FAQ

Although Adley can assist with large multi-discipline projects, we also excel in being the “Easy Button” for many clients.  There is no task too small. If you have a few MOC’s that need a small amount of engineering review, we can review, calculate, compile backup information and write up a summary. A small task that can be hard to complete with “more important” projects on your plate. Send them our way and consider them done. You can use us for 1 or 100. You can use us as needed and know that we will respond with the same quality and responsiveness you expect on larger projects.

Management of Change (MOC) should be used when modifying equipment, procedures, personnel, materials, and operating conditions.  Engineering review is essential to ensure that the consequences of the change are reviewed from a design perspective. The engineering review should identify upstream or downstream effects that may not be readily apparent.  Adley Services has an eye for detail when reviewing MOC’s. A MOC is not required for situations involving replacement in kind.

Production Optimization is getting your system to run more efficiently.  Optimization can occur before anticipated additions in production or later in the life of a facility when production rates have declined.  Adley Services can run calculations to identify unnecessary loses or pinch points that are limiting production. We can check vessel and piping sizes to ensure they are appropriately sized.  We can review options that weigh production rates versus cost (i.e., different pipe sizes or production flow paths).

What does Adley do to prepare for PHAs to ensure efficiency during the meeting?

Adley prides itself on preparation before PHAs. When you attend a PHA with an Adley facilitator, you can rest assured that we are prepared.  You can expect the meeting to run efficiently. Your time is valuable and treated accordingly.

First, the PHA file is ready, nodes are identified, and setup. If a checklist is used, questions are preloaded with the most common hazards identified. Standard safeguards are prepared for easy selection, and recommended wording is provided. We do our best to minimize typing time during the PHA.

Second, the facilitator spends the necessary time to understand the process before the PHA, which is complemented by engineering knowledge.  The facilitator can help direct conversation towards hazards specific to the process under review. The technical expertise allows the PHA team to focus efforts on the task at hand, leading to higher efficiency during the meeting.

Lastly, in preparation for the meeting, Adley Services distributes copies of the report, audio-visual equipment is checked, and logistics are defined and tested ahead of time. We meet internally to identify any anticipated slowdown and work out solutions before the PHA.

Before a PHA, it is best to confirm that your Process Safety Information (PSI) is up to date. 

Walk down drawings to ensure accuracy.  Drawings should include P&IDs (or process flow diagrams), equipment layouts, electrical area classification, and function charts.  If not listed on the drawings, gather design pressures and temperatures for all equipment.

 Compile all MOC’s since the previous PHA. 

Make a list of all incidents and regulatory occurrences for the facility since the previous PHA. 

Provide a copy of the previous PHA, noded drawings, and recommendations with closeout documentation.  The Company PHA standards are also needed, if available. During the PHA, the team will need to have access to operating procedures, design information, relief studies, and other pertinent information.

The required attendees are the facilitator, the engineer, and operations.  Each brings an essential aspect to an effective PHA and ensures success in hazard identification.  The facilitator is trained in the methodology. He guides the team to follow the PHA process. The engineer has the technical knowledge of the design of the facility.  His input helps identify the reasoning behind safety systems. The operator has an intimate knowledge of how the process runs daily. He shares actual operating conditions and scenarios.  Each team member brings a different perspective to the PHA, working together makes for an effective PHA.

We conduct our PSM Audits internally.  How can we benefit from using Adley?

A third-party auditor, like Adley Services, provides a fresh review of your Process Safety Management system.  We can help identify and close gaps that may not have been recognized by the internal team that also prepared for the audit.  We review numerous facilities and can share knowledge of industry standards regarding PSM. We can assist in meeting regulatory requirements without becoming time-critical.  This allows your team to take care of their regular duties without the additional burden of the audit. Our expertise in PSM and auditing, assures you that your facility audit is in good hands.

Now that your PSM Audit is complete, you have a list of recommendations to complete.  Adley Services can help review the gaps and help to close them. We have engineers who understand the PSM requirements.  We have closed out findings in all 14 of the PSM elements. We can assist with engineering reviews, documentation, procedures, and so much more.  We can help where your team may not be sure where to start. We work efficiently to complete the open items to meet the standards. We can work with your onsite personnel to ensure compliance.

Engineering brings technical knowledge to your PSM system.  An engineering review ensures that the consequences of any changes in the covered process are reviewed from a design perspective.  The engineering review should identify adverse upstream or downstream effects that may not be readily apparent under normal operating conditions.  A review of operating procedures usually results in more detail added to the consequences of deviation and how to avoid it. We can help optimize your process through an analysis of inefficiencies in the system.  Engineers like those at Adley Services bring unrealized benefits to your covered process.