Refinery Safety

API members are committed to protecting the environment and the health and safety of all that share it. API's safety activities and programs support this commitment through research, standards development, training, information sharing and transfer and advocacy. In addition, API member company refineries comply with safety regulations such as OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM).

OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) is a comprehensive federal regulation developed as part of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) that required the Department of Labor and the Environmental Protection Association (EPA) to promulgate a safety standard to prevent accidental releases of chemicals that could pose a threat to employees.

The petroleum industry is concerned that application of PSM to low-hazard petroleum operations, including onshore production and atmospheric storage tanks, would result in a significant regulatory burden to refineries and onshore producing facilities.

API strongly supports the principles of fire prevention as elements for personnel and property protection in the petroleum industry. Prevention programs provide the most effective means of ensuring personnel safety. API provides a forum for its members to share information and develop industry standards to advance safety and loss prevention programs. Currently, API maintains about 30 safety and fire protection standards and recommended practices.