DES PLAINES, IL (August 24, 2000) - DES PLAINES, IL (August 24, 2000) - The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) applauds the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for instituting new guidelines that put a focus on occupational safety, health and environmental management in the agency's contracting and procurement operations. It also commends NASA for focusing on the need to recognize that professional and technical knowledge is required to effectively and efficiently manage occupational safety and health issues.

     In a letter sent August 18 to NASA's James H. Dolvin of the Office of Procurement Contract Management Division, ASSE President Samuel J. Gualardo, CSP, commended NASA for recognizing that it is good public policy to incorporate safety, health, and environmental management at all levels of the organization.

     ASSE's comments are directed towards NASA's June Federal Register Announcement titled "Enhancements to Safety and Risk Management," an interim rule change which impacts safety, security (including information technology security), health, export control, and damage to the environment, within the acquisition process.

     "There is a strong need for NASA to take proactive steps to support safety and health programs based on good science, sound technology, and recognized professional practices," Gualardo stated. "It is this type of initiative that enhances occupational safety and health professional practices throughout the U. S., and will be of significant assistance in fostering the space program."

     The interim rule mandates that when establishing product descriptions in either a solicitation or contract, contracting officers shall include safeguards, as applicable, to ensure safety, security, and environmental protection.

     "This section provides the best public policy aspect and ASSE strongly endorses the NASA approach," Gualardo said. " We know from ninety years of experience that safety pays. Safety should be an integrated component of all business plans and operations. This is an excellent example of how NASA requires that safety be part of day-to-day operations."

     ASSE also supports the language in the rule that fosters proactive communication between NASA, its contractors and its stakeholders.

     "This well thought out public policy will help increase synergy between NASA and the contractors it interacts with," Gualardo noted. "This interaction will allow for more effective and efficient hazard evaluation and abatement resulting in an enhanced NASA that is of benefit to all Americans."

     Founded in 1911, ASSE is the oldest and largest safety professional organization. Its 32,000 members include Certified Safety Professionals (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH), Professional Engineers (PE), ergonomists, academicians, fire protection engineers, system safety experts, health professionals, and a wide collection of other disciplines, skills, and backgrounds. ASSE is dedicated to excellence, expertise, and commitment to the protection of people, property, and the environment throughout the world.