Identifying the Vulnerabilities of Oil Refining Facilities against Manmade Errors (A Case Study of Martyr Tondgooyan Tehran Oil Refining Company)

Today, oil refining industry is one of the most complex industries in the world. By refining crude oil major and basic products can be produced which is required by many industries. Obviously managing such a huge industry needs to professional and experienced manpower. On the other hand, one of the threats to oil industry caused by various reasons including lack of attention to the safety rules, regulations and instructions is the risk of human error. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the vulnerabilities of oil refining facilities against manmade errors. Since the study is based on descriptive method, to test the hypotheses of behavioral vulnerability (due to low organizational culture and safety) and functional vulnerability (due to lack of training and supervision) the methods of questionnaires, interviews and library study were used. Statistical population of the study were chosen among experts and professionals including managers, personnel and HSE (Health, Safety, Environment) experts in oil industry associated with the refining field and its vulnerabilities (a total of 67 people). Due to the limited number of the population, this number was taken as sample population. The findings indicate that identifying the functional vulnerability (due to the weakness of training and supervision) in one of the oil refining facilities can have a huge effect on reducing physical and financial losses. Hence, it is possible to deal with manmade accidents in these facilities and new projects by offering appropriate plans.