Hazard Identification Study (HAZID Study)

A HAZID study is a systematic and structured method used to identify potential hazards and assess risks throughout the lifecycle of a hazardous industrial facility, including facilities the oil and gas sector. It serves as one of the earliest and most proactive safety assessments, ensuring that potential threats to people, assets, and the environment are identified and mitigated before design finalization or operational start-up.

At PRISM, our HAZID study is facilitated by experienced safety professionals who guide a multidisciplinary team through a structured workshop process. The team typically includes representatives from process, mechanical, instrumentation, operations, and safety disciplines to ensure that every perspective is considered.

The HAZID methodology begins by dividing the system or facility into manageable sections, or nodes, to allow for a focused and detailed review. For each node, the team applies a systematic set of guidewords to identify potential hazards — from process deviations and equipment failures to environmental and human-factor risks. Each hazard is analysed in terms of its possible causes, consequences, and existing safeguards or barriers that prevent, control, or mitigate the associated risk.

The risks identified during the HAZID study are then assessed using a structured risk matrix, which evaluates both likelihood and consequence. This approach enables the team to prioritize hazards based on their overall risk ranking. Any gaps or areas requiring additional risk reduction measures are documented as recommendations for improvement, such as design modifications, procedural updates, or operational controls.

The outcome of a HAZID study is a detailed report summarizing all identified hazards, their corresponding safeguards, and the recommended actions for further mitigation. This deliverable serves as a critical reference for design teams, project owners, and regulators, ensuring that safety considerations are embedded early in the project and maintained throughout its lifecycle.

By integrating technical expertise with a proven facilitation approach, PRISM’s HAZID studies support clients in achieving safer designs, regulatory compliance, and enhanced operational reliability. Whether conducted during the concept, FEED, or operational phase, our structured approach ensures that no potential hazard is overlooked — reinforcing PRISM’s commitment to excellence in process safety and risk management.