Summary: Management problems at the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board have called into question the Board's effectiveness in investigating the causes of accidental chemical releases. This report discusses the Board's current organization and operations; its efforts to develop plans, policies, and procedures, including those to ensure objectivity of its investigative activities; and whether the Board would benefit from the independent oversight of an inspector general. Continuing disagreements between Board members and the former Chairman raise questions about the Board's productivity and effectiveness. In addition to limited progress in addressing its investigative backlog, the Board has undertaken no new investigations since March 1999. The Board has established eight priorities for the balance of fiscal year 2000, including the completion of three investigative reports. The Board is developing a strategic plan, and progress has been made toward policies and procedures to guide the Board's activities. However, the Board's interim investigative protocol lacks the policies and procedures needed to ensure objectivity and balance in its investigative work, such as conflicts of interest. GAO recommends that the Board adopt clear policies and procedures on potential conflicts of interest and consider policies used by other investigative agencies that promote investigative impartiality and thoroughness. The operational problems of the Board suggest that ongoing institutional oversight would be beneficial. GAO believes that an office of inspector general offers the best hope for effective institutional oversight and recommends that the Board develop an agreement with an existing inspector general to provide such oversight.
