Superintendent for flammable products

Superintendent task description

An activity subject to permit for handling inflammable materials must have one or more persons appointed as superintendents. The superintendent must work to ensure that handling is safe and meets the legislation requirements on flammable and explosive goods. The superintendent often acts as a contact person for permit and supervisory authorities, for example, when the permit needs to be changed or renewed. The permit holder needs to give the superintendent sufficient authority and some latitude so that they can perform their duties. The superintendent’s task involves preventive protection, and a vital role in accident prevention efforts is ensuring that the necessary documentation exists, is up to date, and is followed. Examples of such documentation may be:

• Instructions for activities and maintenance, including step-by-step directions
• Permit and associated application documents for the handling of inflammable materials
• Explosion protection documentation, including classification plans
• Instructions and reports on incidents and accidents
• Checklists and inspection documents
• An investigation of the risks, norms, instructions, standards, manuals, and documentation on which the facility is operated

Other staff handling inflammable materials

Everyone handling inflammable materials is responsible for taking the necessary steps and precautions in every situation. Anyone violating due care and diligence in handling may face the risk of the penalty of fine or imprisonment. All staff must have the knowledge and skills needed for the assigned tasks so handling occurs safely. The superintendent is generally responsible for ensuring that staff receive training and further training as required. It is essential to follow up that handling is performed safely. Activities with a valid permit to handle inflammable materials can have the permit revoked if the activity has been conducted in violation of the Flammables and Explosives Act (2010:1011).