(128a) Retooling HAZOP Knowledge through Scenario Database

Hazards and Operability (HAZOP) study is a structured hazard identification tool using deviation analysis, which is carried out by a multi-discipline team for identification of process hazards in design and operation phase of a facility.

The main purpose of HAZOP study is to carry out a rigorous and systematic assessment of process systems with respect to operational safety and potential hazards with probable upsetting conditions.

HAZOP study team (i.e. HAZOP facilitator and team members) are selected based on their competency, knowledge and experience in relation to the process to be analyzed. This is important in ensuring the hazard analysis is carried out thoroughly and thus preventing accident / incidences.

Incident statistics over the years shows that process safety related incidences continue to occur and some of these incidences can be attributed to the quality of HAZOP study being conducted, particularly for new projects or facilities. Among the factors contributing to poor quality of HAZOP studies are insufficient hazardous scenario identification and inadequate safeguards to prevent or mitigate potential hazards or its consequences.

Based on analysis, one of the underlying causes for this is HAZOP teams’ (i.e. HAZOP Facilitator and/or team members) lack of knowledge in evaluating potential hazardous scenario related, particularly when evaluating new systems or processes.

HAZOP Scenario Database has been developed in view of addressing the potential lack of knowledge issue among HAZOP study team when conducting HAZOP Study. HAZOP Scenario Database is a repository of hazardous scenarios (from various different processes, system and / or equipment) that are unique to process and other common engineering design consideration. The HAZOP Scenario Database is intended to a source of reference (based on similar process or system or equipment) to the HAZOP team (i.e. HAZOP Facilitator and team members) when conducting a particular HAZOP study. This database, which made available at the organizations’ online platform, is a live database where HAZOP facilitators groupwide are able to add on / register hazardous scenarios for future references within the organization.