ABSTRACT
By far the best method of controlling pollution is to prevent its occurrence in the first place. Prevention is the result of pre-planned, voluntary action, carried out under conditions controlled by the operator. Containment and countermeasures, no matter how well planned and executed, are still involuntary re-actions, carried out under emergency conditions over which the operator has limited or no control (at least initially). The primary objective of an environmental management program must therefor be to prevent pollution.
This paper discusses techniques and procedures which are practical, readily applied, and easily administered. They can be incorporated into day-to-day operations with no disruption, and a minimum of additional effort. The paper considers equipment design (with particular respect to whether or not original design is still suitable for current operating conditions), alarm and shut-down systems, inspection and testing, maintenance, and operation. The paper also considers personnel training, definition of duties and responsibilities, and interdependence of personnel to achieve a common objective.