DOE-HDBK-1100-2004 (Reaffirmed 2022), Chemical Process Hazards Analysis
The purpose of this handbook is to facilitate, within the DOE, the performance of chemical process hazards analyses (PrHAs) as required under the PSM Rule. It provides basic information for the performance of PrHAs, and should not be considered a complete resource on PrHA methods. Likewise, to determine if a facility is covered by the PSM rule, the reader should refer to the handbook, ""Process Safety Management for Highly Hazardous Chemicals"" (DOE-HDBK-1101-2004). Supersedes DOE-HDBK-1100-96
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Section 1
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
August 2004
Reaffirmed October 2022
DOE HANDBOOK
CHEMICAL PROCESS HAZARDS
ANALYSIS
U.S. Department of Energy AREA EMER
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
TS
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
August 2022
TABLE OF CHANGES
Page
Number Original Text Changed Text
Page, paragraph, sentence, and font
reformatting throughout the document.
Spelling errors corrected, as necessary.
iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The U.S. Department of Energy
(DOE)…Columbus and at Pacific Northwest
Laboratories (PNL).
Deleted title and moved verbiage to the end of
the Forward with the following change:
DOE… Columbus, OH and at Pacific
Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).
Iii the Associate Under Secretary for
Environment, Health, Safety and Security
the Office of Environment, Health, Safety &
Security
iv 9.0 REFERENCES 9.0 Glossary
10.0 References
vi Deleted MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet SDS Safety Data Sheet
1 …29 CFR…
DOE O 440.1…
In June 2004 the DOE sent the Office of
Management and Budget, DRAFT 10 CFR
851 “Worker Safety and Health” for
subsequent publication in the Federal Register
as the new DOE Worker Safety and Health
Rule. This new Rule will require…
…Title 29 of the Code of the Federal
Regulations (CFR)…
DOE O 440.1B…
Title 10 CFR 851requires…
2 2.1.1: Material Safety Data Sheet term is no
longer use
Safety Data Sheet
5 2.2.5 : as appropriate Deleted space between comma a “as”
6 The DOE hotline for OSHA questions and
concerns (1-800-292-8061)…
The DOE Policy Clarification Portal
(pcportal@doe.gov)...
6 Task B: PrHAS PrHAs
10 2. Review the MSDS, Review the SDS,
12 MSDS SDS
12 Table 3.1 Processing Table 3.1. Process
13 …actually leads… …leads…
24 A fairly exhaustive checklist…
… appears in Guidelines for Hazard
Evaluation Procedures, Appendix B (CCPS,
An exhaustive checklist…
… appears in Appendix B of the Center for
Chemical Process Safety, Guidelines for
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
Page
Number Original Text Changed Text
1992). Hazard Evaluation Procedures.
30 Material Safety Data Sheets Safety Data Sheets
30 firefighting fire fighting
31 Material Safety Data Sheets Safety Data Sheets
31 Two instances
…firefighting
fire fighting
31 MSDS SDS
49 unfailed operating
57 MSDS SDS
63 …DOE 5480.19 …DOE O 422.1…
65 Five instances
…DOE-STD-1027-92 (Change 1)…
…DOE-STD-3009-94…
Five instances
…DOE-STD-1027-2018…
…DOE-STD-3009-2014…
69
DOE O 5480.19 (Chg. 2)…July 1990
DOE-STD-1027-92 (CH-1)…September,
1997
DOE-STD-3009-94…July 1994
10 CFR Part 830…Final Rule April 10, 2001
MIL-STD-882-C…1993
Reorganized the entries and updated the
following references.
DOE Order 422.1…10-4-2019
DOE-STD-1027-2018…September 2018
DOE-STD-3009-2014…
10 CFR Part 830…Final January 1, 2011
MIL-STD-882-E…2002
Added the following reference.
DOE Order 440.1B, Worker Protection
Management for DOE Federal and Contractor
Employees, Washington, DC, September 15,
2020
Added quotations(“) to the titles to, for
consistency throughout the document.
71 CONCLUDING MATERIAL deleted
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
iv
This document has been reproduced directly from the best available copy.
Available to DOE and DOE contractors from the ES&H Technical Information Services, U.S. Department
of Energy, (800) 473-4375, fax: (301) 903-9823.
Available to the public from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Technology Administration, National
Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161; (703) 605-6000.
Section 2
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
v
FOREWORD
The Office of Health and Safety (EHSS-10) under the Office of Environment, Health, Safety & Security
of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has published two handbooks for use by DOE contractors
managing facilities and processes covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Rule for Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals (29 CFR 1910.119), herein referred
to as the PSM Rule. The PSM Rule contains an integrated set of chemical process safety management
elements designed to prevent chemical releases that can lead to catastrophic fires, explosions, or toxic
exposures. The purpose of the two handbooks, "Process Safety Management for Highly Hazardous
Chemicals" and "Chemical Process Hazards Analysis," is to facilitate implementation of the provisions of
the PSM Rule within the DOE.
The purpose of this handbook is to facilitate, within the DOE, the performance of chemical process
hazards analyses (PrHAs) as required under the PSM Rule. It provides basic information for the
performance of PrHAs and should not be considered a complete resource on PrHA methods. Likewise, to
determine if a facility is covered by the PSM rule, the reader should refer to the handbook, "Process
Safety Management for Highly Hazardous Chemicals" (DOE-HDBK-1101-2004).
Promulgation of the PSM Rule has heightened the awareness of chemical safety management issues
within the DOE. This handbook is intended for use by DOE facilities and processes covered by the PSM
rule to facilitate contractor implementation of the PrHA element of the PSM Rule. However, contractors
whose facilities and processes not covered by the PSM Rule may also use this handbook as a basis for
conducting process hazards analyses as part of their good management practices.
This handbook explains the minimum requirements for PrHAs outlined in the PSM Rule. Nowhere have
requirements been added beyond what is specifically required by the rule.
DOE wishes to thank all persons who commented on this handbook for their help in clarifying and
focusing this guidance. Ms. Pamela Sutherland of Battelle-Columbus managed the preparation of this
handbook by Battelle Memorial Institute staff in Columbus, OH and at Pacific Northwest National
Laboratory (PNNL).
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
Forward ........................................................................................................................................................ iii
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................................ v
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................................... v
Acronyms ..................................................................................................................................................... vi
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1
2. Overview of Requirements for Process Hazard Analysis Under the PSM Rule .................................... 2
Process Safety Information .............................................................................................................. 2
Process Hazard Analysis .................................................................................................................. 3
Section 3
3. Essential Elements of Process Hazard Analysis ..................................................................................... 6
Step-by-Step Procedure ................................................................................................................... 6
Elements Common to All Process Hazard Analyses ....................................................................... 9
Presentation of Results ................................................................................................................... 19
4. Process Hazard Analysis Methods with Examples............................................................................... 20
Checklist Analysis ......................................................................................................................... 20
What-If Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 28
What-If/Checklist Analysis ............................................................................................................ 34
Hazard and Operability Study ........................................................................................................ 38
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis ................................................................................................ 42
Fault Tree Analysis ........................................................................................................................ 47
5. Reporting And Review of Analyses ................................................................................................... 566
Reporting the Process Hazard Analysis ......................................................................................... 57
Review of the Process Hazard Analysis ........................................................................................ 59
6. Establishing a System for Resolving Action Items and Implementing Corrective Actions ................. 62
Process Hazard Analysis Action Items and Recommendations ..................................................... 62
Criteria for Corrective Actions and Safety Improvements ............................................................. 62
The Corrective Actions System ..................................................................................................... 63
7. Updating The Process Hazard Analysis ............................................................................................... 64
Update Team ................................................................................................................................. 64
Approach ........................................................................................................................................ 64
Documentation ............................................................................................................................... 64
8. Relationships of Process Hazard Analyses to Other DOE Required Hazard Analyses........................ 65
9. Glossary ................................................................................................................................................ 66
10. References ............................................................................................................................................ 69
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
vii
LIST OF TABLES
Section 4
Table 3.1. Process Hazards ........................................................................................................................ 11
Table 3.2. Checklist for Worker Exposures ............................................................................................... 15
Table 3.3. Checklist of Facility Siting Issues ............................................................................................. 16
Table 3.4. Example Human Factors in Process Operations ....................................................................... 17
Table 4.1. Simplified Process Hazards Analysis Checklist ....................................................................... 24
Table 4.2. Main Headings of Well's Checklist........................................................................................... 25
Table 4.3. Main Headings of Baleman's Checklist .................................................................................... 26
Table 4.4. Approximate Checklist Analysis Time Requirements .............................................................. 27
Table 4.5. Checklist Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System .................................................................... 29
Table 4.6. Checklist Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System ...................................................... 30
Table 4.7. Typical Format for a What-If Analysis Worksheet .................................................................. 32
Table 4.8. Approximate Time Requirements for What-If Analyses .......................................................... 32
Table 4.9. What-If Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System ....................................................................... 35
Table 4.10. What-If Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System ...................................................... 36
Table 4.11. Approximate What-If/Checklist Analysis Time Requirements .............................................. 36
Table 4.12. What-If/Checklist Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System ..................................................... 37
Table 4.13. What-If/Checklist Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System ...................................... 37
Table 4.14. Guide Words for HAZOP Studies .......................................................................................... 39
Table 4.15. Example HAZOP Study Process Parameters and Deviations ................................................. 40
Table 4.16. Typical Format for a HAZOP Study Worksheet .................................................................... 41
Table 4.17. Time Estimates for Using the HAZOP Study Method ........................................................... 41
Table 4.18. Example HAZOP Study for the Dock 8 HF Supply System .................................................. 42
Table 4.19. Example HAZOP Study for the Cooling Water Chlorination System .................................... 43
Table 4.20. Example FMEA Worksheet .................................................................................................... 47
Table 4.21. Time Estimates for Using the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis Method ........................... 48
Table 4.22. Partial FMEA for the Dock 8 HF Supply System ................................................................... 49
Table 4.23. Partial FMEA for the Cooling Water Chlorination System .................................................... 50
Table 4.24. Fault Tree Symbols ................................................................................................................. 52
Table 4.25. Minimal Cutset Documentation .............................................................................................. 53
Table 4.26. Time Estimates for Using the Fault Tree Analysis Method .................................................... 53
Table 5.1. Deviations Guide ...................................................................................................................... 59
Section 5
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1. Process Hazard Analysis Task Structure ................................................................................... 7
Figure 3.2. Example Interaction Matrix for Identifying Process Hazards ................................................. 12
Figure 3.3. Anatomy of an Accident .......................................................................................................... 14
Figure 4.1. Dock 8 HF Supply System ...................................................................................................... 21
Figure 4.2. Cooling Water Chlorination System ........................................................................................ 22
Figure 4.3. Example FTA for the Dock 8 HF Supply System ................................................................... 54
Figure 4.4. Example FTA for the Cooling Water Chlorination System ..................................................... 55
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
viii
ACRONYMS
ANSI American National Standards Institute
API American Petroleum Institute
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
CCPS Center for Chemical Process Safety
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
DOT U.S. Department of Transportation
ERPG Emergency Response Planning Guideline
EVC Equilibrium Vapor Concentration
FTAP Fault Tree Analysis Program
FMEA Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
HAZOP Hazard and Operability
HHC Highly Hazardous Chemical
IDLH Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
IRRAS Integrated Reliability and Risk Analysis System
IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
ISA Instrument Society of America
JHA Job Hazard Analysis
LFL Lower Flammability Limit
M&O Management and Operation
MCS Minimal Cut Set
MOC Management of Change
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
ORC Organization Resources Counselors
ORR Operational Readiness Review
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration
P&ID Piping and Instrumentation Diagram
PEL Permissible Exposure Limit
PHA Preliminary Hazards Analysis
PrHA Process Hazard Analysis
PSI Process Safety Information
PSM Process Safety Management
PSR Pre-Startup Safety Review
SAR Safety Analysis Report
SDS Safety Data Sheet
SHI Substance Hazard Index
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
TLV Threshold Limit Value
TQ Threshold Quantity
UFL Upper Flammability Limit
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
On February 24, 1992, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a revised
Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910 that added Section 1910.119, "Process
Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals; Explosives and Blasting Agents," to protect
employees by preventing or minimizing the consequences of chemical accidents. This regulation,
hereafter referred to as the PSM Rule, prescribes a total safety management program with 14 defined
elements. DOE O 440.1B, Worker Protection Management for DOE Federal and Contractor Employees,
requires that covered chemical processes within DOE comply with the PSM Rule. Title 10 CFR 851
requires contractors to follow applicable portions of 29 CFR 1910. Guidance for implementing the PSM
Rule is provided in "Process Safety Management for Highly Hazardous Chemicals" (DOE-HDBK-1101-
2004).
Section 6
One of the most important elements of the PSM Rule is the process hazard analysis (PrHA1). It requires
the systematic identification of hazards and related accident scenarios. The PSM Rule allows the use of
different analysis methods, but the selected method must be based on the process being analyzed. The
PrHA and the other PSM elements must be in place prior to process startup. PrHAs must be reviewed and
updated at least every 5 years.
This handbook should be considered basic information for the required PrHA element, not a complete
resource on PrHA methods. Summary descriptions and basic step-by-step instructions are provided.
However, existing references, which are identified in each section, provide additional insight and should
be used. The primary reference should be “Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures” (CCPS, 1992).
In addition, resources from relevant professional organizations should be used on a continuing basis to
maintain competence in PrHA. These resources include books and publications, technical meetings, and
continuing education. Each DOE facility that stores or uses hazardous chemicals in above-threshold
quantities is required to have staff knowledgeable in PrHA. At least one member of the PrHA team must
be knowledgeable in the specific process methodology being used.
1 To those already familiar with hazard/risk analysis methods, a “PHA” designates a Preliminary Hazard Analysis.
Unfortunately, the PSM Rule uses these same letters to designate Process Hazard Analysis. In this document, PrHA
will designate Process Hazard Analysis to avoid confusion with Preliminary Hazard Analysis. Note that other
literature may be confusing on this issue.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
2
2.0 OVERVIEW OF REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS UNDER THE
PSM RULE
Under the PSM Rule, the PrHA element requires the selection and application of appropriate hazard
analysis methods to systematically identify hazards and potential accident scenarios associated with
highly hazardous chemicals. The components of a PrHA are summarized and explained below.
2.1. Process Safety Information
The PSM Rule requires that up-to-date process safety information exist before conducting a PrHA, with
the exception of technology information that can be created in conjunction with the PrHA. Complete and
accurate written information about process chemicals, technology, and equipment is essential to the team
that performs a PrHA. It is also needed by personnel developing training programs and operating
procedures, subcontractors whose employees work with the process, teams conducting pre-startup
reviews, and local emergency preparedness planners.
2.1.1. Information About Highly Hazardous Process Chemicals
Information about the chemicals used in a process, as well as chemical intermediates, must be
comprehensive enough for an accurate assessment of fire and explosion characteristics, reactivity hazards,
safety and health hazards to workers, and corrosion and erosion effects on process equipment and
monitoring tools. Information must include, at a minimum: (1) toxicity information; (2) permissible
exposure limits; (3) physical data such as boiling point, freezing point, liquid/vapor densities, vapor
pressure, flash point, autoignition temperature, flammability limits (LFL and UFL), solubility,
appearance, and odor; (4) reactivity data, including potential for ignition or explosion; (5) corrosivity
data, including effects on metals, building materials, and organic tissues; (6) identified incompatibilities
and dangerous contaminants; and (7) thermal data (heat of reaction, heat of combustion). Current Safety
Data Sheets (SDSs) may be used to help meet this requirement. Where applicable, process chemistry
information should be included about potential runaway reactions and overpressure hazards and hazards
arising from the inadvertent mixing of incompatible chemicals.
Section 7
2.1.2. Information About Process Technology
Process technology information must include at least: (1) block flow diagrams or simplified process flow
diagrams such as the type shown in Figure 4.1; (2) process chemistry; (3) DOE contractor-established
criteria for maximum inventory levels for process chemicals; (4) process limits that, when exceeded, are
considered an upset condition; and (5) qualitative estimates of the consequences of deviations that could
occur if established process limits are exceeded. If the original technology information is not available, it
can be created in conjunction with the PrHA.
Block flow diagrams may be used to show major process equipment and interconnecting process flow
lines, flow rates, stream composition, temperatures, and pressures. When necessary for completeness,
process flow diagrams should be used to show all main flow streams including valves; pressures and
temperatures on all feed and product lines within all major vessels; and points of pressure and temperature
control. Construction materials, pump capacities, pressure heads, compressor horsepower, and vessel
design pressures and temperatures are shown when necessary for clarity. Major components of control
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
3
loops are usually shown along with key utilities. Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), which
are required under process equipment information, may be more appropriate to show some of these
details.
2.1.3. Information About Process Equipment
Process equipment information must include at least: (1) materials of construction; (2) P&IDs; electrical
classification; (4) relief system design and design basis; (5) ventilation system design; (6) design codes
and standards; (7) material and energy balances for processes; and (8) safety systems.
Process equipment design and materials must be documented by identifying the applicable codes and
standards (e.g., ASME, ASTM, API). If the codes and standards are not current, the DOE contractor must
document that the design, construction, testing, inspection, and operation are still suitable for the intended
use. If the process technology requires a design that departs from the applicable codes and standards, the
contractor must document that the design and construction are suitable for the intended purpose.
