A successful HAZOP study depends not only on methodology, but also on clearly defined roles and responsibilities. When expectations are agreed at the start and each team member understands their role, the study becomes focused, efficient, and effective. Poor role definition, on the other hand, often leads to delays, missed hazards, and weak follow-up.
Management and Study Leadership Responsibilities
Before the study begins, management and the HAZOP study leader must agree on how the study will be conducted.
Key responsibilities at the outset
- Clearly define the scope, objectives, and boundaries of the study
- Agree on roles and responsibilities of all participants
- Review available design representations (P&IDs, layouts, procedures, etc.)
- Identify required skills and disciplines for the study team
- Develop a study programme and schedule aligned with project decision points
This early planning ensures that recommendations can be implemented in a timely manner.
Communication and Follow-Up Responsibilities
- The study leader is responsible for ensuring that a clear mechanism exists to communicate study results
- The manager is responsible for ensuring that:
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Recommendations are reviewed, Decisions are made, Actions are properly documented and tracked to closure
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A HAZOP study has little value if findings are not followed up.
Agreement on Risk Treatment Responsibilities
At the start of the study, the manager and study leader must agree on:
- Whether the team will only identify hazards and problem areas, or
- Whether the team will also propose possible risk treatment options
If risk treatments are suggested:
- Responsibility for selecting preferred options must be defined
- The authorization process for approving actions must be agreed
This avoids confusion and unrealistic expectations during the workshop.
Team Size and Composition
A HAZOP study is a team effort, and each member is selected for a specific role.
Key principles
- The team should be as small as possible, but not smaller
- All relevant knowledge and experience must be represented
- Larger teams slow down progress and reduce effectiveness
Where a system is designed by a contractor, both client and contractor personnel should be represented in the team.
Key Roles in a HAZOP Team
Study Leader
The study leader plays a central role in the success of the HAZOP.
Responsibilities
- Independent from the design team as far as possible
- Trained and experienced in HAZOP facilitation
- Plans and structures the study
- Agrees team composition with management
- Ensures availability of design information
- Selects guide words and guide word/parameter combinations
- Facilitates discussions and keeps the team focused
- Ensures accurate and complete recording of results
- Acts as the main link between management and the study team
Recorder (Scribe)
The recorder supports the study leader and ensures accurate documentation.
Responsibilities
- Records all discussions, hazards, and operability issues
- Documents recommendations and proposed actions
- Assists with planning and administration
- Requires strong technical understanding, listening ability, and writing skills
In some cases, the study leader may also perform this role.
Designer(s)
Designers provide technical design knowledge.
Responsibilities
- Explain the design intent and system representation
- Describe how deviations can occur
- Explain system responses to deviations
Their input is essential for understanding what the system can and cannot do.
User(s) / Operations Representatives
Users bring practical operational experience.
Responsibilities
- Explain how the system is operated in reality
- Describe operational consequences of deviations
- Highlight human and procedural aspects
- Identify scenarios that may lead to unacceptable consequences
This role ensures that real-world operation, not just design assumptions, is considered.
Specialists
Specialists provide focused expertise when needed.
Examples
- Instrumentation and control
- Process safety
- Electrical
- Mechanical
- Human factors
- Fire and explosion protection
Their involvement may be full-time or limited, depending on the study scope.
Maintainer
The maintainer represents the long-term upkeep of the system.
Responsibilities
- Highlight maintenance-related risks
- Identify access, testing, and reliability issues
- Provide insight into degradation and failure mechanisms
Other Stakeholders
Depending on the system, additional participants may be required, such as:
- Equipment suppliers
- Manufacturers
- Vendors of critical systems
- Other affected stakeholders
Knowledge and Training Requirements
- All team members should have sufficient knowledge of HAZOP methodology, or
- Appropriate training must be provided before the study
A well-trained team ensures productive discussions and credible results.
Certified Functional Safety Professional (FSP, TÜV SÜD), Certified HAZOP & PHA Leader, LOPA Practitioner, and Specialist in SIL Verification & Functional Safety Lifecycle, with 18 years of professional experience in Plant Operations and Process Safety across Petroleum Refining and Fertilizer Complexes.
