An Overview of the Hazard Study Framework

The first step in risk assessment in any project is to identify the potential hazards involved. This is done using Hazard Studies, which have been developed as a means of identifying and managing hazards in the design, building and early stages of operation of chemical plant. They are adaptable and may address both process and non-process hazards. 

In the project and capital authorisation procedures developed by one major company, there are six separate studies  

Hazard Study 1 aims to ensure that the understanding of the project, process and materials involved is sufficient to enable safety, health and environmental issues to be properly addressed. It also contributes to key policy decisions and establishes contacts, both internally and with external authorities. In essence it asks the question do you know what you re doing It is carried out early in the project when the scope is reasonably well understood, but there may still be alternative routes or processes or competing avenues for investment. 

Hazard Study 4 is a check that the plant has been constructed to the intended design, all actions from previous studies have been carried out, operating and emergency instructions are satisfactory and the training of appropriate people has been executed and validated. 

Hazard Study 5 ensures that the project, as implemented, meets Company and legal requirements. 

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