Breakout Session D2: Richard Hope
Organisation: PETROINEOS
Job Title: Integrity Lead
Session Title: Human Factors: Managing the mechanical integrity of piping dead-legs on industrial facilities
Date & Time: 27 March 2025 @ 10:10
Bio: Richard is Integrity Lead for the Petroineos Grangemouth Refinery, managing the static equipment inspection and integrity functions, including ownership for the company’s mechanical engineering standards and procedures as Mechanical Technical Authority.
A chartered mechanical engineer, Richard has 25 years’ experience in high hazard process operations and has held varied roles in production plant maintenance, machinery and transport engineering roles before focusing on static equipment integrity. Initially based at the INEOS (formerly ICI) chloralkali complex in Runcorn, he made the move north to Scotland in 2015 to join Petroineos.
An advocate for risk-based decision making, Richard has experience implementing RBI programmes and advises on keeping integrity risks ALARP.
Presentation Summary:
The presentation will focus on the critical aspects of maintaining the mechanical integrity of dead legs (sections of piping or equipment not in regular use) highlighting their potential vulnerabilities. Starting out by looking at examples of dead-leg degradation and failures, attendees will gain insight into the importance of challenging assumptions, refining procedural scope, and applying best practices. Key focus areas include risk assessment, prevention, and the implementation of inspection and monitoring techniques to ensure long-term safety and reliability.