Fire/Explosion Protection

Major accidents with multiple fatalities continue to occur worldwide in the process industries, causing distress to those involved and massive costs to companies. Almost daily, facilities in the process industries face a number of specific major accident hazard scenarios depending upon the nature of the substances they handle and their processing activities. Implementing best practices for fire and explosion protection is paramount.

Articles

La Mède Refinery Tragedy Unveils Critical Corrosion Lessons

La Mède Refinery Tragedy Unveils Critical Corrosion Lessons

The importance of rigorous corrosion inspection programs and the need for comprehensive risk assessments in facility design are paramount to process safety.
Episode 57 Lessons Learned From The Deadly Explosion In Pasadena, Texas

Lessons Learned From The Deadly Explosion In Pasadena, Texas

The legacy of Mary Kay O'Connor, who was killed in this incident, has aided in promoting process safety and saving lives.
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Reflecting On Tragedy Can Improve Process Safety

Historical events and emotional connections can foster learning and help keep chemical facilities safe.
Ep 49 Piper Alpha Disaster 22 Terrifying Minutes, Countless Lessons Learned

Podcast: Piper Alpha Disaster -- 22 Terrifying Minutes, Countless Lessons Learned

The tragedy exposed various deficiencies in safety management and emergency response.

News

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EFCE Presents Process Safety Awards

June 1, 2022
Group honors author of thesis and lifetime contribution
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Fire, Frigid Temps Prove Challenging At Chemical Complex

Jan. 17, 2022
A fire at a chemical complex in Passaic, New Jersey, causes a roof collapse but no injuries.
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Polymer Additive Minimizes Fuel Explosions

April 9, 2019
Lengthy but microscopic chains of polymers can be added to fuel to significantly reduce the damage from fire accidents without impacting performance.
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Aerodyne Environmental Introduces Dust Efficiency Clinic

Feb. 5, 2019
Dust collection system evaluations help operators cut costs.

White Papers: In Depth Research

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Powder eHandbook: Preclude Powder Problems

Nov. 11, 2014
Process design and process safety are critical considerations in chemical production and processing. With design and safety paramount at the outset of any new development or equipment...

CSB: Naphtha Vapor Cloud Ignited, Causing Fatal BP-Husky Fatal Fire

June 13, 2023
Ongoing investigation will examine plant’s hierarchy of controls and ability to manage abnormal situations.

CSB Releases Safety Video on Husky Superior Explosion

June 12, 2023
Simulations demonstrate the events leading up to the explosion and safety failures that led to the accident

Safety Violations Preceded Deadly Explosion at Massachusetts Plant

May 5, 2023
Fines include failing to meet federal standards for emergency response and safe handling of hazardous materials.

U.S. Chemical Safety Board: Bio-Lab Plant Lacked Extreme Weather Preparedness

May 2, 2023
CSB releases final report on 2020 toxic gas release and chemical fire at Louisiana facility.