(152a) Are Your Barriers Ready for Action?  Are You Sure?

BP utilizes a standardized in-house methodology to identify and assess major accident risks. On an annual basis, the top risks are systematically reviewed by Executive Leadership in a process BP calls Risk Notification & Endorsement. During the reviews, each operating entity discusses the nature of the risk for each scenario, including an in-depth review of existing barrier performance and plans for further risk reduction.

In support of the Risk Notification & Endorsement process, BP conducts in-depth barrier assurance using subject matter experts (SMEs). Over a three-year period, SMEs were deployed to each operating entity to test the effectiveness of both the prevention and mitigation barriers for the top risks using standardized protocols. The protocols examine three key aspects of each barrier: (1) design and construction, (2) operation, and (3) inspection and maintenance. A simple tricolored KPI system is used to characterize the barrier strength. The results from these assurance visits have been integrated into the annual risk conversations. Deficiencies carry a higher priority, are centrally tracked, and have regular visibility to Executive Leadership until resolved.

This paper will delve into the barrier assurance process, providing the framework, as well as highlight typical findings since the program’s inception.