Thank you to all of our speakers and attendees who attended EHS 2023!
Call for speakers open! Click on Speaker Info tab for details!
*scroll down to review schedule with track titles and sessions in each track by day. This will be updated regularly once speakers and sessions are confirmed.
For questions, contact:
Paula Lerash, CEM
Director of Education & Exhibits
Email: lerash@texaschemistry.org
Direct: (512) 646-6404
LEADERSHIP TRACL
June 2024
June 3, 2024
8:30AM - 9:30AM
UNDERSTAND Principle-Based Performance™
Tim Autrey, Founder, PPI
Room: Expo A1
Through this session, you will understand:
- WHAT each of the 7 Natural Principles is,
- HOW they’ve been discovered ‘in the field’ and vetted across industries, generations, and global demographics,
- HOW they impact our moment-to-moment mindsets & perceptions, and
- HOW these simple principles lay the foundation for the sustainability of any efforts to improve performance.
June 3, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Relationships, INFLUENCE, & Doing the 'Right Thing'
Bob Catinazzo, Executive Vice President - Client Services, PPI Global
Room: Expo A1
Through your participation in this session, you will understand:
- That no one cares how much you know until they know how much you care [about them]
- How ‘policing’ is NOT the solution
- How to integrate the Principles to directly target team member mindset & perception
- How mindset & perception impact choices, actions, & behaviors
June 3, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Harnessing Accountability: A Catalyst for Elevating Safety Performance
John Grubbs, Grubbs Consulting
Room: Expo A1
In this session, we will delve into the critical role of accountability as a driver for safety performance within the petrochemical sector. We'll explore how fostering a culture where every individual feels responsible for their actions and the safety of their colleagues leads to enhanced safety outcomes. Attendees will:
- Have better clarity for an accountable culture
- Gain insights regarding surprises on the job
- Learn how to stay in “Adult Mode” as leaders
- Improve skills to respond to excuses from others
June 3, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Engaging the Workforce: Fueling Safety Culture in Petrochemical Operations
John Grubbs, Grubbs Consulting
Room: Expo A1
In this session, we will explore the pivotal role of employee engagement in driving improvements in safety performance and fostering a culture of safety excellence. We will delve into the importance of cultivating a workplace environment where employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to actively participate in safety initiatives. Attendees will:
- Gain valuable insights into the connection between employee engagement and safety culture
- Learn actionable strategies for cultivating a more engaged and safety-conscious workforce
- Discover the Talent Retention Quadrant (TRQ) as a metric for employee engagement
- Explore simple yet powerful tools to enhance individual engagement on the job
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK
None at this time.
SUSTAINABILITY TRACK (Track Sponsored by Texas Brine)
June 2024
June 3, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Commitment by Kuraray America to Reduce Environmental Impact from Manufacturing
Melissa Whiteaker and Michael Brisbon, Kuararay
This presentation will focus on the efforts underway by Kuraray America to reduce environmental impacts of the manufacturing process.
June 3, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
A Systems Perspective for Navigating the Complexities of Sustainability
Dr. Rachel Meidl, Rice University
Room: Floral A1
Sustainability is multifaceted and touches every part of the value chain in our complex global system. The notion of sustainability is appealing because it has been presented as a win-win situation. However, success requires a means to measure the costs and benefits across life cycles to ensure presumed “solutions” do not shift risks and offset social, economic, or environmental gains. The challenging issues faced by society today require a holistic, cross-disciplinary, and multidimensional approach to achieve environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable solutions. Global energy production, resource demands, supply chain constraints, geopolitics, heightened environmental and social concerns, and the growing plastic waste crisis have spurred an increased focus on sustainable strategies.
June 3, 2024
1:45PM - 2:45PM
Utilizing Life Cycle Assessment in the Chemical Industry
Louisa Shaffer, All4, LLC
Room: Floral A1
This presentation will illuminate the significance of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in advancing practices that account for the risks, impacts and opportunities of products and formulations from extraction through disposal within the chemical industry. Gain a tailored perspective on environmental impact assessments, industry-specific challenges, and collaborative strategies for a more sustainable future in Texas chemistry.
LEADERSHIP
June 2024
June 4, 2024
3:00PM - 4:00PM
Principle-Based Performance - Safety Culture
Bob Catinazzo, Executive Vice President - Client Services, PPI Global
Room: Expo A1
In this session you will learn & understand…
- Relationships between Safety and mistakes on the job
- How ‘policing’ is NOT the answer (revisited)
- How blame fixes nothing
- How to inspire team members to do right things in right ways (even when no one’s watching)
SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARDS: BEST PRACTICES TRACK
None at this time.
INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE TRACK (Track Sponsored by JK, Inc.)
None at this time.
ENVIRONMENTAL TRACK: AIR (Track Sponsored by OxyChem)
June 2024
June 4, 2024
8:00AM - 9:00AM
Proposed Fenceline Monitoring in HON and Lessons Learned from RSR Implementation
Kari Ward and Jeremy Sell, Trihydro Corp.
