The inaugural International Forum on Innovation and Development of Chemical Process Safety was successfully held recently at the Yifu Building of East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST). Hosted by ECUST, organized by its School of Chemical Engineering and the ECUST EHS Alumni Association, and supported by the International Council of Chemical Associations (AICM), the forum brought together over 150 experts from government regulatory bodies, international organizations, renowned universities, and leading enterprises.

The forum centered on the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence and digital technologies present for Process Safety Management (PSM). Participants engaged in discussions on the latest advancements and trends within the PSM field. The agenda was structured around four thematic sessions, comprehensively covering critical areas of chemical process safety:

・Latest Policies, Regulations, and International Development Trends in Chemical Process Safety
・Technological and Management Innovation in PSM
・Cultivating “Chemical Engineering + Safety” Talent
・In-depth Focus on Digitalization and AI Enabling PSM

Experts and scholars conducted in-depth exchanges on cutting-edge topics, including the evolution of policies and regulations, technological innovation, talent development, and intelligent applications in chemical process safety.

Mr. Chen Hao, Co-founder of IN-ROAD, was invited as a guest speaker to share insights and experiences regarding the practical application of digital and AI technologies in process safety management. IN-ROAD has long focused on providing digital solutions for the chemical industry and has accumulated substantial practical experience in the field of chemical process safety. This participation in the international forum reflects industry recognition of IN-ROAD’s professional expertise in the digitalization of chemical process safety. Process Safety Management (PSM) remains a core element for safe production within the chemical industry. With the rapid development of AI and digital technologies, the PSM field is now encountering new transformative opportunities.

Globally, AI and digitalization are becoming significant drivers for enhancing chemical process safety standards. Faced with increasingly complex safety challenges, intelligent transformation is no longer optional but essential for the chemical industry. The empowerment through digital and AI technologies is shifting PSM from a traditional model of “manual inspection + post-incident response” towards a proactive prevention model capable of “accurately identifying risks, providing early warnings for potential hazards, and enabling rapid incident response.” This transition is crucial not only for corporate economic benefits but also bears significant responsibility for the sustainable development of the chemical industry.