO of Ndevr.

“His intimate knowledge of the NGER regulatory office, personnel, policies, and legislation (including policy intent) mean he is well placed to provide advisory services to companies seeking to measure and manage their environmental footprint. Matt will be an invaluable resource to Ndevr’s clients wanting assurance and aiming to improve their compliance while reducing the costs associated with environmental reporting.”

Drum also has an intimate knowledge of the Energy Efficiency Opportunities (EEO) program and how this links with NGER requirements. He is well versed in the intricacies and requirements of voluntary reporting schemes such as the Carbon Disclosure Project and Dow Jones Sustainability Index and various other International schemes.

Matt holds a Bachelor of Business in International Business, and Management from the James Cook University in Cairns, as well as a Diploma of Government, and additional qualifications in Environmental Auditing from the University of NSW.

About Ndevr

Ndevr is the developer of GHG Accounting Software, which is sold in Australia and represented around the world – and an Oracle Platinum Partner. The company’s consultants are specialists in their customers’ industries and use their market insight to develop tailored software solutions that anticipate real business requirements. Ndevr’s GHG Accounting Software plays a key role within Oracle’s broader environmental strategy. Ndevr’s clients include Abigroup, Thiess, BGC, CSBP and Stockland. www.ndevr.com.au

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Tags: Environmental Consultancy

Posted By Editor on May 29, 2010

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has announced a series of Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs) with 3M, the St. Paul, Minn.-based technology company. The collaborative effort demonstrates both 3M’s and NREL’s commitments to meeting the nation’s clean energy needs by developing technologies that are vital to producing large-scale sources of new renewable electricity and fuel at competitive costs.

The agreements between NREL and 3M establish joint investigations in three key areas of innovation: thin-film photovoltaics, concentrating solar power and biofuels.

The CRADAs range from jointly identifying and developing critical aspects of renewable energy technology to accelerated testing of 3M designs and scaling-up successful prototype technologies for commercial production. The agreements last for at least one year.

“CRADAs like these with 3M not only help shift the nation to clean energy, but they also establish and expand important partnerships for product development through technology transfer,” NREL Senior Vice President of Commercialization and Deployment Casey Porto said. “3M’s wide-ranging expertise and commitment in these fields makes this a key partnership for the laboratory.”

“3M is excited for the opportunity to tap into NREL’s expertise and understanding of a variety of solar modules and the interplay between the materials and systems,” said Mike Roman, general manager and vice president of 3M Renewable Energy Division. “Also, NREL has pilot plant capabilities, which allow valuable application testing of 3M’s biofuel distillation technologies in a controllable and scalable environment.”

Areas of investigation and testing under the agreements include:

* New moisture barrier films and flexible packaging for CIGS (copper indium gallium diselenide) thin film solar cells to increase module performance and reduce manufacturing costs
* New reflective coatings to protect and enhance the performance of lower-cost mirrors used in concentrating solar power
* New alternatives to ethanol biofuel distillation that will reduce energy and water use, and increase throughput in existing corn ethanol and future cellulosic ethanol production plants

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $23 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. Visit www.3m.com.

About NREL

NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. NREL is operated for DOE by The Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. Visit NREL online at www.nrel.gov

Category: 3M, NREL | No Comments »
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Posted By Editor on May 29, 2010

William J. Collesano has been named Safety Manager for AAA Western and Central New York. Collesano will be responsible for ensuring that all Club operations maintain compliance with federal, state, and local laws and codes governing health, safety and transportation; including the AAA Emergency Road Service Fleet, AAA Car Care Plus®, and AAA Driver Training.

Collesano brings over 30 years of experience in occupational safety, health, and risk assessment to AAA. Most recently, Collesano served as an independent consultant for several companies and private medical practices. Previously, he served as the Director of Environmental Health and Safety for the New York Medical College and Medical Research Facility, Risk Manager for the Silicon Valley Group, and Safety and Security Manager for the New York Power Authority.

Collesano holds a Masters degree in Occupational Health from New York Medical College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Commerce from Niagara University. Collesano is a Board Certified Safety Professional (CSP), has been a Certified Asbestos Supervisor, and is trained in the areas of Firefighting, Emergency Response, and Security through several agencies, including the Department of Defense. Collesano was also a New York State Code Compliance Officer.

As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.

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Tags: Health & Safety, Occupational Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on May 25, 2010

Stephen Benedict has been appointed director of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health (OSEH) at the University of Michigan, succeeding Terry Alexander, who has shifted into the role of executive director of the Office of Campus Sustainability (OCS).

“Steve brings a wealth of experience to our programs,” Alexander says. “He is well versed in health, safety, and environmental matters impacting a major research institution, and I see a smooth transition of our programs.”
Benedict

Benedict, who started at U-M April 26, comes from the University of California, San Diego, where he was director of environment, health and safety, and risk management. Before that he was director of environmental health and safety at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.

