Hazard assessment is a vital tool in loss prevention throughout the life of
the facility. Ideally, the assessment should be conducted during the conceptualdesign
phase, final design stage, and prestartup period as well as when the plant
is in full operation. In the conceptual-design phase many potential hazards can
be identified and significant changes or corrections made at minimal cost.
Results of these assessments are key inputs to both site-selection and plantlayout
decisions. The major hazards usually include toxicity, fire, and explosions;
however, thermal radiation, noise, asphyxiation, and various environmental
concerns also need to be considered.