Which layer of protection in LOPA could involve a buffer equipment or secondary containment?

The identification of engineering controls as the layer of protection that could involve buffer equipment or secondary containment is based on the nature and purpose of engineering controls within the Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) framework. Engineering controls are physical systems or devices designed to reduce risk by providing a more robust and tangible means of hazard mitigation.

Buffer equipment and secondary containment are tangible solutions that help prevent or mitigate the consequences of incidents, such as leaks or spills, which aligns perfectly with the definition of engineering controls. These types of systems contain or control the hazardous materials involved in a process, thus minimizing the potential for accidents or reducing their severity.

For instance, buffer equipment can serve to absorb excess pressure or chemicals in a system, preventing overpressure or release into the environment. Similarly, secondary containment structures are designed to contain spills should a primary containment system fail, thus directly addressing physical risks associated with operational processes.

In contrast, administrative controls focus more on procedures, training, and policies to manage risks rather than providing a physical defense against hazards. Financial analysis pertains to evaluating costs and benefits of risk reduction strategies, which does not involve direct risk mitigation mechanisms. Process design is mainly concerned with how a process is set up but does not specifically pertain to implementing physical layers of protection. This