The YEP Summit has already taken us through two critical aspects of our industry: how harmonized standards help us all speak the same language (Session 1), and how safety by design ensures lessons learned are built into every workspace (Session 2). Session 3 picked up the story at the next stage: what happens once gases leave the plant and make their way to customers.
Moderated by Melissa De Jesus (WELDCOA), the panel featured Mike Farris (Linde) and Frank Bock (Air Products), who shared their firsthand experience managing fleets, training drivers, and protecting communities through safe transportation practices.
Key Takeaways
- Transportation is safety-critical. Compressed gases don’t just need to be produced safely—they must also travel safely across highways, neighborhoods, and into customer facilities. Strict protocols govern every step of that journey.
- Training is non-negotiable. From properly securing cylinders to spotting hazards on the road, training is the backbone of safe transportation. Refresher courses and mentorship are vital for keeping skills sharp and teams confident.
- Culture matters. Just like in plant operations, a strong safety culture makes all the difference in distribution. Drivers and teams must feel empowered to pause, question, and act when something doesn’t look right.
Looking Ahead: The Final YEP Summit Session
Session 4 – Fueling the Future: Innovation and Opportunity in Compressed Gases Aug. 21, 2025 | 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. ET The Summit will close by looking forward: how hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and specialty gases are fueling innovation in energy, mobility, and sustainability — and how YEPs can help shape what’s next.
From harmonization to design to transportation, the YEP Summit has highlighted how safety and standards connect across the full lifecycle of gases. The final session will shift focus to the opportunities ahead, giving YEPs the chance to see their role in shaping the industry’s future.
About The Compressed Gas Association (CGA)
CGA is the leading authority on safety standards for industrial, medical, food, and specialty gases and equipment. Since 1913, CGA has developed nearly 400 globally recognized standards, trusted by ISO, NFPA, the United Nations, and regulatory bodies worldwide. Representing members who support over 34,000 U.S. jobs and contribute more than $10 billion to the American economy, CGA advances safety, drives innovation, and fosters professional development across the compressed gas industry.