The International Association of Oil & Gas Producers uses the term "HAZID" to denote a form of preparation for facility risk management. At first glance an intimidating acronym, it actually has a simple definition.
According to an IAOGP publication, HAZID means "hazard identification," and can include any threat to personnel, equipment or the environment in an energy production setting. It's the counterpoint to the similar Hazard and Operability Study, or HAZOP, which takes a methodical approach to assessing onsite hazards. To be most effective, the group recommends HAZID procedures are performed alongside other risk assessments, as they can help surveyors look at the risks that aren't covered otherwise.
Some examples include changes that bring new equipment or techniques into the project. HAZID can also help determine what a specialist onsite will need to do. This same source noted the issues that bad weather bring to a marine project, as well.
"HAZID can determine what a specialist onsite will be needed to do."
Other entities also realize the importance of HAZID and have suitable guidelines for it. An article from a 1995 publication of Health & Safety Executive identified three different categories for a HAZID exercise: physical hazards from equipment and work conditions, command and control hazards from bad policies and behavioral hazards associated with human error.
Each of these may require specific methods for detecting them, and in some cases, particular knowledge is necessary. For instance, according to the article cited above, knowing Safety Management System protocol helps assess possible command and control issues. In general, knowing more about the related hazards enhances the assessment.
Offshore marine services may prefer the same consistency in its insurance to go along with a safe HAZID process. If that's the case, they can look for insurance providers that know the marine industry and are ready to provide appropriate services.