Simultaneous Operations (SIMOP) occur when two or more activities or process operations are being coordinated in the same location at the same time. This can often bring about an undesired event (or series of events) which could result in a Major Accident Hazard (MAH), Environmental Impact (EI) or loss of Assets. SIMOP can also impact schedules, commercial aspects, and business reputation.
SIMOP usually involves multiple company interfaces (owners, contractors, vendors, etc.) and a wide range of routine and non-routine daily disciplines. The purpose of the SIMOP study is designed to identify:
- Schedule clashes (time and space).
- Physical clashes (vessel to vessel and / or facility collisions).
- Failure Impacts (Loss of Containment (LOC), etc.).
- Climatic conditions (weather, currents, etc.).
- Contractual Clashes (3rd party interfaces).
- Territorial Clashes (Operations within the defined safe zones).
- Any other scenarios or conflicts identified.
The whole SIMOP process, from identification to implementation, is illustrated below.
SIMOP Process
The idea of the SIMOP study is to reduce or eliminate all risks to an As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) condition by:
- Identifying all constraints and hazards associated with all proposed activities.
- Listing all corresponding mitigation measures.
- Defining the Safe Working Zones (SWZs) and agree boundaries.
- Discussing agreements with each SIMOP party on work specific dossier content.
Required Documentation
As a minimum, the following information would be required to conduct the workshop: Basis of Design, Existing HAZID, HAZOP and QRA reports, Environmental impact assessment, Emergency response planning and plans, Facility design layout / plant layout drawings, P&IDs and PFDs, List of hazardous substances and inventories impacted by the project, Contractors and operations permit to work system and hazard management program
Based on the project requirements, additional information may be required, which will be highlighted within the Terms of Reference (ToR).
