Optimizing Process Safety Management (PSM)

Introduction:

The rules of Process Safety Management (PSM) have recently undergone critical evaluation to meet new government and societal demands regarding industrial safety. Despite these improvements, accidents still occur due to pressures like production demands and cost-cutting.

This Process Safety Management training emphasizes the key role Managers and Engineers in Process Plants play in balancing safety with productivity. Continuous self-development and regular training are crucial for accident prevention and maintaining safety standards. This PSM course equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance safety competence and improve operational efficiency.

Objectives:

At the end of this PSM Process Safety Management course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the importance of process safety management in the industry.
• Identify devices designed to contain fluids within systems.
• List potential hazards and risk controls in the Process Safety Management System (PSMS).
• Implement safety precautions for furnace operations.
• Recognize risks associated with Start-Up and Shutdown procedures.
• Apply safety standards for confined space entry and operations.
• Develop effective emergency response plans.

Training Methodology:

• Use of audiovisuals in presentations
• Debates
• Case study reviews
• Role-playing
• Interactive workshops
• Problem-solving scenarios
• Peer reviews

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Foundations of Process Safety

• Definition of Process Safety
• Lessons learned from accidents through case studies
• Good Practice Guidelines (EU, USA)
• Work Permit Systems and Handover Protocols
• Case Study Integration

Unit 2: Risk Management and Management of Change

• Overview of the Risk Management Process and safety management tools
• Accident causation and prevention (Swiss Cheese Model)
• HAZOP studies and their role in risk assessment
• Inherently safer design approaches
• Effective Management of Change procedures and documentation
• Case Study in Process Safety Management

Unit 3: Fire and Combustion Including Confined Space Entry

• Furnace operation safety under PSM
• Control measures for various firing conditions
• Confined Space Entry safety procedures
• Cleaning, isolation, and atmospheric testing
• Case study to reinforce learned concepts

Unit 4: Start-Up, Shutdown Operations, Hydrocarbon Storage, and Fire Classifications

• Best practices for Start-Up and Shutdown procedures
• Hydrocarbon storage management in bund areas
• Implementation of Safety Instrumented Systems
• Classification of fires and explosions: VCE, UVCE, BLEVE, and Boil Over
• Bridging theory with a Case Study

Unit 5: Fire and Emergency Response

• Passive vs. Active Fire Protection Methods
• Emergency response preparedness and activities
• Review of PSM curriculum elements
• Final Case Study to reinforce key concepts

Conclusion:

Participants who successfully complete the training will receive a Process Safety Management certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in applying PSM principles. This course provides a structured approach to managing processes and equipment that pose safety risks, aiming to minimize the release of hazardous gases and liquids, particularly in dangerous chemical processes.