Risk identification, systematic techniques

One effective systematic method, a variation on which will be outlined further in this book, is the SWIFT or Structured What-If Technique. SWIFT is a systems-based risk identification technique that employs structured brainstorming, using pre-developed guidewords or headings in combination with prompts elicited from participants (which often begin with the phrases What if... or How could... ), to examine risks and hazards at a systems or subsystems level [1]. The technique was originally developed as a simpler alternative to HAZOP (see Sect. 13.6.2). 

Considerable interest has been generated in hazard identification and risk analysis techniques, which provide a systematic means to help reduce and manage chemical process risks. CCPS has undertaken a series of Guidelines covering many aspects of the subjects to provide the latest information and useful techniques for the engineer in the... 

Identifying and analyzing fire hazards and scenarios is the next step in a fire risk assessment. The hazard identification should be structured, systematic, audit-able, and address all fire hazards, including nonprocess fires. The result of the hazard identification is a list of potential fire hazards that may occur at the facility, for example, jet, pool, flash, BLEVE, electrical, or Class A fires. This list should also include the location where each fire could occur. Hazard identification techniques used to identify potential hazards are shown in Table 6-1. 

Identify risks/hazards/events that affect achievement of an entity s objectives. This step involves the systematic search for events and associated scenarios. The identification step is of critical importance as only identified events can be dealt with. Numerous techniques have been developed for the identification of events and associated scenarios. The different frameworks leave considerable room for the selection of appropriate methods (e.g. checklists, HAZOP, FMEA). 

As part of Process Safety Management (PSM) requirements by both OSHA and the EPA, both risk analysis and emergency response management require the determination (i.e., identification and evaluation) of incident scenarios that are likely to develop at an installation. Risk analyses techniques such as PITA, What-If, HAZOP, etc., will systematically review a process to determine possible deviations from the intended processes that may result in events such as fire and explosions. Additionally, emergency response preparedness plans usually develop creditable scenarios that may develop and the generic responses that are required. These PSM techniques... 

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