“I am very impressed with the quality of leadership and professionalism of the staff at U-M, and I’m looking forward to developing many new partnerships to help ensure the safety of campus community and protection of the environment,” Benedict says.

As OSEH director, Benedict is responsible for the development of health, safety and environmental objectives at U-M, establishing policies and procedures and partnering with units in compliance with federal and state rules, regulations, and codes.

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Tags: Occupational Safety and Environmental Health

Posted By Editor on May 15, 2010

Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation yesterday announced it has promoted Chris White to the position of managing director of safety, reporting directly to President and CEO Jim Rankin.

“I am very excited to have Chris as a member of our senior leadership team,” noted Rankin. ‘Since filling the role of Interim Managing Director of Safety in January, Chris has been instrumental in initiating a strategic review of our numerous safety programs and bringing a renewed focus and energy to our culture of ’safety first.’ With his unique combination of leadership qualities and experience, I’m confident Chris will take our safety efforts to even greater heights of operational excellence.”

White brings extensive knowledge and experience to his new role. Prior to joining Air Wisconsin, Chris spent 17 years with Midwest Airlines in Milwaukee, where he most recently served as Vice President-Safety and Regulatory Compliance. His experience includes flight and ground safety, emergency response, occupational health and safety, corporate and operational security programs, insurance claims and risk management. He also served as Midwest’s corporate liaison to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other regulatory agencies.

“I have been privileged to come aboard to lead Air Wisconsin safety efforts and to continue fostering the organization’s high-level focus on emphasizing safety as a top priority for customers and employees,” stated White.

Chris holds a Master of Science in Management from Cardinal Stritch University and completed additional graduate coursework through Boeing’s MBA Executive program at Seattle University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan.

Air Wisconsin, the largest privately held regional airline in the United States, operates as US Airways Express, scheduling nearly 500 departures per day to 69 cities in 26 states and two Canadian provinces. The fleet includes 70 Canadair Regional Jets. Additionally, Air Wisconsin performs ground-handling services for United Express at over 30 locations throughout the country.

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Tags: Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on May 12, 2010

PSN has promoted Richard Duff to be Global Health, Safety and Environmental Manager.

Mr Duff has over 25 years’ experience in the O&G industry and will be responsible for a team of more than 100 health & safety professionals across 26 countries.

PSN is a specialist provider of engineering, operations and maintenance services to the owners of energy assets around the world. It was formed on May 1st 2006 when CEO Bob Keiller and his management team completed an award-winning $280million management buy-out from KBR Halliburton

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Tags: HSE

Posted By Editor on May 10, 2010

A strong reputation and positive exposure of successful safety programs has led to a Governor’s appointment for Kimball International, Inc. , the Jasper-based manufacturer of office furniture and electronics components.

Vince Cooke, Kimball International’s Corporate Director, Employee Safety and Security, was recently appointed by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels to serve on the State’s Board of Safety Review. He will begin attending the monthly meetings composed of the Indiana Commissioner of Labor, the Deputy Commissioner, and Indiana’s OSHA advisor, along with other officials and industry representatives. Cooke’s appointment is effective immediately and will continue through April 2013.

Board of Safety Review members review all safety orders or citations issued by IOSHA (Indiana Occupational Safety & Health Administration). Each member acts as an Administrative Law Judge on cases that may be disputed or contested. The positions are appointed by the Commissioner of Labor with final approval by the Governor. Membership of the Board consists of representatives of Labor, Management and Private Industry.

Indiana Commissioner of Labor, Lori Torres nominated Cooke for the Governor’s consideration after she became more familiar with Kimball International, its values, safety culture, and outstanding safety record, following the presentation of OHSA’s VPP STAR Awards to three newly-certified Kimball facilities.

Kimball International recently achieved an unprecedented five “STAR” certified facilities under the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) in recognition of outstanding occupational safety and health management programs. Kimball International was the first Indiana-based company to achieve a VPP STAR workplace certification. The VPP is administered in Indiana under the Department of Labor.

“Kimball International’s commitment to safety is well known and respected in the state of Indiana, through our ten plus years of experience and partnership with the State through the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program,” said Cooke. “When I think of our corporate commitment to safety, this is a good opportunity to share our experiences well beyond the walls of our Company and network with others in our State for the benefit of all.”

Indicative of Kimball’s emphasis on workplace safety, the Kimball Office manufacturing plant in Salem, Indiana recently celebrated a milestone achievement of three million safe hours worked without a lost time incident.

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Posted By Editor on May 5, 2010

Oil services firm OEG Offshore has announced several key appointments to head up the operations team at its Aberdeen base.

