A Structured Scenario-Based Approach for Performing Functional Hazard Identification Analyses

Abstract

Several industry standards call for performing a functional hazard analysis as an early step in the overall hazard analysis process. This paper describes the structured, scenario-based approach for a functional hazard identification analysis used by the NASA Constellation Program’s Level 2 Ground Integration Hazard Analysis Team. The team used this method to determine system functions and identify the hazards associated with the Constellation Ares I rocket while on the launch pad. This paper provides examples from the analysis performed on the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle, describes the method and offers a summary of the hazards uncovered by the method per vehicle stage. This method is applicable for identifying hazards in all types of systems and system integration scenarios. Lastly, while this functional hazard identification analysis approach has its advantages and should be in the safety engineer’s analytical toolbox, this paper also touches on the approach’s limitations.