Cooperative Personnel Services Firefighter (CPS) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Firefighter Exam Questions and Study Guide

In the context of HAZOP (Hazard and Operability) studies, the term "deviation" refers specifically to changes from normal process conditions. HAZOP is a structured and systematic technique used to identify potential hazards and operability problems in process systems by evaluating how deviations from normal or intended operations could lead to undesired events.

When conducting a HAZOP study, the team examines process parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow, and composition, looking for how variations or deviations in these parameters could create safety risks or operational inefficiencies. Identifying these deviations is critical to understanding potential hazards and ensuring that appropriate safety measures are established. By focusing on deviations, the HAZOP process helps teams proactively address risks before they can lead to accidents or failures.

The other options, while relevant to safety and operational integrity, do not align with the specific definition of "deviation" within the context of HAZOP studies. For instance, measurement errors pertain more to accuracy and precision issues rather than operational deviations, unforeseen maintenance relates to equipment management rather than process conditions, and training gaps in personnel address human factors rather than technical deviations in processes.