Figure F: HAZOPs in IWK
Asset Management Risk
In general, amongst the
benefits of HAZOP studies are:
●●
Identification
of
hazards and operability
problems at an early
stage;
●●
Opportunity to correct
errors and oversights
during design stage;
●●
Reduce losses brought
about by hazard and
operability problems;
●●
Ensure
that
all
legislative requirements
are consistently met;
●●
Cost
saving
by
minimizing potential
remedial works and
modifications later; and
●●
Encourage brains to r ming by te am
members from various
functions or disciplines.
There are many deviations/
operational and maintenance
shortcomings which can be
found through HAZOP studies,
depending on the experience
and awareness of the designer
on MSIG requirements,
sewerage works safety and
operability issues. Some of
these are highlighted below:●●
Improper
design
location of decanter,
difficult to operate and
maintain;
●●
Lack of proper spacing
between equipment
for operator access for
maintenance;
●●
Not enough height/
clearance for pump
sizing to pass through;
difficult to lift the pump.
●●
Pipe obstruction along
the walk way – lack of
access, trip hazards;
●●
Dif ficult to operate
and maintain – motor
underneath the slab of
clarifier; and
●●
Operation of the
penstock hindered due
to position of the access
ladder.
Headroom for access
staircase insufficient to
clear.
Overall, HAZOPs in sewerage
works is a necessary tool
to examine system and risk
management and reduce hazard
and operability issues at an
early stage (Figure F). Therefore,
HAZOPs is an important element
in achieving successful asset
management in IWK.
Both risk- based as set
management practices and
HAZOPs initiatives help IWK not
only to manage potential risk
and hazard related to its assets
but also help to allocate and
prioritize resources. It is hoped
that with continuing rollout of
these practices in line with
the Company’s Organisational
S t r a t e g i c P l an , an d b y
understanding the asset and
operational risk appetite, IWK
will be able to achieve effective
and efficient sewerage service
delivery in the near future.
●●
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