By: Kelvin

Kelvin — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:56:24 +0000

Good points… I view this as an opportunity to “lean out” your management systems. Tough economic times require us to be more creative and it can leave us in a better position coming out of these tough times if done right

By: Bruce K.

Bruce K. — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:31:10 +0000

As much as I would like to think that EHS is “special” and should be treated differently than the rest of our business, that is not going to be the case at most companies – whether it’s good times or bad. I also think continued discussion along these lines by EHS professionals can undermine the confidence of executives in an EHS organization – they will conclude that the EHS team “just doesn’t get it” or “doesn’t understand how a business is run”. From my vantage point the new emphasis on sustainability is very welcome in that it sheds light on the value that EHS and related functions (e.g. faciltiies) can bring to a business. It also brings huge opportunities for EHS professionals to reinvigorate themselves by learning new things (e.g. how many of us wee familiar with carbon accounting -7 years ago?) I am more convinced than ever that the EHS conundrum (where strong EHS commitments are not always reflected in resource decisions) is greater emphasis on simple and effective management systems where all employees help deliver results and carry the load. NAEM can continue playing a role in promoting this approach and in providing the tools and skills.

Comments on: How “Sustainable” Is Your EHS Program?

By: Kelvin

By: Bruce K.