The performance of a risk and hazard analysis for operational facilities is absolutely necessary, for example, for the issuing of a CE certificate or in the case of changes to existing facilities (facility conversion). Risks and hazards must be re-evaluated.

In the analysis, hazards are identified and assessed. VWE uses the HAZOP methodology (PAAG procedure), one of the most widely used tools for hazard identification, which is also recognised by other authorities.

We use the qualitative risk graph and the LOPA methodology to assess the hazards.

Hazard identification – HAZOP

The HAZOP methodology is used to identify potential hazards and causes for (production) deviations of technical plants. On the part of VWE, we put together an interdisciplinary team of experts to suit your specific requirements, organise the documentation and moderate the analysis meeting.

You benefit from the systematic procedure according to the British Standard (BS IEC 61882), which we follow in carrying out the HAZOP studies. We systematically investigate all deviations from the target state and their consequences. Subsequently, we document the results and derive recommendations for increasing the safety of your processes.

Hazard assessment

The qualitative risk graph

The qualitative risk graph is a widely used method for assessing risks, especially when specific measurements or safety devices are considered. With this methodology, we examine the probability of occurrence of a deviation and its extent of damage, the exposure of people to the hazard, and the preventability of the damaging event.

We then classify all deviations into safety integrity levels (SIL) using a risk graph. These SIL classifications set requirements (failure safety, redundancy) for the entire safety function. Each safety function covers the entire route from the measuring sensor to the process control system (the controller) to the actuator. The classification enables you to choose the right components and safety devices for your process.

LOPA methodology

The LOPA methodology is ideally suited for assessing risks when only a rough plan, a concept is available and basic engineering services are still required. Within the framework of the LOPA methodology, we work out the probability of occurrence of deviations and their potential extent of damage with the help of a risk matrix.

Subsequently, we compare the risk of the event with the tolerable risk. If the risk of a dangerous deviation from the target state is higher than the tolerable risk, you must take measures. You can either add more safety devices to the process or make improvements that meet a higher safety integrity level (analogous to the Qualitative Risk Graph).