Design & Engineering | Hazard Protection Protocols | Blast Resistant Buildings | Hazard Protection
Facility siting studies help identify the best ways to protect your team and assets, ensuring safety and compliance. However, the reliability of these studies can be compromised by industry biases, primarily when the same company conducts the tests and then offers its own related services. This situation can lead to limited and pricey "catch-all" solutions that may be appropriate in some areas of your facility, but offer more protection than necessary in other areas. Below, we’ll explore the importance of facility siting studies and provide three key considerations for analyzing study results.
THE IMPORTANCE OF FACILITY SITING STUDIES
Facility siting studies (FSS) are crucial for any facility dealing with hazardous materials. They assess where to place buildings and equipment to keep everything as safe as possible from potential hazards like explosions, fires, or toxic spills. These studies should be done every five years to ensure safety and avoid expensive fixes later on.
A facility siting study helps avoid costly problems by identifying risks before they become serious issues. This can prevent expensive repairs, legal battles, or damage claims. The main goal is to evaluate potential hazards and ensure that safety measures are in place where they're needed.
A facility siting study involves three main parts:
- First, preparation includes coordinating with the study team to gather necessary information, such as site plans and emergency procedures, and discussing any required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Second, the site walk involves experts visiting your facility to observe and document plant processes, hazards, and structures. They will take measurements, photographs, and notes, and may need to access special areas or use specific tools.
- Finally, in the analysis phase, the collected data is reviewed, hazards are mapped, and a draft report is prepared for your review before the final report is issued. The time to complete the study and receive the final report depends on the site's complexity and findings.
To ensure you’re making informed decisions about your facility's safety, consider these three important questions when reviewing facility siting study results:
#1: HAVE THE RESULTS DRASTICALLY CHANGED SINCE THE LAST FSS?
If the answer is yes, then your next step must be determining why. Facility operations, equipment, and the surrounding environment can all impact risk assessment. Regularly updated facilities siting studies are crucial to ensure ongoing safety. When evaluating changes in results, consider:
- Have there been significant changes in the materials being handled or stored at the facility?
- Have new processes been implemented that could introduce new hazards?
- Has the surrounding environment changed, introducing new risks (e.g., nearby construction, changes in land use)?
Understanding why FSS results change is crucial. The reasons behind the changes can significantly impact necessary safety measures. For instance, a facility that has expanded operations or introduced new equipment might face altered risk levels. Changes in the surrounding area, such as increased traffic or nearby construction, can also impact safety. Regularly updated facility siting studies help identify these evolving risks and ensure appropriate mitigation measures are in place.
It's important to note that changes in FSS results can also be due to improvements in testing methodologies or industry standards. However, if the changes seem unexpected or significant, it's essential to seek clarification from the FSS provider and get a second opinion from an independent engineer.
#2: ARE THE RESULTS UNCLEAR, COMPLEX, OR MISLEADING?
A clear and understandable FSS report is vital for effective decision-making. If the results are complex, unclear, or appear to be misleading, it can significantly hinder your ability to interpret the data and make informed decisions. Consider the following aspects when evaluating the clarity of the results:
- Is the data presented in a straightforward and understandable manner? Look for reports that use clear language, well-organized sections, and visual aids like charts or graphs to illustrate key points.
- Does the report use excessive technical jargon or convoluted explanations that make it difficult to understand? Ideally, the report should be accessible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Are the recommendations actionable and practical? Overly vague or generalized suggestions may not provide the specific guidance needed to address your facility's unique challenges.
If the FSS results are challenging to interpret, seeking a second opinion from an independent expert can provide clarity and a better understanding. A fresh perspective ensures that you fully understand the hazards and risks identified and that the recommended mitigation strategies are appropriate and effective.
#3: IS THERE MORE THAN ONE SOLUTION OFFERED?
When reviewing FSS results, it’s a red flag if the report presents only a single proprietary solution. A limited perspective might restrict your options and prevent you from exploring all available alternatives. Consider these points:
- Diversity of Solutions: Are multiple solutions or approaches provided to address the identified risks? A variety of options allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of potential strategies and ensures that you select the most effective solution for your specific needs.
- Potential Biases: Could there be any biases influencing the recommendations? For example, if the study provider also offers specific products or services, they might recommend their own solutions over potentially better alternatives.
Conduct thorough research and seek out additional perspectives to ensure that you’re aware of all possible solutions. Make a well-rounded decision and ensure that no internal biases are limiting your options.
BENEFITS OF GETTING A SECOND OPINION ON YOUR FACILITY SITING STUDY RESULTS
A second opinion can provide valuable insights into your FSS. By getting a fresh look at the results, you can uncover potential safety improvements and make more informed decisions. Then you have all the information you need to choose the best way to protect your team.
At RedGuard, we know that making well-informed decisions for your team's safety is crucial. That's why we are covering the cost of a 30-minute call with Ali Sari, one of the world's most prominent experts in blast resistance. As a highly respected expert in the industry with 20 years of experience, Dr. Sari specializes in providing innovative, high-quality blast and fire engineering consultancy services at a leading firm in Houston, TX.
Dr. Sari will examine your facility siting study, thoroughly analyze your results, and provide safety options that you may not have known about before.
