Enhanced Explosion Risk Management Through Ex-RBI and Data Analytics: Implementation Strategies and Case Study

Abstract

Summary A Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) framework for electrical equipment for hazardous areas (EEHA) by using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) tool was presented in this paper. A case study at a facility with 789 electrical equipment operating in explosive atmospheres was conducted by analyzing the EEHA's risk-based inspection (Ex-RBI) results to determine the equipment's explosion risk. The results indicate 6% of the equipment has a high explosion risk. On the other end, 66% of the equipment falls into the low-risk category. Our analysis found that implementing Ex-RBI and data analytics strategies can significantly enhance explosion risk management in industrial settings. Through this study, we demonstrated that Ex-RBI can effectively identify and prioritize high-risk equipment and areas, allowing for targeted risk management efforts. Based on the explosion risk of each of equipment, a strategy can be developed to decide on the prioritization for maintenance activity, the interval of periodic inspection, and the grade of inspection for the next inspection cycle. The case study demonstrates enhanced explosion risk management leading to operational excellence by leveraging Ex-RBI and data analytics. Facility owners can identify and mitigate potential risks before they become critical. Over a period, this leads to reduced explosion risk, a more cost-effective maintenance programme and improved overall safety.