What is the function of the safety case in process safety management?

The function of the safety case in process safety management centers around demonstrating compliance with regulations and safety measures. A safety case is essentially a structured document that illustrates how an organization identifies hazards associated with its processes and outlines the measures in place to manage those hazards effectively.

In this context, the safety case acts as a vital tool for demonstrating to regulators, stakeholders, and employees that the organization is committed to maintaining a safe working environment. It typically includes assessments of risks, descriptions of safety management systems, and detailed plans addressing safety procedures and emergency responses.

While aspects like financial costs, employee responsibilities, and historical safety data are important in broader safety and operational discussions, they do not encapsulate the primary role of a safety case. The focus remains on compliance and the proactive management of safety to prevent accidents and ensure all legal and regulatory obligations are met.