What does 'mitigation' refer to in LOPA?

In the context of Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA), 'mitigation' specifically refers to actions that are taken to minimize the impact or consequences of an event if it were to occur. This concept emphasizes reducing the severity of an incident, rather than preventing it entirely. Mitigation strategies might include measures such as emergency response plans, safety equipment, or additional safety systems that can limit damage or injury when an unwanted event occurs.

This understanding is crucial in LOPA because it allows for a balanced approach to risk management, where not only prevention is considered, but also how to effectively respond to and contain incidents if they happen. By focusing on reducing the impacts, organizations can better prepare for potential failures and ensure they have robust mechanisms in place to handle emergencies effectively.