Phageguard Business Case

Challenge

Phageguard expanded its production with new equipment and process lines. The new process line featured a higher degree of automation, which helps minimize errors and increase the reliability and quality of the process. Yxion supported the company with a HAZOP (Hazard and Operability) study that went beyond a standard risk assessment. By having this study coordinated by an external specialist, potential blind spots were avoided, and risks could be identified with a fresh perspective, contributing to sustainable process improvement.

Approach

Our consultants Bert and Jeroen facilitated a two-day HAZOP session together with Phageguard’s end-users and engineers. During the session, we critically examined every component of the process line together. The risks within the process and its operation were identified, and measures were jointly defined to ensure a safe and reliable production process.

Where possible, we also visited the shop floor to assess where the new installation would be located and how the surrounding environment might affect safe operation. Drawing on our experience with other organizations, we were also able to make recommendations to further optimize existing work procedures. At Yxion, a HAZOP is not just a standard checklist, but a report that goes beyond the clinical assessment of a P&ID.

Result

Phageguard looks back on the collaboration with satisfaction:

“At Phageguard, as a small company, we hire consultants from Yxion for expertise we lack ourselves or when a professional external partner is needed.

What stands out to us about Yxion is their customer focus. They listen carefully to our needs, collaborate on the approach, and know how to engage the right people within their network. Every client is different, and so is every request. Yxion is able to deliver customized solutions tailored to the client’s needs.

A good example is our recent HAZOP for a new production line. For most of the equipment, we already had safety studies from the supplier on hand, such as a HAZOP or EMEA. However, the session we conducted with Yxion wasn’t just about the individual process steps and equipment; it focused on the entire process and how all the steps are interconnected—including associated systems such as heating, cooling, and pressure differentials.

Faster than I had expected, we went through the entire process, identified all risks, defined actions, and neatly documented everything. In addition, we received advice on areas outside the scope of the project, which we’re using to further improve our processes. Their knowledge, experience, and customer-focused approach make a noticeable difference in the results we achieve.” 

Arjan van Wijk – Director of Operations at Phageguard BV in Wageningen

Working Together Toward Tangible Results

Innovating Together

We help clients innovate by proposing new ideas and improving processes, equipment, environments, and services. Our consultants possess a wealth of knowledge. Together, we have a suitable answer for every question, no matter how complex.

Sharing Knowledge

During the Yxion Academy and Professional Groups, colleagues come together to exchange knowledge and experiences and discuss current developments. They work together to address client questions and identify training programs that align with their own needs and those of their clients. In short: to learn from and with one another.

Part of a close-knit team

In addition to working hard, we also have fun, of course. We love organizing outings for the entire organization. Activities include: cycling tours, a trip to Winter Efteling, European Championship pool tournaments, dinners, and barbecues. These are moments to relax and catch up with colleagues!