Major-accident prevention
A major accident is an uncontrolled chain of events in the handling of chemicals such as leakage, fire or explosion, which constitutes a serious risk to health and/or the environment, both inside and outside the facilities where materials are stored or used.
Companies using large quantities of hazardous substances
A major-accident prevention policy and a safety management system which requires the continuous and systematic monitoring of hazardous and dangerous substances at the establishment is required. Establishments are classified into lower or higher classifications according to the nature and quantity of materials. Example of a liquid propane gas storage facility:
If the quantity exceeds 50 tonnes but is lower than 200 tonnes, the establishment is classified under a lower limit.
If the quantity exceeds 200 tonnes, it is classified under higher limits.
The lower limit may be as low as 200 kg if of this nature.
Where several substances are present each with lower limits, the quantities are added together according to a certain rule and when the aggregate quantities reach a certain level the establishment is subject to a defined limit
Companies and establishments in higher limits
Surveillance and information disclosure requirements are more demanding for companies and establishments in higher limits. The nurses have to make emergency plans for the area and hold local events.
Flammable materials can cause fires that spread outside establishments.
Explosives can destroy large areas and cause loss of life.
Toxins that escape from their storage sites can cause damage to people and the environment long after the spill.
Service provider
Administration of Occupational Safety and Health