Published 19 May 2023

The 10 Best HAZOP Software of 2023

HAZOP Software

What is a HAZOP Software?

HAZOP software (Hazard and Operability Study) is a digital tool for team-based risk analysis and hazard identification. It is used in chemical processing and nuclear power plants by HAZOP team leaders, process designers, equipment operators, and other specialists to determine deviations and manage their risk.

Key Features of a HAZOP Software

Aside from HAZOP software, a variety of digital tools can function as a HAZOP solution. It includes safety management software, risk management software, or EHS software. As long as they can deliver the capabilities of a comprehensive hazard and operational analysis, they should work. The most important thing is that these software programs should have the following features:

  • Hazard identification
  • Risk identification
  • Risk analysis
  • Risk assessment
  • Cloud-based technology
  • Reporting functionality
  • Adjustable workflows
  • Insightful analytics
  • Collaboration capability
  • Highly customizable
  • Seamless integration
  • Mobile compatibility
  • User-friendly

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

While conducting a HAZOP has many benefits, including the identification of ambiguous and intangible hazards and comprehensive hazard prediction, it also has a number of issues that can be difficult to overcome. Though some challenges are beyond the control of the HAZOP team, such as the lack of vendor cooperation and adequate information, there are a few which can be remedied through the use of HAZOP software. 

Neglecting Changes

Though it can be easy to dismiss the differences between repetitive designs, merely conducting a one-time HAZOP for all of them can lead to HAZOP teams not taking into account the changes that have taken place since the first HAZOP was conducted. It’s important to remember that all designs, even repetitive ones, require regular in-depth evaluations or new HAZOPs. This principle also applies to conducting HAZOPs for parallel pieces of equipment. For example, when similar equipment is installed in separate plants, the process conditions of each plant can lead to differences in the operation of the same piece of equipment. 

By displaying pre-set questions, a HAZOP software solution ensures that HAZOP teams are reminded to analyze each design and inspect even similar equipment for differences or changes they may have missed. HAZOP teams can also edit or add to a previous HAZOP template so that it reflects the differences or changes they’ve identified.

Insufficient Time

Though HAZOPs are vital in ensuring the safety and productivity of a plant, they also take up a considerable amount of time and resources and are thus often rushed or conducted improperly. However, while devoting enough time and resources to HAZOP is recommended, there is a way to ensure that the entire process is as smooth and as efficient as possible. Using HAZOP software instead of paper can certainly lead to more tasks being accomplished within the same timeframe due to the automation of workflows.

Following Up on HAZOP Actions

One of the key benefits of conducting a HAZOP is the thorough identification of potential hazards, meaning that the risk of hazards not even in existence are examined and planned for. Yet, merely enumerating what should be done to mitigate that risk and not actually taking action  negates any advantage a HAZOP hazard prediction can bring. Following up on actions created as a result of the HAZOP is essential to its success. 

Using the collaborative actions feature of HAZOP software, external HAZOP leaders can coordinate with members of the organization in arranging the close out of recommended actions. Additionally, if someone forgets to set a due date for an action, HAZOP softwares should ideally automatically give a due date for the following week, ensuring that it isn’t missed.

Check out these ready-to-use HAZOP templates:

SafetyCulture Content Specialist

Jaydee Reyes

Jaydee Reyes is a content writer and researcher for SafetyCulture. Her six-year experience in the field of data research and media monitoring adds expertise and quality to her work. She is also a champion of leveraging technology to promote a culture of safety in workplaces around the world. As a content specialist, she aims to help companies adapt to digital changes through interesting and informational articles.

Jaydee Reyes is a content writer and researcher for SafetyCulture. Her six-year experience in the field of data research and media monitoring adds expertise and quality to her work. She is also a champion of leveraging technology to promote a culture of safety in workplaces around the world. As a content specialist, she aims to help companies adapt to digital changes through interesting and informational articles.