Process Hazard Analysis
A PrHA is an organized and systematic method to identify and analyze the significance of potential
hazards associated with processing or handling highly hazardous chemicals. A PrHA helps employers and
workers to make decisions for improving safety and reducing the consequences of unwanted or unplanned
releases of hazardous chemicals. It is used to analyze potential causes and consequences of fires,
explosions, releases of toxic or flammable chemicals, and major spills of hazardous chemicals. It focuses
on equipment, instrumentation, utilities, routine and non-routine human actions, and external factors that
might impact a process.
The PSM Rule specifies that a PrHA be performed on every process covered under the rule. If several
processes require PrHAs, the PrHAs must be prioritized. A preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) may be
used to determine and document the priority order for conducting PrHAs. At a minimum, the PSM Rule
requires the prioritization to consider the potential severity of a chemical release, the number of
potentially affected employees, and the operating history of the process, including the frequency of past
chemical releases and the age of the process.
Section 8
2.2.1. Schedule
Covered chemical processes must comply with the following:
• The PrHA must be in place prior to process startup; and
• Each PrHA must be updated and revalidated at least every 5 years to assure that it is consistent with
the current process.
2.2.2. Scope
To help assure that all hazards are identified and evaluated, PrHAs must address the following:
• The hazards of a process. These hazards may be identified by performing a PHA;
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
4
• Previous incidents that had the potential for catastrophic consequences in the workplace;
• Engineering and administrative controls applicable to the hazards and their interrelationships;
• The consequences of failure of engineering and administrative controls;
• The influence of facility siting; and
• Human factors.
A qualitative range of possible safety and health effects on employees in the workplace caused by failure
of controls.
2.2.3. Team
PrHAs must be performed by a team. Teams can vary in size and in operational background but must
have expertise in engineering and process operations. Individuals may be full-time team members or may
be part of a team for only a limited time. That is, team members may be rotated according to their
expertise in the part of the process being reviewed.
The team conducting a PrHA must understand the method being used. In addition, one member of the
team must be fully knowledgeable in the implementation of the PrHA method2. The PSM Rule also
requires that at least one team member be an "employee" with experience and knowledge specific to the
process being evaluated. Some organizations have interpreted the term "employee" to mean an hourly
employee such as a senior operator.
The ideal PrHA team has an intimate knowledge of the standards, codes, specifications, and regulations
applicable to the process. Team members must be compatible, and the team leader must be able to
manage the team and the study.
2.2.4. Findings and Recommendations
DOE contractors should establish a system to:
• Promptly address the team's findings and recommendations.
• Assure that recommendations are resolved in a timely manner and that resolutions are documented.
• Document actions to be taken.
• Develop a written completion schedule for the action steps.
• Complete actions as soon as possible.
• Communicate the actions to all affected personnel.
2 OSHA does not specify that the team leader be the member of the team who is knowledgeable in the
implementation of the PrHA method.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
5
DOE contractors must retain PrHAs and updates for each process covered by the PSM Rule, along with
documented resolutions of recommendations, for the life of the process.
2.2.5. Acceptable Methodology
The PSM Rule specifies that DOE contractors use one or more of the following methodologies, as
appropriate, to determine and evaluate the hazards of the process being analyzed:
• What-If.
• Checklist.
• What-If/Checklist.
• Hazard and Operability Study.
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
• Fault Tree Analysis.
• An appropriate equivalent methodology.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
6
3.0 ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS
This section addresses topics common to all PrHA methods. A step-wise procedure for conducting a
PrHA according to PSM Rule requirements is presented, followed by recommended approaches for
analyzing scenarios, deciding on action items, and incorporating facility siting and human factors into the
PrHA.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Section 9
This section describes the tasks required for compliance with the PSM Rule regardless of the PrHA
method selected. The sequence of these tasks is shown in Figure 3.1. This figure also indicates where
process safety information (PSI) requirements fit into PrHA tasks, and what documents are generated as a
result of each task. Concepts common to all PrHA methods are also discussed.
To conduct an effective PrHA, both operating management and the PrHA team must understand their
respective responsibilities. In general, the tasks breakdown as follows:
TASK RESPONSIBILITY
A - F Operating management
G, H, I PrHA team
J, K Operating management and PrHA team
Task A: List Processes that are Covered. Identify all onsite processes having threshold quantities (TQs)
or more of the highly hazardous chemicals (HHCs) listed in the PSM Rule, 29 CFR 1910.119 (Appendix
A)3. Be specific about the boundaries of each "process." Assure that they include all connected vessels
and equipment whose upset could result in a release of HHCs from a location remote from the bulk
quantity. The DOE Policy Clarification Portal (pcportal@doe.gov) may help regarding the applicability
of the PSM Rule to a given process or the necessary boundaries of a process
Task B: Rank the Processes by Risk and Develop a Schedule of PrHAs. If a chemical facility contains
more than one process covered by the PSM Rule, the rule requires that processes posing the greatest risk
to workers be analyzed first. A methodology for ranking is not specified, but any method chosen must
account for (1) the extent of the process hazards; (2) the number of potentially affected employees; (3) the
age of the process; and (4) the operating history of the process. The following factors should be
considered when selecting a ranking methodology: ease of application, qualitative versus semi-
quantitative (order of magnitude) results, manpower required, and traceability. After a prioritized list of
processes is developed, a schedule for PrHAs can be established.
Task C: Select a PrHA Method for Each Process. Paragraph (e)(2) of the PSM Rule implies that it is the
responsibility of the DOE contractor to select the review method, not the choice of the team conducting
the review. In some cases, a combination of methods may be used.
3 Although not required under the PSM Rule, DOE contractors may want to consider performing PrHAs on processes
using large volumes of hazardous chemicals that do not appear in the Appendix A list. In addition, contractors may
want to consider conducting PrHAs on processes containing/using quantities of listed HHCs that are just below TQ
requirements for coverage under the PSM Rule.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
7
Task D: Estimate the Manpower Required and Develop a Staffing Plan. The manpower required to
conduct a PrHA depends on many factors, including the review method selected, the training and
experience of the review team, the extent and complexity of the process, its instrumentation and controls,
and whether the process is a procedure-oriented operation (such as a batch reaction) or a continuous
operation (such as petroleum refining). In addition, reviews and updates of existing PrHAs tend to be less
time consuming than initial analyses. Guidance for estimating PrHA time requirements is given for each
review method in Sections 4.1 to 4.6.
FIGURE 3.1. Process Hazard Analysis Task Structure
Section 10
Based on the analysis methods selected in Task C, the status of existing PrHAs, and the time requirements
for the methods reviewed in Sections 4.1 to 4.6, the manpower requirements for PrHAs, and reviews and
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
8
updates, can be estimated. Comparing these requirements with available personnel indicates where
additional staffing may be needed, either on a temporary or longer-term basis.
Task E: Select a Process to be Analyzed. This selection should be straightforward: the process to be
analyzed should be the process highest on the prioritized list (Task B). If there are exceptions,
justifications should be carefully documented. For example, if the highest process on a prioritized list has
some significant process changes planned, it may be reasonable to analyze the process being modified
along with its proposed changes.
Task F: Assemble the PrHA Team and Train the Team Members. Regardless of the method selected, the
PSM Rule requires all PrHAs to be performed by a team. This team is an ad hoc committee, formed
solely to conduct a PrHA for an assigned process. It is disbanded after the analysis, including
documentation, has been completed.
The review team must have expertise in engineering and process operations, and at least one team
member must have experience and knowledge specific to the process being evaluated. If the process is a
new design, the experience requirement may be satisfied by bringing in a person from a sister plant or
from a similar or precursor process. In addition, at least one member of the team must be knowledgeable
in the hazard analysis methodology being used (see note at the end of Section 1.0).
All team members should be familiar with PrHA objectives, the PrHA method to be used, and their roles
in performing the PrHA. A 1- or 2-hour overview at the beginning of the first team review session is
generally sufficient for this purpose. However, he more demanding PrHA methods, such as fault tree
analysis (FTA), require more training and/or a greater depth of experience than less-rigorous methods,
such as what-if and checklist analyses.
Task G: Schedule the PrHAs. To assure full participation by all team members, the team leader should set
up a meeting schedule that is realistic but as condensed as possible to provide a concentrated, focused
analysis.
A typical schedule is 1 to 3 days per week, with the team meeting 4 to 6 hours per day, until the analysis
is completed. The involvement of remote site personnel and/or consultants may necessitate an even more
ambitious schedule. However, the efficiency of the team tends to decline if there are more than three, 6-
hour meetings per week.
The team leader must devote additional time outside of team meetings for meeting preparation and
documentation. Preparation, such as assembling pertinent documents and deciding how each review is
approached, may take 8 to 12 hours per P&ID. Documentation typically takes another 8 hours per P&ID.
Task H: Conduct the PrHAs. PrHAs are conducted after all up-to-date process safety information is
assembled and the team members are appropriately trained. The team should walk down the process and
facility immediately prior to the analysis, to have the process fresh in mind and to get a sense of the scale
and orientation of the process, the surrounding facilities, and the location of operating and co-located
personnel.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
9
Section 11
A description of PrHA methods is given in Section 4 of this document. Keys to successful PrHAs are full
preparation, punctuality, focused discussions, careful evaluation of each scenario for risk to onsite and
offsite persons, and documentation of the analysis as soon as possible after each team meeting.
Task I: Report the Analysis Results. The PrHA report documents the scope, approach, identified hazards,
analyzed scenarios, and action items resulting from the PrHAs. The report should receive close scrutiny,
both for compliance with the PSM Rule and for explanations of each action item. Guidance for reporting
the PrHA results are given in Section 5.1.
Task J: Approve the Report and Action Items. The PrHA team should present its findings to operating
management when the draft report is complete. Operating management may wish to ask questions about
the analysis or have a debriefing meeting on ways to improve the PSM program. The team should then
finalize the report. The approval of the final PrHA report by operating management is a commitment by
management to implement all action items. Section 5.2 addresses the PrHA review process.
Task K: Address the Action Items. All action items must be addressed by operating management, and their
resolutions must be documented. Corrective actions and safety improvements approved by management
must be fully implemented in a timely manner. Timeliness can be assured by assigning responsibilities
and completion dates to all action items and establishing a tracking system to monitor implementation.
Computer spreadsheets and databases have been used successfully for this purpose. Operating
management should review all open corrective action items and activities on a regular basis, such as
quarterly. Establishing a system for resolving action items and safety recommendations is discussed in
Section 6.
Elements Common to All Process Hazard Analyses
This section presents "how-to" approaches for subjects common to all PrHA methods. The PSM Rule
requires that every PrHA include these activities:
• Identify process hazards;
• Review previous incidents;
• Analyze engineering and administrative controls and consequences of control failures;
• Consider facility siting;
• Address human factors;
• Evaluate effects of incidents on employees.
• Decide when action items are warranted.
3.2.1. Identify Process Hazards
A process hazard is an inherent chemical or physical characteristic with the energy potential for damaging
people, property, and/or the environment. The key word in this definition is potential.
In a process or system, hazards are not always obvious. Energy may be stored in many different forms,
including chemical (reactivity, flammability, corrosivity, toxicity), mechanical (kinetic, potential) and
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
10
thermal. Hazards exist whenever a system is above or below an ambient energy level, regardless of how
the energy is stored. For example, for the process parameter of pressure, the ambient condition is
atmospheric pressure. The higher the system pressure is above atmospheric, the greater the stored energy
and the greater the hazard. A system pressure below atmospheric (i.e., a vacuum) can also pose hazards,
such as the potential for collapse of a storage tank.
Table 3.1 presents a list of hazards commonly found in process operations, grouped according to how
energy is stored. It can be used as a starting point to develop a checklist for identifying process hazards.
However, the list is not exhaustive. Thus, a PrHA team may have to augment it as they consider the
unique hazards of the process they are analyzing.
Section 12
The following five steps should be taken to help identify hazards:
1. List all obvious hazards. Most processes include a number of hazards that are already fully
recognized, such as the flammability of propane or the inhalation toxicity of chlorine.
2. Examine the hazardous characteristics of each process chemical. Review the SDSs, which should
have information on the toxicity, flammability, and reactivity of process chemicals and on their
incompatibilities with other materials.
3. Examine all process parameters. Parameters (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate, level, pH) that
are controlled or measured in a process are good indicators of possible process hazards. Process
parameters should be examined for all modes of operation, independent of process chemicals,
because some hazards exist that do not involve the chemicals. For example, if a process uses high-
pressure steam, then both thermal energy and pressure-volume energy hazards exist even though
steam is non-toxic, non- flammable, and non-reactive with most materials.
4. Examine material interactions for incompatibilities: Even if process chemicals are relatively non-
hazardous when considered independently, some potentially dangerous interactions may occur
when materials are combined. Interactions between process chemicals, containment materials, or
other materials with which the chemicals come in contact can be examined in pairs by using an
interaction matrix. A sample matrix is shown in Figure 3.2.
5. Document the identified hazards: The PrHA report should list identified hazards in tabular form
and/or discuss each hazard briefly in the text. Doing both is preferred. New or previously
unidentified hazards should receive particular attention and discussion.
3.2.2. Analyze Process Hazards by Developing Accident Scenarios
The parts of an accident event involving a process operation are shown in Figure 3.3. Each sequence of
failures and conditions leading to an accident is a unique scenario. Every accident scenario starts with an
initiating event or cause, which is a mechanical failure, operational error, external event, or other
condition that causes normal operation to be interrupted or changed. Initiating events can lead to process
deviations. For example, failure of a cooling water pump (initiating event) may result in loss of cooling
to a process involving an exothermic reaction. A deviation occurs when the process temperature exceeds
the upper limit of the normal operating temperature for the reaction stage. If the deviation proceeds
uncorrected, loss of control can lead to an accident event, such as a vessel rupture explosion. Various
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
11
protection systems, such as alarms, interlocks, and emergency relief systems, may be employed to keep
the accident event from occurring.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
12
TABLE 3.1. Process Hazards
Form of Energy Associated Hazard(s) Typical Accidental Event(s)
CHEMICAL Ability to self-polymerize
/ Shock-sensitivity
Uncontrolled polymerization
Detonation of solid or liquid explosive or explosive mixture
Thermal instability Thermal explosion following bulk self-heating and runaway reaction
Rearranging ability Uncontrolled rearrangement reaction (e.g., ethylene oxide)
Pyrophoricity Fire upon atmospheric contact
Flammability Vessel/enclosure rupture following ignition of contained vapors + air
Vapor cloud explosion
Flash fire
Pool fire
Section 13
Combustibility Bulk material fire
Dust explosion
Aerosol ignition and fast fire
Flash fire of vapors from heated combustible solid or liquid
Peroxidizing ability Contact with oxygen over time; energetic peroxide decomposition
Water-reactivity Release of water-reactive material and energetic reaction with water or humidity
Oxidizing or reducing
ability
Contact of oxidizer with organic material; bulk material fire
Uncontrolled redox reaction
Acidity or causticity Acid gas release (e.g., anhydrous HCl)
Corrosive liquid or solid spill
Uncontrolled acid/base reaction
Toxicity Toxic vapor release
Toxic liquid or solid spill
Other increased reactivity Inadvertent mixing or contact with incompatible material; heat, pressure, or toxic
gas generation
Reduced chemical
reactivity (inert material)
Personnel entry into confined space with reduced oxygen level
THERMAL Elevated temperature Hot material release
Contact with hot surface
Steam explosion or equivalent
Containment rupture from thermal expansion of blocked-in fluid
Reduced temperature Cryogenic material release
Fracture of embrittled containment
PRESSURE-
VOLUME
Volume of compressible
fluid held at elevated
pressure
Tank or enclosure rupture
High-velocity leak or spray
Liquefied material stored
under pressure
Rapid phase transition (boiling-liquid- expanding-vapor explosion or BLEVE)
Volume of compressible
fluid held under vacuum
Tank or enclosure collapse
POTENTIAL
(POSITIONAL)
Elevation of process
material above a reference
level
Toppling over of stacked drums
Shifting of granular storage piles
Fluid surge from failed container
Falling material from spill overflow
KINETIC
(MATERIAL
TRANSFER)
Moving process material Overpressure or over temperature by dead- headed pumping Impingement by
process material Water hammer damage
ELECTRO-
MAGNETIC
Elevated electromagnetic
radiation levels
Unshielded laser or microwave radiation associated with process
ELECTRICAL Elevated voltage Electrical shock from process using electricity, such as electrolysis of brine
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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FIGURE 3.2. Example Interaction Matrix for Identifying Process Hazards
NH3
anhydrous
ammonia
combustible; toxic
vapor; cryogenic
liquid spill
Cl2
chlorine
explosive NCl3
formed with
excess chlorine
or heat
oxidizer; toxic
vapor; cryogenic
liquid spill
HF
anhydrous
hydrogen
fluoride
heat generation,
liberating toxic
vapors
heat generation,
liberating toxic
vapors
strong acid;
corrosive; toxic
vapor and liquid
C4H6
1,3-
butadiene
heat generation,
violent
polymerization
fire, toxic gas
generation
heat generation,
violent
polymerization
flammable;
peroxidizes;
polymerizes;
decomposes
Fe, etc.
carbon steel
none predicted
iron/chlorine fire
if above 250°C
(or 100°C with
impurities)
hydrogen
blistering
between steel
laminations
none predicted
material of
construction
H2O
150# steam
heat generation,
liberating toxic
vapors
none predicted
heat generation,
liberating toxic
vapors
antioxidant
consumed,
leading to
polymerization
none predicted
elevated pressure,
temperature
combined
with...
