For many firms Hazard and Operability Analysis (HAZOP) has become a by-word for the "correct" approach to systematic hazard identification and analysis of process plants. But to be successful the technique requires sufficient design development, appropriate resources and sufficient time for implementation. Against a background of shortening schedules and pressure to reduce costs, there is the potential for HAZOP to be used under circumstances where it does not produce the best results.This paper draws on our practical experience of implementing both HAZOP and alternative approaches matched to the stage of development of the project. In particular we review:1.The use of questionnaires for Process Hazards Analysis (PHA) at the early stages of a project during conceptual design.2.The use of Major Hazards Review (MHR) workshops for existing facilities which may have been in operation for some time and where potential hazards are well understood.The aim of this paper is not to describe the PHA, HAZOP or MHR techniques but to give practical examples of their application, to demonstrate the effectiveness of alternative techniques and examine shortcomings when an inappropriate method is chosen for the stage of development of the project.
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