bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The use of a ranking matrix and recommendation prioritization system for process hazard analysis studies
Authors: Moore David A. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractOSHA regulations for Process Safety Management (PSM) [1] and EPA regulations addressing risk management programs (RMP) for chemical accidental release prevention [2] require industry to identify and analyze potential process hazards. This effort, known as the Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) element of the PSM and RMP standards, involves the use of qualitative hazard identification or analysis techniques acceptable to OSHA or EPA.While making these assessments, two issue arise; how to judge acceptable risk and how to decide on appropriate risk reduction measures where necessary. Neither regulation defines a model for making risk management decisions. In the absence of formal, sanctioned risk management criteria, it is recommended that companies adopt a standard, defensible ranking scheme to provide a common basis for decision‐making. This should be based on the company's defined safety goals. This article discusses an approach, common to many companies, that qualitatively ranks the risk of identified scenarios. In addition, this article examines the possible problems of using various ranking schemes and risk criteria.
An application of menu design principles to an energy management system
Authors: Latta David R. , Schulze Lawrence J. H. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe organization of a menu can significantly affect user response time when selecting targets from that menu. Previous empirical studies have used laboratory tests to suggest menu design rules that can optimize user response. This study applied the design rules to a menu used for display selection on an Energy Management System. In such a study, the total number of menu targets and the relationships among them is not variable, so some compromises must be made when applying the rules. This study produced a new menu that had measurable improvement in user response time over the existing menu. Design rules regarding grouping of targets and methods of organization were successfully applied during the menu redesign.
Management of change: A pilot plant application
Authors: Wieczorek Gary M. , Basu Prabir K. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractWhereas the management of change concept is a common practice for many production facilities, its application in a research and development environment is relatively new. How does one effectively manage a change control program when “change” is the normal way of doing business? Is it really necessary for pilot plants? These were the challenges facing the Searle chemical pilot plant organization in 1991 when it initiated its program.This paper describes the Searle pilot plant equipment management of change program, its evolution, and implementation. The problems and issues faced during implementation will also be reviewed.
Safe design of a thermally unstable solid storage container: Natural convection effects on thermal ignition
Authors: Zoghlami H. , Laurent A. , Corriou J. P. , Adrian J. C. , Papp R. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA numerical simulation of the convection process in a thermally unstable solid storage container has been carried out. The obtained results show that natural convection shifts the thermal ignition to higher induction times. Beyond a critical Rayleigh number, natural convection can prevent the system against thermal ignition. Temperature and velocity fields are calculated. The influence of the dependence of Biot numbers on temperature and the radius/height ratios on the induction times for thermal ignition has been also examined.
Increased fire hazard of N‐heterocyclic compounds substituted by S‐containing group
Authors: Négyesi György , Farkas László , Rusznák István , Sallay Péter 
Published: June 2004

AbstractRelease of CS2 and/or H2S caused by friction is demonstrated on two N‐heterocyclic compounds carrying S‐atom containing substituents. Because of the generation of electrostatic charge and creeping discharge, simultaneously brought about by friction, ignition and possible explosion of the released gaseous products of decomposition could occur. The tested compounds proved not to be sensitive to impact. Nonetheless, fire and explosion hazard of dusts must not be judged by their sensitivity to impact only. It is necessary to test their sensitivity to friction as well.
Design practice for extinguishing barrier systems
Authors: Siwek Richard , Moore P. E. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractAn extinguishing barrier comprises an optical flame sensor and a HRD‐Suppressor located downstream of the detected flame front. The effectiveness of an extinguishing barrier is based on its ability to detect an explosion in a pipeline by means of an optical flame detector whose tripping signal is amplified and then very quickly actuates the detonator‐actuated valves of the pressurized HRD‐Suppressors.Extensive practice‐related tests in pipelines, having different cross sections and length, in pipelines connected with different vessels, have shown that extinguishing barriers can be used without reservation to halt or stop an explosion in practice. The amount of suppressant agent required depends on the nature of the combustible dusts, the nominal diameter of the protected pipeline, the explosion velocity and the maximum reduced explosion overpressure in the vessel. Most significantly, the theoretical understanding of explosion propagation and extinguishing has led to computer design guidance which has simplified system design. Explosions can be combated effectively in pipelines up to diameter 2500 mm.
