The use of a ranking matrix and recommendation prioritization system for process hazard analysis studies

✍ Scribed by David A. Moore

• Publisher: American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Year: 1997
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 305 KB
• Volume: 16
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 1066-8527
• DOI: 10.1002/prs.680160208

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

OSHA regulations for Process Safety Management (PSM) [1] and EPA regulations addressing risk management programs (RMP) for chemical accidental release prevention [2] require industry to identify and analyze potential process hazards. This effort, known as the Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) element of the PSM and RMP standards, involves the use of qualitative hazard identification or analysis techniques acceptable to OSHA or EPA.

While making these assessments, two issue arise; how to judge acceptable risk and how to decide on appropriate risk reduction measures where necessary. Neither regulation defines a model for making risk management decisions. In the absence of formal, sanctioned risk management criteria, it is recommended that companies adopt a standard, defensible ranking scheme to provide a common basis for decision‐making. This should be based on the company's defined safety goals. This article discusses an approach, common to many companies, that qualitatively ranks the risk of identified scenarios. In addition, this article examines the possible problems of using various ranking schemes and risk criteria.