Management of change

From WikiTextbook

The objective of a Management of Change (MOC) program is to ensure all changes to a process are properly reviewed and hazards introduced by the change are identified, analyzed, and controlled prior to resuming operation. MOC often seems deceptively simple in concept but can be one of the most difficult elements of Process Safety Management to implement effectively.

The course begins with a discussion of the types of changes that could have adverse impacts on process safety, including some that may not be obvious. Examples are provided of how changes, including even very simple ones, have caused accidents. Regulatory requirements for managing change are reviewed, including interpretations and clarifications that have been provided by OSHA since the PSM standard was issued. Management systems for managing changes are described and an example system is provided. This is followed by a presentation on keys to effectively designing and implementing MOC programs including:

Keys to Developing an MOC Procedure

How to Identify Changes Before They are Made

How to Screen and Classify Changes

Keys to Identifying Hazards in Changes

How to Document MOC Reviews

How to Make Approvals and Authorizations Workable

Keys to Informing and Training Personnel in Changes

Keys to Updating PSI, Procedures and Other PSM Information

How to Effectively Implement an MOC Program

How to Review and Revise an Existing MOC Program

Key Aspects for Successful MOC Programs

A course manual is provided. In addition to the course presentation slides, it includes resource materials to assist in developing a new MOC program and reviewing/auditing and revising an existing MOC program.

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