Vent access restriction for solids handling systems
Authors: Bernard Lionel , Brodie Frank , Ludwig Dennis , Ness Albert , Weidner Karl 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA multi‐disciplinary team developed a guideline for determining access restriction zones around vented solids handling equipment. The guideline provides a method for ensuring the discharge from a vented explosion will not cause injury to personnel. The steps in this method include: calculating the extent of external hazards from vented explosions; identifying potential areas where personnel could be exposed to a hazard; identifying ways to eliminate or reduce the hazard area; and establishing and documenting any access restrictions needed. Hazard zone calculations use the latest knowledge from research into fireball size, flame length and external pressure equations in VDI 3673. The guideline provides guidance for using this information. Options for mitigating or reducing external hazards from vented explosions are also described. As part of the project, the team audited several solids handling systems to look for potential oversights in existing restricted access areas. Some of the team's learnings from these audits are reviewed.
Safety surveys—looking at key activities in depth
Authors: Kletz Trevor A. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractMost audits try to look at a representative selection of the plant procedures and equipment. An alternative is a survey, a look in depth at selected procedures (such as those for testing alarms and trips, issuing permits‐to‐work, controlling modifications, taking samples or testing relief devices) or selected equipment (such as level glasses or equipment for handling LPG). If the procedure or equipment is well‐chosen, surveys may make a bigger contribution to safety, per person‐hour, than a conventional audit.
NFPA 30: An update and a look into the future
Authors: Benedetti Robert P. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractIn May 1996, the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code Committee of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) proposed for adoption by the Association a new edition of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code. This new edition was the culmination of two and one‐half years' work by the Committee and included one of the most significant changes to that document in some twenty years: the incorporation of mandatory fire protection criteria for warehouses and other inside areas that store flammable and combustible liquids in containers and portable tanks.
A model for the calculation and the verification of closed cup flash points for multicomponent mixtures
Authors: Hanley Brian 
Published: June 2004

AbstractRegulatory issues related to material safety have made the accurate measurement and/or prediction of flash points essential. The flash point is one of the major physical properties used to determine the fire and explosion hazards of a liquid. Flash points are used by virtually all governmental entities worldwide to define “flammable” and “combustible” materials for shipping and safety regulations.A model is described here for the calculation of closed cup flash points for multicomponent, single liquid phase, mixtures. The model is based upon rigorous vapor/liquid equilibrium calculations supplemented with information about the lower flammable limits (LFL's) and heats of combustion (ΔHc's) for the mixture's constituent components. The closed cup flash points predicted with this model are typically within ± 5°C of the experimentally reported values. Such a model is useful as a means of verifying experimental data and as a tool for screening product formulations prior to experimental flash point determination. The model should considerably enhance the safety evaluation portion of the product development cycle, thus leading to shortened product time‐to‐market cycles. While flash points calculated with this model are in excellent agreement with experiment, experimental determination is still encouraged for critìcal safety applications.
Flammability hazards of lower aliphatic aldehydes at elevated pressure and temperature
Authors: Britton Laurence G. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA large and potentially hazardous decrease in aldehyde autoignition temperature (AIT) occurs with increased pressure. The AIT‐pressure curve determined in a 5 L stainless steel sphere was similar for propionaldehyde and butyraldehyde in air, falling from about 185°C at atmospheric pressure to 90°C at 140 psia. Reduction of oxygen concentration had little effect on propionaldehyde AIT. At 100°C and 140 psia, autoignitions accompanied by at least a doubling of pressure were observed above 4% oxygen. In the presence of a few grams of free liquid, propionaldehyde vapor ignited in air at initial conditions significantly below the AIT. The mechanism appears to involve rapid Fe‐catalyzed exothermic liquid‐phase oxidation leading to autoignition of the adjacent heated gas layer. An acetaldehyde vapor‐air mixture in the presence of free liquid and rust exploded at room temperature when air pressure was increased to 95 psia; this result is discussed with reference to a cylinder overpressurization that occurred while making up an ostensibly sub‐LFL calibration mixture with compressed air. Propionaldehyde's limiting oxygen concentration (LOC) was investigated in the near‐autoignition region using the same 5L apparatus; the findings are discussed with reference to an overpressurization incident in an air‐liquid partial oxidation reactor. The general results are used to illustrate the application of LOC in partial oxidation processes subject to autoignition and to discuss elements of the current ASTM draft test method for LOC, which does not address test difficulties associated with condensable and/or reactive gas systems.
