Describe an example of inherently safer practice in process design.

• A. Substituting a less hazardous chemical for a more hazardous one.
• B. Installing more pumps to increase flow.
• C. Increasing pipe diameter to reduce pressure.
• D. Adding more complex instrumentation.

Answer: (A)

Inherently safer design focuses on removing or reducing hazards at the source rather than relying on downstream safeguards. Substituting a less hazardous chemical for a more hazardous one is the classic example because it directly lowers the potential for harm by changing the material itself. By using a less dangerous substance, you reduce the likelihood and potential consequences of a release or exposure, often avoiding the need for additional protective systems.

The other options rely on strengthening or adding controls rather than reducing the hazard itself. Installing more pumps changes process flow but not the inherent hazard, increasing pipe diameter to reduce pressure alters conditions but not the intrinsic hazard, and adding more complex instrumentation adds monitoring or safety systems rather than removing the hazard at the source.