Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) Study

What is HAZOP?

A Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) study is a structured and systematic examination of a planned or existing process or operation in order to identify and evaluate problems that may represent risks to personnel, equipment, environment, and reputation. In a HAZOP study, a multidisciplinary team uses a systematic approach to identify hazards resulting from deviations in process design.

The HAZOP study technique was pioneered by Imperial Chemical Industries in 1963, with the first guide published in 1977. It has since become a critical part of project development, especially in the detailed design phase.

Why Perform HAZOP?

HAZOP studies provide a systematic way to improve plant safety by addressing technical and organizational hazards, human errors, and external influences. The insights gained from a HAZOP study can enhance operational safety, reduce malfunctions, and improve plant availability.

Which industries are employing HAZOP as an integral part in risk management?

Oil and Gas
Nuclear
Pharmaceutical
Chemical
Manufacturing

Are there different types of HAZOP?

The HAZOP technique was initially developed for plants and process systems but is now used in various areas:

Procedural HAZOP - Reviewing procedures or operational sequences (SAFe Operation study).
Software HAZOP - Identifying errors in software development.

What are the Objectives?

Identify deviations from system design and evaluate associated hazards and operability problems.
Determine necessary actions to control these problems.
Identify cases where more information is required for decision-making.

When is HAZOP Performed?

HAZOP is generally performed during various stages of a project’s lifecycle, including Concept, FEED, Detailed Design, and during modifications to an existing facility.

Concept & Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) stage
Detailed Design Stage
Operation / Modification Stage

How is HAZOP Performed?

The HAZOP study is conducted through a team-based brainstorming technique, guided by hazard guidewords and benefiting from collective knowledge and experience. The process involves identifying deviations in design and operability that affect Personnel, Environmental, Asset, and Reputation (PEAR).

HAZOP study will be executed in the following phases

Phase	Steps
Preparatory	Understanding the scope: Scope of the study shall be finalized. Data collection: Available data/deliverables are collected. Development of ToR: Create Terms of Reference document for approval.
Execution/Examination	Identification of hazards: Identify nodes and apply guidewords. Brainstorming: Identify deviations and evaluate risks. Recording: Document guidewords, deviations, causes, consequences. Recommendations: Suggest actions to address identified risks.
Documentation	Reporting: Submit detailed report for approval. Follow-up: Track and follow up on recommendations.

A brief methodology of study

The study is conducted using the following methodology:

Divide the system into nodes (e.g., Stripper column, Tank storage).
Choose a study node (e.g., line, vessel, pump, operating instruction).
Describe the design intent.
Select a process parameter (e.g., Flow, pressure, temperature).
Apply a guide-word (e.g., No, Low, High, Reverse).
Determine cause(s).
Evaluate end consequences and failure frequency of the causes.
Recommend action: What? When? Who?
Record information.
Repeat the procedure.

How Aura Veritas Can Help

Aura Veritas engineers and technologists provide expertise to lead and facilitate HAZOP studies as independent third-party auditors or HSE specialists, helping businesses improve safety and ensure compliance with relevant laws, codes, and standards.

Aura Veritas Engineering & Consultancy Private Limited

Plot No: 46G, Bel Nagar, Manapakkam, Chennai - 600125.

ceo@auraveritas.in

+91-9150547979 | +91-8939204319

www.auraveritas.co.in