Room: Floral A1
In this presentation we will review the proposed fenceline monitoring requirements for HON facilities, including applicability determination, sample station siting using EPA Method 325A for passive diffusion sampling, sample station siting for summa canister sampling, sampling requirements, root cause analysis process, and corrective actions. We will also share lessons learned from assisting refineries with implementation and support of their fenceline monitoring programs.
June 4, 2024
9:15AM - 10:15AM
PM2.5: Scientific Background and Regulatory Landscape
Dr. Roberto Gasparini, Spirit Environmental
Room: Floral A1
This presentation will teach you everything you need to know about the science and policy around PM2.5. Scientifically, the importance of particle size will be explained, including how particle size distributions are presented. We will go over the science behind PM in the atmosphere, including primary emissions versus secondary formation. A discussion of PM sources – including natural, manmade, and industrial processes – will be presented.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK TRACK
None at this time.
INDUSTRY BEST PRACTICES TRACK
None at this time.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK
June 2024
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Management of Change: Perhaps the most Challenging Aspect of Process Safety
David D, Operational Sustainability
Management of Change (MOC), when implemented properly, can both minimize the effects of risks and encourage sound organizational decision-making, which enhances production and the bottom line. In this presentation, we’ll delve into why MOC continues to be challenge even the most progressive organizations, along with how companies can seek to advance their MOC program to get beyond the basics required by compliance (i.e., equipment and procedure changes) to derive more business value and not use it solely as a compliance tool. Finally, we will try to make the case for how MOC can lead to a more reliable, and profitable organization while being integrated into maintenance and operations.
ENVIRONMENTAL TRACK : WATER & WASTE (Track Sponsored by Pure Salt)
June 2024
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
The PFAS Road Goes on Forever
Stephanie Bergeron Perdue, Baker Botts
This session will address the status of EPA’s strategic roadmap for action under SDWA, CWA, CERCLA, CAA and TSCA. EPA announced in October 2021 a comprehensive, multi-office plan based on three central directives to research, restrict and remediate PFAS. Three years later, there are multiple proposals poised for adoption and final, effective rules. This session will also address other PFAS crossings, including toxicity assessments and enforcement.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE (Track Sponsored by inFRONT)
June 2024
June 5, 2024
9:45AM - 10:45AM
Technology Trends and the Future of Emergency Response
John Barth, inFRONT
Room: Floral A2
Through Platform Technology, Cloud Services, AI and other technology trends, how can we more effectively ensure emergency readiness and response? Other topics we will cover include location services, predictive analytics, etc.
June 5, 2024
11:00AM - 12:00PM
The Bystander Effect
Jordan Burklow, LyondellBasell
Room: Floral A2
After the tragic events that occurred in New York City related to the murder of Kitty Genovese, a new study in the field of Psychology was opened which gave light to what is known as "The Bystander Effect" which found that as work group sizes grow, our likelihood of intervening in an emergency situation goes down. By understanding the key components of what leads to the Bystander Effect, and the ways in which we can collectively combat this phenomenon, we can equip our workers with the tools needed to ensure they intervene when presented with at-risk or emergency situations.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Firefighting Application Techniques and Challenges
Stephen Pepper, CTEH
Room: Floral A2
This presentation will focus on application techniques and challenges of new generation synthetic fluorine free firefighting foam (SFFF) on gasoline in depth. The new SFFFs do not have the film formation capabilities of legacy AFFF when applied to class B liquid fires. The loss of film formation in the suppression of class B fires makes application technique critical to successful extinguishment. Application techniques were recently tested on several new SFFF formulations using pit fires with hot objects in the pool on straight gasoline, E15 Gasoline, and Denatured Ethanol. The firefighting evolutions utilized commercially available proportioning and application equipment to complete extinguishment. Application rates started at NFPA recommended application rate of 0.10 gpm/ft2. and we were able to demonstrate a critical successful application rate of 0.03 gpm/ft2.
June 5, 2024
2:00PM - 3:00PM
Evaluating the Impact of Drone Propwash on Air Quality Monitoring in Plume Environments
Phil Baker & Jonathan Barket, CTEH
Room: Floral A2
This pioneering study explores the effect of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) – drone – propwash on drone-mounted air quality measuring equipment, specifically in the context of plume monitoring from burning crude oil. This session will cover key findings of this research. This advancement opens new possibilities for more effective and reliable airborne environmental monitoring, especially in emergency response scenarios involving hazardous emissions.
LEADERSHIP
June 2024
June 5, 2024
8:30AM - 9:30AM
How to Grow a Culture of One Team with One Goal having One Conversation
Tim Autrey & Bob Catinazzo, PPI Global
Room: A1
Bob Catinazzo kicks off this final session of the PPI Series by revealing the Next-Gen Mindset- how to role model, reinforce, and promote Principle-Based Behaviors.
Bob will then reveal a simple 4-step share-ask sequence that ‘puts feet to’ the entire Principle-Based approach; a recipe for how to engage with, provide feedback to, and inspire team members such that needful areas are addressed while relationships are enriched, which is essential to growing and strengthening a One Team Culture.
