In mid-August, Chemical & Process Engineering Club (CPEC) and the Department of Chemical Engineering organised an IChemE safety training session.

Led by Trish Kerin, an award-winning international expert in process safety and inaugural director of the IChemE Safety Centre (ISC), the session focused on two essential aspects of process safety: engineering & design and knowledge & competence.

These critical areas are key to ensuring safe and effective operations, especially in complex environments such as gas plants.

The session attracted 36 participants who engaged in real-life simulations which re-enacted the 1998 Esso Longford fire.  The interaction required them to balance production targets with managing process upsets, emphasising the role of engineering & design in creating safe systems and the importance of knowledge & competence in making informed, high-pressure decisions.

This initiative, sponsored by CPEC, highlights the importance of students gaining hands-on experience in safety management early in their careers. IChemE's invaluable contribution ensured that students not only developed technical expertise but also gained crucial decision-making skills that will help them prioritise safety in future roles. A special thanks to IChemE for the session and providing such a meaningful and impactful learning experience.

Many students commented that they enjoyed the session very much and would like to participate in similar sessions in future.  Trish was pleased that students engaged actively with her during the training session.