Developing a PSM Framework for Improved Process Safety

This informal CPD article ‘Developing a PSM Framework for Improved Process Safety’, was provided by Synergen Oil and Gas UK, an independent engineering consultancy specialising in Process Safety, Technical Risk Management and Operational Safety services.

Process Safety Management (PSM) is a crucial aspect of industrial operations, as it helps to ensure the safety and health of employees, the public, and the environment. But have you ever wondered how to develop and implement a PSM framework within your organisation effectively? 

In this article, we will explore the importance of developing a PSM framework and provide an overview of the steps involved in creating one.

Process Safety Management Program Development Goals

Develop the Process Safety Management (PSM) program by setting goals based on the hazards that can be quantitatively measured in the process. The company should align the PSM program with its business objectives and communicate it to all stakeholders. The company should regularly review and adjust the program's goals as necessary.

In addition to these practices, there are several key elements of any successful PSM framework: 

• A well-defined purpose or goal statement that identifies why a company has implemented a specific approach to managing its processes in an effort to improve their safety performance.
• A clear description of how each component will contribute towards achieving this purpose or goal statement (i.e., what does it mean for something “to contribute”?).
• A comprehensive set of policies and procedures that guide how the company will manage its processes and ensure they are safe.
• A process for identifying, evaluating, and controlling process hazards, including those associated with new or modified processes.
• A system for training employees on process safety management concepts and procedures, as well as on the specific hazards associated with their jobs.

• A system for maintaining and updating process safety information, including information on process hazards, procedures, and training.
• A system for incident investigation and reporting and for analysing incidents to identify and address underlying causes. 
• A system for conducting regular safety audits and inspections to identify and address any potential process safety issues.
• A process for evaluating the effectiveness of the PSM program and making improvements as needed.

Overall, the key elements of a successful PSM program are those that support the effective identification, management, and control of process hazards and that align with the company's business objectives and goals.

Steps involved in creating a PSM framework

Develop a Process Safety Information (PSI) package: The Company should include process flow diagrams, hazard analysis, process safety procedures, and other relevant information about the processes being managed in the PSI package.

Identify and Evaluate Hazards: This step involves identifying potential hazards associated with the processes and evaluating their likelihood and potential consequences.

Implement Process Safety Controls: Implement controls, such as procedures, equipment, and training, to mitigate the risks identified and evaluated in the previous step.

Conduct Regular Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and Incident Investigations: Regularly reviewing and updating the PSI package and conducting PHAs and incident investigations helps to identify and address potential hazards before they can cause an incident.

Establish a Management of Change (MOC) Process: It is necessary to implement a MOC process to evaluate the potential impact of changes to the process on process safety and to implement appropriate controls. 

Regular reviews and audits: Regularly reviewing and updating the PSI package, conducting PHAs and incident investigations, and auditing the PSM program helps to identify and address potential hazards before they can cause an incident.

Tips for developing an effective PSM framework involve all relevant stakeholders:

• Employees, management, and other stakeholders should be involved in developing and implementing the PSM framework to ensure that their concerns and needs are considered. 
• Align with industry standards: The PSM framework should align with relevant industry standards such as OSHA's PSM standard and the American Petroleum Institute's Recommended Practice 754.
• Continuously improve: The PSM framework should be continuously reviewed and improved based on feedback, incident investigations, and industry best practices. 

Bottom-line

Thoroughly designing and implementing a PSM program is crucial for preserving the well-being of workers, the community, and the natural surroundings. Have you identified areas where your current PSM framework could use improvement? Are you ready to start developing or enhancing your PSM framework? By taking action on these questions, you can work towards ensuring a safer and more secure industrial environment for your employees, the public and the environment.

We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Synergen Oil and Gas UK, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.