A Control Hazard and Operability (CHAZOP) Study is a structured and effective tool for identifying potential control system failures or errors that may lead to hazardous situations or operability problems.
A CHAZOP is a systematic risk assessment tailored to control systems such Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Distributed Controls Systems (DCS) and other microprocessor-based systems. It focuses on analysing the interfaces between different pieces of equipment, as well as the transfer and handling of information within these systems.
Like a HAZOP, a CHAZOP uses guidewords to support the detailed examination of the design. However, these guidewords are tailored to the electronic and digital nature of the system.
CHAZOP workshops bring together a multidisciplinary team, including end users, who are guided by a facilitator to systematically review the system. Three key aspects are examined:
CHAZOPs are most effective when conducted early in the detailed design of a control system. They provide valuable insights into potential adverse consequences and how these can be avoided through design improvements or redesign.
E.S.M. undertook a safety assessment of unauthorised and unintended public use of waterfront assets, applying a hazard-based methodology aligned with WHS principles and balanced site-security objectives.
Following a near-miss incident during plant sanitisation activities, a specialist sanitisation contractor engaged E.S.M. to undertake a comprehensive engineering study into the electrical safety risks associated with high-pressure jet washing of electrical equipment.
E.S.M. supported a supplier of overseas designed and manufactured mining machinery to demonstrate machine compliance with Australian WHS requirements and standards.
E.S.M. provided independent electrical design verification and functional safety assessment to support the design registration of a Mine Winder in New South Wales.
E.S.M. conducted a Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) study, along with supporting safety assessments, for a 7.5 MW stand-by diesel generator system designed by a specialist power systems and equipment supplier.
E.S.M. recently completed an independent Confirmation Review of Concept Phase activities for an electrified vehicle system for heavy vehicles.
