The Chemical Safety Board: An Agency at a Crossroads

One of the smallest agencies in the federal government, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazards Investigation Board (more commonly known as the Chemical Safety Board, or CSB) is charged with a unique and significant responsibility: to investigate chemical accidents and make recommendations to prevent a recurrence. Since its inception, the agency has struggled to advance this mission. Management and political issues have impacted its credibility and detracted from its important function. With a newly appointed chairperson and board, the CSB stands at a crossroads. The agency has the opportunity to make meaningful progress and restore public and industry trust—or the ...