NH3
anhydrous
ammonia
Cl2
chlorine
HF
anhydrous
hydrogen
fluoride
C4H6
1,3-
butadiene
Fe, etc.
carbon steel
H2O
150# steam
NOTE: Descriptions along diagonal are properties of materials by themselves.
Section 14
All potential material interactions should be examined for incompatibilities. Even if process materials are
relatively non-hazardous when considered independently, some potentially dangerous interactions may
occur when materials are combined. Interactions between process chemicals, containment materials, and
other materials with which the chemicals come in contact can be examined in pairs by using an interaction
matrix.
3.2.3. Review Previous Incidents
The PSM Rule requires all PrHAs to address "any previous incident which had a likely potential for
catastrophic consequences in the workplace," 29 CFR 1910.119(e)(3)(ii). An incident is an unplanned
event that may or may not result in injuries and/or loss. For example, an incident might involve a
flammable gas leak that does not ignite. An accident, on the other hand, is an unplanned event that leads
to personal injury, property damage, environmental damage, and/or business interruption losses, such as
the ignition of a flammable gas leak resulting in burns and fire damage.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
14
Previous accidents and incidents involving a process under study must be reviewed as part of the PrHA.
The importance of reviewing accident and incident records is discussed in the anatomy of a process
accident outlined in the preceding section (see Figure 3.3). Incidents can indicate what could happen if
protection systems, which are not totally reliable, do not work.
Thorough incident investigations may also indicate root causes of initiating events and protective system
failures and thus suggest action items to improve safety-management systems. Incident records also help
show the likelihood of failures and operational errors.
3.2.4. Analyze Controls and Control Failures
Process safety is the successful elimination or control of process hazards over the lifetime of a process.
Engineering and administrative controls must be in place to keep process parameters within safe operating
limits and to prevent challenges to system integrity. A PrHA addresses engineering and administrative
controls applicable to process hazards, as well as the interrelationship of these controls, by identifying and
documenting the process safety levels. For example, the safety levels to keep a deviation from becoming
an accident should be documented in the protection (or safety levels) column of a HAZOP study
worksheet when that method is employed. The levels of protection to keep the accident from occurring
are included in a FTA as protective system branches which come together with initiator branches at AND
logic gates.
As examples of engineering and administrative controls, the PSM Rule lists "appropriate application of
detection methodologies to provide early warning of releases." For systems handling toxic materials,
detection methodologies are generally mitigation systems that reduce the severity of consequences after
an accident occurs.
Most PrHA methods study protection systems but do not explicitly study mitigation systems. FTA looks
at all events and combinations of events that could lead to a top event, such as explosions or toxic releases
but does not study the severity of the top event's consequences. To fully comply with the PSM Rule, it
may be necessary to include in the PrHA report an analysis of mitigation systems that are in place to
reduce the severity of consequences of accidents.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
15
FIGURE 3.3. Anatomy of an Accident
3.2.5. Consider Facility Siting
Section 15
The PSM Rule requires facility siting to be addressed in all PrHAs. For a new facility, fulfilling this
requirement can involve an analysis of plant layout and spacing between process units.
However, most PrHAs are performed on existing facilities. For existing facilities, PrHAs should include
the severity of consequences of potential accidents involving co-located workers and adjacent facilities.
Shielding, barricades, escape routes, control room location, and control room design for employees
involved in the operation of the process should also be discussed. In addition, the impacts of vehicular
traffic and of adjacent operations should be considered.
It may be desirable to discuss facility siting issues at the beginning of the PrHA sessions. As a minimum,
comments and assumptions about siting and plant layout can be included in the PrHA analysis
documentation, such as on HAZOP study worksheets. Table 3.2 provides a sample checklist for
worker/co-located worker exposures. A sample checklist for facility siting issues is presented in
Table 3.3.
3.2.6. Address Human Factors
When operator error/response is involved in an initiating event or when operator action influences the
level of protection, the PrHA team should discuss the circumstances under which failures might occur.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
16
For example, for a cylinder hook-up operation, an operator might connect the wrong cylinders.
Uncovering the underlying causes of the error may lead to discussions of cylinder labeling, physical
layout of the cylinder bay, or interchangeable threaded connections. These discussions should identify
situations likely to lead to errors and the corrective actions that can be taken.
Table 3.4 presents a list of human factors that may positively or negatively influence the likelihood of
operator error. This list may be used prior to, and/or during the analysis. In addition, the PrHA team may
determine that human factors problems are of sufficient importance or complexity to require the
assistance of a human factors specialist.
3.2.7. Evaluate Incident Effects
Quantitative evaluation of the severity of accident consequences is not required. However, the PrHA
team must qualitatively evaluate the range of the possible employee safety and health effects. Such
evaluation is generally made by discussing the severity of consequences of each scenario (see Section 4).
This evaluation may be performed more explicitly by assigning a qualitative term to each scenario.
Typical qualitative terms such as "negligible, low, moderate, severe, and catastrophic" represent the order-
of-magnitude consequences found in MIL-STD-882C.
TABLE 3.2. Checklist for Worker Exposures
Process Worker Other Workers
Is the worker within area of concern for
exposure?
Is there a requirement to respond to the accident to
mitigate the exposure of others while increasing
individual worker exposure?
Is emergency equipment available to mitigate effects
of material, and will it operate long enough to ensure
escape?
Are others aware of the location and status of
workers near the release?
Is the material released disabling such that escape
is impaired?
Is there a means of warning of the release in time to
take action (alarms)?
Is there a path to escape that minimizes
exposure?
Are the workers within area of concern for
exposure?
Does the material release have self-warning
properties, or are exposed unaware of the
exposure?
Section 16
Is the material released disabling such that escape is
impaired?
Is there a path to escape that minimizes exposure?
Does the path depend on wind direction?
Is there a plan and means to communicate to all
workers in time to take effective action?
Must many workers escape via limited paths?
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
17
TABLE 3.3. Checklist of Facility Siting Issues
General Considerations 1. Location of people relative to the unit
2. Location of critical systems
3. Dominant wind direction
4. Climate and weather extremes; earthquake, flooding, windstorms
5. Site topography
6. External hazards or threats (fire/explosion/toxic release from nearby process or facility;
aircraft; subsidence; sabotage)
7. Traffic flow patterns and clearances from process vessels and lines
8. Security and reliability of all critical feeds and utilities
9. Command center and alternate command center locations
10. Evacuation routes, emergency exits, safe rally spots
Control Room 11. Minimum occupancy; only essential functions during emergencies
12. Control room construction
13. Fresh air intakes location/isolation; temporary safe havens
14. Control room location relative to unit, columns, and pipe bridges
Process Facilities 15. Area electrical classification
16. Accessibility for mechanical integrity (sampling, maintenance, repairs)
17. Protection of piping and vessels from vehicles and forklifts
18. Protection of small-bore lines, fittings from external impact, personnel
19. Routing of process piping, critical controls cable trays, critical utilities
20. Vent, drain, and relief valve discharge locations
Loading/Unloading and
Storage Facilities
21. Incompatible materials segregated; storage, dikes, sumps, drains, waste
22. Siting, labeling of unloading spots for incompatible materials
23. Storage tank separation distances (to process, between tanks)
24. Spill control, drainage direction, destination, treatment capacity
Fire Protection 25. Access for firefighting and any other emergency services
26. Ignition sources (continuous, occasional/intermittent, uncontrolled)
27. Access to hydrant, indicator, and deluge valves
Accident Mitigation 28. Detection of leaks/ruptures
29. Emergency shutdown switch locations
30. Accessibility of isolation valves
31. Potential for fire/explosion in unit affecting other equipment
32. Critical controls, mitigation, communication, and fire protection systems functional and
accessible after initial explosion or release
33. Back-up power supply/redundant feeds for critical electrical systems
34. Water supply for fire fighting
35. Routing of utilities
Personnel Protection 36. Passageways, pedestrian traffic patterns vs. hazardous locations
37. SCBA/respirator locations; accessibility on all shifts
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 3.4. Example Human Factors in Process Operations
Category
+
(Factors beyond standard practice; may reduce the
likelihood of human error or inadequate response.)
-
(Factors may increase the likelihood of human
error or inadequate response.)
E
qu
ip
m
en
t
Labeling equipment clearly labeled; uniform coding mislabeled or not labeled
Access immediately at hand hard to reach or access
Operability power-assisted operation difficult to operate/change position
Layout well-planned, logical arrangement confusing/inconsistent arrangement
Uniqueness only component of its kind in area several components look similar
Section 17
C
on
tr
ol
s
Labeling controls clearly labeled; uniform coding mislabeled or not labeled
Mode fully automatic; well-tuned manual operation; many manual steps
Involvement operator continually involved operator detached from process
Displays clear, simple, representational unclear/complex/non-representational
Feedback immediate, unambiguous none or potentially misleading
D
ev
ia
tio
ns
Alarms first-out; safety-critical alarms many simultaneous or false alarms
Coverage dual operator coverage at all times operator not always present
Time no time pressure for response inadequate time to respond
Preparedness periodic simulation exercises no drills/simulation of scenarios
Last-Resort shutdown not discouraged; fast access shutdown discouraged or unsafe
T
ra
ns
ie
nt
Procedures complete, accurate, current, verified incomplete/too general/out of date
Identifying ID, location of devices/actions given ambiguous device/action identification
Format graphical identification aids confusing/inconsistent; difficult to read
Aids checklist or supervisory check task sequence done by memory
Sc
he
du
lin
g
Overtime reasonable extreme enough to affect performance
Consistency permanent shift assignments inconsistent shift rotations/schedules
No. of Tasks tasks, work force, and skills matched tasks required exceed time available
Task Frequency routine task very infrequent; no experience base
Intensity regular task at normal pace differing tasks in rapid succession
C
om
m
un
ic
at
e Shift Changes status communicated verbally plus turnover sheet
used
inadequate communication between shifts of
plant status
Field/Control constant communication with field no communication with field operator
Supervision frequent supervisory communication little or no supervisory checks
Emergency rapid, unambiguous plant alarm system no distinction between area, type
E
nv
ir
on
m
en
t Noise level office environment noise level area where hearing protection is required
Climate indoors, climate-controlled temp./humidity/precipitation./wind extremes
Visibility visibility enhancement of some kind often foggy or other visibility limitation
Lighting inadequate lighting for task
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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This list does not contain management elements such as training and management of change.
3.2.8. Decide on Need for Action
Regardless of the PrHA methodology, the team evaluates each accident scenario to determine whether
design and/or operating changes are needed to further protect onsite workers. These judgments are
usually based on risk rather than on either likelihood of occurrence or severity of consequences. For
example, an event such as a seal water leak may be quite likely, but if the consequences are negligible, no
safety-improvement recommendations are warranted.
Similarly, if the consequences of a given accident are severe but the likelihood of occurrence is remote,
then no safety-improvement recommendations may be warranted.
Qualitative evaluation often places the risk associated with each accident scenario into one of three
categories: (a) the risk is too high, or a code violation is uncovered, such that design and/or operating
changes are clearly warranted; (b) the risk is trivial or negligible, such that changes are clearly not
warranted; or (c) the risk is borderline, and the decision is not clear-cut. In the last case, closer
examination is needed to better define the accident scenario itself, its likelihood of occurrence, or the
severity of its consequences. This closer examination can take the form of field inspections, examination
of historical records, operator interviews, material testing, consequence modeling, and/or the use of more
rigorous analysis methods, such as quantitative FTA
Section 18
Presentation of Results
The critical results of a PrHA are a list of action items. Action items are written by the PrHA team any
time additional effort is warranted to further analyze a specific accident scenario, eliminate the hazard, or
reduce risks. Action items are not usually specific corrective actions. Rather, they alert management to
potential problems that require action. Sometimes, action items suggest alternatives or recommend safety
improvements. However, if a problem is simple, if a PrHA team is quite experienced, or if there is only
one solution, an action item may recommend a specific corrective action.
All action items are presented to management for review and evaluation, and for determination of what, if
any, corrective actions should be taken to eliminate hazards or reduce risks. Because many action items
may be generated during a PrHA, the team may choose to rank the items according to the probability of
occurrence and/or the severity of the consequences of their corresponding accident scenarios.
If the PrHA team is quite experienced, they may rank the action items according to the anticipated time
and resources needed to implement changes. Or the team may make safety improvement and
implementation recommendations. Ranking of action items or safety improvement recommendations
may be valuable to management in several ways. It shows the significance that the PrHA team places on
each item. It also allows management to prioritize the immediate efforts of corrective action and
resolution. If resources are scarce, the ranking may affect the implementation schedule.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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4.0 PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS METHODS WITH EXAMPLES
Introduction. The PSM Rule allows the use of several PrHA methods. DOE contractors should select the
most appropriate methods for each facility or process and provide the rationale for their selections.
Sometimes a combination of methods may be most appropriate.
The selection of a PrHA method depends on many factors including the size and complexity of the
process and existing knowledge of the process. Has the process been in operation for a long time with
little or no innovation, and has extensive experience been generated with its use? Or is the process new, or
one that has been changed frequently by the inclusion of innovative features? All PrHA methods are
subject to certain limitations. Because PrHAs depend on good judgment, assumptions made during a
PrHA must be documented, understood, and retained for future PrHAs.
Sections 4.1 through 4.6 below discuss the PrHA methods identified specifically in the PSM Rule. They
are preceded by two example processes (see Figures 4.1 and 4.2) that are referenced in discussions of
methods and used to show a step-by-step approach. Three steps common to all methods are preparing for
the analysis, performing the analysis, and documenting the results.
All the basic information needed about the methods is included in this document, but there are numerous
publications that provide additional information and examples.
Checklist Analysis
A checklist analysis is used to verify the status of a system. This analysis method is described in detail in
Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures (CCPS, 1992).
Section 19
The checklist analysis method is versatile, easy to use and can be applied at any stage in the life of a
process. It is primarily used to indicate compliance with standards and practices. It is also a cost-
effective way to identify common and customarily recognized hazards. Checklists also provide a
common basis for management review of assessments. Many organizations use standard checklists to
control the development of a process or an entire project from initial design through decommissioning.
The completed checklist must be approved by all relevant staff members and managers before a project
can move from one stage to the next.
4.1.1. Description of the Method
A checklist analysis uses a written list of items or procedures to verify the status of a system. Checklists
may vary widely in level of detail, depending on the process being analyzed.
A traditional checklist analysis uses a list of specific items to identify known types of hazards, design
deficiencies, and potential accident scenarios associated with common process equipment and operations.
The method can be used to evaluate materials, equipment, or procedures.
Checklists are most often used to evaluate a specific design with which a company or industry has a
significant amount of experience, but they can also be used at earlier stages of development for entirely
new processes to identify and eliminate hazards that have been recognized through operation and
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
21
evaluation of similar systems. To be most useful, checklists should be tailored specifically for an
individual facility, process, or product.
EXAMPLE PROCESS 1: DOCK 8 HF SUPPLY SYSTEM4
The dock 8 HF supply system is designed to supply gaseous HF, under pressure, to a fluid bed reactor to
produce uranium tetrafluoride. The gaseous HF is created by heating and vaporizing anhydrous liquid HF
that is brought to the system in large portable cylinders. The vaporizer room is heated and has an exhaust
fan in the wall near the roof. When the system is in operation, the nitrogen (N2) pressurization system
supplies 30-psig nitrogen to the top of the HF cylinder. The cylinder, which contains about 850 pounds of
anhydrous HF when full, is on a calibrated scale and is connected to the nitrogen and HF piping systems by
pigtail connectors.
The nitrogen pressure forces liquid HF to the vaporizer, which is heated by a hot water blanket supplied
by a water heater and circulating pump. The liquid HF is heated to its vaporization temperature at the
desired pressure, and the resulting gaseous HF is directed to the fluid bed reactor, regulated at 25 psig.
The designed safety system components in the HF feed station are the nitrogen pressure regulator and the
nitrogen overpressure relief valves. To provide overpressure protection for the vaporizer, relief valves are
fitted to piping connected to the top of the vaporizer and supply cylinder. A rupture disc, with a rupture
pressure rating somewhat higher than the relief valve setting, is provided upstream of each of the relief
valves to protect the valves from continuous exposure to the corrosive HF environment. Between the
rupture disc on the vaporizer and the relief valve is a pipe tee to a manual vent with a block valve near the
discharge. This valve can be opened manually to relieve pressure between the rupture disc and relief
valve or to vent the system during maintenance. A pressure gage is attached to the vent line upstream of
the block valve. A plastic hose is connected to the vent line pipe to direct vent gas to a plastic collection
bottle. The collection bottle normally contains water that covers the end of the vent line hose to absorb
vent fumes/vapors.
Section 20
4 This description is taken from Hummer, John J., et al., 1992.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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FIGURE 4.1. Dock 8 HF Supply System
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
23
EXAMPLE PROCESS 2: COOLING WATER CHLORINATION SYSTEM
The cooling water chlorination system is designed to provide chlorination to the basin of a cooling water
system to prevent biological growth in the cooling water. Chlorine is provided from the vapor side of a 1-
ton cylinder. Pressure is reduced from the cylinder (normally 80 psig at 70°F) to 15 psig at the rotameter.