Fire tests of rack storage of water miscible liquids in plastic containers
Authors: Davenport John A. , Pabich Martin J. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThis article deals with fire protection for water miscible flammable liquids stored in plastic containers packaged in boxes located on pallets. A series of fire tests was conducted with palletized rack storage arrangements using in‐rack sprinkler protection at various levels. The intent of the paper is to present data from this test series for these types of commodities. The paper will identify various existing water miscible flammable liquid products stored in this fashion and provide background information for protecting this type of storage as it relates to NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code. The test data indicates that further research work is needed in the area of plastic containers for use with the storage of combustible and flammable liquids. Included in the paper are discussions concerning possible protection strategies and suggestions for future research which would benefit those involved in risk management of this type of commodity.
The assignment of safety systems addressing workplace hazards
Authors: Kahn Russell , Sorel Michael , Slaven Robert , Nelson Melvin , Harlow Ronald G. , Lutz Ron 
Published: June 2004

AbstractA new method is described to enhance the management of process safety risks such that the number and type of safety systems protecting against any hazard are consistently predicated upon risk. Further, that such an assignment of safety systems can be made consistent throughout an organization. This consistency is gained through standardization of qualitative risk ranking and by setting company guidelines.
Case studies of incidents in runaway reactions and emergency relief
Authors: Ho Ta‐Cheng , Duh Yih‐Shing , Chen J. R. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractCase histories of 65 incidents in runaway reactions and emergency relief in Taiwan were analyzed and classified into several categories according to their causes, materials involved, equipment types, reaction types, and ignition sources. The cases in reactors and storage tanks were examined in more detail owing to the higher probability or larger potential hazard in these two types of equipments. The most common consequence of the incidents are explosions, fires, and atmospheric release of toxic chemicals. The most severe case was a thermal explosion from an organic peroxide storage area which caused the death of 33 persons. Popping and direct releasing of process chemicals to the atmosphere from relieving devices cause the greatest environmental concerns to the community close to the plants. Runaway reactions in batch type reactors occur frequently due to various operational mistakes. Heat of reaction is the most frequent ignition source of runaway reactions and emergency relief.
Shipboard polymerization of acrylic acid
Authors: Kurland J. J. , Bryant D. R. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractIn 1975 glacial acrylic acid polymerized in a tank of the S.S. Alchemist four days from port. Vapor and liquid vented at high pressure for three hours. Retained acid was stable. Probably steam leaking into steam coils or a deadheaded pump caused overheating that set off polymerization.
Experiments on the thermo‐hydraulic response of pressure liquefied gases in externally heated tanks with pressure relief
Authors: Venart James E. S. , Sumathipala U. Kuma , Steward Frank R. , Sousa Antonio C. M. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractAn experimental program is described and experimental results presented for the response of an externally heated horizontal cylindrical tank protected by a PRV and partially filled with a pressure liquefied gas. Measurements of tank pressure, temperatures, mass discharge and void development, along with photography of internal fluid behavior are used to demonstrate the complex thermo‐hydraulic behavior as a function of heating and valve position. The results are used to compare some of these parameters with analyses of stratification and void development.
Consequences of solvent ignition during a drum filling operation
Authors: Schwab R. F. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThis paper describes an incident in a pilot plant designed to make specialty chemical products based on oxime chemistry. The requirements of the process include handling fairly large amounts of flammable liquids. With this in mind the plant was built within an existing building and was provided with a properly designed sprinkler system, an adequate drainage system, ventilation system, and electrical equipment appropriate to the occupancy.
Process safety management: A U.K. approach
Authors: Hawksley J. L. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractProcess safety in the UK is discussed from both the legal and management standpoints. General safety legislation requires a formal statement of company policy and arrangements for managing safety, but allows freedom for an organization to decide what those arrangements should be. The basis of a company‐wide approach to process safety management that meets legal requirements is outlined. Some of the main points requiring attention for effective process hazard recognition, assessment and control on a continuing basis are discussed.
Process safety evaluation applying DIERS methodology to existing plant operations
Authors: Fauske Hans K. , Grolmes Michael A. , Clare George H. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe DIERS methodology can be used to quickly assess the relief capacity envelope for a collection of existing process vessels accounting for both vapor and gassy systems. Easy‐to‐use vent sizing nomograms and PRESS sheets are proposed that can be completed by the process engineering, the process chemistry and the process safety departments. A vessel volume‐vent size diameter relationship is also developed using the source term based on fire exposure to cover a reasonable range of credible upset scenarios. In this way the adequacy of existing relief systems can be quickly surveyed for potential trouble sources—“outliers”—warranting further evaluation and corrective action.
