The planning, preparation and execution of a turnaround is a complex
undertaking that demands an effective strategy, a high degree of control and
great attention to detail. It also requires a profound understanding of the
critical elements that go to make up a turnaround and the drivers and
constraints that shape the event. This requires involvement of every level of
the company from senior management who set the framework for the event through
to the craft personnel who perform the actual work. The shutting down and
start-up phases of a turnaround are critical to the success or failure of the
event and as such must be planned and prepared in as much detail as the
mechanical phase. There comes a point in each area of the turnaround at which
most tasks have been completed and the systems may be handed back to operations
for start-up. This is a critical transition phase and if not properly
controlled, time, money and effort can be wasted.