Inherent Safer Design

Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction

Inherently safer technology evaluation at concept and FEED stage

Technical overview

Technology Selection for
Inherent Hazard Reduction

Technology selection workshops evaluate process route, reactor type, solvent system, and unit operations against inherent safety criteria. Conclusions shape selection of inherently safer technologies — continuous over batch, less hazardous solvents, lower-energy operations.

Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction — Overview
Engineering process

Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction workflow

Technology Option Inventory

Build technology option inventory for the project / unit — reaction chemistry alternatives, reactor type (CSTR / PFR / batch / micro), separation technology (distillation / membrane / extraction), thermal management (jacket / coil / heat exchanger network).

Hazard Profile Comparison

Compare hazard profile per option — material toxicity / flammability / reactivity inventory, process temperature / pressure severity, fire / explosion potential, environmental impact; align with Dow F&EI / CEI screening and CCPS technology evaluation framework.

ISD Hierarchy Application

Apply ISD hierarchy to technology selection — minimise (smaller inventory, intensified process), substitute (safer chemistry, less hazardous solvent), moderate (lower temperature / pressure, dilution), simplify (fewer steps, fewer interfaces).

Capex / Opex / Lifecycle Cost Analysis

Quantify capex (equipment, instrumentation, civil), opex (energy, maintenance, materials), lifecycle cost (NPV over 20-year horizon); compare against hazard reduction benefit; align with corporate investment appraisal.

Technology Risk & Maturity Assessment

Assess technology maturity (TRL — Technology Readiness Level), commercial reference base, vendor capability, and project execution risk; align with stage-gate decision-making and corporate technology gatekeeping.

Selection Decision & ISD Credit Documentation

Document technology selection decision with hazard / cost / maturity trade-off; capture ISD credit for downstream LOPA / SIL / FERA / QRA; integrate with FEED gate review and SIM / FSA Stage 1 audit.

Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction — Scope
Scope of work

Every deliverable — from basis to handover

Complete Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction scope — every calculation, drawing, specification, and construction support activity.

Process route comparison and screening
Continuous vs batch evaluation
Solvent and feedstock substitution
Reactor type selection
Operating condition optimisation
Inherent safety scoring
FEED design basis recommendation
Engineering outcomes

Outcomes of Technology Selection for Inherent Hazard Reduction

Technology Hazard Minimisation
  • Eliminates hazards at technology selection
  • Reduces inventory and severity at source
  • Strengthens defence-in-depth
  • Supports informed licensor choice
CCPS ISD / ATEX Technology Defence
  • Tracks to CCPS ISD guidance
  • Documents inherent-safer-first decision
  • Supports COMAH/SEVESO prevention
  • Withstands ALARP demonstration
Technology Option Evaluation Quality
  • Simplifies operation and maintenance
  • Reduces incident frequency at source
  • Supports process intensification
  • Sharpens cross-function dialogue
Lifecycle Hazard & Insurance Cost Reduction
  • Lowers safeguard burden via lower hazard
  • Cuts insurance premium loadings
  • Reduces capital and operating cost
  • Supports licensing dialogue
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Speak with our team to scope an engagement tailored to your facility, regulatory context, and lifecycle stage.