Overview

In the preceding chapters, we examined hazards that we can expect during the lifetime of a process plant. The first step in managing them is to identify and, where possible, measure the risks. We can measure quantified risks using their component parameters, namely, the frequency and severity of the events. If the risk is qualitative, we note the factors affecting the perceptions. There is an element of simplification here, since quantitative risks can affect qualitative risks and vice-versa.

We have to bring these risks down to a level that society will be willing to tolerate, and at a cost that we can afford. Ideally, the best time to do this is while the plant is being designed. This does not always happen for reasons such as a lack of awareness, time, tools, resources, or skills. Often, the project team may get a performance bonus if they complete the project in time and within budget. The main risk they worry about can be that of the size of their bonus! Thus, their own agenda may conflict with that of life cycle risks facing the plant.

In this chapter, we will discuss a selection of tools that are applicable in the design and operational phases of the plant. Of these, Reliability Centered Maintenance or RCM has a wide range of applicability in both the design and operational phases, so we will discuss it in some detail.

In Chapter 7, we explored the qualitative aspects of risk and why perceptions matter. If...