Health & Safety

The health and safety of our employees, communities and the environment continue to guide everything our industries do. Our commitment extends beyond compliance with regulations and industry standards, embedding a strong culture of care, awareness and responsibility into every aspect of our work. From the first day on the job, employees are immersed in safety principles that shape our operations and drive ongoing improvements in health and safety performance.

Safety Record

The fuel and petrochemical industries remain steadfast in the goal of achieving zero injuries and incidents across all operations. A focus on continuous improvement, strict safety procedures and proactive hazard prevention has helped maintain consistently low rates of workplace illness and injury, ranking our sectors among the best in manufacturing. Through advanced safety systems, ongoing employee training and shared best practices, our industry continues to earn top marks in federal safety evaluations.

Leading the Way in Safety Among U.S. Manufacturers

Nothing is more important to the refining and petrochemical industries than safety. AFPM’s member companies have strong safety records and consistently work to improve performance to take care of our people, communities and environment. 

Outstanding Safety Performance

Year after year, AFPM members lead the way in safety results, outperforming many of their peers in other industries. This record reflects disciplined adherence to safety protocols; effective training programs and a workforce deeply committed to protecting people and the environment.

Industry Programs

U.S. refiners and petrochemical manufacturers work collaboratively to learn from each other and share good practices to advance safety across industries. AFPM facilitates this collaboration through a series of safety programs focusing on process safety, occupational safety and training and development.

Walk the Job

The concept of joint job walks, or joint job site visits, is not new to the industry. Walk the Job helps improve process and personal safety through a six-step approach focused on clear communication, proper equipment preparation, defined scope and hold points, correct tools, verified energy isolation, and confirmed completion with permit closure — all reinforcing one rule: No walk, no work.

Smarter Operations for Safer Outcomes

Innovation continues to drive safety progress in the U.S. fuel and petrochemical industries, where our members regularly adopt next-generation technologies to strengthen process safety, occupational protection and employee training. Advanced sensors, real-time monitoring and digital tools help shape a safer, more resilient workplace every day.

Employee and Contractor Safety

The well-being of employees and contractors is vital to the success of our industry. With strong safety protocols, ongoing education and innovative technology, AFPM members provide a safe working environment that supports both people and performance.

AI Advances Take Safety to New Heights

Emergency Preparedness and Response

We invest in extensive emergency planning, frequent training and simulation drills so that employees and contractors are ready to respond to any situation, from equipment failures to extreme weather events like hurricanes or wildfires. Our programs feature detailed response strategies and coordination with government and community agencies so we can protect our workforce and limit impacts on our operations and neighbors.

Community Safety

AFPM’s commitment to safety extends to their neighboring communities. They work closely with local organizations to enhance community safety through initiatives like providing grants, safety equipment and community education.