The rotameter is adjusted manually to provide an average flow rate of 2.5 to 3.0 pounds per hour to the
pressure check valve. To operate properly, the chlorine gas supply must be reduced to zero so that the
vacuum from a venturi may draw a controlled amount of chlorine into the water stream. A pressure check
valve performs this function. Gas under pressure enters the pressure check valve. Its pressure is reduced
to less than atmospheric as the gas passes through two valves which do not open unless a vacuum is
present on the downstream side. If the first valve passes gas when a vacuum is not present, the second
valve remains closed and contains the gas pressure in the unit. If the second valve also passes gas, the
built-in pressure relief valve permits this gas to pass out of the vent. A small pump recirculates water
through the venturi creating the vacuum for the chlorine and delivering chlorinated water to the basin.
The pump's nominal flow rate is 30 gallons per hour.
FIGURE 4.2. Cooling Water Chlorination System
4.1.2. Analysis Procedure
Performing a checklist analysis requires access to engineering design procedures and operating practices
manuals and must be performed by a team with appropriate expertise. An experienced manager or staff
engineer should review the results and direct follow-up actions.
Selecting or Developing a Checklist. A checklist is developed so that aspects of process design or
operation that do not comply with standard industrial practices are discovered through responses to the
questions in the list. A detailed checklist can be as extensive as necessary to satisfy the specific situation,
but it should be applied conscientiously in order to identify problems that require further attention.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
24
Detailed checklists for particular processes should be augmented by generic checklists to help assure
thoroughness. Generic checklists are often combined with other methods to evaluate hazardous
situations.
Checklists are limited by their authors' experience. They should be developed by individuals who have
extensive experience with the processes they are analyzing. Frequently, checklists are created simply by
organizing information from current relevant codes, standards, and regulations. Checklists should be
viewed as living documents and should be reviewed regularly and updated as required.
Sample checklists are shown in Tables 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3. An exhaustive checklist appears in Appendix B
of the Center for Chemical Process Safety, “Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures”.
Performing the Analysis. After a checklist is prepared, it can be applied by less experienced engineers if
necessary. Team members should walkthrough and visually inspect the process areas to compare the
process equipment and operations to the checklist items.
Section 21
The checklist can be reviewed in either hard copy or computer-based form. The analysts respond to the
checklist items based on observations from their visual inspections, process documentation, interviews
with operating personnel, and personal perceptions. If the process attributes or operating characteristics
do not match the specific desired features on the checklist, the analysts note the deficiency.
A checklist analysis made prior to construction is usually performed during a PrHA team meeting. It
focuses on review of the process drawings, completion of the checklist, and discussion of the deficiencies.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.1. Simplified Process Hazards Analysis Checklist5
Storage of Raw Materials, Products and Intermediates Personnel Protection
Storage Tanks Design Separation, Inert, Protection Barricades, Personal, Shower,
Materials of Construction Escape Aids
Dikes Capacity, Drainage Ventilation General, Local, Air intakes, Rate
Emergency Valves Remote Control-Hazardous Exposures Other Processes, Public,
Materials Environment
Inspections Flash Arresters, Relief Devices Utilities Isolation: Air, Water, Inerts, Steam
Procedures Contamination Prevention, Analysis Hazards Manual Toxicity, Flammability, Reactivity,
Specifications Chemical, Physical, Quality, Corrosion, Symptoms, First Aid
Stability Environment Sampling, Vapors, Dusts, Noise,
Limitations Temperature, Time, Quantity Radiation
Materials Handling Controls and Emergency Devices
Pumps Relief, Reverse Rotation, Controls Ranges, Redundancy, Fail-Safe
Identification, Materials of Calibration, Inspection Frequency, Adequacy
Construction, Leaks, Cavitation Alarms Adequacy, Limits, Fire, Fumes
Ducts Explosion Relief, Fire Protection, Interlocks Tests, Bypass Procedures
Support Relief Devices Adequacy, Vent Size, Discharge,
Conveyors, Mills Stop Devices, Coasting, Guards Drain, Support
Procedures Spills, Leaks, Decontamination Emergencies Dump, Drown, Inhibit, Dilute
Piping Rating, Codes, Cross-Connections, Process Isolation Block Valves, Fire-Safe Valves,
Materials of Construction, Purging, Excess Flow Valves
Corrosion/ Erosion Rates Instruments Air Quality, Time Lag, Reset
Windup, Materials of Construction
Process Equipment, Facilities and Procedures
Procedures Startup, Normal, Shutdown, Waste Disposal
Emergency Ditches Flame Traps, Reactions, Exposures,
Conformance Job Audits, Shortcuts, Suggestions Solids
Loss of Utilities Electricity, Heating, Coolant Air, Vents Discharge, Dispersion, Radiation,
Inerts, Agitation Mists
Vessels Design, Materials, Codes, Access, Characteristics Sludges, Residues, Fouling
Materials of Construction Materials
Identification Vessels, Piping, Switches, Valves
Relief Devices Reactors, Exchangers, Glassware Sampling Facilities
Review of Incidents Plant, Company, Industry Sampling Points Accessibility, Ventilation, Valving
Inspections, Tests Vessels, Relief Devices, Corrosion Procedures Pluggage, Purging
Hazards Hang-fires, Runaways Samples Containers, Storage, Disposal
Electrical Area Classification, Conformance, Analysis Procedures, Records, Feedback
Purging
Operating Ranges Temperature, Pressure, Flows, Maintenance
Ratios, Concentrations, Densities, Decontamination Solutions, Equipment, Procedures
Levels, Time, Sequence Vessel Openings Size, Obstructions, Access
Ignition Sources Peroxides, Acetylides, Friction, Procedures Vessel Entry, Welding, Lockout
Fouling, Compressors, Static
Electricity, Valves, Heaters Fire Protection
Compatibility Heating Media, Lubricants, Flushes, Fixed Protection Fire Areas, Water Demands,
Packing Distribution System, Sprinklers,
Safety Margins Cooling, Contamination Deluge, Monitors, Inspection,
Testing, Procedures, Adequacy
Extinguishers Type, Location, Training
Fire Walls Adequacy, Condition, Doors, Ducts
Drainage Slope, Drain Rate
Emergency Response Fire Brigades, Staffing, Training,
Equipment
Section 22
5 Source: Burke, 1992
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.2. Main Headings of Well’s Checklist6
A Basic process considerations
B Some overall considerations
C Operating limits
D Modes of plant start-up, shutdown, construction, inspection and maintenance, trigger events
and deviations of system
E Hazardous conditions
F Ways of changing hazardous events or the frequency of their occurrence
G Corrective and contingency action
H Controls, safeguards, and analysis
I Fire, layout, and further precautions
J Documentation and responsibilities
Documenting the Results. Qualitative results of checklist analyses vary, but generally the analysis
produces the answers "yes," "no," "not applicable," or "needs more information." The checklist should be
included in the PrHA report. The PrHA team should summarize the deficiencies noted during the
walkthroughs and/or meetings.
Understanding these deficiencies usually leads to the development of a list of possible safety
improvement alternatives for managers to consider, or a list of identified hazards and a set of suggested
actions.
4.1.3. Staffing Needs and Time
Any engineer with knowledge of the subject process should be able to use a checklist. Because the PSM
Rule requires a team approach, more than one analyst should be involved in preparing the checklist and
applying it to the process. The results of the analysis should be reviewed by an independent analyst.
An estimate of the time required to perform a PrHA using the checklist analysis method is given in
Table 4.4.
6 Source: King, 1990.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.3. Main Headings of Baleman’s Checklist7
Main Heading and First Sub-Heading
I. Choice, situation and layout of site VII. Civil engineering aspects
1. Choice and situation 1. The ground
2. Site layout 2. Foundations
3. Drainage systems
II. Process materials 4. Roads
1. Physical properties 5. Buildings (see also section 9)
2. Chemical properties 6. Additional points related to installations
3. Toxicological properties
VIII. Division of site into areas
III. Reactions, process conditions and disturbance (for hazards of igniting flammable vapors, etc.)
analysis
1. Reactions IX. Fire protection
2. Process conditions 1. Introduction
3. Disturbance analysis 2. Fire protection of buildings and plant
4. Causes of abnormal conditions 3. Fire-fighting organization
5. Abnormal conditions 4. Fire detection and alarm
6. Critical situations 5. Classification of fires according to European Standard
EN2
IV. Equipment
1. Introduction X. General emergency planning
2. Design 1. Introduction
3. Choice of material 2. Operational emergency situations
4. Construction 3. Escape of liquids and gases
5. Location of equipment 4. Fire and explosion
6. Special provisions 5. Personal protection
6. Training
V. The storage and handling of dangerous substances 7. Communication systems
1. The storage of dangerous substances 8. Briefing and information
2. The handling of dangerous substances services
VI. Handling and removal of hazardous waste products
1. Introduction
2. Aspects of disposal
3. Reduction of disposal
7 Source: King, 1990.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.4. Approximate Checklist Analysis Time Requirements
Scope Preparation Evaluation Documentation
Simple/Small System 2 to 4 hours 4 to 8 hours 4 to 8 hours
Complex/Large Process 1 to 3 days 3 to 5 days 2 to 4 days
4.1.4. Limitations of Checklist Analysis
Section 23
When derived from handbooks or similar sources, many entries in a checklist may not be applicable to the
process being studied. In other cases, process hazards may be so unusual they are not in standard
checklists. Thus, it may be difficult to assure that all hazards have been analyzed. Also, checklists may
indicate that hazards exist, but not what accident scenarios are associated with them.
4.1.5. Example Checklist Analyses
Simplified checklist analyses for the two example processes in Section 4.0 are shown in Tables 4.5 and
4.6. The same checklist was used for both processes.
What-If Analysis
The purpose of a what-if analysis is to identify hazards, hazardous situations, or specific accident events
that could produce an undesirable consequence. The what-if analysis is described in detail in Guidelines
for Hazard Evaluation Procedures (CCPS, 1992).
What-if analysis involves the examination of possible deviations from the design, construction,
modification, or operating intent of a process. It can be used to examine virtually any aspect of facility
design or operation. Because it is so flexible, it can be performed at any stage in the life of a process
using whatever process information and knowledge is available.
4.2.1. Description of the Method
The what-if analysis is a creative, brainstorming examination of a process or operation conducted by a
group of experienced individuals able to ask questions or voice concerns about undesired events. It is not
as inherently structured as some other methods, such as the hazard and operability (HAZOP) study or a
failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA). It requires the analysts to adapt the basic concept to the
specific application.
The what-if analysis encourages a PrHA team to think of questions that begin with "What-if." Through
this questioning process, an experienced group of individuals identify possible accident events, their
consequences, and existing safety levels, then suggest alternatives for risk reduction. The potential
accidents identified are neither ranked nor given quantitative implications.
The what-if analysis method may simply generate a list of questions and answers about the process.
However, it usually results in a tabular listing of hazardous situations, their consequences, safety levels,
and possible options for risk reduction.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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4.2.2. Analysis Procedure
Preparing for the Analysis. The information needed for a what-if analysis includes process descriptions,
operating parameters, drawings, and operating procedures. All information must be available to the PrHA
team, if possible, in advance of the team meetings.
For analysis of an existing plant, the PrHA team may want to interview personnel responsible for
operations, maintenance, utilities, or other services, if they are not on the PrHA team. In addition, if the
analysis is performed offsite, the PrHA team should walk through the facility to better understand its
layout, construction, and operation. Thus, visits and interviews should be scheduled before the analysis
begins. Finally, some preliminary what-if questions should be prepared to "seed" the team meetings. If
the analysis is an update of a previous PrHA, then questions listed in previous reports can be used. For a
new process or a first-time application, preliminary questions should be developed by team members
before the meetings, although additional questions formulated during the meetings are essential. The
cause-and-effect thought process used in other types of analyses described in this section, such as HAZOP
studies and FMEAs, can help formulate questions.
Section 24
Performing the Analysis. The scope of the study should be agreed upon by the team members. The
analysis meetings should begin with a basic explanation of the process by operations staff who have
overall facility and process knowledge, plus expertise relevant to the team's area of investigation. The
presentation should also describe the facility's safety precautions, safety equipment, and health control
procedures.
The meetings then revolve around potential safety issues identified by the analysts. The analysts are
encouraged to voice any potential safety concern in terms of questions that begin with "what-if."
However, any process safety concern can be voiced, even if it is not phrased as a question. For example:
• "I wonder what would happen if the wrong material was delivered."
• "What if Pump Y seals begin to leak?"
• "What if valve X fails open?"
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.5. Checklist Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System
Material
Do all raw materials continue to conform to original specifications?
Yes. The cylinders are ordered with the same anhydrous HF specification used since startup.
Is each receipt of material checked?
No. There have been no problems with the supplier, so no such check has been considered. Investigate consequences
of receiving material other than HF. Consider adding such checks on HF receipts.
Does the operating staff have access to Safety Data Sheets?
Yes. All staff are familiar with the process chemistry, including the hazards of HF.
Is firefighting and safety equipment properly located and maintained?
Yes.
Equipment
Has all equipment been inspected as scheduled?
Yes. The maintenance personnel have inspected the equipment in the process area according to company inspection
standards. Given the corrosivity of HF, inspections may have to be more frequent.
Have pressure relief valves been inspected as scheduled?
Yes.
Have rupture discs been inspected (for having blown) as scheduled?
Yes. Though none have failed, procedure calls for inspection of rupture disc and installation after maintenance.
Are the proper maintenance materials (parts, etc.) available?
Yes. They include spare pigtails for the supply cylinders as well as properly rated rupture discs. Other items must be
ordered.
Procedures
Are the operating procedures current?
Yes.
Are the operators following the operating procedures?
Yes. No significant violations of procedures have been noted.
Are new operating staff trained properly?
Yes. Training includes a review of the PrHA for this process and familiarization with SDSs.
How are communications handled at shift change?
If an HF cylinder needs to be changed out near a shift change, the change is scheduled to be performed by either, but
not both, shifts.
Is housekeeping acceptable?
Yes.
Are safe work permits being used?
Yes.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.6. Checklist Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System
Material
Do all raw materials continue to conform to original specifications?
Yes. The drums are ordered with the same chlorine specification used since startup.
Is each receipt of material checked?
Yes. The supplier once sent a cylinder of phosgene. Since then, a test is performed by the maintenance staff. In
addition, the fusible plugs are inspected for evidence of leakage before a cylinder is hooked up.
Does the operating staff have access to Safety Data Sheets?
Yes. All staff are familiar with the process chemistry, including the hazards of Cl2.
Is firefighting and safety equipment properly located and maintained?
Section 25
Yes. This system is on a concrete building roof. Because there are no flammable materials involved in this system, if
a fire occurs, there will be no special effort by firefighting crews to concentrate on the roof area..
Equipment
Has all equipment been inspected as scheduled?
Yes. The maintenance personnel have inspected the equipment in the process area according to company inspection
standards.
Have pressure relief valves been inspected as scheduled?
Yes.
Have rupture discs been inspected (for having blown) as scheduled?
Not applicable.
Are the proper maintenance materials (parts, etc.) available?
Yes. They include spare pigtails for the supply cylinders, as well as a rotameter and a pressure check valve. Other
items must be ordered.
Is there an emergency cylinder capping kit?
Yes.
Procedures
Are the operating procedures current?
Yes.
Are the operators following the operating procedures?
No. It is reported that some staff do not always check the cylinder's fusible plugs for leaks. Staff should be re-
reminded of this procedural item and its importance.
Are new operating staff trained properly?
Yes. Training includes a review of the PrHA for this process and familiarization with SDSs.
How are communications handled at shift change?
There are relatively few open items at the end of a shift. The chlorine cylinders need to be changed only about once
every 45 days. If an empty chlorine cylinder needs replaced, it has proven to be easy to schedule the change during a
shift.
Is housekeeping acceptable?
Yes.
Are safe work permits being used?
Yes.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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The questions may address any off-normal condition related to the facility, not just component failures or
process variations. The questions are formulated based on PrHA team member experience and applied to
existing drawings and process descriptions. The team generally proceeds from the beginning of the
process to its end, although the PrHA team leader can order the analysis in any logical way he or she sees
fit, such as dividing the process into functional systems. Or the leader may direct the review to begin
with the introduction of feed material and follow the flow until the end of the process. The questions, and
eventually the answers (including hazards, consequences, engineered safety levels, and possible solutions
to important issues), are recorded by the team member designated as "scribe," so that they can be viewed
by all team members.
The questions may be divided into specific areas of investigation usually related to consequences of
interest, such as electrical safety, fire protection, or personnel safety. Each area is subsequently addressed
by a team of one or more knowledgeable individuals. The team answers each question and addresses
each concern (or indicates a need for more information) and identifies the hazard, potential consequences,
engineered safety levels, and possible solutions. During the process, any new what-if questions that
become apparent are added.
Sometimes the proposed answers are developed by individuals outside the initial meeting, and then
presented to the team for endorsement or modification.
For example, given the question:
"What if the HF cylinder fails because of corrosion?"
The team would attempt to determine how the process would respond:
"A cylinder leak would release HF to the atmosphere and eventually result in a loss of HF feed to
the vaporizer."
Section 26
The team might then recommend checking with the supplier regarding cylinder inspection practices.
The team should not be rushed, and meetings should last no longer than 4 to 6 hours per day. What-if
team meetings that last more than 5 consecutive days are not desirable. If a process is complex or large, it
should be divided into smaller segments so that the team does not spend several consecutive days just
listing questions.
