Challenges
A local crude oil refinery plant that is part of a multinational company in the specialty chemicals industry became abruptly understaffed following the sudden departure of Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) team members. The EHS manager contacted TRC to provide an experienced employee for immediate temporary staffing support. It was imperative for the client that the employee met mandatory training requirements and possessed the necessary expertise and professional experience.
Solutions
TRC promptly provided an experienced Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) and Certified Safety Professional (CSP) to report directly the client’s EHS site manager. The TRC health and safety specialist was scheduled to be onsite two days per week and immediately began executing high priority tasks.
Services provided by TRC include:
- Upgrade of internal safety and compliance program through policy and document review
- Assist with ISO compliance and preparation for internal and third-party audits
- Collect periodic air and wipe sampling to assess exposure and maintain the annual IH sampling plan
- Provide scientific exposure assessment reports as needed; evaluating potential employee exposure for chemical and physical agents
- Create, revise and implement Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and risk assessment documentation
- Manage and provide a comprehensive industrial ergonomics assessment program and assist with development and implementation of ergonomic improvements
- Acquire, maintain and utilize an inventory of specialized IH and environmental instrumentation and monitoring devices
- Provide onsite emergency investigation and response
Results
The client’s EHS program experienced immediate and tangible performance improvements following TRC’s onsite presence. The contract was originally intended to be three months in duration, however due to exceptional performance and results, the contract has been repeatedly extended and is still in progress after four years.
Other notable benefits due to TRC’s support include:
- The site’s EHS group has received several safety achievements from their corporation; largely due to TRC’s contribution and engagement
- Onsite safety culture has experienced a noticeable improvement, including an increase in employee safety-related discussions and participation due to TRC’s interactions
- Process improvements resulting from the TRC implemented industrial ergonomics program has reduced work-place injury and lowered site overhead costs through process changes which increased operational efficiency
- Employee exposure to chemical, physical and occupational hazards has been effectively controlled, reduced and/or eliminated following TRC’s exposure monitoring and ventilation assessments
Gain
Peace-of-Mind
Partner With TRC’s Tested Practitioners
Related Projects
Discover the success we’ve had with helping our clients execute major projects and make a meaningful impact on their local communities.
Confined Space Hazard Assessment and Program Evaluation
TRC safety experts updated a client’s confined space program to improve documentation and safeguard against workplace accidents.
Development of Specific Procedures for Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)
TRC developed lockout/tagout procedures to enhance workplace safety.
Implementing an EHS Software System for Optimizing Performance
Using An Enterprise EHS Platform To Establish And Monitor Compliance Challenges
Microsoft SharePoint Custom Environmental Compliance System
Leveraging Microsoft Office 365™ as an environmental compliance document management system.
Amtrak – Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health and Safety
TRC delivers holistic vegetation management program solutions to this client. Our support for the EVM program provides consistent, reliable and …
Connecticut Department of Transportation Environmental Consulting Services
TRCs services are completed on an on-call and emergency response basis throughout Connecticut.
Sharing Our Perspectives
Our practitioners share their insights and perspectives on the trends and challenges shaping the market.
Changes to EPA’s Risk Management Program (RMP) Regulations Are Coming
April 14, 2023
Changes to the Risk Management Program (RMP) regulations were signed into a final rule on February 27, 2024, by EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
EPA Finds Trichloroethylene Presents Unreasonable Risk in Final Risk Evaluation
April 6, 2023
On Jan 9, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revised the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) to reflect a new risk determination for trichloroethylene (TCE).
Routinely Evaluating the Health & Effectiveness of Integrated Systems to Manage EHS/ESG Risks – Part I
March 1, 2023
Once established, an EHS/ESG management system must be routinely evaluated to ensure it remains effective to identify and control risks, as well as accommodate and adjust for changes that occur to/within the organization.
QA and Chemistry Services
February 23, 2023
TRC offers many QA and Chemistry services including data usability assessments, limited and full data validation reports, quality assurance project plan preparation, selection of appropriate analytical methodologies and laboratory audits.
PFAS Fate and Transport: Conceptual Site Models
February 23, 2023
The conceptual site model describes site-specific sources, release and transport mechanisms, exposure media, exposure points, exposure pathways and routes and potential human and/or ecological receptor populations.
EPA Publishes Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15
February 14, 2023
The EPA announced updated effluent limitations guidelines under Plan 15, focusing on the evaluation and rulemaking process for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) discharges.
PFAS: Remedial Approaches
February 8, 2023
Remediating Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the soil and water requires effective techniques and innovative technologies. TRC’s experts are well versed in several remediation strategies intended to remove PFAS and prevent re-exposure.
Proactive Enforcement is Key in the EPA FY2022-2026 Strategy
October 19, 2022
A core element of the EPA FY2022-2026 Strategic Plan focuses on environmental compliance.
Optimizing EHS/ESG Information Management and Reporting Systems by Leveraging Innovative Digital Technology Solutions
August 10, 2022
A single, integrated enterprise wide EHS/ESG IMS can significantly improve performance and communicate progress towards organizational requirements and goals.
Integrating Sustainability, Digital Connectivity and Design Optimization in Wastewater Treatment Systems
June 20, 2022
Some organizations rarely think about water and wastewater treatment, until there is a problem. American industry depends on the ability to treat wastewater discharges while complying with regulatory standards and addressing emerging contaminants. If wastewater treatment fails, our environment is negatively impacted, and companies are exposed to shutdowns, delays and fines.
