Hazards
Exposure in case of unexpected release of energy or chemicals or unexpected movement of objects like a manhole, also vacuum can form a hazard.
When Important
When being in processing units that do not work at ambient pressure.
Challenges in the Field
- Release points not designed well: e.g. PSV release points that end in a pathway
- Manholes (or manway) that are stuck.
- Heat releases from flare.
Options to Get it Right
- Identify hazardous location around release points or below hoisted objects in the field, e.g. by lines or colours on the floor.
- Understand release locations and remove yourself from the potential energy discharge path from release points like PSV’s, explosion panels and plugs under pressure.
- Keep people out of the heat radiation zone around a flare.
- Protect yourself (location of your body) when opening installations.
- Add physical barriers to prevent people from accidentally entering the paths.
- Verify that PSV’s are designed to always vent to a safe location.
- At flange opening, first untighten the bolts that are far away from you.
This page only summarises the guidance – refer to the EPSC website for further information.
For more information on our Process Safety Fundamentals (or other) playing cards please contact us.