Degradation factors and barrier components

In RiskRunner, we adopted a different methodology for analyzing barriers. Specifically, we use the term degradation factor instead of “escalation factor” and barrier component instead of “activity” or “escalation factor barrier.”

Typically, escalation factor barriers are linked to escalation factors with associated activities. However, in this approach, you can link a degradation factor or barrier component directly to another degradation factor, barrier component, or even to the barrier itself.

Barrier analysis elements are tied to a specific barrier definition. This ensures that you can find, utilize, and modify the analysis across all hazards where the particular barrier definition is applied.

Definitions

Degradation factors and barrier components include definitions, making all features available for definitions applicable here as well.

Degradation factor definitions

Adding barrier analysis element to a barrier

You can only add elements to a barrier while inside a review. The editor can be accessed from barrier definitions, either via the link attached to a hazard or from the definitions tab.

Barrier analysis editor

To add elements to a barrier analysis, you can:

  1. Use the “Add” button.

  2. Input a name in the field, press enter, and select the type.

Here is the form to add a barrier analysis element :

Barrier analysis form

The form to add a barrier analysis element allows you to:

  1. Specify a name.

  2. Choose a parent (you can also add child elements directly by clicking the three dots next to an element; the parent is automatically assigned).

  3. Enter a definition for the attached element.

Additionally, drag-and-drop functionality is available in the editor, enabling you to reorder or move elements as needed.

Visualising your barrier analysis

While the editor simplifies adding and editing elements, visualization provides a clear overview. Each barrier in a hazard includes an “eye” icon, which opens the barrier analysis visualization.

Barrier analysis visualisation

This visualization displays the barrier analysis as a tree, where:

  1. Each node represents a degradation factor or barrier component.

  2. Nodes are collapsible, showing attached fields for easy review