Walk The Line

Image © EPSC

Hazards

Spills or inadvertent mixing might occur when the transfer line is not ready for operation due to open ended lines or drains, wrong valve or tank line-up.

When Important

After each change in set-up of a transfer line, e.g. start-up after shut-down, isolating equipment, change of equipment, maintenance work, draining.

Challenges in the Field

  • Transfers occurring around shift change-over.
  • Long transfer lines, not fully accessible.
  • Distracted by other things.
  • Bad weather, low visibility at night.
  • Pipelines or valve position that are not easy to see.

Options to Get it Right

  • Validate a correct line-up (all valves, tanks, pumps), before starting the pump / transfer.
  • Perform a check, after pump start, to detect leaking drains, hoses, flanges or pump seals.
  • Use P&IDs or better isometrics during line check.
  • Label equipment in the field, like valves, pipelines and pumps to help with the field check.
  • Tag all the bleeds and drains.
  • Validate the transfer regularly by checking the levels of the tanks versus the calculated level from the pump flow speed. Take actions upon deviation.

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.