Requirements for CLE®
Layers of protection analysis (LOPA) enhances the results of PHA studies by providing more objective estimates of the risks of hazard scenarios. Such risk estimates play a critical role in decisions on the adequacy of the safety of processes. Consequently, it is essential that individuals who lead LOPA studies meet a standard for competence. Three increasing levels of competency are offered: Practitioner, Specialist and Expert.
This certification is intended for a process safety professional who routinely acts as the team leader for LOPA studies that are more complex. An Expert has a minimum of ten years of relevant experience and conducts studies frequently. This professional has advanced knowledge and abilities in LOPA, for example, how to determine risk tolerance criteria.
Primacert expects that a Certified LOPA Expert using the designation CLE® can demonstrate competency by meeting the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
- A degree from an accredited university or college in a relevant technical discipline. At a minimum, degree includes three years relevant, full-time tertiary education.
Experience
- A minimum of ten years of recent and relevant work experience.
- Relevant work experience must include facilitating a minimum of four LOPA studies within the last year.
Work Products
- Reports that contain the study worksheets from two separate and substantial LOPA studies facilitated within the last year by the applicant must be submitted. The LOPA procedure(s) and any associated guidelines used must also be submitted to facilitate review of the work products.
Training
- In addition to the training required for the practitioner and specialist levels, successful completion within the last three years of a training course that enhances technical understanding of risk tolerance criteria, such as Primatech's Risk Tolerance Criteria for Process Safety.
References
- Two references from supervisor / manager / peer who can attest to academic qualifications, work experience, professional ethics, and responsibility for work products. Additionally, two references from individuals who were members of a team for LOPA studies facilitated by the applicant within the last year who can rate leadership skills.
Examination
- Successful completion of the Primacert examination for CLE®.
- For a list of examination topics, see LOPA Examination Topics.
Recertification
- Certification is valid for three years.
- For recertification requirements, see Recertification Requirements for CLE®.