Synopsis prepared by Jim Breitlow, CHMM, Secretary NCC-ACHMM

Topic: Interactive Databases for the Hazardous Materials and Safety Industries

Speakers: Pete Rice (Click Safety) and Eric Ahrens (Vertica Software)

Two presentations were given at this Dinner Meeting.

Pete Rice, with ClickSafety, presented first with a review of historical safety training methods and effectiveness. A key objective of the ClickSafety program is to enhance access to compliance technical information for safety. Average traditional training costs for safety are $500/employee. Web-based training is substantially less. Pete's program offers 50 courses, 20 of which are for Spanish speaking students. The courses teach with both video and audio techniques. They emphasize interactive learning, and include testing after each module. In addition, the program includes the capability for maintaining training records. Pete concluded his presentation with a focus on some of the customization options of the program. For example, the training courses can be customized for individual job sites, and they can be customized for different industries, such as construction, electronics manufacturing, and laboratories.

Erick Ahrens, with Vertica Software, introduced his presentation with a review of various internet, web, browser server and other computer-based technologies. His program focuses on accessing information resources, such as MSDS's and regulations, featuring an index system to enhance searching, with links to agency web sites. Currently, federal agency requirements are included, and they are working to include state requirements. Erick said that one of Vertica Software's popular features is its use in preparing plans and documents required by regulations, such as hazardous materials business plans , emergency response plans, and spill prevention, control, and countermeasures plans. They feature links to site maps, inventories, required notifications to regulatory agencies, and emergency phone numbers. The Chapter appreciates Pete's and Erick's presentations and their hands-on demonstrations.