Documenting the Results. The what-if analysis produces a tabular listing of narrative-style questions and
answers that constitute potential accident scenarios; their qualitative consequences; and possible risk-
reduction methods. Table 4.7 shows the format of a what-if analysis worksheet. Although some what-if
analyses are documented in a narrative-style format, a table makes the documentation more organized and
easier to use.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.7. Typical Format for a What-If Analysis Worksheet
LINE/VESSEL: Date: PAGE: _____ of _____
What-If Consequence Safety Levels8 Scenario Comments
The comments column may contain additional descriptive information or actions/recommendations. The
recommendations, sometimes with more detailed explanations, can be summarized in the report to
produce a list of action items or suggestions for improving the safety of the process. These results should
be reviewed with management to assure that the findings are transmitted to those ultimately responsible
for any actions.
4.2.3. Staffing Needs and Time
The PSM Rule requires that a what-if analysis be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and
process operations. It must include at least one employee experienced in the process, and one
knowledgeable in the use of the analysis method. For simple processes, two or three people may be
assigned to perform the analysis. However, larger teams may be required for more complex processes.
When a large team is required, the process may be divided logically into smaller pieces, and a subset of
the team may analyze each piece.
The time and cost of a what-if analysis are proportional to the number and complexity of the processes
being analyzed. Table 4.8 presents estimates of the time needed to perform a PrHA using the what-if
analysis method.
TABLE 4.8. Approximate Time Requirement for What-If Analyses
Scope Preparation9 Evaluation Documentation(A)
Simple/Small System 4 to 8 hours 4 to 8 hours 1 to 2 days
Complex/Large Process 1 to 3 days 3 to 5 days 1 to 3 weeks
4.2.4 Limitations of the What-If Analysis
The what-if analysis is a powerful PrHA method if the analysis team is experienced and well organized.
Otherwise, because it is a relatively unstructured approach, the results are likely to be incomplete.
4.2.5 Example What-If Analyses
Partial what-if analyses for the two example processes described in Section 4.0 are shown in Tables 4.9
and 4.10. Although for actual, more complex analyses, the what-if tables for each line or vessel would be
separate, for these examples, a single table was developed. A preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) would
8 This column is a recent improvement in documentation format. Source: CCPS, 1992.
9 Primarily, team leader and scribe. Source: CCPS, 1992.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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identify that the intrinsic hazards associated with HF are its reactivity (including reactivity with water, by
solution), corrosivity (including carbon steel, if wet), toxicity via inhalation and skin contact, and
environmental toxicity. The N2 supply system pressure is not considered in this example. The specific
effects of loss of containment could be explicitly stated in the "loss of HF containment" scenarios
identified.
Section 27
Similarly, the effects of loss of chlorine containment, including the reactivity and toxicity of chlorine,
could be specified for the second example.
4.3 What-If/Checklist Analysis
The purpose of a what-if/checklist analysis is to identify hazards, consider the types of accidents that can
occur in a process or activity, evaluate in a qualitative manner the consequences of these accidents, and
determine whether the safety levels against these potential accident scenarios appear adequate. The what-
if/checklist analysis is described in detail in Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures (CCPS, 1992).
4.3.1 Description of the Method
The what-if/checklist analysis method combines the creative, brainstorming features of the what-if
analysis with the systematic features of the checklist analysis. The PrHA team uses the what-if analysis
method to brainstorm the types of accidents that can occur within a process.
Then the team uses one or more checklists to help fill in any gaps. Finally, the team members suggest
ways for reducing the risk of operating the process. The what-if analysis encourages the PrHA team to
consider potential accident events and consequences that are beyond the experience of the authors of a
good checklist and, thus, are not covered on the checklist.
Conversely, the checklist lends a systematic nature to the what-if analysis.
Normally, a what-if/checklist analysis is used to examine the potential consequences of accident scenarios
at a more general level than some of the more detailed PrHA methods. It can be used for any type of
process at virtually any stage in its life cycle. However, this method is generally used to analyze the more
common hazards that exist in a process.
4.3.2 Analysis Procedure
Preparing for the Analysis. For a what-if/checklist analysis, the PrHA team leader assembles a qualified
team and, if the process is large, divides it into functions, physical areas, or tasks to provide some order to
the review. The important aspects of preparing for a what-if analysis, which also apply to the what-
if/checklist analysis, are discussed in Section 4.2 and are not repeated here.
For the checklist portion of the analysis, the PrHA team leader obtains or develops an appropriate
checklist for the team to use. This list need not be as detailed as those used for a standard checklist
analysis. Rather than focusing on a specific list of design or operating features, the checklist used here
should focus on general hazardous characteristics of the process.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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Developing What-if Questions. Section 4.2 describes the approach the PrHA team uses to develop
questions about potential accident scenarios.
Using a Checklist to Cover the Gaps. After the team members have identified all of the questions in a
particular area or step of the process, they apply the previously obtained or prepared checklist. The team
considers each checklist item to determine whether any other potential accident scenarios exist. If so,
these scenarios are added to the what-if list and evaluated in the same way. The checklist is reviewed for
each area or step in the process.
Evaluating the Questions. After developing questions involving potential accident scenarios, the PrHA
team considers each one; qualitatively determines the possible effects of the potential accident; and lists
existing safety levels to prevent, mitigate, or contain the effects of the accident. The team then evaluates
the significance of each accident and determines whether a safety improvement should be recommended.
This process is repeated for each area or step of the process or activity. The evaluation may be performed
by specific team members outside the team meeting but must be subsequently reviewed by the team.
Section 28
Documenting the Results. The results of a what-if/checklist analysis are documented like the results for a
what-if analysis (see Section 4.2). The what-if/checklist analysis method usually generates a table of
potential accident scenarios, consequences, safety levels, and action items. The results may also include a
completed checklist or a narrative. The PrHA team may also document the completion of the checklist to
help illustrate the completeness of the analysis. For compliance with the PSM Rule, detailed explanations
of the analysis action items and recommendations should be provided to management for review and
transmitted to those responsible for their resolution.
4.3.3 Limitations of the What-If/Checklist Analysis
Combining the what-if and checklist analysis methods emphasizes their main positive features (i.e., the
creativity of what-if analysis and the experience-based thoroughness of a checklist analysis) while at the
same time compensating for their shortcomings when used separately. For example, a traditional
checklist is, by definition, based on the process experience the author accumulates from various sources.
The checklist is likely to provide incomplete insights into the design, procedural, and operating features
necessary for a safe process. The what-if part of the analysis uses a team's creativity and experience to
brainstorm potential accident scenarios. However, because the what-if analysis method is usually not as
detailed, systematic, or thorough as some of the more regimented approaches (e.g., HAZOP study,
FMEA), use of a checklist permits the PrHA team to fill in any gaps in their thought process.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.9. What-If Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System
LINE/VESSEL: Dock 8 HF Supply System DATE: December 22, 1992 PAGE: ___ of ___
What-If Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments
... the HF cylinder
corrodes through?
Cylinder leak, HF release to
atmosphere, possible worker
exposure via inhalation and skin,
possibly fatal.
None. 1 Check with supplier
regarding cylinder
inspection practices.
... the dock and this
equipment is involved in a
fire?
HF release to atmosphere via vent
OR
cylinder rupture, with possible
worker exposure via inhalation and
skin, possibly fatal.
None.
Relief valves,
rupture discs.
2a
2b
... the hot water jacket on
the HF corrodes through?
Heat of solution, HF release via
vent, possible worker exposure via
inhalation and skin, possibly fatal.
Possible large pipe and pipe
component failures due to
corrosion.
Possible vaporizer rupture with
further release and blast effects,
worker injured by blast or scalded.
None.
Relief valve,
rupture disc.
3a 3b
... moisture is introduced
into the HF cylinder via
the N2 supply?
Heat of solution, HF release via
vent, possible worker exposure via
inhalation and skin, possibly fatal.
HF solution attacks carbon steel,
corrosion, leak or rupture, possible
worker exposure via inhalation and
skin, possibly fatal.
None. 4a 4b Prevention is procedures
for monitoring N2
supply.
... the N2 supply is lost? N2 supply contaminated with HF ... Check valves in N2
supply line.
5
... the water pump fails? Liquid HF not vaporized, passed to
fluidized bed reactor, off-spec or no
product.
None. 6 Consider adding a low
temperature interlock on
HF (N2) flow.
... the piping or pigtail
fails?
Loss of containment, HF release,
possible worker exposure via
inhalation and skin, possibly fatal.
None. 7
Section 29
... material other than HF
is received in cylinders?
Unknown (see Comments). Procedure:
sampling of
contents on receipt.
8 Prevention includes
supplier's shipping
procedures. Investigate
consequences of
receiving material other
than HF.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.10. What-If Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System
LINE/VESSEL: Cooling Water Chlorination System DATE: December 22, 1992 PAGE: ___ of ___
What-If Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments
... the system is involved
in a fire?
High pressure in chlorine cylinder,
fusible plugs melt, chlorine release
into fire ...
Ignition source
control.
1 Verify that area is free
from unnecessary fuel.
... the wrong material is
received in the cylinder
and hooked up?
Water contaminated, not sterilized None. 2 Prevention: supplier's
procedures.
... the cylinder's fusible
plugs prematurely fail?
Chlorine release. None. 3 Purchase and train
personnel in the use of a
Cl2 cylinder leak capping
kit.
... the pressure check valve
fails open (both pass
chlorine gas)?
Built-in relief valve opens,
releasing chlorine to atmosphere.
None. 4
... the basin corrodes
through?
Chlorinated water release. Periodic inspection. 5
... the recirculation pump
fails OR power is lost?
Eventually low chlorine in water,
biological growth.
Release of undissolved chlorine to
atmosphere if pressure check valve
fails.
None.
Pressure check
valve.
6a
6b
... the chlorine cylinder is
run dry and not replaced?
Eventually low chlorine in water,
biological growth.
None. 7
4.3.4 Staffing Needs and Time
The number of individuals needed depends upon the complexity of the process and, to some extent, the
stage at which the process is being evaluated. Normally, a PrHA using this method requires fewer people
and shorter meetings than does a more structured method such as a HAZOP study. Estimates of the time
needed to perform a PrHA using the what-if/checklist analysis method is shown in Table 4.11.
TABLE 4.11. Approximate What-If/Checklist Analysis Time Requirements10
Scope Preparation(a) Evaluation Documentation(a)
Simple/Small System 6 to 12 hours 6 to 12 hours 4 to 8 hours
Complex/Large Process 1 to 3 days 4 to 7 days 1 to 3 weeks
(a) Primarily, team leader and scribe.
10 Source: CCPS, 1992.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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4.3.5 Example What-If/Checklist Analyses
To fill in the gaps in the standard what-if analyses given as examples in Section 4.2, the checklists used
for the examples in Section 4.1 were used here. The resulting what- if/checklist analyses for the two
example processes are shown in Tables 4.12 and 4.13. The tables show only additional scenarios
identified by applying the checklist.
4.4 Hazard and Operability Study
The HAZOP study was developed to identify hazards in process plants and to identify operability
problems that, although not hazardous, could compromise a plant's productivity. The basic concept
behind HAZOP studies is that processes work well when operating under design conditions. When
deviations from the process design conditions occur, operability problems and accidents can occur. The
HAZOP study method uses guide words to assist the analysis team in considering the causes and
consequences of deviations. These guide words are applied at specific points or sections in a process and
are combined with specific process parameters to identify potential deviations from intended operation.
TABLE 4.12. What-If/Checklist Analysis of Dock 8 HF Supply System
Section 30
LINE/VESSEL: Dock 8 HF Supply System DATE: December 22, 1992 PAGE: ___ of ___
What-If Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments
... the pressure relief valve
fails closed?
Possible rupture of HF cylinder
with personnel exposure to HF and
blast effect, possibly fatal.
None. 1 Add pressure alarm on
operator console.
... the operator does not
valve off the empty
cylinder before removing
it?
HF release with personnel
exposure, possibly fatal.
None. 2 Review training records to
make sure all staff have
been trained in current
procedures.
TABLE 4.13. What-If/Checklist Analysis of Cooling Water Chlorination System
What-If Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments
... a chlorine cylinder
which is not empty is
removed?
If the operator does not expect it to
contain chlorine, then possible Cl2
exposure via skin and inhalation.
None. 1 Review training records
and operating procedures
to minimize possibility of
this occurring.
... the venturi is clogged
with residue from the
water basin?
No sterilization will occur.
High pressure in recirculation line,
with
• Possible rupture, release of water
• Release of Cl2 if pressure check
valve fails.
Periodic checks of
water quality.
None.
Pressure check
valve.
2
3
4
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
39
4.4.1 Description of the Method:
A HAZOP study requires considerable knowledge of the process, its instrumentation, and its operation.
This information is usually provided by expert team members. The team should include individuals with
a variety of experience, including design, engineering, operations, and maintenance.
The primary advantages of a HAZOP study are creativity and new ideas. Creativity is the result of
interactions among team members with diverse backgrounds. Such interactions often generate new
ideas. The success of a HAZOP study depends on the freedom of members to freely express their views.
Combining this approach with a systematic protocol for examining hazards promotes thoroughness and
accuracy.
4.4.2 Analysis Procedure
A HAZOP study has three steps: (1) defining the process, (2) performing the study, and (3) documenting
the results. Defining the process and documenting the results can be performed by a single person. The
study itself must be performed by a team.
Defining the Process to be Studied. This step identifies the specific vessels, equipment, and
instrumentation to be included in the HAZOP study and the conditions under which they are analyzed.
Defining the problem involves defining the boundaries of the analysis and establishing an appropriate
level of resolution for the study. For most HAZOP studies, the causes of deviations are identified at the
component level (i.e., control valve CV101 fails open).
Performing the Study. A HAZOP study focuses on specific points of a process called "study nodes,"
process sections, or operating steps. Depending on the experience of the study leader, the portion of a
process included in a single study node can vary. In the most conservative studies, every line and vessel
are considered separately. If the HAZOP study leader is experienced, he or she may elect to combine two
or more lines into a single study node. For example, the cooling water chlorination system (Example
Process 2) could be separated into three study nodes (chlorine supply to venturi, recirculation loop, and
tower water basin), two study nodes (recirculation loop and tower water basin combined as a single study
node), or one study node (the entire process).
Section 31
If too much of a process is included in a single study node, deviations may be missed. If too little of a
process is included, the study can become tedious. In addition, root causes of deviations and their
potential consequences can become separated. Too many study nodes is common for novice HAZOP
study leaders. On the positive side, a study with too many nodes is less likely to miss scenarios than one
with too few nodes.
The HAZOP team examines each study node for potentially hazardous process deviations. First, the
design intent is defined to delineate the purpose of the equipment and the process parameters. Process
deviations are determined by combining guide words with the important process parameters. The
established set of guide words is shown in Table 4.14.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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TABLE 4.14. Guide Words for HAZOP Studies
Guide Word Meaning Examples
None of Negation of Intention No forward flow when there should be. Sequential process step omitted.
More of Quantitative Increase More of any relevant physical parameter than there should be, such as more flow
(rate, quantity), more pressure, higher temperature, or higher viscosity.
Batch step allowed to proceed for too long.
Less of Quantitative Decrease Opposite of "MORE OF"
Part of Qualitative Decrease System composition different from what it should be (in multi-component
stream).
As well as Qualitative Increase More things present than should be (extra phases, impurities).
Transfer from more than one source or to more than one destination.
Reverse Logical Opposite Reverse flow.
Sequential process steps performed in reverse order.
Other than Complete Substitution What may happen other than normal continuous operation (start-up, normal
shutdown, emergency shutdown, maintenance, testing, sampling).
Transfer from wrong source or to wrong destination.
The process parameters and example deviations typically used in a HAZOP study are shown in Table
4.15. Additional process parameters can be added if warranted. One purpose of the guide words is to
assure that all relevant deviations of process parameters are evaluated.
The following are examples of deviations created using guide words and process parameters:
Guide Word Parameter Deviation
No + Flow = No flow
More + Temperature = High temperature
Other than + Location = Wrong location
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Table 4.15. Example HAZOP Study Process Parameters and Deviations
Process Parameter Deviation Process Parameter Deviation
Flow (rate) No flow
High flow
Low flow
Reverse flow
Time Too long
Too short
Too late
Too soon
Flow (quantity) Too much
Too little
Sequence Omit a step
Steps reversed
Extra step
Pressure High pressure
Low pressure
pH High pH
Low pH
Temperature High temperature
Low temperature
Viscosity High viscosity
Low viscosity
Level High level/overflow
Low level/empty
Heat Value High heat value
Low heat value
Mixing Too much mixing
Not enough mixing
Loss of agitation
Reverse mixing
Phases Extra phase missing
Composition Component missing
High concentration
Low concentration
Location Additional source
Additional destination
Wrong source
Wrong destination
Purity Impurities present
Catalyst deactivated/inhibited
Reaction No reaction
Too little reaction
Too much reaction
Reaction too slow
Reaction too fast
Section 32
In the first example, the guide word "No" combined with the process parameter "Flow" results in the
deviation "No flow." Considering this deviation, the study team agrees on its possible causes (e.g.,
operator error causes block in pump), the consequences of the deviation (e.g., line rupture due to high
pressure), and the safety levels which prevent the cause from leading to the consequence (e.g., pressure
relief valve on pump discharge line). The consequence specified presupposes the failure of active
protection systems (e.g., relief valves, process trip signals). If the causes and consequences are
significant, and the safety levels are inadequate, the team may recommend a follow-up action. In some
cases, the team may identify a deviation with a realistic cause but unknown consequences (e.g., an
unknown reaction product) and recommend follow- up studies to determine the potential consequences.
