The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has instituted new guidelines that focus on occupational safety, health and the environmental management in the agency''s contracting and procurement operations.
The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) commended NASA for focusing on the need to recognize that professional and technical knowledge is required to effectively manage occupational safety and health issues.
"There is a strong need for NASA to take proactive steps to support safety and health programs based on good science, sound technology, and recognized professional practices," ASSE President Samuel Gualardo, said in a letter to NASA''s James H. Dolvin of the Office of Procurement Contract Management.
"It is this type of initiative that enhances occupational safety and health professional practices throughout the United States, and will be of significant assistance in fostering the space program."
ASSE''s comments are directed towards NASA''s June Federal Register announcement, "Enhancements to Safety and Risk Management," an interim rule change which impacts safety, security, health, export control, and damage to the environment, within the acquisition process.
"We know from 90 years of experience that safety pays. Safety should be an integrated component of all business plans and operations," said Gualardo. "This is an excellent example of how NASA requires that safety be part of day-to-day operations."
Specifically, ASSE is supportive of NASA''s policy which fosters proactive communication between NASA, its contractors and its stakeholders.
by Virginia Sutcliffe