Support an Integrated EHS/ESG Management System
June 10, 2022
While a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is a common method for identifying environmental liabilities during transactional due diligence, the ASTM International standard for Phase I ESAs (E1527-13, with proposed E1527-21 awaiting adoption) omits regulatory compliance from its scope. For properties containing operations that may be applicable to environmental compliance regulations, performing a limited environmental regulatory review can identify potential deficiencies with the environmental management of the facility. A limited environmental compliance review typically evaluates the presence of material findings that may exist in a facility’s management of its environmental compliance requirements. Material findings are defined as a condition of non-compliance that could necessitate expenditures, not including attorney fees or regulatory agency penalties, in excess of a specified dollar amount or materiality threshold. The materiality threshold is based on the client’s risk tolerance and is often in the range of $50,000. However, this amount is arbitrary and can be revised as appropriate. Non-material deficiencies, those identified below the materiality threshold, would still require action but are within the client’s risk tolerance.
TRC Companies Pledges to Achieve Net Zero GHG Emissions by 2040
April 26, 2022
TRC Companies, a digitally powered and environmentally focused global professional services firm, announced its commitment to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its full value chain by 2040, aligning with the most ambitious aim of the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 °C.
How to Use an Integrated Approach To Manage EHS and ESG Risks
April 20, 2022
WINDSOR, Conn. – TRC Companies, a digitally powered and environmentally focused global professional services firm, announced its commitment to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its full value chain by 2040, aligning with the most ambitious aim of the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 °C. To drive accountability and progress, we also commit to the following 2030 targets: 50.6% reduction in company-wide Scope 1 and 2 emissions (offices and fleet vehicles) from 2019 levels. 25% reduction in company-wide Scope 3 emissions (business travel, employee commuting, and purchased goods) from 2021 levels. “As a climate solutions leader, TRC recognizes the urgent need to address climate change and its adverse effects on our planet,” says Christopher Vincze, Chairman and CEO of TRC. “We must lead the way in establishing sustainable business practices and support our clients in efforts to reduce their impact on the environment as well.” TRC has been setting and achieving goals to reduce GHG emissions since 2015. We have developed a transition plan to accelerate our progress that includes the following focus areas: Enhance energy management Expand renewable energy procurement Optimize fleet, including use of lower-emitting fuels and electrification Optimize business travel to ensure a reduced carbon footprint Prioritize sustainable procurement practices “These targets are ambitious but achievable,” says Karen Lutz, VP Corporate ESG/Sustainability. “TRC is committed to working with our clients to tackle climate challenges while aligning with climate science and achieving absolute reductions through our full carbon footprint.
SEC Releases New Proposed Rules Requiring Public Companies to Disclose Climate Risks
April 12, 2022
On March 21, 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued its proposed rules for The Enhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors which would require public companies in the U.S. to disclose information in their annual financial reports.
EPA Issues Information Collection Request for Plywood and Composite Wood Products Source Operators
March 17, 2022
EPA issued an Information Collection Request (ICR) to develop new emission standards for inclusion in the Plywood and Composite Wood Products (PCWP) National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).
EPA Lifts Stay of Standards for New Lean Premix and Diffusion Flame Gas-fired Combustion Turbines
March 14, 2022
The EPA Administration signed a notice to finalize amendments to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Stationary Combustion Turbines
PFOA & PFOS As CERCLA Hazardous Substances: What Does This Mean and How Can You Be Prepared?
February 17, 2022
A plan to designate two per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as “hazardous substances” under CERCLA was recently submitted by the EPA.
OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Heat-Related Illness and Injuries
November 3, 2021
On September 20, 2021 in an OSHA National News Release, OSHA published a memorandum establishing an enforcement initiative that is designed to prevent and protect employees from heat-related illnesses and death. This initiative, which develops a National Emphasis Program (NEP) on heat inspections, is an expansion of an already existing Regional Emphasis Program (REP) in OSHA’s Region VI, which covers Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
NJDEP Implements New Jersey Environmental Justice Law Through Administrative Order
October 5, 2021
On September 22, 2021, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Commissioner announced the issuance of Administrative Order (AO) No. 2021-25 to implement New Jersey’s Environmental Justice (EJ) Law. This order is effective immediately, and applicants seeking to site new major source facilities, renew major source permits or expand existing facilities with major source permits (e.g., Title V air permits) in overburdened communities are affected. There are more than 4.5 million people that live within 331 municipalities that are overburdened communities in the state of New Jersey.
OSHA’s Call for Comments on Mechanical Power Press Standard Changes
September 30, 2021
OSHA has recently published a call for comment regarding mechanical power presses. The reason behind OSHA’s request is that the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) consensus standard for mechanical power presses has been updated numerous times since the implementation of OSHA’s standard.
OSHA Returns to In-Person Inspections As COVID-19 Restrictions Lift
August 4, 2021
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is authorized by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) to assure employers provide safe and healthful work conditions free of recognized hazards and by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education and technical assistance. OSHA has recently announced the return to in-person inspections as COVID-19 restrictions begin to lift.
Managing EHS & ESG Risks Through Integrated Systems Today and Beyond
July 22, 2021
It has been more than 50 years since the development and establishment of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) which were formed to protect our environment and workplaces across the United States. Significant laws, policies and regulations followed to establish the “regulatory programs” that all applicable businesses and entities must address and meet to ensure these compliance-driven legislative programs would create a foundation to protect our society.