The HAZOP study should be performed in a deliberate, systematic manner to reduce the possibility of
omissions. Within a study node, all deviations associated with a given process parameter should be
analyzed before the next process parameter is considered. All of the deviations for a given study node
should be analyzed before the team proceeds to the next node.
Documenting the Results. The documentation of a HAZOP study is a systematic and consistent
tabulation of the effects of process deviations. The study generates narratives about the normal operating
conditions and analysis boundary conditions for each equipment item. In addition, it provides a list of
potential actions that should be evaluated. Table 4.16 is an example of a HAZOP study worksheet. A
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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typical HAZOP study report should include a brief system description, a list of drawings or equipment
analyzed, the design intents, the HAZOP study tables, and a list of actions items.
4.4.3 Staffing Needs and Time
Staff requirements for HAZOP studies vary with the size and complexity of the process. Time and cost
are proportional to the size of the process being analyzed and the experience of the study leader and team
members. Table 4.17 presents estimates of the time needed to perform a PrHA using the HAZOP study
method (CCPS, 1992). Study sessions should be limited to 3 consecutive days.
4.4.4 Limitations of the Hazard and Operability Study
The primary limitation of a HAZOP study is the length of time required to perform it. Because the study
is designed to provide a complete analysis, study sessions can be intensive and tiring. HAZOP studies
typically do not look at occupational hazards (e.g., electrical equipment, rotating equipment, hot surfaces)
or chronic hazards (e.g., chronic chemical exposure, noise, heat stress).
TABLE 4.16. Typical Format for a HAZOP Study Worksheet
LINE/VESSEL: DATE: PAGE: ___ of ___
Guide Word Deviation Cause Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments/Actions
TABLE 4.17. Time Estimates for Using the HAZOP Study Method
Scope Preparation(a) Evaluation Documentation
Simple/Small System 8 to 12 hours 1 to 3 days 2 to 6 days(b)
Complex/Large Process 2 to 4 days 1 to 4 weeks 2 to 6 weeks
(a) Primarily team leader and scribe, although others may work during this phase.
(b) Team leader and scribe only. May be shorter for experienced scribes using computer software in the HAZOP study
meetings. Source: CCPS, 1992.
4.4.5 Example Hazard and Operability Studies
Section 33
Partial HAZOP studies for the example processes described in Section 4.0 are shown in Tables 4.18 and
4.19. A complete example of a HAZOP study can be found in Reference 10.
4.5 Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
4.5.1 Description of the Method
A FMEA is used to examine each potential failure mode of a process to determine the effects of the
failure on the system. A failure mode is the symptom, condition, or fashion in which hardware fails. It
may be identified as a loss of function, a premature function (function without demand), an out-of-
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tolerance condition, or a physical characteristic, such as a leak, observed during inspection. The effect of
a failure mode is determined by the system's response to the failure.
4.5.2 Analysis Procedure
A FMEA has three steps: (1) defining the process, (2) performing the analysis, and (3) documenting the
results. Defining the process for study and documenting the results can be performed by a single person.
The analysis itself must be performed by a team.
TABLE 4.18. Example HAZOP Study for the Dock 8 HF Supply System
LINE/VESSEL: HF Supply Line to Vaporizer DATE: December 28, 1992 PAGE: ___ of ___
Guide
Word Deviation Cause Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments / Actions
No No flow Valve V-19
closed
HF Vaporizer
inlet header
plugged/frozen
Loss of HF to B-1 process;
consequences unknown.
No known
protection.
1 Action Item: Determine
the level of protection
available and potential
consequences in B-1
Wing.
Line rupture HF release in area; possible
injuries/fatalities.
None 2 No Action: Unlikely
event; piping protected
against external impact.
Less Low flow Valve V-19
partially closed
HF Vaporizer
inlet header
partially
plugged/frozen
Insufficient HF supply to B-
1 process; consequence
unknown.
No known
protection.
3 Same as #1
Local rapid flashing, rupture
disc/relief valve
inadvertently opens, release
to stack.
Stack height
designed to
dissipate
release.
4
Release HF into storage
area; potential
injuries/fatalities if people in
area.
Valve V-28
closed, forcing
release to
stack.
5 Action Item: Consider
administrative controls
or actions to ensure V-28
is closed when operating.
More High flow None 6
High
temperature
Fire; hot weather Over-pressure; HF release;
possible injuries/fatalities.
Local
temperature
indication on
water heating
loop.
7 No action: Unlikely
event.
Low
temperature
Cold weather Possible plugging of lines;
insufficient vaporization (see
consequences of no/less
flow scenarios #1-5).
8
Reverse Backflow to
HF inlet line
None 9
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TABLE 4.19. Example HAZOP Study for the Cooling Water Chlorination System
LINE/VESSEL: Cooling Water Chlorination System DATE: December 28, 1992 PAGE: ___ of ___
Guide
Word Deviation Cause Consequence Safety Levels Scenario Comments / Actions
None No flow -
chlorination
loop
Pump failure.
Loss of electric
power to pump.
No chlorine flow to tower
basin.
Low chlorine concentration
in tower basin.
Chlorination
pump
malfunction
alarm.
1
Low water level
in tower basin.
Potential pump damage.
No chlorine flow to tower
basin.
Low chlorine concentration
in tower basin.
Tower basin
low water level
alarm.
Tower basin
water level
indication.
2
Less Low flow -
chlorination
loop
None identified 3
More High flow -
chlorination
loop
None identified 4 Note: Pump normally
runs at full speed.
Reverse Backflow - in
chlorination
loop
None identified 5
Section 34
None No flow -
chlorine to
chlorination
loop
No/low level in
chlorine drum.
Pressure reducing
valve fails
closed.
No chlorine flow to tower
basin.
Low chlorine concentration
in tower basin.
Local pressure
indication on
chlorine
injection line.
Local flow
indication on
chlorine
injection line
(rotameter).
6
None No flow -
chlorination
loop
Pump failure.
Loss of electric
power to pump.
No chlorine flow to tower
basin.
Low chlorine concentration
in tower basin.
Chlorination
pump
malfunction
alarm.
1
Defining the Process. This step identifies the specific vessels, equipment, and instrumentation to be
included in the FMEA and the conditions under which they are analyzed. Defining the problem involves
establishing an appropriate level of resolution for the study and defining the boundary conditions for the
analysis.
The required level of resolution determines the extent of detail needed in a FMEA. The choices for the
level of resolution range from the subcomponent level to the system level. To satisfy PSM Rule
requirements, most FMEAs should be performed at the major component level. This level provides the
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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best trade-off between the time necessary to perform the analysis and the usefulness of the information
gained from it.
Defining the analysis boundary conditions requires the following.
1. Identifying the system or process to be analyzed.
2. Establishing the physical boundaries of the system or process.
3. Establishing the analytical boundaries of the system or process.
4. Documenting the internal and interface functions.
5. Documenting the expected performance of the system, process, or equipment item; the system or
process restraints; and the failure definitions of the equipment items, the process, or the system.
6. Collecting up-to-date information identifying the process equipment and its functional relationship
to the system.
Functional narratives about the system or process should include descriptions of the expected behavior of
the system or process and the equipment components for each operational mode. Narratives should
describe the operational profiles of the components and the functions and outputs of each.
To assist in the review, block diagrams should be constructed which illustrate the operation,
interrelationships, and interdependencies of functional components for each equipment item. All
interfaces should be indicated in these block diagrams.
Performing the Analysis. The FMEA should be performed in a deliberate, systematic manner to reduce
the possibility of omissions and to enhance completeness. All failure modes for one component should be
addressed before proceeding to the next component. A tabular format is recommended for recording
results. A FMEA worksheet is produced by beginning at a system boundary on a reference drawing and
systematically evaluating the components in the order in which they appear in the process flow path. A
worksheet such as that shown in Table 4.20 should be completed for each equipment item, as follows.
Failure Mode. The PrHA team should list all of the equipment item and interface failure modes. Given
the equipment's normal operating condition, the team should consider all conceivable malfunctions.
Cause(s). If desired, the root causes of the failure mode should be identified. Identification of root causes
provides information helpful for ranking hazards
Section 35
Operational Mode. If the equipment being analyzed is subject to different modes of operation, each
operational mode should be identified and analyzed separately.
Effects. For each identified failure mode, the PrHA team should describe the anticipated effects of the
failure on the overall system or process. The key to performing a consistent FMEA is to assure that all
equipment failures are analyzed using a common basis. Typically, analysts evaluate effects on a worst-
case basis, assuming that existing safety levels do not work.
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However, more optimistic assumptions may be satisfactory as long as all equipment failure modes are
analyzed on the same basis.
Failure Detection Method. The means of failure detection should be identified, such as visual or warning
devices, automatic sensing devices, sensing instrumentation, or other indicators. The main purpose of
identifying failure detection methods is to determine whether the failure mode is "hidden," i.e., not
detectable for some period of time. If there is no means to detect failure, "none" should be entered into
the worksheet.
Compensating Provisions. For each identified failure mode, the PrHA team should describe any design
provisions, safety or relief devices, or operator actions that can reduce the likelihood of a specific failure
or mitigate the consequences.
Severity Class. The severity of the worst consequence should be specified as follows:
• Category I, Catastrophic: May cause death or loss of system or process.
• Category II, Critical: May cause severe injury, major property damage, or major system damage.
• Category III, Marginal: May cause minor injury, minor property damage, or minor system damage.
• Category IV, Minor: Is not serious enough to cause injury, property damage, or system damage,
but may result in unscheduled maintenance or repair.
Remarks/Actions. For each identified failure mode, the PrHA team should suggest actions for reducing
its likelihood or mitigating its effects. The actions suggested for a particular piece of equipment may
focus on the causes or effects of specific failure modes or may apply to all of the failure modes
collectively.
If the team discovers that a single item failure is not detectable, the FMEA should be extended to
determine if the effects of a second failure in combination with the first could have catastrophic
consequences. When a safety, redundant, or back-up component is evaluated, the analysis should
consider the conditions that generated the need for the component.
Documenting the Results. A FMEA generates a qualitative, systematic reference list of equipment, failure
modes, and effects. The results of a FMEA are usually listed in tabular format, by equipment item. Table
4.20 shows a typical worksheet used in performing a FMEA. For each equipment item, the failure modes
for that item and, if desired, the root causes for that failure mode are identified. For each failure mode, a
worst-case estimate of the consequences is identified. This worst-case estimate assumes the failure of all
protection against both the failure itself and the undesired consequences of the failure. The method by
which the failure is detected is specified along with any compensating provisions. Finally, any
suggestions for improving safety are listed in the table.
Section 36
The PSM Rule requires that a FMEA be performed by a team, all members who participate in the
analysis. The most practical means of performing the FMEA is to prepare blank worksheets on
viewgraphs or on a large display screen. For each equipment item, the PrHA team reaches a consensus on
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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its failure modes and their causes, effects, detection methods, compensating provisions, severity (if
desired), and any remarks or action items.
Staff requirements for a FMEA vary with the size and complexity of equipment items being analyzed.
The time and cost of a FMEA is proportional to the size of the process and number of components
analyzed. On average, an hour is sufficient to analyze two to four equipment items. For processes or
systems in which similar equipment items perform similar functions, the time requirements for
completing a FMEA are reduced. Table 4.21 presents estimates of the time needed to perform a PrHA
using the FMEA method (CCPS, 1992).
4.5.3 Limitations of Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Human operator errors are not usually examined in a FMEA, but the effects of human error are indicated
by an equipment failure mode. FMEAs rarely investigate damage or injury that could arise if the system
or process operated successfully. Because FMEAs focus on single event failures, they are not efficient for
identifying an exhaustive list of combinations of equipment failures that lead to accidents.
4.5.4 Example Failure Mode and Effects Analyses
Partial FMEAs for the example processes described in Section 4.0 are shown in Tables 4.22 and 4.23.
4.6 Fault Tree Analysis
4.6.1 Description of the Method
FTA is a systematic, deductive failure analysis that focuses on a particular accident or undesired event
called the "top event" and develops the underlying sequence of events leading to the top event. A separate
FTA must be performed for each top event.
The FTA method was originally developed to supplement a FMEA. Fault trees, in their original usage,
were diagrams indicating how the data developed by FMEAs interact to cause a specific event. The FTA
method is most effective in analyzing complex systems with a limited number of well-identified hazards.
In most cases, FTAs are used to perform in-depth analyses of hazardous events identified by another
hazard evaluation method.
FTA is a deductive method that uses Boolean logic symbols (i.e., AND gates, OR gates) to break down
the causes of the top event into basic equipment failures and human errors. The analysts begin with the
top event and identify the causes and the logical relationships between the causes and the top event. Each
of the causes, called intermediate events, is examined in the same manner until the basic causes for every
intermediate event have been identified. The fault tree is a graphic representation of the relationships
between basic events and the selected top event. Table 4.24 presents the standard symbols used in fault
tree construction to show these relationships.
A fault tree is, itself, a Boolean equation relating basic events to the top event. The equation can be
analyzed quantitatively or qualitatively by hand or by using computer code(s). If it is analyzed
quantitatively, the probabilities or frequencies of the intermediate events and the top event are calculated.
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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Section 37
If it is analyzed qualitatively, a list of the failure combinations that can cause the top event is generated.
These combinations are known as cut sets. A minimal cut set (MCS) is the smallest combination of basic
events that, if they occur or exist simultaneously, cause the top event. These combinations are termed
"minimal" because all of the basic events in a MCS must occur if the top event is to occur. Thus, a list of
MCSs represents the known ways the top event can occur, stated in terms of equipment failures, human
errors, and associated circumstances.
4.6.2 Analysis Procedure
An FTA has four steps: (1) defining the system or process, (2) constructing the fault trees, (3) analyzing
the fault trees, and (4) documenting the results. To meet PSM Rule requirements, defining the process for
study, performing the analysis, and documenting the results can be performed by a single person. The
construction of the fault trees must be performed by a team.
Defining the Process. This step identifies the specific top event or events to be evaluated and the
boundary conditions under which they are analyzed. Boundary conditions include the following:
• System Physical Boundaries.
• Level of Resolution.
• Initial Equipment Configuration.
• Initial Operating Condition.
• Unallowed Events.
• Existing Conditions.
• Other Assumptions.
TABLE 4.20. Example FMEA Worksheet
Date: Page: of
Plant: System:
Item: Reference:
Failure Mode Cause(s)
Operational
Mode Failure Effect
Failure
Detection
Method
Compensating
Provisions Severity Class
Remark /
Action
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TABLE 4.21. Time Estimates for Using the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis Method11
Scope Preparation Evaluation Documentation
Simple/Small System 2 to 6 hours 1 to 3 days 1 to 3 days
Complex/Large Process 1 to 3 days 1 to 3 weeks 2 to 4 weeks
Physical system boundaries encompass the equipment, the interfaces with other processes, and the
utility/support systems to be analyzed. Along with the physical system boundaries, analysts should
specify the levels of resolution for fault tree events reflecting failures of both equipment and support
systems (i.e., major component level, subcomponent level, system level, and subsystem level). For
example, analysts may set the level of resolution at the subsystem level (electrical bus, cooling loop) for
support systems.
Other boundary conditions are the initial equipment configuration or the initial operating conditions.
Initial conditions reflect the initial state of all components and support systems that are included in the
FTA. This boundary condition describes the system in its normal, operating state.
Unallowed events are those that are considered to be incredible or that, for some other reason, are not to
be considered in the analysis. For example, wiring failures might be excluded from the analysis of an
instrument system. Existing conditions are, for the purposes of the FTA, events or conditions considered
certain to occur. The unallowed and existing conditions do not appear in the fault tree, but their effects
must be considered in developing other fault events as the fault tree is constructed.
Because a broadly scoped or poorly defined top event can lead to an inefficient analysis, the top event
should be precisely defined to show the "what," "when," and "where" of the accident. Accordingly,
analysts may specify other assumptions, as necessary, to define the system or process to be analyzed. For
example, analysts may assume that the process is operating at 100 percent of normal capacity.
Section 38
11 Source: CCPS 1992
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TABLE 4.22. Partial FMEA for the Dock 8 HF Supply System
Date: 12/30/92 Page: 1 of 1
Plant: Y-12 Plant System: Dock 8 HF Supply System
Item: Pressure Reducing Valve V-13 Reference:
Failure Mode Cause(s)
Operational
Mode Failure Effect
Failure
Detection
Method
Compensating
Provisions
Severity
Class
Remark /
Action
Valve open
too far
Internal valve
malfunction.
Operator error.
Calibration
error.
Operation High N2
pressure at HF
cylinders, HF
vaporizer - HF
vaporizer
vessel rupture
- HF released
to
environment.
High HF flow
to HF
vaporizer -
high HF flow
to B-1 wing -
potential liquid
HF to B-1
wing.
Local pressure
indication on
N2 line.
Local pressure
indication
between
rupture disk
and PRV-4 at
vaporizer.
PRV-3 at V-13
outlet.
PRVs on N2
feed lines to HF
cylinders.
PRV-4 at HF
vaporizer.
II If N2 line relief
valves lift,
vaporizer relief
valve should
not lift.
Relief valve
discharges
piped to D-
wing stack.
Valve closed
too far
Internal valve
malfunction.
Operator error.
Calibration
error.
