Hazard And Operability Study

Digging Deeper Into Process Risk

HAZOP is where we drill down and look at your process line by line, node by node.

It’s a methodical, structured approach to figure out how deviations in process intent both small and large, could lead to a catastrophic event which causes critical asset damage and severe injury or loss of life.

This is where we move from high-level hazard identification to detailed operability review. We challenge design assumptions, explore potential deviations, and work out what’s missing, broken, or simply not as robust as it needs to be.

Whether you’re designing from scratch or modifying an existing plant, HAZOP gives your team the time, structure and opportunity to identify critical risks, allowing these to be reduced to an acceptable level when the correct mitigation is applied.

What to Expect From A HAZOP

We typically run HAZOPs once detailed design is in place, using piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) to work through the process in manageable chunks, or nodes. We’ll define guidewords, walk through deviations, and pull together the right mix of engineers, operators and safety leads to make sure nothing’s missed. Every session is chaired and documented by experienced facilitators who know the difference between useful scrutiny and unnecessary waffle.

Why HAZOP Matters

HAZOP isn’t just about hazard spotting, it’s a structured risk assessment that digs into how a process actually behaves when things don’t go to plan.

  1. Catch design flaws before they become incidents. HAZOPs help uncover the subtle, cascading risks that often get missed in high-level reviews.

  2. Challenge assumptions in a structured way. Guidewords give teams a shared language to question design intent and explore real-world deviations.

  3. Strengthen safeguards with clarity. It’s not just about what could go wrong, it’s about whether your controls are up to the job, and what to do if they aren’t.

Safer Design Starts With Rigour

A well-run HAZOP is detailed, slow, and sometimes intense, but that’s the point.

It lets you explore ‘what ifs’ before they happen, and it creates a culture where people can raise concerns without fear or friction.

These sessions are time-consuming for a reason. They build resilience into your process from day one, giving your team the confidence that every key risk has been considered.

Designed Around Your Team

We don’t just turn up with a spreadsheet. We tailor every session around your process, your people, and your risks.

We create a space where operators, engineers and management can contribute meaningfully, and walk away knowing the right questions were asked.

That’s what makes it work. Not just the structure, but the trust in the room.

Get In Touch

Need to run a HAZOP on a new process, site modification, or detailed design review? We’ll help you make sure it’s done right. Get in touch to speak with one of our experienced facilitators and plan the best approach for your site.