Questions regarding SIL classification and certification

1. In China, the SIL classification is generally carried out under the leadership of design institutes. In China, there are specialized institutions that conduct HAZOP analysis and SIL classification, such as the Qingdao Safety Engineering Research Institute of Sinopec. It’s usually based on experience, and the software also needs to be verified. 2. SIS = sensor + logic solver + final element. Abroad, there are specialized certification bodies, with authoritative ones such as TUV e*da. Of course, with the popularity of the SIS concept these days, there are also many fake agencies.

Which organizations have SIL ratings? What qualifications are required? Can an individual obtain it through training?

SIL rating agencies that I am aware of: Beijing Risk Control, Ju’an Consulting, Beijing Sichuang； Qualifications: Functional Safety Certification Expert (non-engineer) ； Training: Can be obtained by passing exams; organizations such as TUV offer such programs. The certification for entry-level functional safety engineers costs 25,000

It seems there’s no requirement specifying the qualifications needed to conduct a LOPA analysis, right? First, conduct a HAZOP analysis, then perform a LOPA analysis on the interlock circuits with high risk levels, and assign a risk level based on the results of the LOPA analysis

SIL is the worst certification there is. Adding unnecessary details is worse than being stinky.

It is said that SIS is a failed project. Certification should be carried out by professional certification bodies; it’s hard to say since I’ve never dealt with this before, but it always seems like a way to make money. In implementation, the SIS system requires certification; instruments purchased must also have certification, and the same applies to valves – it is necessary to ensure that certified products are acquired, even if it means paying more for them. There should still be some shortcomings left, after all, there are factors such as wiring and the on-site environment. If the safety department imposes more requirements, it becomes impossible to proceed; the costs involved are extremely high. Strictly speaking, the reliability level decreases after the device has been in use for a while, and the annual evaluations and certifications aren’t meant to facilitate production – they’re just a way to extract money ； But since it’s worthwhile to replace the important interlocks every three to five years, we can always move the instruments and valves to another location for use. I have encountered cases where people sought design solutions, and the design approach is likely to be similar in such situations. Design should serve to ensure the integrity of the project; after all, a reputable design institute is not responsible for issuing grade certifications – at most, it can provide calculations to help determine whether the final SIL level is SIL2 or SIL1 ； The SIL2 results are fairly satisfactory; overall, they are low. This is basically a requirement imposed by the security authorities; it’s important to pass their inspection, and one can directly apply for the relevant departments to carry out the inspection.

For those in need of HAZOP analysis, SIL classification verification, and dual-control consulting services, please contact: 147-0046-8192

There are also HAZOP software and SIL software

Before design, a HAZOP analysis is conducted at the loop level to determine the risk level. Then, the interlock loops and SIF loops are designed, and their SIL ratings are assigned; verification is carried out to ensure compliance. If not, measures must be taken to improve the SIL level until the requirements are met, after which the systems can be put into use. It is a set of measures that are generally carried out by specialized agencies, with expertise and thorough calculations. The goal is to keep risks under control.