What is the primary objective of Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA)?

The primary objective of Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) is to evaluate the risk of hazardous events and determine the adequacy of existing safety layers. LOPA is a semi-quantitative risk assessment tool that enables organizations to systematically identify potential hazards, assess the risk associated with those hazards, and evaluate the effectiveness of the existing safeguards intended to reduce the risk level.

By focusing on the effectiveness and reliability of safety layers, LOPA helps in understanding whether additional protective measures are needed to achieve an acceptable level of risk. This process enhances decision-making regarding risk management and safety investment in various industries, particularly those involved in chemical processes, oil and gas, and other hazardous materials operations.

The other options, while related to risk management, do not capture the comprehensive aim of LOPA as directly as the selected choice. Analyzing historical incident reports contributes to understanding risk but is part of a broader context outside LOPA's specific framework. Evaluating the financial impact of hazardous events is also critical, but it typically falls under different assessments such as cost-benefit analysis rather than the primary focus of LOPA itself. Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements is essential for safety and operational standards, but compliance alone does not address the systematic analysis of risk and safety layers that