HAZOP work shop work sheet

A Look at the HAZOP Worksheet Format

A Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) study is a systematic and structured examination of a planned or existing process or operation, designed to identify and evaluate potential hazards that may represent risks to personnel, equipment, or the environment. At the heart of this critical safety assessment lies the HAZOP worksheet, a comprehensive document that meticulously records the analysis. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the typical format of a HAZOP worksheet.

A standard HAZOP worksheet is designed to be a clear and logical record of the team’s brainstorming and analysis. While the specific layout can vary slightly between organizations, the core components remain consistent. The worksheet is typically structured as a table with several key columns, each serving a distinct purpose in the hazard identification and mitigation process.

Node/SectionDesign IntentGuidewordDeviationPossible CausesConsequencesSafeguardsRecommendationsAction PartyDue Date
PL-101Transfer of flammable liquid from Tank A to Reactor B at 50 L/min.NoNo FlowPump P-101 failure; Blockage in the line; Valve V-1 closed in error.Reactor B starves, potentially leading to an off-spec product. Potential for pump damage.Low-flow alarm (FAL-101); Regular pump maintenance schedule.Install a redundant pump. Develop a specific checklist for valve line-up before transfer.Engineering Dept.31-Oct-2025
  MoreMore FlowPump P-101 control failure; Incorrect pump speed setting.Overfilling of Reactor B, leading to a potential spill of flammable liquid and a fire hazard.High-level alarm on Reactor B (LAL-201); Emergency shutdown system.Review and validate the calibration of the pump speed controller.Maintenance Dept.15-Sep-2025

Core Elements of a HAZOP Worksheet

The following columns are fundamental to a comprehensive HAZOP worksheet:

ColumnDescription
Node/SectionThis identifies the specific part of the process or system being analyzed. For example, a particular pipeline, a reactor vessel, or a heat exchanger.
Design IntentA concise description of how the node is intended to operate under normal conditions. This sets the baseline for identifying deviations.
GuidewordA short, simple word (e.g., “No,” “More,” “Less,” “Reverse”) used to prompt the team to consider deviations from the design intent.
DeviationA potential departure from the design intent, created by combining a guideword with a process parameter (e.g., “No Flow,” “More Pressure,” “Less Temperature”).
Possible CausesThe potential reasons why the deviation might occur. This could include equipment failure, human error, or external events.
ConsequencesThe potential effects of the deviation if it were to occur, including impacts on safety, environment, and operability.
SafeguardsExisting protective measures that are in place to prevent the cause or mitigate the consequences of the deviation. This can include alarms, relief valves, and interlocks.
Risk Ranking (Optional)An assessment of the likelihood and severity of the consequence, often using a risk matrix to prioritize hazards.
RecommendationsActions proposed by the HAZOP team to reduce the identified risk. This could involve adding new safeguards, modifying procedures, or conducting further analysis.
Action Party/Due DateThe individual or department responsible for implementing the recommendation and the target completion date.
RemarksAny additional notes or comments from the team.

 

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