“Safety is never an accident.” With that reminder from CGA’s Mikaela Zallen, Session 2 of the YEP Summit explored how decades of lessons learned—sometimes the hard way—shape the way we design and operate our facilities today.

CGA YEP Vice Chair Kyle Elam (3M) opened by stressing why early-career professionals should get involved in standards work: they help preserve institutional knowledge, bring fresh perspectives, and strengthen safety culture for the long term.

The Big Picture from Dr. John Somavarapu

Our featured speaker, Dr. John Somavarapu (Air Liquide), shared how two major incidents in the 1990s changed the way our industry approaches plant design and operation. Both involved air separation units and showed what can happen when contaminants enter systems and safety controls aren’t followed.

His takeaway was clear:

• Many standards exist because something went wrong in the past.
• Consistent equipment design, proper operating procedures, and robust safeguards can prevent history from repeating itself.
• Even “small” oversights—like skipping a system check or delaying maintenance—can create the conditions for serious incidents.

Dr. Somavarapu emphasized that standards like CGA P-8.4 capture these lessons so future generations don’t have to learn them the hard way.

Carrying Safety Culture Forward

Everyone agrees that safety is more than compliance—it’s a mindset. Speaking up about hazards, asking questions, and mentoring others all help keep safety culture strong. For YEPs, participating in committees and standards development is a perfect way to make a lasting impact.

What’s Next at the YEP Summit

• Session 3—From Cylinder to Destination: Transporting Gases Safely Aug. 19, 2025 A 101-level look at how compressed gases move from plant to customer—the protocols, hazards, and logistics that keep products and people safe.
• Session 4—Fueling the Future: Innovation and Opportunity in Compressed Gases Aug. 21, 2025 Where the industry is headed: innovations in hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and specialty gases; emerging markets; and ways YEPs can help shape the future.

From harmonization to safety by design, the YEP Summit is helping emerging professionals see the big picture: understand the standards, learn from the past, and be part of building a safer future.

The Compressed Gas Association (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.