Safety and SIS · Glossary

What is a Cause and Effect Matrix?

trip logic tableSafety and SIS

A cause and effect matrix is a table showing which inputs (causes) trigger which outputs (effects) in a shutdown or safety system.

Cause and Effect Matrix Explained

Rows list causes such as high pressure or low level with tags and trip points; columns list effects such as closing valves and stopping pumps. Marks at intersections show the logic.

It is easy to review with operations and is used to configure and test the SIS.

Calculators for Cause and Effect Matrix

CalculatorFault Tree CalculatorFree online calculator with formula and worked example.

Free Downloads

Free downloadCause and Effect Matrix Template in ExcelFree download in Excel and PDF.Free downloadAlarm and Trip Setpoint List Template in ExcelFree download in Excel and PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cause and Effect Matrix?

A cause and effect matrix is a table showing which inputs (causes) trigger which outputs (effects) in a shutdown or safety system.

What do the letters in a C&E mean?

Common marks are X for trip and other letters for delays or permissives; the legend on the matrix defines them.

How is a C&E tested?

Each cause is simulated and every effect checked, often signed off cell by cell.

Learn more on the blog

Cause and effect matrix in safety systems explained

A practical guide on instrumentationblog.in with more detail on cause and effect matrix and how it is applied on real plants.

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