Operation No N2
pressure to HF
cylinder - no
HF flow to HF
vaporizer, B-1
wing.
Local pressure
indication on
N2 line.
None IV
External
leakage
Valve seal
leakage.
Operation Waste on N2.
If severe, same
as "valve
closed too far."
Audible
Local pressure
indication on
N2 line, if
severe.
None IV
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TABLE 4.23. Partial FMEA for the Cooling Water Chlorination System
Date: 1/4/93 Page: 1 of 1
Plant: System: Cooling Water Chlorination System
Item: Pressure Check Valve Reference:
Failure Mode Cause(s)
Operational
Mode Failure Effect
Failure
Detection
Method
Compensating
Provisions
Severity
Class
Remark /
Action
Too much
flow through
valve
Both internal
pressure
valves
fail open
Operation Excessive
chlorine flow
to Tower
Water Basin –
high chlorine
level in
cooling water -
potential for
excessive
corrosion in
cooling water
system
Rotameter
Daily testing
of cooling
water
chemistry
Relief valve on
Pressure check
valve outlet
III None
Too little flow
through valve
One or both
internal
pressure
valves fail
closed
Operation No/low
chlorine flow
to Tower
Water Basin –
low chlorine
level in
cooling water -
potential for
excessive
biological
growth in
cooling water
system -
reduction in
heat transfer
Rotameter
Daily testing
of cooling
water
chemistry
Automatic
temperature
controllers at
most heat
exchangers
IV None
Chlorine flow
to environment
Internal relief
valve sticks
open.
Both internal
pressure
valves fail
open and relief
valve opens
Operation Potential low
chlorine flow
to Tower
Water Basin –
see above
Chlorine
released to
environment -
potential
personnel
injury due to
exposure
Distinctive
odor
Pressure check
valve located
outdoors -
unlikely to
accumulate
significant
concentration
III Action Item:
Consider
venting relief
valve above
ground level
Constructing the Fault Tree. Fault tree construction begins at the top event and proceeds, level by level,
until all fault events have been traced to their basic contributing events or basic events. The analysis
starts with a review of system requirements, function, design, environment, and other factors to determine
the conditions, events, and failures that could contribute to an occurrence of the undesired top event. The
top event is then defined in terms of sub-top events, i.e., events that describe the specific "when’s and
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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Section 39
where’s" of the hazard in the top event. Next, the analysts examine the sub-top events and determine the
immediate, necessary, and sufficient causes that result in each of these events. Normally, these are not
basic causes, but are intermediate faults that require further development. For each intermediate fault, the
causes are determined and shown on the fault tree with the appropriate logic gate. The analysts follow
this process until all intermediate faults have been developed to their fault causes. The fault causes, or
basic events, include equipment failures, human response errors, and initiating events.
Evaluating the Fault Tree. After a fault tree is constructed, it can be input to a fault tree analysis computer
program, such as FTAP, IRRAS, or WAM. The output from the computer program is a list of MCSs
which cause the top event to occur. For each of the MCSs, the analysts describe the consequences
associated with that cut set. Table 4.25 shows a typical worksheet used to document the consequences
associated with MCSs.
Documenting the Results. A ranked list of MCSs for a system, along with the consequence of each cut
set, is the ultimate product of a qualitative FTA. Based on the number and type of failures in the MCSs,
the PrHA team may recommend improvements to make the top event less likely. The fault tree model
itself is often used as a communication tool with both technical and nontechnical decision makers.
4.6.3 Staffing Needs and Time
Although the construction of fault trees is not typically done by team approach, to meet the PSM Rule
requirement, all members of a PrHA team should provide input during the construction of fault trees. The
PrHA team can meet in a room with a large chalkboard or roll of paper and assign one person to draw the
fault trees. The team can come to a consensus on the type (AND, OR) and inputs for each fault-tree gate,
and the gates can then be added to the fault tree drawing. However, because FTA develops a model of a
system, it is fundamentally not a consensus method. If there is disagreement in the tree construction, then
it is likely that the process is not well understood.
Using FTA requires a detailed understanding of how a process or system functions, detailed drawings and
procedures, and knowledge of component failure modes and effects. The team leader should be well
trained and experienced in constructing fault trees.
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TABLE 4.24. Fault Tree Symbols
Symbol Title Description
AND Gate The output event occurs if and only if all input events occur.
OR Gate The output event occurs if any of the input events occur.
INHIBIT Gate The output event occurs when the input event occurs and
the inhibit condition or restriction is satisfied.
DELAY Gate The output event occurs when the input event has occurred
and the specified time delay has expired.
INTERMEDIATE
Event
A fault event that results from the interactions of other fault
events that are developed through logic gates such as those
defined above.
BASIC Event
A fault event representing a component failure or human
error that requires no further development. A basic event is
the lowest level of resolution in a fault tree.
UNDEVELOPED
Event
A fault event representing a failure or error which is not
examined further because information is not available or
because further development is beyond the scope of the
study.
EXTERNAL or
HOUSE Event
Section 40
A fault event representing a condition or event that is
assumed to exist either as a boundary condition for the fault
tree or because the event always occurs unless a failure
takes place.
TRANSFER IN/OUT
Symbols
The TRANSFER IN symbol indicates that the fault tree is
developed further at a corresponding TRANSFER OUT
symbol. Transfer symbols are used to transfer off-page or to
avoid repeating identical logic (with identical events) in
several places in a fault tree.
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TABLE 4.25. Minimal Cutset Documentation
Top Event: Date: Page:
Cutset Consequence Scenario Comments
Time and cost requirements for an FTA depend on the complexity of the process being analyzed and the
level of resolution. With an experienced team, modelling a single top event involving a simple process
could require one day or less. Complex processes or large systems with many potential accident events
could require many weeks or months, even with an experienced analysis team. Table 4.26 presents
estimates of the time needed to perform a PrHA using the FTA method.
TABLE 4.26. Time Estimates for Using the Fault Tree Analysis Method12
Scope Preparation Model Construction Qualitative Evaluation Documentation
Simple/Small System 1 to 3 days 3 to 6 days 2 to 4 days 3 to 5 days
Complex/Large Process 4 to 6 days 2 to 3 weeks 1 to 4 weeks 3 to 5 weeks
4.6.4 Limitations of Fault Tree Analyses
FTA is designed to develop the logical combinations of failures required to cause a given event to occur.
It is not an efficient, straightforward, practical method for identifying the hazards present in most systems
or processes, nor does it necessarily promote a more practical understanding of the hazards, which is the
intent of the PSM Rule.
4.6.5 Example Fault Tree Analyses
Partial FTAs for the example processes described in Section 4.0 are shown in Figures 4.3 and 4.4.
12 Source: CCPS, 1992.
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FIGURE 4.3. Example FTA for the Dock 8 HF Supply System
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FIGURE 4.4. Example FTA for the Cooling Water Chlorination System
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5.0 REPORTING AND REVIEW OF ANALYSES
5.1 Reporting the Process Hazard Analysis
The format of PrHA documents must conform to the requirements of the PSM Rule and existing guidance
for DOE documentation. Two documents are required by the PSM Rule. The first, the PrHA report,
contains all necessary information except for a "...system to promptly address the team's findings and
recommendations; assure that the recommendations are resolved in a timely manner and that the
resolution is documented; ..." That information is separately documented, as discussed in Section 6.0 of
this handbook. Two useful references on the documentation of PrHAs are Freeman, 1991 and
Hendershot, 1992.
Title Page and Table of Contents. Because the PrHA must be updated at least every 5 years, the initial
and all subsequent analysis dates should be recorded on the report's title page and table of contents. The
title page should show the date of the latest revision and reflect the authenticity of the revision by
signature(s). The table of contents should show the revision number and the effective date of the revision.
The DOE contractor may wish to make the PrHA report a controlled document so that users may verify
that they have the latest version.
Section 41
Summary of Recommendations. Recommended changes to reduce risk are recorded in the PrHA as
action items. This section should report the action items and safety improvement recommendations from
the analysis. These action items and recommendations are used to resolve safety issues and to implement
corrective actions and safety improvements (see Section 6.0).
Process Description. A separate element of the PSM Rule (paragraph [d] Process Safety Information)
requires documentation of process details. These details need not be repeated in the process description.
However, this section of the report should provide a brief working description of the process, perhaps
with a block diagram. It should also describe the location of the process and the potential for exposure of
workers. The discussion should consider workers working directly on the process and those that are "co-
located" but not directly involved in the process. This section should also discuss the relationship
between the location or "siting" of the process and the accident potential.
Scope of Analysis. According to the PSM Rule, the scope of any analysis should include receiving,
storage, processing, and loading for delivery of any hazardous chemical covered under the rule. The
scope section of the report explains the extent of the treatment of each part of the process. It may or may
not include support systems, depending on their inherent hazards and/or interactions with the process.
Review of Previous Incidents. This section discusses any incidents relevant to the process. Incidents
include releases and "near misses." Incidents should be presented in the context of related accident
scenarios. Recommendations from related scenarios should reflect the incidents.
Identified Hazards. The identification of hazards is discussed in Section 3.0. This section should present
the hazards as identified. It may consist of or include the SDSs for the chemicals involved (see Section
2.1.1).
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Analysis Methodology. The PrHA method and the justification for selecting it are presented here. It is
not necessary to describe the method if it is listed in the PSM Rule (e.g., what-if, checklist, HAZOP study,
FMEA, FTA). If any other method is used, it must be described, and the reason for its selection must be
presented.
Analysis Team. A list of the team members, their roles, and brief biographical sketches are included here.
Because the PSM Rule requires a team approach, this section should demonstrate that the PSM team
requirements were met. These requirements include expertise in engineering and process operations,
experience and knowledge specific to the process being analyzed, and knowledge of the specific hazard
analysis method.
Summary of Findings. The PSM Rule requires a qualitative evaluation of the consequences of
engineering and/or administrative control failures, to show the range of possible safety and health effects
on workers and offsite populations. This information can be obtained from the PrHA by selecting those
scenarios that cover the range of possible health effects, and then discussing the existing protection (see
Section 3.2). It may be necessary to conduct a rudimentary, quantitative consequence evaluation in order
to provide the qualitative information required.
Section 42
In addition to describing protection, the summary should point out any mitigation systems at the facility
which were not included in the PrHA (Mitigation is not normally included in a PrHA. See Section 3.2).
Mitigation systems have the potential to reduce accident impact levels. They include spray systems to
reduce release quantities and early warning systems.
The following is an example of information that should be included in the "Summary of Findings."
One scenario from the PrHA results in a release of chlorine from a storage cylinder through an improperly
installed fitting. The quantity of chlorine that could leak is limited only by the diameter of the tubing,
assuming the connection comes completely loose. Based on a rudimentary evaluation of the release of this
quantity of chlorine, it was found that the chlorine concentration that would be dangerous to workers
(lung tissue damage) extends to about 50 meters from the fitting, with no concern beyond this distance.
Workers are not generally in the area, except for a walk-around inspection once per shift. The worker
conducting the walk-around would probably smell the leak before any health effect could occur.
Administrative protection includes a leak check of the fittings that the installer performs before leaving
the site. Mitigation includes chaining off and clearly marking the area to minimize casual entry.
Analysis Documentation. PrHA report documentation should include the PrHA worksheets, checklists,
logic diagrams, human reliability analyses, and any other analysis made to better understand the
scenarios. The PSM Rule requires that human factors that impact scenarios as cause or protection be
expanded to analyze the basic cause of errors or response failures. For example, a cause may identify that
an operator can turn the wrong valve to initiate an accident. The PSM Rule requires that basic causes also
be identified. For example, valve is not labeled; the operator has not been trained on the operation; or the
operator forgot the step. There may be more than one basic cause. (See also Section 3.2, paragraph on
Human Factors.)
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Process Safety Information. This section need not replicate data stored in other locations, but should
provide a list of the drawing numbers, including revision numbers, and other basic data used in the PrHA.
The location of these data should be provided.
5.2 Review of the Process Hazard Analysis
After completion, the PrHA report should be reviewed internally. The review starts with an assessment of
the team and its credentials. A technical review follows, focusing on the completeness of the analyses and
the traceability and understandability of the documentation.
Overall Approach to the Process. Completeness of a PrHA depends on how methodical the PrHA team is
in its approach. Reviewers should ask the following.
• Did the PrHA work its way through the process systematically, or did it "jump around,"
overlooking important scenarios. Scenarios are harder to find if the PrHA does not move
methodically from one part of the process to the next?
• Were all parts of the system considered? All hardware and procedures should be considered, from
the receipt of hazardous chemicals through their use in the process. In addition, if process
connections exist, material flowing into systems where it is not designed to be should also be
considered?
Section 43
• Were all stages and operating modes of the process considered? Review should include analysis of
procedures for material receipt and unloading, startup, shutdown (emergency and normal), and
transitioning to partial operation (e.g., 100 percent to 500 percent production)?
• How long did it take to perform the PrHA? Too short a time could indicate lack of thoroughness.
Or the PrHA may have been dominated by one person?
Alternatively, the leader might have prepared the PrHA ahead of time and used the meetings to confirm
his work.
Process Deviations. Not all PrHA methods specifically identify process deviations. However, to review
the PrHA scenarios for completeness, a reviewer can use process deviations such as those listed in
Table 5.1, combined with process parameters.
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TABLE 5.1. Deviations Guide
Apply each guideword to
relevant parameters/operations
to create deviations No/None More Of Less Of
Containment lost
Procedure step skipped
No [Function]
No transfer
No agitation
No reaction
Procedure started too late
Procedure done too long
Too much [Function]
Too much transferred
Too much agitation
High [controlled variable]
High reaction rate
High flow rate
High pressure or dP
(different pressure)
High temperature
High level; overflow
High concentration
High pH, viscosity
Procedure started too soon
Procedure stopped too soon
Not enough [Function]
Not enough transferred
Not enough agitation
Low [Controlled Variable]
Low reaction rate
Low flow rate
Low pressure or dP
Vacuum
Low temperature
Low level; empty
Low concentration
Low pH, viscosity
Part Of As Well As Reverse Other Than
Containment leak/spill
Part of procedure step omitted
Part of [Function] achieved
Part of [Composition]
Component missing
Phase missing
Catalyst deactivated
Extra step performed
Extra [Function]
Transfer from more than one
source Transfer to more than
one destination
Extra [Composition]
Extra species present
Extra phase present
Impurities; dilution
Previous heel present
Steps done in wrong order
Reverse [Function]
Reverse flow
Reverse mixing
Wrong procedure performed
Wrong [Function] achieved
Transfer from wrong source
Transfer to wrong destination
Maintenance/test/sampling at
wrong time or location
Start-up/shutdown of
continuous process
Incident Causes. Incident causes or initiating events should be readily identifiable in any PrHA method.
Reviewers should use their experience to assure that all initiating events, including hardware failure
modes, operator errors, administrative errors, and loss of utilities, are considered. If the process is in a
location subject to external events, the PrHA should include relevant events such as earthquakes, traffic,
weather, or accidents at an adjacent process.
Consequence Evaluation. Anomalies are most often found in the consequence section of the PrHA. A
common mistake is to use the successful actuation of a protection device as a consequence, thus omitting
the true consequence. For example, if a pressure vessel can be over- pressured due to a system failure, the
consequence is damage/destruction of the vessel, not opening of the relief valve. It is also necessary to
assure that all consequences are listed for every cause. For example, a pipe break and spill of vessel
contents could result in a runaway reaction due to loss of the chemical and a fire if the chemical is
flammable. Finally, the consequence must be developed assuming all protection fails. A common
mistake is to assume "No Consequences," if protection was successful.
Section 44
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Identification of Protection. Protection reduces the probability of the consequence occurring given that
the cause has occurred. There are two key questions to ask when reviewing the protection portion of a
PrHA. First, is the protection capable of preventing the consequence if it functions correctly? Second,
will the protection function, given the cause? For example, a normally open electric solenoid valve will
not close after loss of electrical power and, therefore, cannot function as protection under that
circumstance. A motor-operated valve also will not operate after loss of electrical power. However, a
normally closed electric solenoid valve will automatically close upon loss of power.
Decision for Action. A PrHA reviewer needs to know the team's criteria for determining if additional
effort is warranted to review a specific scenario or provide risk reduction. After reviewing the criteria, the
reviewer should spot check the PrHA to see how the criteria were applied to several scenarios.
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6.0 ESTABLISHING A SYSTEM FOR RESOLVING ACTION ITEMS AND
IMPLEMENTING CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
Activities documenting and tracking implementation of corrective actions or safety improvements are not
part of a PrHA report. However, the PSM Rule requires a documented, integrated system for managing
and monitoring action items. This system must assure that action items and recommendations are
addressed and documented in a timely manner.
Implementation schedules for corrective actions or safety improvements must be tracked. Finally, the
system must assure that all affected operating and maintenance personnel and other affected employees
are notified of planned actions.
In addition to these requirements, if a PrHA is conducted to satisfy safety analysis requirements of 10
CFR 830 Subpart B NUCLEAR SAFETY MANAGEMENT, SAFETY BASIS
REQUIREMENTS, the resolution of action items must be documented to obtain approval of the safety
analysis and the startup of the facility. In this case, the contractor may be required to satisfy specific
safety criteria before an action item is considered resolved.
