What is a 'consequence table' used for in LOPA?

A consequence table in Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) serves a critical purpose by summarizing the potential impacts of various hazardous events. This tool allows risk analysts and safety professionals to visualize and evaluate the range and severity of consequences that could arise from specific failure scenarios.

By outlining the consequences associated with different hazards, the consequence table aids in identifying the need for additional layers of protection. It helps in determining the tolerability of risk by making it easier to assess whether the anticipated impacts can be mitigated effectively through existing safeguards. In essence, it provides essential information needed to prioritize risk management strategies based on the severity of potential outcomes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the main function of a consequence table within LOPA. For instance, plotting incident frequency pertains more to statistical analysis and historical data rather than to potential impacts of hazards. Ranking safety protocols by effectiveness is a separate process that involves evaluating existing controls rather than summarizing their impacts. Documenting employee training records is also unrelated to assessing risk consequences, as it focuses on personnel qualifications rather than hazard analysis. Thus, the main role of the consequence table is indeed to summarize the potential impacts of various hazardous events.