säkerhetscases

Säkerhetscases, a Swedish term, translates to "security cases" or "safety cases" in English. It refers to a structured and documented approach to demonstrating that a system, process, or facility is acceptably safe to operate. This concept is particularly prevalent in industries with high-risk potential, such as nuclear power, aviation, offshore oil and gas, and railway transport.

The core idea behind a säkerhetscase is to systematically identify hazards, assess their associated risks, and implement and verify control measures. It's not merely a checklist but a comprehensive argument, supported by evidence, that the risks have been reduced to a tolerable level. This involves a thorough understanding of the system's design, operation, maintenance, and potential failure modes.

Key components of a typical säkerhetscase include a hazard identification and risk assessment process, a description of safety functions and their integrity levels, operational procedures, maintenance strategies, emergency preparedness plans, and a management system that ensures safety is continually monitored and improved. The evidence provided can range from design documents and test results to operational data and expert judgment.

Regulatory bodies often require a formal säkerhetscase to be submitted and approved before a facility or system can commence operation or undergo significant changes. This ensures that safety has been rigorously considered and that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect people, the environment, and assets. The process is iterative, with the säkerhetscase being reviewed and updated throughout the lifecycle of the system.