The company, which specialises in the design, build and rental of cabins and cargo-carrying container units for the offshore oil and gas market, has recruited three new employees and promoted two current staff to manage planning, installation, QHSE, fabrication and electrical engineering operations.

John Tutt, 47, will take on the role of QHSE Manager having joined OEG from HB Rentals, where he headed up the firm’s health and safety department for two years. With over 10 years’ experience in quality and safety, John’s new position will involve overseeing and developing QHSE performances across all OEG’s existing and new facilities both locally and internationally.

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Tags: Health & Safety, QHSE

Posted By Editor on May 2, 2010

The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) has announced the appointment of Brian Nimick as Chief Executive.

Keith Scott, IIRSM Chairman commented: “We are delighted that Brian has accepted this position. IIRSM will benefit from his extensive experience that complements the strategy planned to expand the influence, impact and good work delivered by IIRSM and the organisation will benefit from his many industry contacts.”

Brian brings a wealth of experience with previous appointments including CEO of the Medical Supplies Agency, Director General of the Confederation of Passenger Transport and Chief Executive of the British Safety Council (BSC). Most recently, Brian has been appointed as a Trustee for NEBOSH.
With an MSc in Organisational Behaviour and Development, Brian is also a member of the Medical Advisory Panel to the UK Secretary of State for Transport; a member of the Young Persons and Children and Accident Prevention Special Scientific Committees of the International Commission for Occupational Health (ICOH); and a member of the Advisory Committee for the MSC in Occupational Health at the Institute of Work, Health and Organisations at Nottingham University.

Commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1970, Brian served as an officer in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before leaving in 1992.  While serving, he was responsible for the design and implementation of the Unit Safety Officers Course following the application of the Health and Safety at Work Act to the Armed Forces.

Moving into the NHS, he worked at Director level in a Regional Health Authority and a large NHS Trust, prior to being appointed Chief Executive of the Medical Supplies Agency in 1996. In 2001, he became Director General of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, the trade organisation representing the interests of the road passenger transport industry.

In October 2007 Brian was appointed Chief Executive of the BSC where he helped lead the organisation to its present successful position and implemented a far reaching review of its services and management structure.

IIRSM is delighted at the appointment and looks forward to achieving new heights in 2010 with Brian at the helm.

IIRSM
The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) is a professional body for health and safety practitioners and specialists in related fields who have a health and safety remit.  It was set up to advance standards in accident prevention and occupational health throughout the world.

Established in 1975 this not-for-profit organisation offers membership to practitioners in over 70 countries. IIRSM welcomes third sector engagement at every level and actively seeks partnerships with equivalent bodies throughout the world.  It has strong links with leading universities and international bodies and works to establish and promote standards of professional competence.

In support of its mission statement:  “to provide recognition, information, support and enhancement to our growing membership” IIRSM places the interests of its membership at the centre of everything it does.

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Tags: IIRSM

Posted By Editor on May 2, 2010

EORM, an environmental, health, safety and sustainability consultancy based in San Jose, California, is pleased to announce a strategic new hire. Zack Mansdorf joined the firm February 15, 2009 as a Principal Consultant. Mansdorf’s focus at EORM will be supporting the advancement of sustainability services.  While at L’Oreal, he was a key member of their Executive Steering Committee for Sustainability which determined the strategic direction for these efforts for this company.  In his operational role, he was responsible for all environmental programs and initiatives as well as working on green chemistry, social accountability and ethical sourcing.  Through his efforts and those of his colleagues, L’Oreal over the last several years has become widely recognized as a leader in sustainability (for example, being named as one of the 100 most sustainable companies globally by the Corporate Knights and Innovest).

Mr. Mansdorf has a Ph.D., in Environmental Engineering from the University of Kansas, School of Engineering, with Masters degrees in Environment and Safety from the University of Michigan and Central Missouri State. He is a QEP, CSP and CIH.

Mansdorf comes to EORM most recently from L’Oreal where he was the Senior Vice President – Safety, Health, Environment, for L’Oreal North America and Worldwide from 2000 to 2009. In this role, he had overall responsibility for safety, occupational health and environment for 42 worldwide manufacturing sites, over 70 distribution centers and over 100 administrative centers around the world. He also served as a member of the senior management committee and was the only non-Executive Committee Member of the Sustainable Development Committee. Prior to this work, he has held several other senior level positions in the US Army (retired Lt. Col.) Goodyear, Midwest Research Institute, Clayton Environmental Consultants, Liberty International Risk Services and Arthur D. Little Company and spent almost 15 years as head of Mansdorf & Associates.

