HAZOP Vs PHA — Understanding The Terms

Although HAZOP falls under PHA, some may find it difficult to distinguish these two terms. In this article, let’s look into the world of HAZOP and PHA, exploring their differences, benefits, and how they contribute to a robust safety culture.

What is PHA

Process hazard analysis (PHA) examines a process to identify potential hazards and assess the associated risks. PHA evaluates the process from different angles, considering various scenarios and possible deviations. It aims to identify and prioritise hazards, determine risk levels, and recommend appropriate control measures to effectively manage and mitigate those risks.

Methods used in PHA

As per OSHO, there are different ways to conduct process hazard analysis, such as,

1. Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA)
2. Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP)
3. Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
4. What-If Analysis
5. Fault Tree Analysis (FTA)
6. Bow Tie Analysis
7. Hazard Identification (HAZID)

What is HAZOP?

HAZOP (hazard and operability study) is one of the methods for performing PHA; it is a systematic and structured technique used to identify potential hazards and deviations from the intended design of a process.

HAZOP is working on the theory that deviations from design or operating intentions cause risk events. In order to identify such deviations, a set of “guide words” is used as a systematic list of deviation perspectives.

It focuses on analysing process systems, identifying potential causes of deviations, and proposing preventive or mitigative measures. HAZOP studies are typically conducted during a process’s design or modification stage to ensure safety considerations are integrated from the outset.

How Does HAZOP Work?

During a HAZOP study, a multidisciplinary team comprising engineers, operators, and safety professionals closely examines the process under consideration. The team systematically applies a set of guidewords to each process parameter, equipment item, and control system element.

By doing so, they explore potential deviations from the design intent and assess the associated risks. The HAZOP study generates a comprehensive report that outlines the identified hazards and suggests appropriate control measures.

The 5 Steps to Conduct a HAZOP Study

There are five major steps involved in conducting an effective HAZOP study.

1. Scope & Information

Gathering information and defining the scope of the review, which involves collecting data from the following sources.

• PFD
• P&ID
• Design Drawings
• Concept Papers
• ……………………………

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