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Our Solutions: Consulting

Process Safety Management (PSM)– Gap Analysis and Compliance Audit

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Understanding Process Safety Management (PSM) Gap Analysis and Compliance Audit

Gap Analysis

One of the most challenging aspects of process safety management is the attempt to interpret and convert specific safety elements into practices that are unique to a business. It is not uncommon to see one organization interpret PSM elements differently than another organization. Some companies, however, tend to interpret the regulation in a minimalistic manner or may simply limit their approach to cover basic compliance risks and legal regulations.

The gap analysis will aid you in identifying and evaluating your existing process safety management systems to adhere to regulatory compliance. A PSM Gap analysis is a systematic series of assessments to identify gaps and problem areas associated with the elements of risk-based PSM programs embedded in the operation, design, and maintenance of a process system.  

A process safety gap analysis is the first step in understanding the level at which a facility is currently performing when it comes to process safety. In essence, it is a series of risk assessments that aim to identify gaps and problematic areas that can be associated with uncertainty across operations, design, and facility maintenance.

Our gap analysis is aligned with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles and follows the CCPS Guidelines for Risk-Based Process Safety as well as OSHA PSM standards (29 CFR 1910.119).

Our gap analysis aligns with CCPS Guidelines for Risk-Based Process Safety and OSHA’s Process Safety Management standards. This approach helps identify areas for improvement in safety practices and compliance.

Gap Assessment (20 Elements of Risk Based Process Safety):

  • Foundational Block: Commit to Process Safety
    • Process safety culture
    • Compliance with standards
    • Process safety competency
    • Workforce involvement
    • Stakeholder outreach
  • Foundational Block: Understand Hazards and Risk
    • Process knowledge management
    • Hazard identification and risk analysis (HIRA)
  • Foundational Block: Manage Risk
    • Operating procedures
    • Safe work practices
    • Asset integrity and reliability
    • Contractor management
    • Training and performance assurance
    • Management of change
    • Operational readiness
    • Conduct of operations
    • Emergency management
  • Foundational Block: Learn From Experience

Compliance Audit

A compliance audit ensures adherence to the 14 elements of Process Safety Management (PSM) and is required at least every three years under OSHA regulations. These audits evaluate documentation, training, and safety practices to verify that PSM procedures are adequate and consistently followed. Employers must certify completion and address findings to enhance workplace safety and compliance.

What is the difference between a Gap Analysis and a Compliance Audit?

Where a Gap Analysis provides a high-level review of your Process Safety Management (PSM) program based on CCPS Guidelines and OSHA PSM standards (29 CFR 1910.119), the periodic audit takes a deeper dive into each element. It examines procedures, documentation, employee experiences, and site walkthroughs to deliver a comprehensive report of findings, including a detailed list of action items.

Audit (14 Elements of PSM):

  • Employee Participation
  • Process Safety Information
  • Process Hazard Analysis
  • Operating Procedures
  • Training
  • Contractors
  • Pre-Startup Safety Review
  • Mechanical Integrity
  • Hot Work Permit
  • Management of Change
  • Incident Investigation
  • Emergency Planning and Response
  • Compliance Audits
  • Trade Secrets

The Sigma-HSE Advantage

Sigma-HSE has the expertise, resources, and experience to conduct an in-depth Gap Analysis of your Process Safety Management (PSM) program, aligning with CCPS Guidelines and OSHA PSM standards (29 CFR 1910.119). This assessment encompasses both employees and non-employees across various process industries.

By applying industry knowledge and best practices, we provide actionable insights with practical recommendations and control measures to enhance safety and mitigate risks to your people, business, workplace, and the environment.

Discover our extensive range of Process Safety Testing and explore our process safety video tests firsthand. 

Request a PSM – Gap Analysis and Compliance Audit Quote

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If you find yourself asking, ‘Do I need a Gap analysis or PSM compliance audit?’, connect with us today. Our experts can answer any preliminary questions you may have.

For businesses in the EU or UK, or for those wishing to comply with DSEAR/ATEX Directives, please click here to find out more on our dedicated DSEAR Risk Assessment or ATEX Compliance pages.

 

Frequently asked questions

Process Safety Management (PSM) is a set of practices aimed at preventing the release of hazardous chemicals that could cause harm to people, property, or the environment. It is essential for ensuring that a facility operates safely, minimizes risks, and complies with regulatory standards, including OSHA regulations.

A Gap Analysis in PSM is a systematic assessment designed to identify gaps between your current safety practices and the required standards outlined in the OSHA PSM regulations and CCPS Guidelines for Risk-Based Process Safety. This analysis helps you pinpoint areas for improvement in your safety systems and ensure compliance.

A PSM Gap Analysis involves a detailed review of your existing process safety management systems to evaluate their effectiveness and identify areas where improvements are needed. It includes assessments across operational, design, and maintenance aspects of your facility, with a focus on meeting regulatory compliance.

Yes, the Gap Analysis is aligned with the CCPS Guidelines for Risk-Based Process Safety and OSHA’s PSM standards (29 CFR 1910.119). This ensures that the analysis meets both industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

Employee participation is vital because those working directly with processes have firsthand knowledge of potential hazards. Involving employees ensures that safety measures are practical, well-understood, and effective in preventing incidents.

“Management of Change” is a critical element that ensures that any changes in the process, equipment, or operations are evaluated for safety risks. This process helps prevent unintended hazards by ensuring proper safety assessments and communication before any modifications are made.

Compliance audits help identify areas where your facility may not meet regulatory requirements. By addressing audit findings and improving safety practices, you not only reduce the risk of incidents but also protect your company from potential fines and legal liabilities while ensuring a safe working environment.

After completing the analysis or audit, you will receive a detailed report that highlights areas needing improvement, along with actionable recommendations. You will also have a clear roadmap for enhancing your PSM program to ensure ongoing compliance and better safety performance.

What Our Customers Say

The detail oriented approach of the consultants helped our team in identifying the various risks & hazards involved in different stages of the project and helped us in making design and operational changes at the right time.
Project Engineer
Chemicals Industry
I would like to highlight the prompt and professional response to our enquiry, the quick turnaround time for the tests and report, and the constant communication throughout the process.
Senior Process Development Engineer
Electronics Parts Supplier
I just want to extend my compliments to your technical team for their valuable contributions to the HAZOP. Their feedback was excellent, and the facilitation was outstanding.
Principal Mechanical Engineer
Large Aluminum Manufacturer
Sigma-HSE completed DSEAR assessments for multiple sites around the UK with flawless execution. Considering our flammable chemical inventories, the assessments were crucial in identifying hazardous areas to reduce the risks of explosive atmospheres at our sites.
Site Head of Engineering
Printing Industry
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If you find yourself asking, ‘Do I need a Preliminary Hazard Assessment at my facility?’, connect with us today. One of our subject matter experts will guide you through any questions you may have.

PSM – Gap Analysis and Compliance Audit : Enhancing safety through targeted improvements.

Protect business, people, workplace and the environment from potentially unsafe equipment in hazardous zones and comply with explosive atmospheres regulations. Learn more about how we can assist you today.

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