INTRODUCTION OF KOREA GAS SAFETY (KGS) CODE-A PATH TO BE INDUSTRY FRIENDLY WITH QUALIFIED SAFETY CONSCIOUSNESS UNCOMPROMISED

摘要

A Korean government body, Ministry of Knowledge and Economy, and its enforcement body, Korea Gas Safety Corporation (KGS), had got involved with serious discussion on 'fast changing industrial and technological environment versus sustainable high safety standard.' In 2004, with yet unproven future chance, first research project commenced to toss an open ended question on ' needs for gas safety code' for improving adaptability and flexibility in implementing the regulatory requirements. Rounds of research and experts hearings followed, KGS Code was placed to be effective in November 2008 and KGS Code Committee (KGSCC) which functions as the authority was organized in December 2008. Between December of 2008 and the end of 2009, KGSCC has presided 10 sessions to review 87 code items (among them, 1 item was not passed). KGSCC, being made of academia, industrial segments and government representatives, has so far proven effective and balanced in understanding all stakeholders' interests and in maintaining high level of technical integrity. How successful KGS Code would be remains to be seen, however, preliminary assessment on the Code system as of now says it is promising and welcomed.