For Katie Pizzolato, process safety isn’t just about policies and paperwork—it’s about peace of mind.
As the Process Safety Management (PSM) Superintendent at Golden Triangle Polymers, she plays a critical role in making sure operations run smoothly, safely, and according to rigorous standards.
Originally from just outside New Orleans, Katie’s path to process safety started with a degree in chemical engineering from the University of South Carolina. After more than a decade of experience across the country, she joined Golden Triangle Polymers in March 2024.
Making Safety Part of the Foundation
At Golden Triangle Polymers, Katie’s work looks a little different than what she was used to.
“Before, I worked with existing plants, where the process was already up and running,” she said. “Now, we’re building things from the ground up. That means embedding safety into the design—not just managing it after the fact.”
Process Safety Management is all about managing risk—especially risks related to health, safety, and the environment. It’s guided by OSHA regulations, particularly 29 CFR 1910.119, which outlines 14 elements that facilities handling hazardous chemicals must follow.
Katie works closely with engineering teams, designers, and construction crews to make sure those elements are integrated from the start. “We’re making sure the design is safe and building in the safeguards—temperatures, pressures, noise. Everything is planned before operations begin,” she explained.
An Unprecedented Opportunity
Helping launch a brand-new facility was a first for Katie—and a challenge she embraced.
“It’s opened up a different part of PSM that I never experienced before,” she said. “Being able to see things before it’s all established, and seeing safety built in at the ground level, has been incredible.”
Even more rewarding, she said, is the sense of ownership.
“We started up safely. We built this plant. We did it all from the ground up and didn’t impact the community. We’re part of the community. Wow—we really made something that’s long lasting.”
Outside the Plant
When she’s not thinking about regulations and risk assessments, Katie enjoys concerts, movies, and spending time with her 10-year-old nephew—especially cheering him on at basketball and football games. She also travels back to Louisiana often to see family and friends.
You might also catch her at one of GTP’s volunteer events, where she continues her commitment to community and connection beyond the job site.