Dropped Object Study
A Dropped Object (DO) study, usually conducted in part with other risk assessment studies, is predominantly required to support the design of onshore and offshore facilities. It is undertaken to assess the hazards and risks involved in potential falling objects and swinging load impacts during lifting activities in industrial facilities. Typical studies involve impacts to onshore and offshore platforms, subsea pipelines and flowlines, structures and process equipment.
Method of DO Study
The methodology for conducting DO studies is very similar to that of conducting Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) studies, ultimately determining the hazards and resulting risk associated with the activity/process in question. However, not all fallen objects or swinging loads will result in perforation of the equipment or facility under review, hence the impact energy of such fallen objects must be determined. This will ultimately decide if such hazardous events can occur and if so, in what ways can this be mitigated in order to avoid the occurrence of the event.
FAQ
As a minimum, the following information would be required to conduct the study:
– Existing PHA / HAZID / HAZOP report
– Consequence Analysis Models
– Platform / pipeline / equipment layout drawings
– Type and frequency of lifts, including movable object data (weight, size, etc.)
– Lift Plan, Crane and Supply Boat movements
Based on the project requirements, additional information may be required. This will be highlighted within the Terms of Reference (ToR).
ES have conducted several DOS for clients around the world. ES can also conduct the preceding consequence analysis, as well as other risk analyses such as QRA’s to quantify the total risk to the facility. For more information, or to discuss your needs for conducting a DOS, please contact us using the form below or email [email protected]
