Layer of Protection Analysis As a Multi-Functional Team Problem Solving Tool

Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) has been widely adopted as a method of organizing and quantifying hazard rates. Frequently, an initial LOPA indicates that a risk target has not been met. Unlike Fault Tree Analysis, the inherent simplicity of the LOPA format makes it conducive for use directly as a problem solving tool in a team environment. Teams at Air Products with representatives from operations, process controls, process design and process safety, have effectively used the LOPA format in problem-solving sessions to identify and improve components of the analysis involving human error, controls architecture, and inherently safer process designs. This multi-functional team approach has resulted in broader ownership of the safety analysis by the full team of stakeholders, and this has ultimately led to more cost effective solutions. The benefits of multi-functional team review are illustrated with a case study example.