What is the function of an Independent Protection Layer (IPL)?

The function of an Independent Protection Layer (IPL) is to mitigate risk by reducing the frequency of occurrence of an undesired scenario. IPLs are safety measures designed to operate independently of other protective elements to provide an additional layer of security against hazards. They aim to prevent incidents from happening or to decrease the likelihood of their occurrence, thereby enhancing overall safety.

By functioning independently, these layers can effectively reduce risk without reliance on other systems, making them vital in risk management strategies. They typically consist of various mechanisms or procedures that, when properly implemented, contribute significantly to reducing the probability of unwanted events or accidents. This contributes to a safer working environment and is essential in industries where hazards are prevalent.

In contrast, increasing the frequency of an undesired scenario or estimating potential consequences does not align with the overarching goal of independent protection layers. Evaluating the effectiveness of existing safety measures is also vital; however, it tends to focus on assessment rather than active risk mitigation.