Dr. Robert Bellair, EH&S associate research scientist for Reactive Chemicals in the Analytical Technology Center (ATC) in Freeport, Texas, was recognized as one of the 2015 “40 under 40” Rising Stars of Safety by the National Safety Council (NSC). The NSC presents these annual awards to individuals who demonstrate leadership and innovation through improvement efforts to their organization’s safety culture.

“This is the third consecutive year an individual from Dow has been recognized with this prestigious honor, further validating our efforts to implement a best-in-class safety culture in the chemical industry,” said Laura Ambrose, global director, Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) Operations. “Robert has established himself as a transformational role model for safety through his commendable leadership, a true embodiment of a NSC Rising Star of Safety.”

Bellair is recognized for his ability to lead a team of experts in a high-profile root cause investigation of a serious incident. The results of this investigation led to every manufacturing and laboratory facility in the company to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of hazards in their area and develop solutions for relevant worst-case scenarios. Bellair assisted in developing guidelines and procedures to ensure each facility complied with these safety objectives, and remained fully engaged during the year-long EH&S compliance effort.

Other accomplishments throughout his career include:

    Launched an extensive training initiative to sustain core technical competencies in the Reactive Chemicals (RC) group, which has seen a significant demographic shift in the last five years.
    Identified gaps in safe monomer handling and storage, and designed a plan to close those gaps and develop a robust technical database to assist in emergencies. This approach has been leveraged by several companies in the chemical industry.
    Worked with colleagues in Thailand to establish a safety culture and extend the reach of RC’s capabilities in the Asia Pacific region.

“Robert has been instrumental to the transformation of our organization’s safety culture,” said Kalyani Martinelango, global resource leader, Reactive Chemicals. “His ability to lead and establish strong professional relationships has served to be crucial in emergency situations. He demonstrates a steadfast commitment to technical excellence in hazard evaluations, helping Dow drive to zero RC incidents through his expertise.”

“Continuous improvement of safety and reliability are key components of Dow’s culture,” said Mike Meath, global director, Operations Support Services. “Robert has contributed tremendous value to the Technology Centers and to Dow in both of those essential aspects. His efforts to close gaps on significant technical issues and ensure the organization’s expertise is sustained through generations of employees who have helped strengthen Dow’s competitive advantage.”

Bellair will be featured in the September issue of Safety+Health magazine along with the other award winners. All “40 under 40” Rising Stars of Safety will be formally recognized Sep. 26 through Oct. 2 during the National Safety Council Congress and Expo in Atlanta.