TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractFloating installations in general and FPSO systems in particular, combine traditional process technology with marine technology, and are thus quite dependent on operational safety control. It is essential that scenarios involving potential loss of operational control are assessed at an early stage in the design of new facilities, in order to optimise technical and operational solutions. The paper briefly reviews the safety characteristics and records for FPSOs, focusing on operational safety aspects. This is followed by a discussion of possible approaches to predictive assessment of operational safety.