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Technical Safety > Asset Integrity

Performance Standards (PS)

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A Performance Standard (PS) is a detailed document that specifies the required performance criteria for safety-critical systems or equipment to ensure they effectively manage risks. In technical safety engineering, a PS ensures that safety-critical elements (SCEs) perform as intended during an emergency, protecting people, the environment, and assets.

Steps and Important Components in PS

1

Identify Safety-Critical Elements (SCEs)

Determine which equipment, systems, or processes are critical for managing major accident hazards (e.g., fire suppression systems, gas detection systems).

2

Set Performance Requirements

Define clear criteria for functionality, availability, reliability, and survivability (e.g., the fire suppression system must activate within 10
seconds of detecting a fire).

3

Establish Verification Criteria

Outline how the performance of SCEs will be tested, inspected, or monitored over time.

4

Record Supporting Information

Include design details, operational data, and assumptions to support the defined performance standards.

5

Regular Review and Update

Revise the PS as new information arises or operational conditions change.

Importance of PS

1. Ensures Reliability

  • Confirms that safety-critical systems are ready and effective when needed.

2. Supports Compliance

  • Helps meet legal and regulatory safety requirements.

3. Guides Maintenance

  • Provides a framework for inspections and tests, reducing the likelihood of equipment failure.

4. Enhances Risk Management

  • Aligns safety systems with hazard control strategies to protect personnel and assets.

What Storm Technical Can Do For Clients

As a desktop-based engineering consultancy, Storm Technical can:

Develop and Document PS

Create clear, concise performance standards for safety-critical elements tailored to the client’s operations and hazards.

Verify Compliance

Conduct desktop reviews of design documents and operational data to
ensure alignment with regulatory and industry standards.

Assist in Hazard Management:

Link performance standards to hazard analysis results (e.g., HAZID or Bowtie diagrams).

Provide Technical Guidance

Recommend best practices for setting achievable and effective performance criteria.

Perform Gap Analysis

Review existing performance standards to identify gaps or areas needing improvement.

Support Audits and Reviews

Prepare clients for external audits by validating their PS documentation
and providing expert advice.

By working closely with clients, Storm Technical ensures that safety-critical systems meet performance expectations and regulatory requirements, enhancing overall safety and operational resilience.