ChatGPT: What’s the Difference between Prestartup and Operational Readiness Reviews?
The OSHA process safety standard was published in 1992. The agency selected 14 management elements, one of which was ‘Prestartup Safety Review’. The CCPS later used the term ‘Operational Readiness’.
I prefer the term ‘Operational Readiness’ because it suggests that the review can be carried out at any time, and on any unit, regardless of its size. The term ‘Prestartup Safety Review’, on the other hand, suggests that a large facility is being started for the first time following major changes or after an extensive turnaround.
I am currently writing about the two topics, and there is obviously the potential for confusion, so I asked ChatGPT the following question.
In a process safety management program what is the difference between an operational readiness review and a prestartup safety review?
It gave me a two-page answer ― here are some of the highlights.
In a Process Safety Management (PSM) program, the terms "Operational Readiness Review" (ORR) and "Prestartup Safety Review" (PSSR) are often used, and while they share some similarities, they serve distinct purposes within the overall framework of ensuring safety in process operations.
1. Timing and Focus:
ORR: Broad and can occur at various stages of the operation, focusing on overall readiness.
PSSR: Specific to the period just before starting up a new or modified process, focusing on ensuring safe startup conditions.
2. Scope:
ORR: Encompasses a wider range of operational aspects including long-term readiness.
PSSR: Narrowly focused on pre-startup conditions and immediate safety concerns.
3. Activities:
ORR: Includes ongoing operational procedures, maintenance, training, and emergency response readiness.
PSSR: Primarily involves ensuring that construction is complete, safety systems are functional, and startup procedures are ready.
These are solid, helpful answers.
The response also confirmed my general observation that ChatGPT is good when asked for opinions and insights (Plato). But maybe not so good when asked to provide specific facts (Aristotle), as discussed in the post ChatGPT and Process Safety Truth.