What method is employed if a team cannot reach a decision after conducting a Process Hazard Analysis?

When a team is unable to reach a decision after conducting a Process Hazard Analysis, the Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) method is employed. LOPA is a systematic approach that provides a structured way to analyze risk in process safety and helps determine if the existing layers of protection are adequate to manage identified hazards. This method allows teams to evaluate the effectiveness of safeguards and determine whether additional measures are needed.

In situations where consensus is lacking, LOPA facilitates a more quantitative analysis of risks and potential consequences, leading to more informed decision-making. It also enables teams to prioritize risks based on their severity and likelihood, which can aid in reaching an agreement on how to proceed.

Contrastingly, alternatives like checklists or "What if?" assessments may not provide the necessary rigor required for addressing more complex hazards where detailed quantitative assessment is crucial. HAZOPS is primarily focused on evaluating the potential operational issues and deviations rather than resolving decision deadlocks, making LOPA the preferred method for such situations.