FPA’s Environmental, Health & Safety Committee met in Greenville, SC, in April. The committee is focusing on:

FPA submission of comments opposing the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy Program) rule. The clean-air rule would impact systems using refrigerants and fire suppressants. It proposes substitutes that are not compatible with current equipment, and companies may have to replace equipment at substantial cost.

A revised ISO 45001 standard could redefine worker, workplace and the role of worker representatives in safety management. The direction responds to pressure from labor organizations, particularly overseas. The ISO approach is very prescriptive and different than what is usually seen in U.S. standards. If OSHA adopts this standard, the hope is that the formal proposal and comments process will allow industry organizations, such as FPA to favorably influence the outcome.

FPA is considering reinstating the FPA quarterly Injury/Incidence report; it was discontinued due to lack of participation. Previously, FPA members who participated in the survey effectively used the report to benchmark their company’s safety programs and performance. The committee agreed to survey FPA membership to determine if more members will participate in the reporting.