Perhaps you've heard the acronym P-H-A, but you wouldn't venture to admit knowing much more than that. Hopefully this short summary of the process hazard analysis requirements found in Title 40 CFR §68.67 and Title 29 CFR §1910.119(e) will help you to wrap your head around it:
The facility must conduct an initial process hazard analysis (PHA) on the covered process(es), taking into consideration the complexity of the process and identifying, evaluating, and controlling the hazards involved. The following methodologies may be employed to determine and evaluate the hazards of the process:
What-If
Checklist
What-If/Checklist
Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP)
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
Fault Tree Analysis
An appropriate equivalent methodology
Note: What-If Checklist and HAZOP are the most common methodologies used in the ammonia refrigeration industry.
The analysis should address the hazards, previous incidents, engineering and administrative controls, consequences of failure, facility siting, human factors, and a qualitative evaluation of potential safety and health effects.
The PHA team must meet the following requirements:
One member with engineering expertise
One member experienced with the process being evaluated (e.g., ammonia refrigeration expertise)
One member versed in the PHA methodology being used
Once the written report has been generated, recommendations must be promptly addressed, resolved, and documented. An updated and revalidated process hazard analysis must be conducted at least every five (5) years, and all related documentation must be retained for the life of the process.
If you're looking for a qualified third party to lead your upcoming PHA, submit a request through our contact page.
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