The objective of this investigation is the comparison of hazard operability (HAZOP) study and energy trace and barrier analysis (ETBA) in determining chemical plant hazards. The ETBA and HAZOP results were compared and contrasted. Using the HAZOP, 126 deviations were identified, while 113 hazards were identified by ETBA. HAZOP is shown to be a more effective method for recognition and prediction of hazards compared with the ETBA. However, by combining both methods, the accuracy of the evaluation is enhanced. (C) 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 30: 356-359, 2011