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Dropped Object Study (DO)

Go to Formal Safety Assessment
A Dropped Object Study (DO) assesses the risks associated with objects accidentally falling during lifting operations in industrial facilities. These studies aim to evaluate potential impacts on personnel, equipment, and critical infrastructure, such as pipelines or platform decks. DO studies ensure safer lifting operations by identifying hazards, assessing risks, and recommending mitigation measures.

Importance of Dropped Object Study

1. Enhances Safety
  • Protects personnel and assets by reducing risks associated with falling objects
2. Protects Infrastructure
  • Prevents damage to critical structures, such as pipelines and platform decks.
3. Ensures Compliance
  • Meets safety standards and regulatory requirements for lifting operations.
4. Improves Operational Efficiency
  • Reduces downtime caused by accidents or damage during lifting activities.

Key Components of a DO Study

1. Lifted Load Identification
  • Determine the types, weights, and lifting frequencies of objects involved in crane operations.
2. Laydown Area Analysis
  • Identify areas where objects are handled and lifted, including platform decks and subsea pipelines.
3. Frequency Analysis
  • Calculate the likelihood of dropped object incidents using historical data and operational specifics.
4. Consequence Analysis
  • Assess the potential energy and impact of dropped objects on target areas.
5. Risk Criteria Comparison
  • Compare results against risk acceptance criteria to determine whether additional mitigation is required.
6. Mitigation Planning
  • Develop strategies to reduce risks, such as improving lifting procedures or implementing protective barriers

Steps in a DO Study

1

Identify Laydown Areas
Analyze the facility to identify key areas where lifting operations occur.

2

Evaluate Lifted Loads
Assess the weight, size, and frequency of loads being lifted.

3

Perform Frequency Analysis
Use historical and industry data to estimate the likelihood of dropped object incidents.

4

Conduct Consequence Analysis
Calculate the impact energy of dropped objects to assess potential damage.

5

Exceedance Curve Development
Plot cumulative frequency against impact energy to determine acceptable limits.

6

Recommend Mitigation Measures
Propose measures like physical barriers, improved equipment, and refined lifting procedures to reduce risks.

What Storm Technical Can Do

Storm Technical provides expert Dropped Object Study (DO) services to enhance the safety and reliability of your lifting operations:
Comprehensive Risk Assessment
Identify hazards and evaluate potential risks associated with lifting activities.
Impact Energy Analysis
Assess the consequences of dropped objects on infrastructure, such as decks and pipelines.
Frequency and Scenario Modeling
Analyze incident probabilities and develop realistic scenarios for risk assessment.
Mitigation Recommendations
Propose practical solutions, such as improving lifting equipment, installing protective barriers, and refining lifting procedures.
Compliance Assurance
Ensure your facility meets safety regulations and industry standards.
Detailed Reporting
Deliver clear and actionable reports, including Design Accidental Load (DAL) recommendations.

With Storm Technical’s expertise in DO studies, you can ensure safer operations, protect your personnel and infrastructure, and maintain compliance with industry standards.