COVER FEATURE
INGENIEUR
COVER FEATURE
INGENIEUR
Crucial Role of HAZOP Assessment in the Oil & Gas Industry
By Mr . Yusof Ali Ir . Razmahwata Razalli Ir . Abdul Razak bin Yakob
IGL Services
The significance of hazard identification in oil and gas plants has reached paramount importance in recent times . With the advent of advanced technologies , these plants have become increasingly intricate . Furthermore , numerous countries have implemented regulations mandating the utilisation of formal hazard identification techniques . Amongst these methods , the Hazards and Operability ( HAZOP ) assessment stands as one of the most prevalent approaches for effectively identifying hazards .
The HAZOP study technique serves as a systematic and meticulous assessment approach for facilities , processes , or operations . Its primary objective is to identify and evaluate potential scenarios that could pose risks to personnel or equipment , as well as hinder smooth and efficient operations ( Skelton , 1997 ).
In Malaysia , the HAZOP methodology is extensively employed within the chemical , petrochemical , and oil and gas industries to proactively identify and assess risks associated with their operational activities . This approach aids in ensuring the safety and security of these industries ' operations while effectively managing potential hazards .
The main objective of a HAZOP study is to systematically examine and analyse each element of the process , identifying possible deviations or abnormalities , and assessing their potential consequences . HAZOP investigates risks and operability concerns that may arise from deviations in processes , operating circumstances , or intended design ( Crawley & Tyler , 2015 ). It evaluates the adequacy of current safety and operational measures to address underlying causes and effects , determines the necessity of additional safeguards , and recommends measures to mitigate the impact of deviations and restore normal and safe system functioning .
Oil & Gas Industry ’ s HAZOP Implementation
A HAZOP study is a crucial hazard assessment technique used in the oil and gas industry to identify and mitigate potential hazards in systems , equipment , and processes . The importance of a HAZOP assessment can be summarised as follows :
Identification of potential hazards : Helps to identify potential hazards that may arise during the design , construction , operation and maintenance of oil and gas facilities . This allows operators to take proactive measures to prevent accidents and incidents that could result in injury , death , or environmental damage .
Risk reduction : Aids in identifying possible failure modes and their effects by methodically analysing the process systems and processes . This enables operators to apply suitable riskreduction strategies to lessen the probability and severity of accidents , such as changes to the process design or the use of safety equipment .
Compliance with regulations : There are regulatory requirements in many countries for
18 VOL 96 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2023