A Reality Check Provided by Previous Chapters

A hasty modification can result in an accident, as discussed in Chapter 6. To address the problems of one-minute modifications, chemical plant management must persistently encourage employee awareness and train their employees about the potential dangers that can be created by the quick, inexpensive substitutions. It is essential that well-maintained engineering and equipment specifications are readily available. Changes which might include improper substitutes (such as incompatible materials of construction) or improper procedures should be reviewed by a third party. However, this is sometimes easier said than done in the sometimes hectic pace of maintaining maintenance and production schedules. 

Undesirable side effects may also be the result of modifications made in preparation for maintenance and/or activities in the implementation of maintenance. Some of these situations, previously discussed in Chapter 4 and Chapter 5, require more effort than the isolated projects. A system to review work orders and the preparation for maintenance requires continued diligence. Well-publicized, up-to-date mechanical and instrument specifications and written repair procedures which include lists of blinds will reduce many misunderstandings and incidents. 

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