LOPA training forms a key part of OTECSA Consulting’s commitment to maintaining industry-leading competence in process safety. This month, members of our team added to their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through a two-day Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) training course delivered by David Sparkes CEng FIChemE PPSE of =Method.
Consistent, high-quality training is essential to ensuring our clients receive technically robust, up-to-date advice across all areas of process safety.
Why LOPA Training Is Important for Process Safety
LOPA is a critical methodology used to assess risk, determine the adequacy of protection layers, and support Safety Integrity Level (SIL) determination. Strong understanding and consistent application of LOPA principles are essential for:
- Effective hazard study preparation
- Clear, defensible risk assessment
- Alignment with current industry standards
- Confident facilitation of LOPA and related studies
All LOPA facilitators and team members from OTECSA have now completed the =Method LOPA training course, strengthening our collective capability and ensuring a consistent approach across projects.
Applying LOPA Training to Client Work
The course supports practical application of LOPA and SIL determination, directly enhancing our ability to prepare for and facilitate studies efficiently and to a high technical standard. This benefits our clients by ensuring:
- Well-structured, proportionate risk assessments
- Clear justification of protection layers
- Confidence in study outcomes and recommendations
As our Managing Director, Owen Llanwarne, often describes it, LOPA is the “fun part of HAZOP” and the team has now experienced David’s engaging and interactive approach first-hand.
In-House Training at OTECSA HQ
This course also marked the first time OTECSA has hosted in-house training at our new headquarters. Bringing the team together for focused CPD is increasingly rare, making this an excellent opportunity to learn, collaborate, and share experience.
Our Commitment to Competence and CPD
Continuous professional development is central to how OTECSA maintains confidence, competence, and credibility in process safety delivery. Investing in training ensures our team remains aligned with evolving standards and best practice.
If you would like to learn more about our approach to LOPA, hazard studies, or process safety consultancy, please get in touch with the OTECSA team.