According to the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), an Independent Layer of Protection (IPL) is a dedicated safeguard used in a Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA). To qualify as a true IPL rather than a standard safeguard, it must reduce risk independently and satisfy strict operational standards.
Seven Core Attributes
To be credited as an IPL, a safeguard must meet seven key characteristics defined by CCPS: