DEMONSTRATION OF ALARP WITHIN COMAH SAFETY REPORTS

摘要

The implementation of the SEVESO II Directive (COMAH Regulations as it is implemented in the UK) requires operators to demonstrate that major accident risks are as low as is reasonably practicable (ALARP). Meeting this requirement entails carrying out some form of risk assessment and then assessing whether further controls are required. Guidance produced by the UK Chemical Industries Association addresses risk assessment and demonstration of ALARP in relation to on-site occupied buildings but does not address hazards which are difficult to quantify in terms of numerical risk, involve process operators, pose off-site risks or threaten the environment. A more generalised approach to risk assessment/demonstration of ALARP is required to address the variety of hazards associated with chemical sites. This paper will provide examples that demonstrate how such approaches can be successfully applied to COMAH safety reports. An important component of the ALARP demonstration is identifying the range of possible risk reduction measures and then choosing the right one. Ranking of risk reduction options and selection of the optimum solution is discussed for practical situations.