Safety of exothermic reactions a UK strategy
Authors: Pantony M. F. , Scilly N. F. , Barton J. A. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe paper deals with research projects initiated by HSE to resolve certain technical issues which arose out of a study of incident histories. In addition guidance is discussed which is being published by HSE, or to which HSE is contributing. This will help industry to meet their obligations under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 with respect to the safety of exothermic reactions having the potential for thermal‐runaway. Finally the question of to vent or not to vent' is considered.
Procedures for preventing pilot plant runaways
Authors: Brummel Roger N. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractDuring the nitration of a substituted benzoic acid, a runaway reaction occurred. The reaction had been run without incident many times in the laboratory and once in the pilot plant on a 50 gallon scale. As a result of the runaway, the procedures for running reactions in the pilot plant were thoroughly reviewed. The review resulted in eliminating some practices, reemphasizing some existing procedures, establishing a new review system, and formalizing a standard operating procedure for all reactions to be run in the pilot plant.
Combustion hazards of silane and its chlorides
Authors: Britton Laurence G. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThis paper addresses the unusual combustion hazards of silane and its chlorides, comprising the homologous chlorosilane series SiHnCl4‐n. The literature on silane is briefly reviewed and new experimental data presented showing the effects of sudden releases into free air. New data are presented for ignition sensitivities and deflagration rates of chlorosilane mixtures with air. Specific hazardous reactions of this group of materials are described and contrasted with those of the analogous alkanes. Mechanisms for flame acceleration and transition to detonation are discussed.
An overview of exposures and exposure control in the ethylene oxide producer and ethoxylation industries
Authors: Grumbles Thomas G. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThis paper presents the results of an industry survey that was sponsored by the Ethylene Oxide Industry Council (EOIC). The EOIC operates as a special program of the Chemical Manufacturers Association. The members of EOIC account for over 85 percent of domestic production of EtO and cover a broad range of EtO users, including ethoxylators and sterilizers. The survey was done to collect current information in anticipation of responding to a proposed OSHA rulemaking for a short‐term exposure limit for EtO. Specifically, the study was designed to collect information on the following:

History of the establishment of company EtO exposure guidelines.
Current EtO workplace exposure monitoring practices, capabilities and methods.
Current workplace exposure levels: Eight hour and short‐term.
Engineering control, respirator, and ancillary costs for compliance with the 1.0 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) and projected costs for compliance with a 5.0 ppm or 10.0 ppm Short–term Exposure Limit (STEL).
Engineering controls to minimize worker exposure to ethylene oxide at sterilization facilities
Authors: Desai Pankaj R. , Buonicore Anthony J. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractGas sterilizers, using either pure ethylene oxide (EtO) or an admixture with an inert diluent, are typically utilized for treating products which cannot withstand heat sterilization. Due to the highly toxic nature of ethylene oxide and its classification as a suspect carcinogen, special precautions must be taken to ensure safe exposure levels to human receptors. This paper discusses the various engineering controls that can be implemented at EtO sterilization facilities to minimize ethylene oxide ambient concentrations and worker exposure levels.
Guidelines for hazard evaluation procedures: Second edition
Authors: Witter Ray E. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThis article presents an abstract of important additions and revisions to the Guidelines for Hazard Evaluation Procedures published by CCPS in 1985. It includes:

An outline of the background and purpose of the project
An overview of the importance of hazard identification and evaluation studies, including benefits and limitations
An overview of the new chapters
Discussion of Hazard Identification Methods and results
OSHA's interest in chemical plant safety
Authors: Seymour Thomas H. 
Published: June 2004

AbstractThe Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been required by the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 to promulgate a process safety management (PSM) standard for the prevention of catastrophic incidents and to protect the safety and health of employees in the covered plants. The law requires the OSHA standard to cover at least 14 areas or issues and to cover highly hazardous chemicals which include toxic, flammable, highly reactive and explosive substances. The paper will describe in detail how OSHA has responded to this statute and what we have accomplished in the rulemaking effort. Also the interface with other relevant OSHA standards, including the Hazard Communication standard, the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response standard, the Control of Hazardous Energy Sources (Lockout/Tagout) standard, and others will be discussed. In addition other recent laws that relate to and impact the OSHA PSM standard such as the Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety Act of 1990, the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, and the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986, will be explained as to their relationship to PSM. The emergency preparedness efforts required of employers under PSM and the relationship to SARA Title III efforts by local community emergency response organization will be covered, as well as the interface with the EPA Risk Management Program initiative that EPA must do under the Clean Air Act Amendments.