April, 2005 – Montgomery, IL – Benetech, Inc. has announced a Risk Index program, designed to help coal yards determine safety/health concerns, as well as current or emerging vulnerabilities that affect operational integrity.

"We’ve always worked with our clients to identify potential problems in their plant operations," said Ron Pircon, President & CEO of Benetech, Inc. "Risk Index has been formalized to provide documented identification of real and potential risks. It also serves to prioritize the plant’s focus and capital funds, benchmark conditions, and is the first data-driven tool to understand the value delivered by any improvements made."

Risk Index specifically helps coal yards to:

• Identify Vulnerabilities. Benetech coal yard professionals thoroughly investigate the plant, addressing such factors as spillage, silo ventilation, dust concentrations, dust containment and disposal methods and coal loading procedures. All factors are evaluated and rated with quantitative measures, such as probability and expected value. Immediate hazards, such as potential "hot spots" that can lead to fire and other damage, are prioritized.

• Develop Performance Standards. Benetech will also recommend procedures and controls to eliminate, contain, and monitor identified risks. Benchmark reports are developed, for continued vigilance of risk factors. Action plans are established, which may include suggestions relating to cleaning and operating procedures, training programs, equipment adjustment or possibly plant reconfiguration.

• Monitor Progress and Re-evaluate. Benetech can also continue to work with the coal yard to ensure adherence to the accepted performance standards. Continued monitoring is essential to maintain peak operating efficiency and ensure that risk preventive measures remain intact.

Benetech, Inc., established in 1983, works as a professional advisor to utility plants to recommend and develop ways to increase efficiency and reduce O&M costs, while providing a full range of products and services relating to the safe storage, transfer and processing of coal. For more information on Benetech solutions, call Customer Service at 1-800-843-2625.


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