Chemical Safety Investigations Impeded by Staffing, Leadership

The federal agency that investigates chemical accidents was hampered by unfilled positions and leadership disputes, a new watchdog report says.

The findings by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Inspector General largely confirm what lawmakers and industry officials have said about the US Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board’s operations over the past five years.

Among the report’s recommendations are that the board develop the capability to quickly fill investigator and senior staff positions, ensure there are plans to hand off duties when staff members leave, and update internal procedures on how reports are written and reviewed.

The CSB, with ...