In addition to his work experience, Mansdorf is Past President of the AIHA, Past Board member of the BCSP, Past President of the AIHF, A Fellow of AIHA. Zack is a past Adjunct Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering, a past member of the Graduate School Advisory Committee for the University of Kansas and was active in teaching in a number of other institutions. He is also well published in safety, industrial hygiene and the environment with a large number of books, chapters, journal and magazine articles. He also specializes in management systems and business approaches to promote sustainability and environmental excellence.

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Tags: Environmental Consultancy

Posted By Editor on May 2, 2010

Category: Breaches of Health & Safety | No Comments »
Tags: HSE

Posted By Editor on May 2, 2010

NGEC has announced that Justin Baird has joined the firm as a Vice President, focusing on energy policy and programs, environmental issues in the energy industry, and climate change.

Mr. Baird has 20 years of professional experience in the energy and environmental field, including 15 years as the CEO of Baird Engineers.
Mr. Baird is an expert on energy demand patterns and has led or contributed to numerous analyses of the technological and economic potential for energy efficiency. Mr. Baird has worked throughout the US and internationally and is frequently published.

New Growth Environmental Consulting LLC offers Environmental Consulting, Geotechnical Engineering and Environmental Construction / Remediation. New Growth Environmental Consulting LLC’s staff
includes a wide array of expertise including, experienced engineers, geologists, construction managers and foremen with experience in a broad range of disciplines. Headed by President Trish Derrico, New Growth Environmental Consulting LLC is headquartered in San Diego, California.

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Tags: Environmental Consultancy

Posted By Editor on May 2, 2010

The Secretary of Labor’s emphasis on worker safety and health was enhanced by the recent addition of seven new members to the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH). The new appointees, who will serve two-year terms, bring to the committee years of experience and expertise in medicine, academia, safety program development and systems analysis.

NACOSH has advised the Secretaries of Labor, and Health and Human Services for nearly 40 years on worker safety issues such as Latino outreach, hazard communication, the whistleblower program, and overall occupational safety and health programs and policies.

These members, representing the interests of labor, management, safety and health professionals and the public, will use their expertise to help resolve major issues threatening the safety and health of American workers. Public representatives:

• Michael Silverstein, M.D., M.P.H., assistant director, Washington Division of Occupational Safety and Health, will serve as committee chair.
• Linda Rae Murray, M.D., M.P.H., chief medical officer, Cook County (Ill.) Department of Health

Management representative:

• Joseph Van Houten, Ph.D., senior director, Worldwide EHS, Johnson & Johnson

Labor representatives:

• Margaret Seminario, M.S., director, Safety and Health, AFL-CIO
• William Borwegen, M.P.H., director, Occupational Health and Safety, Service Employees International Union CTW, CLC

Safety representative:

• Peter Dooley, M.S., CSP, CIH, LaborSafe

Health representative:

• Susan Randolph, M.S.N., RN, COHN-S, clinical assistant professor, Occupational Health Nursing Program, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, was reappointed for a second term.

The 12-member committee – eight of whom are selected by the Secretary of Labor, four by the Secretary of Health and Human Services – meets at least two times a year. For more information on the committee, visit OSHA’s NACOSH page.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to assure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.

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Tags: Occupational Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on April 30, 2010

Ian Stone has been appointed as the new full time ATaC membership manager. Here is some background info in his own words:

“The role has been very demanding so far and will continue to be so. My background comes mainly from asbestos consultancy but I have also worked on the asbestos contracting side. I have also had hand hands on experience with various other projects which have involved water, dust and lead monitoring, and I have worked on large scale demolitions, refurbishments and also the railway so my experience is quite vast in relation to environmental issues and especially asbestos. I have really enjoyed the new challenge and have been involved with various projects so far. Quite a lot of my time has been spent on the Asbestos Management in Schools issue which has had a lot of press coverage and also the ATaC Seminars on the new survey guide where I have already met some of the members. The appointment has various objectives such as improving the ATaC website further, attending various committees, and cascading information to the members which will all add further value to ATaC membership. I look forward to meeting all of the members over the next few months and discussing how we can improve the association together with more ATaC and member participation.”

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Tags: Asbestos

Posted By Editor on April 23, 2010

ConocoPhillips also announced a number of senior leadership changes.

Robert Herman, currently president, Europe Refining, Marketing & Transportation, will become vice president, Health, Safety and Environment.

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Tags: Health & Safety

Posted By Editor on April 11, 2010

European Asbestos Services complete freehold purchase of modern 10,000 sq ft new head office building in Sunbury-upon-Thames.

Director Mark Stottor said “We are really pleased with the purchase of the building and are looking forward to bringing our Heathrow and Slough operating offices back under one roof in order to provide a continually improving service to our clients”

European Asbestos Services are an established independent licensed asbestos removal and management company that specialises in providing a range of integrated asbestos and auxiliary building services throughout all sectors of UK industry.

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