The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) released a safety study titled Remote Isolation of Process Equipment, urging the chemical industry to use remote isolation systems to prevent hazardous material releases. Based on investigations of several catastrophic chemical incidents, the CSB found that the lack of effective remote isolation equipment contributed to fatalities, injuries, and environmental damage.
The CSB issued recommendations to the American Petroleum Institute, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration to enhance safety protocols and prevent incidents like explosions and fires. The board also called on chemical facilities to assess and implement remote isolation systems immediately, even before formal regulations are established.