Assessing Process Safety Management (PSM) Effectiveness in Offshore Operations: A case study of FPSO XYZ

Abstract

Process Safety Management (PSM) is a critical framework for preventing major accidents and ensuring operational integrity in offshore oil and gas facilities. Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units, such as FPSO XYZ, present unique challenges due to their complex systems, harsh environmental conditions, and high-risk operations. This paper assesses the effectiveness of PSM implementation on FPSO XYZ by evaluating compliance with key elements such as hazard identification, risk assessment, mechanical integrity, and emergency response planning. Using a mixed-method approach that combines quantitative performance indicators (incident rates, audit scores) and qualitative insights from workforce interviews, the study identifies strengths and gaps in the current PSM framework. Findings reveal that while regulatory compliance and technical safeguards are robust, areas such as management of change and competency assurance require improvement to mitigate human-factor-related risks. The paper concludes by recommending a risk-based performance monitoring system and digital integration of PSM elements to enhance real-time decision-making and operational resilience. This case study provides actionable insights for improving process safety in offshore operations and contributes to industry best practices for FPSO safety management.