Welcome to the latest in a series of AIChE blog posts profiling process engineers, a diverse group of professionals spanning multiple industries and regions. In this series, we profile process engineers who work in a wide range of fields, including petrochemicals, pharma, bulk chemicals, food, and other process-intensive industries.
Are you a member and process engineer interested in being profiled? We’d love to hear from you via this volunteer opportunity. Please also check out our online discussion group specifically for process engineers. You can find out about these initiatives and join our efforts by visiting aiche.org/cpe.
This month, we introduce you to Sabit Burak, Risk Consultant at AWN Consulting. He discusses the path that led to his career in process safety engineering, overcoming challenges, and the importance of his work.
Tell us a bit about your work as a process engineer.
As a process safety engineer, I specialize in developing and implementing safety management systems, particularly for Seveso sites. My work involves conducting risk assessments, preparing safety and explosion protection documents, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. I also perform explosion modeling to anticipate and mitigate potential hazards. In collaboration with cross-functional teams, I maintain safety standards, conduct audits, and provide training. My experience spans various industries, including chemical production and pharmaceuticals, where I apply my expertise in occupational health and safety to ensure a safe working environment.
I am motivated by the opportunity to make workplaces safer and more efficient, ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting both people and the environment.
Why did you become a process engineer?
Becoming a process engineer was a natural progression for me, combining my passion for problem-solving with a strong interest in safety and environmental sustainability. Early on, I was fascinated by how intricate processes operate in industries like chemical production and pharmaceuticals. My background in environmental engineering, coupled with advanced studies in health and safety, equipped me with the knowledge and skills to address complex safety challenges. I am motivated by the opportunity to make workplaces safer and more efficient, ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting both people and the environment.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role as a process engineer?
As a process engineer, one of the biggest challenges I face is ensuring compliance with ever-evolving safety regulations while maintaining operational efficiency. Navigating these regulations requires a deep understanding of both legal requirements and industry standards. Risk management is another significant challenge, as the task of identifying and mitigating potential hazards in high-risk environments, especially Seveso sites, is critical. Additionally, effective interdisciplinary coordination is essential to integrate safety measures without disrupting production. Keeping up with technological advancements and preparing for emergencies are also crucial aspects of my role that present ongoing challenges.
How is your work as a process engineer critical to your particular job assignment or industry?
My work as a process engineer is critical to ensuring the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of industrial operations. In high-risk environments, particularly Seveso sites, my role involves conducting detailed risk assessments and developing safety management systems to prevent accidents and environmental harm. By preparing explosion protection documents and performing hazard modeling, I help anticipate and mitigate potential risks. This not only protects workers and the surrounding community but also ensures that production processes run smoothly and adhere to stringent safety standards, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and success of the industry.
What do you think is most important about what you do as a process engineer?
The most important aspect of my work as a process engineer is ensuring the safety and compliance of industrial operations. By conducting detailed risk assessments and implementing comprehensive safety management systems, I help prevent accidents and mitigate potential hazards. This focus on safety not only protects workers and the environment but also ensures that the companies I consult for meet stringent regulatory standards. In fact, my efforts have enabled many of these firms to achieve zero non-compliance issues during inspections, demonstrating the effectiveness of robust safety protocols and risk management practices.
Connect with Sabit on AIChE Engage
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