Alarming performance

Alarm systems play an important role in maintaining the safe operation of process plant. Poor alarm system performance can result in critical events being missed by the plant operator, and there have been several cases of this contributing to major plant accidents. Consequently the design and management of alarm systems is receiving increasing attention. The article presents the results of a survey of the management of alarm systems in chemical and power plants that was carried out on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive. Performance data is presented and a number of exercises to improve installed systems are described. Guidance is also presented on the procurement of alarm systems for new plant.