Hiring the right independent facilitator for a HAZOP is crucial. Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) is required for all industrial-scale plants that store or process flammable, toxic or environmentally hazardous materials. HAZOP is a common method for PHA that identifies hazards and operability issues in new or changed designs, using a multidisciplinary team.

New projects or developments
Projects with the potential to pose hazards to people or the environment must conduct a PHA using a selected method. HAZID can be applied in the early stages, and HAZOP is commonly applied when detailed Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams are stable.
Existing process plants that store and process hazardous materials
Depending on where you are in the world, there may be slightly different local standards or requirements for the frequency of reviews. Most companies review or revalidate HAZOP studies at least every five years, even when major changes have not occurred.
Plant modifications and upgrades
Any plant modifications or upgrades must include a PHA/HAZOP before making any changes

Frequently Asked Questions about HAZOP Study

What is a PHA?

Process hazards analysis (PHA) is a general term used in the process industry sector for any kind of study that identifies hazards and potential sources of harm to people, environment and assets. A PHA can be done in many different ways.

What is a HAZOP Study?

HAZOP is short for a Hazard and Operability Study. This is a systematic technique used to identify hazards, consequences and safeguards for industrial processes.

When is the best time to do a HAZOP?

The timing of a HAZOP can vary, but it is often best approached when there is sufficient design information; when piping and instrumentation diagrams are available with a meaningful level of detail.

Who should get involved with HAZOP?

The duty holder should get someone experienced to lead the HAZOP activity and record team findings.
Plant operators and maintenance personnel.
Process experts.
Electrical, control and instrumentation.
Process safety / HSE representative.

Is LOPA part of HAZOP?

Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) can be combined with a HAZOP study provided this is decided in advance. LOPA takes selected HAZOP scenarios and determines the effectiveness of safeguards as truly independent protection layers (IPL).

In-Person or Remote HAZOP study

eFunctionalSafety has completed many HAZOP studies followed by Layer Of Protection Analysis (LOPA).

With our experienced leaders and specialist recording software, we can support your team to evaluate the hazards and risks posed by any industrial process or machine.

With the recent capabilities of web conferencing and remote screen sharing, we have become experts at hosting remote PHA/HAZOPs that are as effective as in-person sessions.

For your PHA/HAZOP/LOPA, we have access to the following packages:

aeShield® (aeFacilitator tool)
PHA Pro® - Sphera