Hazard and Operability Analysis is a structured and systematic technique for
system examination and risk management. In particular, is often used as a
technique for identifying potential hazards in a system and identifying operability problems
likely to lead to nonconforming products. HAZOP is based on a
theory that assumes risk events are caused by deviations from
design or operating intentions. Identification of such deviations is
facilitated by using sets of “guide words” as a systematic list of
deviation perspectives. This approach is a unique feature of the
HAZOP methodology that helps stimulate the imagination of team
members when exploring potential deviations.