This is a recipe you can put to immediate use.
Tim Autrey wraps up this session with Q&A, giveaways, and an overview of a library of online resources available for embracing and leveraging Principle-Based Performance Improvement™ (PPI).
LEADERSHIP
June 6, 2024
1:15PM - 2:15PM
Protecting Your Company's Reputation During a Crisis
Mary Jane Mudd, EHCMA
Room: Expo A1
How would you speak on behalf of your company if a significant incident occurred? How would you interact with media, employees, family, colleagues and the community? In this session we will discuss how to use strategic, effective communication to help protect your company’s reputation during a crisis. Crisis communications basics will be covered as well as how citizen journalists and social media can help – or distort – our messages. T
June 6, 2024
2:30PM - 3:30PM
How Engaged Leadership Reflects My Purpose
Stacy Putman, INEOS
Room: Expo A1
Leadership requires you to show up, make a difference and inspires others because not only do they matter but you matter.
The many distractions at work as well as the differing views of careers today can create a puzzle for a Leader to solve who wants to see their team aligned and productive. Retention can be another challenge for us while we are also supposed to be working on inclusion and belonging efforts. How does the purpose of a Leader serve to solve the puzzle?
ENVIRONMENTAL HOT TOPICS TRACK (Track Sponsored by Mitsubishi Chemical)
June 6, 2024
9:00AM - 10:00AM
SB-900 – New Program Regulating the Safety of Aboveground Storage Vessels
Shannon W. Frazier and Shelley Naik, TCEQ
30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 338 adopts the requirements of Senate Bill 900 that amended the Texas Water Code. This is a new program regulating the safety of aboveground storage vessels with a capacity of 21,000 gallons (500 barrels) or more at petrochemical plants, petroleum refineries, and bulk storage terminals. TCEQ speakers will provide information on the implementation and deadlines associated with this new program.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
RMP Rule Making Update
Scott Elliott, Baker Botts
Session description coming soon!
June 6, 2024
1:15PM - 2:15PM
TCEQ Happenings: Regulatory Updates and Legislative Preview
Brian Christian and Richard Hyde
See Mobile App for Location
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) recently underwent a review by the Sunset Commission of Texas which resulted in a number of changes to how that agency does business. Many hot-button issues, including environmental justice, emissions events, and public participation in permitting were part of the debate and can be expected to come around again when the Legislature convenes in January 2025. Additionally, recent Federal actions will significantly impact air quality planning and permitting at TCEQ. This presentation will analyze the issues and look downrange at what to expect in the months and years to come.
PROCESS SAFETY TRACK (Track Sponsored by Indorama)
June 6, 2024
9:00AM - 10:00AM
SB-900 – New Program Regulating the Safety of Aboveground Storage Vessels
Shannon W. Frazier & Shelley Naik, TCEQ
See Mobile App for Location
30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 338 adopts the requirements of Senate Bill 900 that amended the Texas Water Code. This is a new program regulating the safety of aboveground storage vessels with a capacity of 21,000 gallons (500 barrels) or more at petrochemical plants, petroleum refineries, and bulk storage terminals. TCEQ speakers will provide information on the implementation and deadlines associated with this new program. This session is combined with the Environmental Hot Topics Track.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
RMP Rule Making Update
Scott Elliott, Baker Botts
See Mobile App for Location
Session description coming soon. This session will be combined with the Process Safety Track.
June 6, 2024
10:15AM - 11:15AM
API 752/753/756 Updates: What does this mean for your facility?
Joshua Bruce-Black, BakerRisk
See Mobile App for Location
API recommended practices 752, 753, and 756 provide guidance to manage risks from process-related explosion, fire, and toxic hazards on permanent buildings, portable buildings, and tents. The latest editions of these critical safety standards were released in January 2024. This presentation will discuss key changes to the RPs including around the siting evaluation process and criteria, management of change and revalidation, expanded sections on fire and toxic hazards, and updated zoning methods and siting for essential/non-essential personnel in portable buildings and tents.
AMERICAN CHEMISTRY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
June 6, 2024
8:30AM - 11:30AM
Connecting Safety and Sustainability with Industry Perception and Policymaking
Danny Forest, Director, Data Analytics, Responsible Care
See Mobile App for Location
Join this engaging session with the American Chemistry Council, the Texas Chemistry Council and the Louisiana Chemical Association as we explore how environmental, health and safety impact public perception, influence government affairs, and support effective communication and engagement strategies. Participants will gain valuable insights on current industry perception, local and federal policy priorities and effective messaging and communications strategies, including fostering a deeper understanding of industry's contributions to society and our communities. Presenters will share how ACC’s industry-wide program, Responsible Care, helps drive our industry performance, influence policies and impact public perception. Additional focus will include industry associations are collaborating to tackle emerging challenges and enhance safety and environmental stewardship. This unique gathering is not just a conference session—it's a strategic dialogue on supporting the chemical industry's role in a sustainable future, making it a must-attend for professionals seeking to elevate their impact in environmental, health, and safety fields.
PLANT MANAGER ROUND TABLE
None at this time.