The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will enable both agencies to contribute to the overall enhancement of chemical safety and prevention.
Under the MOU, the ATF and CSB will coordinate incident notification, data and information exchange, training, technical and professional assistance and related activities to promote the safety, health, and well-being of the nation''s workers and the public.
The MOU sets forth 10 principles of coordination between the two agencies, including notification and investigation of chemical incidents, dispute resolution and information and data sharing.
ATF enforces and investigates laws concerning arson and explosives. The ATF is a law enforcement organization within the United States Department of Treasury with unique responsibilities dedicated to reducing violent crime, collecting revenue and protecting the public.
The CSB, an independent agency, was created by Congress to contribute to and improve chemical safety by conducting incident investigations, determining all possible causes and producing high-quality reports and special studies. From the results of investigations and studies, the CSB adopts recommendations to prevent future incidents, submitting them as appropriate to agencies, organizations, companies and other bodies.
by Virginia Sutcliffe