Energy Risk Engineering Insights

Introduction:

In the world of golf, the notion of “better misses” emphasizes the importance of minimizing errors rather than achieving perfection with every shot. This philosophy, rooted in the understanding that perfection is elusive, finds an intriguing parallel in the field of risk management engineering. Let’s delve into how embracing the wisdom of “better misses” can reshape our approach to risk management within the dynamic landscape of the energy industry.

The Golf Analogy:

In golf, the pursuit of a “better miss” involves acknowledging that not every shot will be perfect. Golfers focus on minimizing errors and strategically placing themselves for the next move rather than fixating on flawless execution. This approach resonates with the engineering mindset, where the goal is not absolute perfection but rather the meticulous identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks.

Risk Management in Engineering:

Risk management in engineering is a multifaceted discipline that involves foreseeing and addressing potential pitfalls across various facets of the energy sector. It aligns closely with the “better misses” philosophy, emphasizing the need to anticipate and manage risks rather than striving for unattainable perfection.

Examples from the Field:

Drawing from decades of experience in the energy industry, let’s explore tangible instances where the “better misses” philosophy proved instrumental in achieving robust risk outcomes.

• Proactive Equipment Failure Mitigation:
  • In one scenario, a proactive approach to potential equipment failure played a pivotal role in averting a more significant incident. By identifying and addressing early signs of wear and tear, the team prevented a costly and potentially dangerous equipment failure.
• Addressing Design Flaws:
  • Another illuminating case involves recognizing and rectifying a design flaw before it escalated into operational risks. This early intervention not only prevented immediate issues but also laid the foundation for enhanced system reliability.

Strategies for “Better Misses” in Engineering:

Implementing a “better misses” approach in risk management involves practical strategies that contribute to a resilient and reliable operational environment.

• Thorough Risk Assessments:
  • Prioritize comprehensive risk assessments during project planning to identify potential pitfalls before they manifest.
• Regular Safety Audits and Inspections:
  • Conduct routine safety audits and inspections to proactively catch and address issues, preventing them from evolving into significant challenges.

Learning from Mistakes:

A critical aspect of the “better misses” philosophy involves learning from mistakes and near misses. A firsthand account of investigating the gas processing plant explosion, a $22M incident, provides valuable insights into how learning from such experiences shapes future risk management practices.

Conclusion:

In the realm of risk management engineering, the wisdom of “better misses” echoes the pragmatic approach of golfers aiming not for perfection but for strategic, resilient outcomes. By embracing this philosophy, we fortify our ability to navigate the intricacies of the energy industry, ensuring a proactive and effective response to potential risks. In the pursuit of excellence, it’s not about avoiding mistakes entirely but about making every miss a “better miss” that contributes to the overall success of the endeavor.