(86b) Making HAZOP the Method of Choice for Identification of Process Plant Hazards

Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) has long been established as one of several techniques for risk identification. Many firms incorporate HAZOP procedure into their safety management approach for both new build facilities as well as modifications to existing plant and some have come to regard the method as a ?gold standard' for comprehensive risk identification. However, the reality is that the technique has practical pitfalls and can be far from comprehensive when implemented without the necessary rigor or independence from interests of licensors or contractors.

This paper examines reasons for shortcomings in HAZOP studies and discusses training approaches designed to strengthen HAZOP recording and analysis in the future. A method of calibrating the HAZOP output from a completed study against industry wide loss expectation is also summarized. The extension of this simulation approach to the benefit-cost prioritization of alternative engineering solutions for new build or for existing plant upgrading at turnaround will be described.