ABSTRACT
Chemicals can be described as the foundation of a modern, progressive society. They are an integral and ever-increasing part of our complex technological world, making it possible for us to enjoy a high standard of living. Yet, as the 1984 catastrophe in Bhopal, India dramatically and tragically demonstrated, those same chemicals are the source of danger to those in the workplace and surrounding locales who are regularly exposed to them. We have seen how their improper use and handling impact and exact unacceptable human and economic costs on families, industries, communities, and even nations. As a result, we have learned that correcting situations that could lead to disasters and catastrophes is more responsible and less expensive than hoping accidents will not occur and responding only when they inevitably do. U.S.Congress identified 14 different agencies engaged in accident prevention-related activities and determined there was a need to “…improve the effectiveness of accident prevention programs and reduce the burden of duplicative requirements on regulated entities.” (Senate Report 1989). Not surprisingly, the chemical industry, in hearings before Congress, agreed with this finding. The regulated industry voiced its support “…for a coordinated Federal approach to accident prevention and suggested that an agency like the Board might most effectively carry out that responsibility” (Senate Report 1989),
After looking into the problem and alternative solutions, Congress determined there, indeed, was the need to identify and address the causes of the thousands of chemical accidents that occur annually, as well as the need to protect life, property and the environment from the costly consequences of those accidents.
