History of Chemical Accidents in China during the month of May
This is an interesting “press release” from the Chinese Government regarding the country’s accident history in May. History: Hazardous chemical accidents in May Petrochemicals
Visual Quiz – Incidental Release or one requiring an Emergency Response
I get it, it’s a 19-second video, and it will probably stir more questions than responses, but this topic is one that needs MUCH discussion. I have made this page FREE for anyone who wishes to chime in. A couple of items to consider: So what say you? We can discuss this in the comments
Gemini+ analysis of my Double Block and Bleed Isolation and Line & Equipment Opening ppt
Establishing a Double Block and Bleed (DB&B) positive isolation is a critical safety protocol when preparing piping and equipment for opening, especially when dealing with Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS). This process ensures that hazardous materials (HAZMAT) are effectively evacuated and isolated to protect workers from accidental releases. Members can download my .ppt file at bottom
The scienece behind “Scrubbing Cl2 in NaOH”
As with my NH3 article, I wanted to verify and document the same scenario for scrubbing 1 pound of Cl2 with 50% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH). Here is what Gemini+ had to say… When Chlorine (Cl2) gas is safely scrubbed with Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), the reaction produces sodium hypochlorite (bleach), sodium chloride (salt), and water. Bottom
The scienece behind “Scrubbing NH3 in water”
Throughout my career, I have been taught that to safely “scrub” 1 pound of NH3, 1 gallon of water is required. I have firsthand experience in this ratio working. So I decided to ask Google Gemini+ to explain this ratio. Looking back at IIAR-2, when we sized a Diffusion Tank for PSV discharge(s), it was
Why we want to ALWAYS Hydrostatically Test our chemical hoses vs. Pneumatically Testing
As I have written many times, our bulk chemical transfer hoses MUST be part of an Inspection and Testing Program. These tests follow the same logic as pressure testing piping, and Hydrostatic Testing is far safer than pneumatic testing. So I asked Google Gemini+ to show me the difference in failure energies to demonstrate this
Pressure Wave generated by a 1,000 Liter (264 gallons) N2 Dewar catastrophically failing
To determine the internal static overpressure generated by the catastrophic failure of a liquid Nitrogen (LN2) dewar, we look at the physics of a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion (BLEVE) and the resulting rapid phase transition.
Pressure Wave generated by a 1-ton Cl2 cylinder catastrophically failing (WCS for Cl2 1-ton cylinder inside a Cl2 building)
So I asked Google Gemni + to calculate the pressure wave in a room that is 40′ X 40′ X 20′ tall with the catastrophic failure of a 1-ton chlorine cylinder. In a 32,000 ft3 room, we must determine the volume of gas released during the “instantaneous flash” and the resulting internal static overpressure.
I have created a “cheat sheet” for safe distances during pneumatic pressure testing (ASME PCC-2, Mandatory Appendix 501-III)
DISCLAIMER: This is a “cheat sheet” for safety professionals to get a general idea of the “safe distances.” ALWAYS refer to ASME PCC-2, Mandatory Appendix 501-III) for the exact distance. Just understand, ALL pneumatic pressure testing REQUIRES a “safe distance”. According to ASME PCC-2, Mandatory Appendix 501-III, determining safe distances for pressure testing—specifically, pneumatic testing—requires
Why I rarely allow “Release in enclosed space, in direct contact with outside air” to be credited in my WCS’s (NH3)
So I asked Google Gemni + to calculate the pressure wave in a room that is 40′ X 40′ X 20′ tall with a 5,000-gallon pressure vessel 85% full of liquid NH3, and it catastrophically fails. How much of a pressure wave will this event create in psig? I promise you this… No Engine Room
When to Revise Off-Site Consequence Analysis (EPA FAQ)
The risk management program in 40 CFR Part 68 requires facilities to conduct an off-site consequence analysis (OCA) to provide information to state, local, and federal governments and the public about the potential consequences of an accidental chemical release. When does a facility need to revise its OCA?
Are Mechanical Controls Considered Administrative Controls? (EMP RMP OCAs)
For the purpose of analyzing the worst-case release scenario required as part of the hazard assessment at 40 CFR Part 68, Subpart B, the worst-case release quantity is identified as the greatest amount held in a single vessel or pipe, taking into account administrative controls that limit the maximum quantity (40 CFR §68.25(b)). Are mechanical