release of toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive materials from a process into the workplace,
and possibility into the surrounding community. This is a systematic approach to the
management of process hazards in evaluating the process design, technology, changes,
operational and maintenance procedures, non-routine procedures, emergency prepardness plans
and procedures, training programs, and other elements.
1. For certain chemicals, PSM requires that:
a. Information be gathered for highly hazardous chemical operations, or chemical process
hazard analysis be performed.
b. An appropriate PSM program be in place where the standard applies.
2. This standard applies to all activities with operations at or above listed threshold quantities
of highly hazardous chemicals outlined in 29 CFR 1910.119. This standard pertains to all of the
chemicals listed in 29 CFR 1910.119, Appendix A, List of Highly Hazardous Chemicals, Toxics,
and Reactives (Mandatory). It also applies to explosives and pyrotechnics as defined in 29 CFR
1910.109, Explosives and Blasting Agents, paragraphs (a)(3) and (10) respectively, and as
discussed in 29 CFR 1910.109(k) and it requires compliance with the Risk Management
Program, 40 CFR 68.. The PSM standard applies only to individual or physically connected
chemical processes. It does not apply where the separation distance is sufficient to prevent
interaction and where the processes are not physically interconnected. Certain functions such as
fuel storage or fuel dispensing are excepted from the standard's requirements.
3. DoD Military Services and Agencies will ensure system support, and Safety management
will provide program supplements and program oversight as necessary. DoD elements will
follow their Service or Agency policies concerning PSM and ensure that their operations and
storage practices are consistent with the spirit and intent of the PSM standard.
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