Quantitative failure analysis of the ballast pump system onboard a ship under HAZOP and the extended CREAM approach

Abstract

Improper ballasting can lead to severe damage, potentially resulting in loss of life, vessel damage, and environmental disasters. This paper systematically assesses system failures in ballast pump operation related to human errors that contribute to operational risks. Considering this objective, we developed a hybrid approach that combines the Cognitive Reliability and Error Analysis Method (CREAM) with Hazard and Operability (HAZOP). Within this study’s context, HAZOP analysis is harnessed to pinpoint the risks inherent in intricate ballast operations, a crucial component of maritime safety. By integrating CREAM analysis, a comprehensive understanding of the role of human factors in systematic failures and operational risks is achieved. The research emphasizes the critical role of cognitive activities, including monitoring, planning, diagnosing, and maintaining, in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ballast pump systems. This study highlights the importance of cognitive functions such as observation, planning, interpretation, and execution in addressing these issues. The HAZOP analysis successfully identifies various potential deviations and failures within the system, providing insights into the complex nature of ballast operations and the significance of human factors. The analysis method effectively pinpoints vulnerabilities and weaknesses, underlining the necessity of meticulous planning and proper execution to mitigate identified failures. By not only delineating the fundamental causal factors behind ballast system failures and the potential consequences of these failures but also aiming to elevate safety control measures, this paper strives to mitigate prospective losses in critical shipboard operations.