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Hazard and Operability Analysis Professional

This intensive course equips participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct systematic hazard identification and operability assessments using the HAZOP methodology.

  • Practical, standards-based professional learning
  • Assessment and verifiable Cognicert certification
  • Flexible online, self-study and organisational delivery

Overview

This intensive Hazard and Operability Analysis Professional course equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to conduct systematic hazard identification and operability assessments using the Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) methodology, in line with IEC 61882:2016. The course is designed for professionals involved in risk assessment, process safety, and systems engineering. Through a mix of theoretical learning, real-life case studies, and practical workshops, participants will gain confidence in planning, facilitating, and documenting effective HAZOP studies to improve process safety and compliance. Course Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
  1. Understand the principles, structure, and methodology of HAZOP as defined by IEC 61882:2016.
  2. Identify potential hazards and operability issues in complex processes and systems.
  3. Effectively plan, lead, and document HAZOP studies.
  4. Integrate HAZOP analysis with broader risk management and safety practices.
  5. Apply HAZOP methodology to various sectors including oil & gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing.

Objectives

  • Build a clear working understanding of Hazard and Operability Analysis Professional.
  • Apply relevant principles, requirements and good practice in realistic organisational contexts.
  • Prepare participants to contribute confidently to implementation, assurance or professional practice.

Learning outcomes

Participants will be able to:
  • Explain the purpose, benefits, and structure of HAZOP.
  • Develop clear and comprehensive HAZOP study plans and reports.
  • Use guide words, nodes, and deviations in a structured way.
  • Facilitate or contribute effectively to a HAZOP team.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of control and mitigation measures identified in a HAZOP.

Reference standard

  • IEC 61882:2016 – Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP Studies) – Application Guide
  • ISO 31000:2018 – Risk Management – Guidelines
  • IEC 61511 – Functional Safety: Safety Instrumented Systems for the Process Industry
  • ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (as supporting framework)
  • ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems (for integration and documentation best practices)

Target audience

  • Process Safety Engineers
  • Risk Analysts and Managers
  • HSE Professionals
  • Plant Managers and Supervisors
  • Chemical, Process, and Mechanical Engineers
  • Safety Auditors and Compliance Officers
  • Project Managers in hazardous industries
  • Professionals involved in PHA (Process Hazard Analysis) or Risk Assessment Teams
Detailed 4-Day Content Outline: Day 1: Introduction to HAZOP and Risk Management
  • Overview of Risk Assessment Techniques
  • Introduction to Process Safety and HAZOP
  • Evolution and Context of IEC 61882:2016
  • Purpose and Scope of HAZOP Studies
  • Risk Concepts: Hazard, Risk, Consequence, Likelihood
  • Team Roles: Facilitator, Recorder, Discipline Experts
  • Defining Study Scope and Objectives
  • Case Example: HAZOP Failure due to Poor Scope
  • Group Exercise: Identify Hazards in a Basic Process
Day 2: HAZOP Methodology and Planning
  • HAZOP Methodology Structure per IEC 61882
  • Process Representation: P&IDs, Flow Diagrams
  • Defining Nodes and Boundaries
  • Guide Words and Deviations
  • Identifying Causes, Consequences, and Safeguards
  • Assigning Recommendations and Risk Ranking
  • Planning a HAZOP Study – Resource and Time Estimation
  • Exercise: Create HAZOP Plan and Node Selection
Day 3: Conducting and Facilitating HAZOP Sessions
  • Preparing for the HAZOP Session
  • Facilitating Effective HAZOP Meetings
  • Recording and Documentation Techniques
  • Dealing with Team Conflicts and Diverging Views
  • Ensuring Consistency and Completeness
  • Use of HAZOP Software Tools (Overview)
  • Workshop: Simulated HAZOP Session (Real Case Example)
  • Role-play: Participants Rotate as Facilitator and Recorder
Day 4: Reporting, Follow-up, and Integration
  • HAZOP Report Structure and Contents
  • Communicating Findings to Management and Stakeholders
  • Follow-up Actions and Tracking
  • Integration with Safety Lifecycle and Other Risk Assessments
  • Common Pitfalls and Lessons Learned from Real Events
  • Workshop: Prepare Full HAZOP Report from Simulated Case
  • Final Assessment and Feedback
  • Certification Ceremony
Course Methodologies:
  • Instructor-led presentations
  • Group discussions
  • Case study analysis
  • Hands-on HAZOP workshop simulations
  • Role-play exercises (e.g., acting as facilitator or scribe)
  • Templates and checklists for real-world application
  • Pre- and post-course assessments
Course Duration: 5 Days

Benefits

  • Stronger practical capability and professional confidence
  • A structured approach that can be transferred to the workplace
  • Assessment and a verifiable Cognicert certificate where the course requirements are met

Course content

The programme covers essential concepts, requirements, implementation considerations, evidence-based evaluation, common challenges and practical improvement planning.

Training methodologies

Learning combines tutor explanation, guided discussion, examples, exercises and scenario-based application. Delivery may be live online, self-study or arranged for an organisation.

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Refunds, cancellations and transfers

Refund and transfer choices depend on the course format, how much notice you give and whether digital content has been accessed. Contact learner care early and we will help you identify the best available option.

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UPCOMING COURSE CALENDAR

Training, exam and application dates

Only future intakes are shown. Late applications incur £50.

TRAINING DATESEXAMAPPLICATION DEADLINELATE APPLICATIONONLINE FEESELF-STUDY FEEENROL
21–25 September 202625 September 202624 August 20264 September 2026£1,200£500Book this intake
7–11 December 202611 December 20269 November 202620 November 2026£1,200£500Book this intake
VERIFIABLE ACHIEVEMENT

Independently verify your certificate

Successful candidates receive a uniquely numbered Cognicert certificate that another person can check through our public certificate-verification service.

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YOUR COURSE ADVISER

Need help before enrolling?

Lisa Williams
Course and Business Development Adviser
Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00 UK time

+44 20 3432 2505
info@cognicert.com

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