Improving Hazard Identification

HAZOP (HAZard and Operability) studies have been a safety analysis keystone for over 30 years. The process is human centered and appears to contain few elements to efficiently marry it in with today's PLC (Product Life Cycle) pace.

Investigation of HAZOP processes and accidents suggest that the human cognitive is to pattern-match segments of the new or unknown system with what is known and based on a history of similar events and systems. Building on this basis we propose a hazard identification process that has potential for automation, in-turn helping to resolve issues with the product lifecycle, while redirecting the human element towards results analysis, rather than the creation of the analysis.