Final answer:
HAZOP is a method to identify potential hazards and problems in industrial processes; its effectiveness relies on a multidisciplinary team and good facilitation. Benefits are maximized through careful planning and clear goals. However, HAZOP can be time-consuming and expensive, and it requires experienced facilitation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) is to identify potential hazards and operational problems in industrial processes. This systematic technique is used to evaluate processes where deviations from the intended design can lead to risks to personnel, equipment, or the environment.
A HAZOP team is typically identified by selecting individuals with various expertise, including engineering, operations, maintenance, and safety, to ensure a comprehensive analysis. The maximum benefit from a HAZOP workshop is realized by thorough preparation, clear objectives, and effective facilitation, encouraging open communication and detailed examination of the system or process in question.
Some disadvantages of HAZOP include the time-consuming nature of the process, potential for subjective analysis leading to inconsistencies, and the need for a skilled facilitator to drive the HAZOP study effectively. It can also be expensive due to the in-depth analysis required and the cross-disciplinary nature of the team needed.