Auditing the Process Hazard Analysis - Key Characteristics to Scrutinize in a Good-Quality HAZOP Study and Supporting Effective HAZOP Study Updates

Although Process Safety Management (PSM), requiring good-quality Process Hazard Analyses, was promulgated in the United States in 1992, and HAZOP Study techniques date back to the mid-1970's, the HAZOP Study technique is still not uniformly applied in a high quality fashion. The objective of this paper is to provide experience-based tips on Process Hazard Analysis auditing, and some key characteristics that the auditor can scrutinize to assure quality implementation. Analogously, a similar set of characteristics that can facilitate future HAZOP Study updates can also contribute to a quality HAZOP Study that supports the spirit of Safety Management System objectives for the identification of hazards potentially impacting plant personnel, the community, and the environment. This paper will also review tips for structuring the HAZOP Study to facilitate later updates and revalidation.