How to manage alarms according to the ISA 18.2 Standard

Share Post:

In the mining industry, alarms play a crucial role in ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently and safe and efficient operations are maintained. However, the improper management of alarms can lead to serious safety and production issues. To mitigate these risks, the International Society of Automation (ISA) developed the ISA 18.2 standard, which outlines best practices for managing alarms in industrial processes.

In this blog post, we will dive into industry best practices for managing alarms in the mining industry according to the ISA 18.2 standard and explain why compliance is so important. 

Understanding the ISA 18.2 standard

The ISA 18.2 standard provides a framework for managing alarms in industrial processes, including the mining industry. The standard defines alarm management as “a systematic approach to managing alarms from inception to obsolescence.” It sets out guidelines for all phases of the alarm management lifecycle, from design to testing, operation, maintenance and continuous improvement. The goal is to ensure that alarms are meaningful, useful and actionable and that they do not lead to alarm floods or alarm fatigue. 

Recommended practices for alarm management

The ISA 18.2 standard provides a set of recommended practices for alarm management in the mining industry, including: 

Establishing clear and concise alarm policies and procedures 

  • Developing a comprehensive alarm philosophy and hierarchy 
  • Identifying critical alarms and optimising alarm prioritisation 
  • Using technology such as alarm rationalisation and dynamic alarm suppression to reduce alarm floods 
  • Conducting regular alarm system audits and reviews 
  • Ensuring that operators receive proper training on alarm management 

 

By following these recommended practices, mining companies can minimise the risks associated with alarms and improve safety, productivity, and efficiency. 

Why compliance is important

Compliance with the ISA 18.2 standard is crucial because it ensures that the alarm management system is effective, reliable and consistent. Non-compliance can result in serious consequences, including: 

Increased risks to personnel safety and equipment 

  • Reduced productivity and efficiency 
  • Higher operating costs due to maintenance and repair 
  • Non-compliance with legal and regulatory requirements 

 

Compliance with the ISA 18.2 standard can also provide benefits such as improved communication, collaboration and decision-making between operators, engineers and management. 

Implementing the ISA 18.2 standard in the mining industry

Implementing the ISA 18.2 standard in the mining industry can be a complex process. It requires an in-depth understanding of the standard’s guidelines, as well as the processes, systems and equipment used in mining operations. It also requires the cooperation and communication of all stakeholders, including management, operators, engineers, and suppliers. 

To implement the standard successfully, mining companies should: 

 

  • Establish a dedicated team for alarm management 
  • Develop a clear roadmap for implementation and continuous improvement 
  • Conduct a comprehensive gap analysis to identify areas for improvement 
  • Develop and implement an alarm management plan 
  • Provide adequate training and support for all stakeholders 

 

In conclusion, managing alarms in the mining industry is critical for ensuring safety, productivity and efficiency. Compliance with the ISA 18.2 standard is essential for achieving effective alarm management and minimising the risks associated with alarms. By following the recommended practices outlined in the standard and implementing the standard successfully, mining companies can optimise alarm management and improve their operations overall. 

Subscribe

Enter your details to receive our newsletter

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Request a
Demonstration

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our TCard brochure.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our MPA product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our SMART Tankhouse brochure.

Download our Capability Statement

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Capability Statement.

[contact-form-7 id="7624"]

Download our OT Vision to Delivery brochure

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Capability Statement.

[contact-form-7 id="7623"]

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our E-Learning Brochure.

Request a
Demonstration

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

[contact-form-7 id="8762"]

Download TCard Case Study

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of the MIM Case Study.

[contact-form-7 id="8768"]

Register for Webinar

Simply fill out the below form and we will send you the details of the webinar directly to your email.

[contact-form-7 id="8833"]

Request a
Demonstration

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Request a
Demonstration

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our TCard™ product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our MPA Logsheets product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Digital TARP product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Capability Statement.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our ShortMeter product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you our Copper Monitor™ product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our SMART Tankhouse product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Alarm Manager product guide.

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will be in touch to discuss the best time for a demonstration.

Simply fill out the below form and we will email you a copy of our Copper Monitor brochure.