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HAZID in Process Safety – What is a HAZID and when to use them?

HAZID in Process Safety – What is a HAZID and when to use them?

Posted

05.11.2024

Written by

Nick Freer

What is a HAZID?

A HAZID (Hazard Identification) is a structured, systematic process used to identify potential hazards within a system, facility, or process. It is typically an early-stage risk assessment tool in various industries, particularly in oil and gas, chemical, mining and manufacturing sectors. The primary goal of a HAZID is to target possible hazardous events that could lead to accidents, so that appropriate measures can be taken to mitigate these risks before they cause harm. HAZIDs are more high level than an HAZOP study and don’t go into as much depth regarding deviations of the design.

Key Components of a HAZID

Figure 1: Flow chart showing the process of HAZID

 

When to use HAZID?

HAZIDs tend to be used in the following scenarios:

  • Early Hazard Detection: HAZID is usually conducted during the design phase of a project or before changes are made to existing systems. This ensures that risks are addressed proactively, potentially saving costs and avoiding incidents later.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Many industries are subject to strict safety regulations, and a HAZID helps ensure that all potential hazards are identified and addressed according to legal and industry standards.
  • Design Improvement: By identifying hazards early, the HAZID process helps refine the design of facilities or processes to enhance safety. For example, it might highlight the need for improved ventilation systems, better equipment layouts, or more effective alarm systems.
  • Scenario Development: In addition to identifying hazards, the HAZID team can develop worst-case or alternative scenarios. These scenarios help understand how small issues, such as equipment failures or human errors, can escalate into larger accidents, allowing for the development of emergency response strategies.
  • Precursor to Detailed Risk Analysis: While HAZID provides an overview of potential hazards, it often leads to more detailed risk assessment studies, like HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) which offer deeper analysis into identified risks and possible mitigations.
  • Continuous Improvement: The findings from HAZID are often used to inform the development of operational procedures, safety systems, and training programs for personnel, creating a safer work environment and reducing the risk of accidents.

In summary, HAZID is a vital tool in process safety applications because it provides an early, high-level overview of potential hazards and sets the stage for more detailed safety assessments. By doing so, it enhances both the design and operational safety of industrial processes.

 

Who should be involved in doing a HAZID?

During a HAZID assessment, it is best to carry this out in a multidisciplinary team similarly to the other processes like HAZOP and bowtie diagrams. Various engineering disciplines should be present (Process, Mechanical and Electrical are examples of the key engineering disciplines usually present), operations, maintenance and safety as well as the project manager of the project if applicable. It is always a great idea to have an independent chair for a HAZID since it provides an unbiased and objective perspective on the process safety assessment and ensures the team stay focussed on the task. This is where Finch can help support your needs as an independent body.

 

Tristan Pulford | Sohail Khan | Nick Freer

If you need further information or advice on Bowtie diagrams please contact Tristan Pulford[email protected] : 01530412777, Sohail Khan: [email protected], Nick Freer: [email protected] .

We can create/audit bowtie diagrams at your workplace and assist in identifying where there are gaps and support you with finalising solutions and closing the gaps.

Tristan is a chartered mechanical engineer and process safety engineer and is Finch Consulting’s Capability Director. Sohail is a chemical engineer experienced in process safety management. Nick Freer is a Chartered chemical engineer experienced in Process Safety and Asset management.

Finch is a leading risk management consultancy, working worldwide with blue-chip clients in multiple sectors.

As a “critical partner” to our clients, we provide confidence to be a better business by helping identify, manage and mitigate risks associated with engineering, health and safety, and regulatory compliance. This is delivered through three core areas: Asset Management, Health & Safety Management and Process Safety Management.

 

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