More than ever, plant expansion and conversion projects are on the mind of plant operators, because in many cases they represent an economical technical alternative to building a whole new plant or system. Naturally, elaboration of the technical specifications must include attention to the necessary safety measures. Frequently, it is that they determine whether or not a project can be implemented with the desired economical results.

In that connection, this contribution deals with such topics as “Grandfather rights for existing plants”, “Major changes”, the requirements of the “Operational Safety Ordinance” (Appendix 1) and, of course, compliance with the “EC Machinery Directive”. The relevant EU guideline, which takes up the subject of risk analysis, is helpful for finding the applicable directive. By way of several examples, the risk assessment process is realistically illustrated, and the available options for cost-effective implementation are pointed out.

Dipl.-Ing. Thomas Schenk, Hans Lingl Anlagenbau und Verfahrenstechnik GmbH & Co. KG