Safety Critical Element Methodology in an Oil and Gas Company

Barrier systems are used to protect humans and assets from hazards. These barrier systems may be classified as either active or passive barrier systems, and as physical, technical or human/operational barrier systems. Safety Critical Elements (SCE) are part of these barrier systems to protect against major hazardous events such as fire, explosions, collisions, etc. SCEs prevent, control, mitigate and facilitate safe evacuation from the identified major hazards. However, there is no clear methodology to define which systems or equipment are SCE and what to do after SCEs are declared.

This study aimed to develop a specific methodology for implementing SCEs in an oil and gas company. The methodology involved risk assessment, major hazard scenario development, SCE identification, establishing a performance standard, developing maintenance, inspection and testing plans, implementing assurance activities and, finally, issuing a key performance indicator.

The results of this methodology can provide guidance for defining SCE systems and equipment and what to do after these SCE systems are established.