6.1 Process Hazard Analysis Action Items and Recommendations
The critical result of a PrHA is the list of action items developed by the PrHA team. Action items are
written any time the team thinks that additional effort is warranted to review further a specific scenario, to
eliminate a hazard, or to reduce risks. Usually, action items do not recommend specific corrective
actions. They are meant to alert management to potential problems. Sometimes, action items may
suggest alternatives to be considered. However, if a problem is simple, if a PrHA team is quite
experienced, or if there is only one obvious solution, an action item may be written to recommend a
specific corrective action.
The action items from a PrHA are presented to management for review and evaluation, and for
determination of what, if any, corrective actions should be taken to eliminate hazards or to reduce risks
through preventative, protective, or mitigative measures. Because many action items may be generated
during a PrHA, the team may choose to rank the action items according to the probability of occurrence
of their corresponding accident scenarios or the severity of their consequences or both. If the PrHA team
is quite experienced, it may also choose to rank the action items based on the anticipated time and
resources required to implement changes.
Section 45
6.2 Criteria for Corrective Actions and Safety Improvements
Management can use a variety of criteria to select and prioritize corrective actions and safety
improvements. They include costs, other competing priorities, implementation schedules, the
effectiveness of risk reduction, and technical feasibility. These criteria, as well as management decisions
about corrective actions, must be documented. If after evaluating an action item, management chooses to
take no further action, that decision must also be documented. In addition to requiring documentation of
management decisions, the PSM Rule requires a system to track implementation of corrective actions to
be made.
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6.3 The Corrective Actions System
Implementation of corrective actions is the responsibility of management. In assigning corrective actions,
management may consult with the PrHA team to assure full understanding of the hazards identified in the
PrHA before corrective actions are taken.
If an action item appears in a PrHA report and management chooses not to implement a corrective action,
then the justification for not doing so must be documented and made part of the PrHA records. If
management approves a particular corrective action and it is not implemented, justification must also be
documented as part of the PrHA records.
Management review of the action items from a PrHA of a large or complex process may result in many
corrective actions and safety improvement activities. These actions should be prioritized to facilitate
timely implementation.
After approving a prioritized list of corrective actions and safety improvements, management must
maintain a system for managing, monitoring, and tracking their implementation. This system must also
track delegation of authority for monitoring and reporting.
Monitoring corrective action plans and schedules can be done manually. However, a computerized
database can also be used to track all corrective actions. A computerized tracking system is of particular
benefit when a large number of activities must be monitored. As a minimum, the system for tracking the
status of corrective actions should:
• List and describe the corrective actions;
• Provide schedules for completing the corrective actions;
• Name the individuals responsible for tracking and reporting on the corrective actions;
• Identify the organizations and name the individuals responsible for completing the corrective
actions; and
• State completion dates.
All documentation and tracking information must be up to date, readily available, and easy to audit.
Because all corrective actions and safety improvements are management decisions, they should be
implemented according to DOE Order 422.1, "Conduct of Operations Requirements for DOE Facilities."
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7.0 UPDATING THE PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS
Each PrHA must be updated and revalidated at least every 5 years to make sure it accurately reflects
current processes and operating experiences.
7.1 Update Team
The PrHA update is performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations. The team
must include at least one member who has experience and knowledge specific to the process, and one
member who is knowledgeable in the PrHA method being used. The team need not include the original
PrHA team members, although it may be helpful, for consistency, to include at least one original member.
New team members, however, may bring different perspectives to the update.
Section 46
7.2 Approach
Members of the update team should review a copy of the initial PrHA and check completion of action
items. The team should thoroughly review current PSI and descriptions of all process modifications made
since the last PrHA report. A thorough review of the PSI is necessary to make sure that the PrHA
incorporates any new hazardous materials, process technologies, equipment, and/or operating procedures.
Finally, the team should review all findings and resolutions from the last PrHA to assure that they have
been adequately addressed.
If the process has changed extensively, it should undergo a new analysis using a PrHA method appropriate
to its new configuration. If the process has not changed much, the PrHA is updated considering the
changes that were made. Any hazards that were overlooked in the previous analysis or that resulted from
process modifications are added to the PrHA. In addition, "lessons learned" from other PrHAs should be
incorporated where applicable. In some cases, scenarios may be omitted as a result of risk reduction
measures. Updating a PrHA typically takes a third to a half of the time of the original analysis.
7.3 Documentation
The update team must develop a new PrHA report to document the scope and approach of its analysis as
well as any new hazards, scenarios, and action items. Justification must be provided for removing any
scenarios from the last PrHA. The report should receive close scrutiny, both for compliance with the
PSM Rule and for explanations of new action items. Guidance for reporting the PrHA results is given in
Section 5.1. The updated report is submitted to management for review and approval, following the same
procedure as an initial PrHA.
The PSM Rule requires that PrHAs for all covered processes, along with documentation of resolutions of
recommendations, be retained for the life of the process.
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8.0 RELATIONSHIPS OF PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSES TO OTHER DOE REQUIRED
HAZARD ANALYSES
Because a PrHA can require a substantial investment, it is important to identify potential overlap with
other DOE hazard analysis requirements. This section provides a recommended approach for satisfying
the PSM Rule and the related requirements of a nuclear safety analysis report (SAR).
10 CFR 830 Subpart B specifies that hazard and accident analyses be included in safety analyses for
nuclear facilities. Two nuclear SAR topics overlap with the PrHA.
• Topic 5: Hazard Analysis and Categorization
• Topic 11: Analysis of Accident Conditions
These topics are the subject of DOE Standard DOE-STD-1027-2018, "Hazard Categorization and
Accident Analysis Techniques for Compliance with DOE Nuclear Safety Analysis Reports," which
provides guidance for facility managers. They are also discussed in the DOE Standard
DOE-STD-3009-2004, "Preparation Guide for U.S. Department of Energy Nonreactor Nuclear Facility
Safety Analysis Reports," which describes a SAR preparation method that is acceptable to DOE.
The requirements of DOE-STD-1027-2018 are used as the basis for identifying the overlap of nuclear
facility safety analysis requirements with the requirements of the PSM Rule. According to DOE-STD-
1027-2018, the level of hazard analysis required for a nuclear facility SAR is determined by the facility's
nuclear hazard classification as follows:
Nuclear Hazard Category 3 Facilities. Minimal hazard and accident analyses are required. The PrHA
should provide information to the safety analysis on release mechanisms, engineering analysis, and
consequence analysis.
Section 47
Nuclear Hazard Category 2 Facilities. This category requires use of one of several analytical methods for
developing qualitative accident scenarios. The choices are generally13 compatible with the requirements
of the PSM Rule. If the PSM Rule requirements for PrHAs are met, the resulting analysis should
significantly contribute to the analysis required under the DOE-STD-1027-2018 for release mechanisms.
However, analyses beyond PSM Rule requirements may be needed to comply with other SAR
requirements for Nuclear Hazard Category 2 Facilities.
Nuclear Hazard Category 1 Facilities. Fault tree/event tree analyses are required if the facility is a large
reactor. If the facility is not a reactor and a PSM Rule PrHA is required, the analyses can be conducted as
described for Nuclear Hazard Category 2 Facilities. Different systems or processes within the facility
may be analyzed using different methods. For example, HAZOP studies may be used as the PrHA
13 Event Tree Analysis (ETA) is suggested by the DOE-STD-1027--2018, but not included in the PSM Rule.
However, the PSM Rule does allow the use of "an appropriate equivalent methodology." Hence, if ETA is to be used
as the PrHA, the PrHA report must justify that the ETA method is appropriate and equivalent to the methods listed in
the rule.
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method for processes that contain chemical hazards. Fault tree/event tree analyses may be used to
analyze systems that do not need to comply with the PSM Rule.
All documents required by the PSM Rule should be referenced and their significant findings summarized
in the SAR. References and summaries should include not only the results of the PrHA, but also all
documents concerning the resolution of the PrHA team's findings.
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9.0 GLOSSARY
Accident. Accident Event Sequence. An unplanned event or sequence of events that has an undesirable
consequence.
Aggregate Threshold Quantity. The total amount of a hazardous chemical contained in vessels that are
interconnected, or contained in a process and nearby unconnected vessels, that may be adversely affected
by an event at that process.
Catastrophic Release. A major uncontrolled emission, fire, or explosion, involving one or more highly
hazardous chemicals that present serious danger to employees in the workplace or to the public.
Employee. Under 29 CFR 1910.119, "Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals," an
hourly, salaried, or contract person who works at a facility and comes in direct contact with a covered
process.
Event. An occurrence involving process, equipment, or human performance either internal or external to
a system that causes system upset. In terms of accidents, an event is either a cause or a contributing cause
of a "near miss" or accident, or a response to the accident initiating event.
Facility. The buildings, containers, or equipment that contain a chemical process.
Flammable Gas. A gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a flammable mixture with air at a
concentration of 13 percent by volume or less; or a gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a
range of flammable mixtures with air wider than 13 percent by volume, regardless of the lower limit.
Flammable Liquid. Liquid with a flash point below 100°F (37.8°C), except mixtures where such liquids
account for 1 percent or less of the total volume.
Section 48
Hazard. A chemical property, energy source, or physical condition that has the potential to cause illness,
injury, or death to personnel, or damage to property or to the environment, without regard for the
likelihood or credibility of potential accidents or the mitigation of consequences.
Highly Hazardous Chemical. Toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive substances, as defined in Appendix
A of 29 CFR 1910.119, "Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals."
Incident. An unplanned event that may or may not result in injuries and/or loss.
Near Miss. An event that did not result in an accidental release of a highly hazardous chemical, but which
could have, given another "failure." Near misses, sometimes called "precursors," include:
• The occurrence of an accident initiator where the protection functioned properly to preclude a release
of a highly hazardous chemical; or,
• The determination that a protection system was out of service such that if an initiating event had
occurred, a release of a highly hazardous chemical would have taken place.
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Normally Unoccupied Remote Facility. A facility that is operated, maintained, or serviced by workers
who visit the facility only periodically to check its operation and to perform necessary operating or
maintenance tasks. No workers are regularly or permanently stationed at the facility. Such facilities are
not contiguous with, and must be geographically remote from, all other buildings, processes, or persons.
If workers spend more than 1 hour at a facility each day, that, facility is not considered to be normally
unoccupied.
Probability. An expression of the expected likelihood of occurrence of an event or event sequence during
an interval of time, or the likelihood of the success or failure of an event on test or on demand. By
definition probability must be expressed as a number ranging from 0 to 1.
Process. Any onsite activity that involves a highly hazardous chemical, including any use, storage,
manufacturing, handling, or movement of a highly hazardous chemical, or combination of these activities.
Any interconnected group of vessels is considered a single process. Vessels with no physical
interconnections located such that an accident in one vessel could spread to adjacent vessels are
considered a single process.
Process Hazard. An inherent chemical or physical characteristic with the energy potential for damaging
people, property, and/or the environment.
Process Hazards Analysis (PrHA). The application of one or more analytical methods to identify and
evaluate process hazards for the purpose of determining the adequacy of or need for control measures.
Process Safety Management. The application of management principles, methods, and practices to
prevent and control accidental releases of process chemicals or energy.
PSM Rule. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's rule "Process Safety Management of
Highly Hazardous Chemicals," 29 CFR 1910.119.
Risk. The quantitative or qualitative expression of possible loss that considers both the probability that a
hazard will result in an adverse event and the consequences of that event.
Threshold Quantity. As defined in 29 CFR 1910.119, the minimum amount of a toxic, reactive, or
flammable chemical judged by OSHA as capable of causing a catastrophic event. The threshold quantity
triggers application of the rule's requirements
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10.0 REFERENCES
Section 49
DOE HANDBOOKS, ORDERS, AND STANDARDS
1. DOE-HDBK-1101-2004, “Process Safety Management for Highly Hazardous Chemicals,”
Washington, DC, August 2004.
2. DOE Order 422.1, “Conduct of Operations Requirements for DOE Facilities,” Washington, DC, 10-4-
2019
3. DOE Order 440.1B, “Worker Protection Management for DOE Federal and Contractor Employees,”
Washington, DC, September 15, 2020
4. DOE-STD-1027-2018, “Hazard Categorization and Accident Analysis Techniques for Compliance
with DOE Order 5480.23 Nuclear Safety Analysis Reports,” Washington, DC, September, 2018.
5. DOE-STD-3009-2014, CN2, “Preparation Guide for U.S. Department of Energy Nonreactor Nuclear
Facility Safety Analysis Reports,” Washington, DC,2014.
CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
1. 10 CFR Part 851, “Worker Safety and Health Program;”.
2. 10 CFR Part 830, “Nuclear Safety Management;”.
3. 29 CFR Part 1910, “Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals; Explosives and
Blasting Agents;”.
OTHER DOE IMPLEMENTATION GUIDANCE
1. MIL-STD-882-E, “Military Standard System Safety Program Requirements,” U.S. Department of
Defense, Washington, DC, 2002
OTHER RESOURCES
1. Burk, Arthur F., 1992. “Strengthen Process Hazards Reviews, Chemical Engineering Progress,” June
1992, pp. 90-94.
2. Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS), April 11, 1992 “Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation
Procedures,” Third Edition with Worked Examples; Publication G18; American Institute of Chemical
Engineers, April 11, 1992, New York.14
3. Freeman, Raymond A., “Documentation of Hazard and Operability Studies, Plant/Operations
Progress,” July 1991, Vol. 10, No.3.
4. Hendershot, Dennis C., “Documentation and Utilization of the Results of Hazard Evaluation Studies,”
prepared for presentation at the AIChE, 1992 Spring National Meeting, New Orleans, LA. Rohm and
Haas Company, Bristol, PA.
5. Hummer, John J., John M. Googin, Ph.D, Michael W. Knazovich, Paul R. Wasilko, and Janice West,
“Report of Investigation of Accidental Release of Hydrogen Fluoride from the Y-12 Plant,” Martin
Marietta Energy Systems, Inc., Oak Ridge, TN, March 1992.
14 Publications by the CCPS may be obtained from: American Institute of Chemical Engineers Publication Sales, 3
Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5991, Tel. (212) 591-7319 or (800) 242-4363
DOE-HDBK-1100-2004
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6. King, Ralph, Safety in the Process Industries, Butterworth-Heinemann, Ltd., 1990.
FOREWORD
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
LIST OF TABLES
Table 5.1. Deviations Guide 59
LIST OF FIGURES
ACRONYMS
1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OVERVIEW OF REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS UNDER THE PSM RULE
2.1. Process Safety Information
2.1.1. Information About Highly Hazardous Process Chemicals
2.1.2. Information About Process Technology
2.1.3. Information About Process Equipment
2.2. Process Hazard Analysis
2.2.1. Schedule
2.2.2. Scope
2.2.3. Team
2.2.4. Findings and Recommendations
2.2.5. Acceptable Methodology
3.0 ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS
3.1. Step-by-Step Procedure
3.2. Elements Common to All Process Hazard Analyses
3.2.1. Identify Process Hazards
3.2.2. Analyze Process Hazards by Developing Accident Scenarios
3.2.3. Review Previous Incidents
3.2.4. Analyze Controls and Control Failures
3.2.5. Consider Facility Siting
3.2.6. Address Human Factors
3.2.7. Evaluate Incident Effects
3.2.8. Decide on Need for Action
3.3. Presentation of Results
Section 50
RESPONSIBILITY
TASK
Operating management
A - F
PrHA team
G, H, I
Operating management and PrHA team
J, K
4.0 PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS METHODS WITH EXAMPLES
4.1. Checklist Analysis
4.1.1. Description of the Method
4.1.2. Analysis Procedure
4.1.3. Staffing Needs and Time
4.1.4. Limitations of Checklist Analysis
4.1.5. Example Checklist Analyses
4.2. What-If Analysis
4.2.1. Description of the Method
4.2.2. Analysis Procedure
4.2.3. Staffing Needs and Time
4.2.4 Limitations of the What-If Analysis
4.2.5 Example What-If Analyses
4.3 What-If/Checklist Analysis
4.3.1 Description of the Method
4.3.2 Analysis Procedure
4.3.3 Limitations of the What-If/Checklist Analysis
4.3.4 Staffing Needs and Time
4.3.5 Example What-If/Checklist Analyses
4.4 Hazard and Operability Study
4.4.2 Analysis Procedure
4.4.3 Staffing Needs and Time
4.4.4 Limitations of the Hazard and Operability Study
4.4.5 Example Hazard and Operability Studies
4.5 Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
4.5.1 Description of the Method
4.5.2 Analysis Procedure
4.5.3 Limitations of Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
4.5.4 Example Failure Mode and Effects Analyses
4.6 Fault Tree Analysis
4.6.1 Description of the Method
4.6.2 Analysis Procedure
4.6.3 Staffing Needs and Time
4.6.4 Limitations of Fault Tree Analyses
4.6.5 Example Fault Tree Analyses
5.0 REPORTING AND REVIEW OF ANALYSES
5.1 Reporting the Process Hazard Analysis
5.2 Review of the Process Hazard Analysis
6.0 ESTABLISHING A SYSTEM FOR RESOLVING ACTION ITEMS AND IMPLEMENTING CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
6.1 Process Hazard Analysis Action Items and Recommendations
6.2 Criteria for Corrective Actions and Safety Improvements
6.3 The Corrective Actions System
7.0 UPDATING THE PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSIS
7.1 Update Team
7.2 Approach
7.3 Documentation
8.0 RELATIONSHIPS OF PROCESS HAZARD ANALYSES TO OTHER DOE REQUIRED HAZARD ANALYSES
10.0 REFERENCES