(47b) A Methodology to Determine the Minimum Number of Pha's for Projects

Abstract

Submitted by  Humbert  J Howard

In general, decisions faced by project engineers of process facilities in the chemical and petroleum industries are difficult and complex.  Companies do many small projects that may only involve a few pieces of equipment and thousands of dollars. Companies also do large projects involving hundreds of pieces of equipment and millions of dollars.

The purpose of this paper is to provide Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) study team leaders and project managers, who drive the need for PHA’s during projects, guidance relating to a decision methodology that can be used to assess the minimum number of PHA’s to be done for various complexity projects. We will use change complexity analysis to assess the change and use the change complexity factor to determine the number of PHA’s required for a project.

Some of the most challenging decisions involve Process Safety risks which often require experience and knowledge in order to be addressed.  The use of proper methodology,  applied  at the right time, can drastically improve the design of new project  installations handling hazardous materials.

The determination as to what type of hazard review and the number of PHA’s required  should be done during the initial engineering phase of the project. This allows recommendations from the PHA(s) to be implemented prior to installation and/or start-up.

This paper is not intended to give guidance on how to conduct the PHA. Company procedures and practice should be consulted for specific guidance on how to conduct a PHA.