EHS Management Leadership and Influencing

Glowatz, Michael
(Colden Corporation, Blue Bell, PA)

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The management of EHS in the semiconductor industry requires an EHS management systems approach, which many organizations have adopted. To effectively implement and optimize such systems requires not only technical competency in EHS risks and requirements but also the knowledge and skills to manage, lead and influence others. With the myriad of potential hazards that exist within the industry, good risk assessment is key. This requires recognition and evaluation of EHS issues by trained, competent professionals, application of the hierarchy of controls, worker training programs, and systems for monitoring, maintenance, and review and improvement. A robust management of change (MOC) program needs to be incorporated into the EHS management system, since even minor process changes can add significant hazards to the workplace. How does one influence management on what needs to be done to have an effective EHS program, and how does one lead an EHS program that addresses those and other issues? EHS Management is an art form unto itself. Upper management personnel frequently do not come from EHS backgrounds. They may have a difficult time understanding and managing EHS, even understanding and managing basic regulatory requirements. Managing EHS does have some similarities to managing other aspects of the larger organization, but involves understanding the EHS drivers for your business; setting and managing EHS goals which are sometimes intangible; measuring performance; auditing key issues; employee competence and the proper selection, training and placement of EHS personnel; resource utilization and staffing; and building a culture of EHS importance within the larger organization. A basic question becomes, what type of EHS management does your organization/company need, and how do you lead that organization. Drawing from decades of EHS management experience in high tech organizations, this presentation will outline strategies for influencing management and leading an EHS program, and share lessons learned and keys to success.

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