Operating Procedures

CCPS RBPS Element 3.1 OPERATING PROCEDURES

The RBPS element that ensures proper development, timely maintenance, and consistent use of operating procedures (procedures) is one of nine elements in Managing Risk Pillar (Foundational Block).

Operating procedures are written instructions (including procedures that are stored electronically and printed on demand) that;

(1) list the steps for a given task and
(2) describe the manner in which the steps are to be performed.

Good procedures also describe the process, hazards, tools, protective equipment, and controls in sufficient detail that operators understand the hazards, can verify that controls are in place, and can confirm that the process responds in an expected manner. Procedures critical to the safe operation or maintenance of equipment should reference hazard review information (as appropriate) and include consequence of deviation warnings.

Procedures should also provide instructions for troubleshooting when the system does not respond as expected. Procedures should specify when an emergency shutdown should be executed and should also address special situations, such as temporary operation with a specific equipment item out of service.

Operating procedures are normally used to control activities such as transitions between products, periodic cleaning of process equipment, preparing equipment for certain maintenance activities, and other activities routinely performed by operators.

The scope of this element is limited to those operating procedures that describe the tasks required to safely start up, operate, and shut down processes, including emergency shutdown. Operating procedures complement safe work and asset integrity procedures, which are addressed later.

EI PSM Element 8 OPERATING MANUALS AND PROCEDURES

Operation of facilities within established parameters and according to legislation is an essential aspect of HS&E and process safety.

Management must ensure that the operating manuals and procedures required to support operations are identified, available, accurate, up to date, understood and used.

The following topics relate to this element:

HUMAN FACTORS

Incidents

Information

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