MACHINE ASSISTED EXECUTION OF PROCESS OPERATING PROCEDURES

A computer based system aids an operator in proceeding step-by-step through procedures for a complex process facility. At each step, monitored plant parameter values are used to evaluate relevant plant status and recommend action to be taken. The status and recommended action are presented to the operator on a display device together with prompts for generating appropriate responses. The step logic is carried out repetitively to provide the operator with feedback and to verify operator actions. The complete display picture including operator responses, and other plant conditions monitored in parallel with the current step, is logged for later review. An online review feature permits review of plant conditions and operator actions while the operator continues to execute the procedure. High-level textual statements of all steps of a current procedure can be reviewed and prior steps can be executed or re-executed.