Development of Methodologies for Managing Process Safety Risk Using Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) and Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) for LNG Facilities

Overview

Main Objective

The objective of this project is to develop methodologies for managing Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) techniques, such as Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) and Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) for LNG facilities.

The project will develop a detailed guide for LNG production, storage and transport companies to understand and consistently apply PHA methodologies, tailored to the LNG industry resulting in an increased understanding and consistency of the application of PHA methodologies.

Public Abstract

ioMosaic has extensive experience in Liquefied Natural Gas process safety. This experience includes Emergency Relief Systems (ERS), Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA), Consequence Modeling, training courses, and generation of guidance documents. In addition to extensive practical process safety experience, our professionals have authored hundreds of technical publications and several books on process safety and risk assessment.

The project will be conducted according to the following main steps:

• Review literature and relevant regulations
• Identify different PHA techniques
• Develop criteria and methodologies for conducting the PHA
• Deliver reported results

Various PHA methodologies will be analyzed for strengths and weaknesses, as well as appropriateness for any particular stage in a LNG facility lifecycle.

The key components comprising any type of PHA, will be reviewed, including:

• The hazards of the process (specific hazards related to LNG production, storage and handling will be addressed).
• The identification of any previous incidents.
• Engineering and administrative controls.
• Consequences of failure of engineering and administrative controls;
• A qualitative evaluation of a range of the possible safety and health effects of failure of controls on employees.

Specific checklists will be provided, including:

• Facility siting Checklist
• Human factors checklist
• Maintainability Review Checklist
• Facility and Process Modification Checklist
• Damage Mechanism Review Checklist

For other PHA methodologies, guidance will be provided for:

• Typical hazard scenarios related to LNG production, storage and transportation
• Frequencies/probabilities/condition modifiers specific to the LNG industry

Guidance for each methodology, as well as specific checklists will be provided.

ioMosaic Corporation will also conduct a thorough review of existing consensus standards and regulatory requirements, as they pertain to process safety in the LNG industry.

Project Description: The objective of this project is to develop methodologies for managing Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) techniques, such as the Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) and Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) for LNG facilities.

Anticipated Results: A detailed and concise guide for LNG production, storage and transport companies to understand and consistently apply process hazard analysis methodologies, tailored to the LNG industry.

Potential Impact on Safety: An increased understanding and consistency of the application of Process Hazard Analysis methodologies, specifically applied to the LNG industry

Summary and Conclusions

This report evaluates Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) methodologies for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facilities, focusing on Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies and Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA). It provides structured approaches for managing LNG hazards in production, storage, and transport.

A review of approximately 100 sources identified best practices and key methodologies, including Preliminary Hazard Review, Hazard Identification (HAZID), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), Event Tree Analysis (ETA), and Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA). Supporting techniques such as risk evaluation, hazard scenario identification, and failure frequency analysis enhance PHA effectiveness.

The report recommends tailored PHA methodologies for each project stage, from conceptual design to operation and maintenance, ensuring compliance with local regulations and industry standards. Practical insights into PHA implementation, including preparation, execution, and follow-up, are provided alongside an illustrative HAZOP/LOPA example with process flow diagrams and risk rankings.

Key recommendations include updating 49 CFR Part 193 to align with modern safety standards, expanding PHA requirements, and integrating contemporary risk assessment frameworks. The LNG industry is encouraged to enhance risk assessment during Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), adopt HAZOP as a standard, and utilize multiple PHA methodologies to improve safety outcomes.

By implementing structured PHA approaches, LNG operators can enhance safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency, ensuring the long-term integrity of LNG infrastructure.

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