Risk identification in industry 

The most vital part of risk analysis is the systematic identification of unwanted incidents and potentially hazardous situations. Having identified a hazard that was not previously considered, measures for eliminating it or making it potentially less harmful can be devised.

The choice of method and the composition of the team carrying out risk identification are critical to the quality of the risk analysis. COWI's specialists have experience with many different methods and including a number that we have developed ourselves. We have also modified well known methods such as HAZOP, to fit specific situations.

We usually work with the client to put together the best qualified team so that relevant knowledge and experience is employed optimally in identifying the risks. The involvement of the client’s O&M personnel usually has an extremely beneficial effect on the outcome.

Fortunately major accidents are rare. Experience from operating the installation will not necessarily identify all the relevant hazards. Collection of information from accident and near-miss reports from similar installations throughout the world always forms part of our risk identification process.

We keep up to date with developments in the fields of instrumentation, control and risk reducing systems. We obtain the latest information available on these subjects from our experts in the relevant COWI engineering departments.