A high integrity pressure protection system (HIPPS) is a specific application of a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) that protects process systems from overpressure.

API 521 and Code Case 2211 of ASME Section VIII, Division 1 and 2 allow for the use of an SIS as an alternative to pressure relief devices to protect against overpressure.

Siemens as well as several of Siemens Solution Provider partners have developed HIPPS solutions based on both the QUADLOG and the
SIMATIC S7-400FH safety system platforms conforming to all relevant industry standards. These systems are installed and performing in such arduous environments as on oil platforms, FPSOs and wellheads around the world.

	A typical application of HIPPS is to minimize overpressure events in pressure vessels (i.e. reactors or distillation columns), in order to reduce the worst case load to an existing flare system.
	HIPPS has also been applied in applications where the use of conventional pressure relief devices is impractical, such as extremely fast chemical reactions or polymerization processes which may cause plugging or blocking of the pressure relief devices.