Requirements for improved process hazard analysis (PHA) methods

Key criteria to guide the development of improved methods are proposed and discussed. These criteria include a structure that facilitates meaningful brainstorming of scenarios, ease of understanding and application of the method by participants, ability to identify scenarios efficiently, completeness of scenario identification, exclusion of extraneous scenarios, ease of updating and revalidating studies, and ease of meeting regulatory requirements. Some proposals are made for moving forward with the development of improved methods including the semi-automation of studies and improvements in the training of team members.