Domino Effects In The Process Industries

Explosions produce pressure waves which expand in the atmosphere. When impacting industrial equipment, domino effects may be caused if the equipment content is flammable or toxic. A detailed analysis of these scenarios requires complex computational tecniques based on finite element analysis. Simplified methodologies have been developed in the past years for land use planning and quantitative risk assessment. These approaches are based on the definition of probability functions and threshold values for the occurrence of loss of containment from damaged systems and rely on the prediction of peak overpressure with respect to distance from the explosion source and on the structural category of the target equipment.

The complexity of domino scenarios represented a considerable obstacle to the quantitative assessment of risk posed by escalation events. In the present chapter, the state of the art concerning quantitative approaches proposed for the assessment of risk caused by domino accidents is summarized. A procedure for the quantitative risk assessment of domino accidents, suitable for the calculation of individual and societal risk indexes, is outlined. Alternative approaches proposed for the quantitative assessment of domino effects, based on Bayesian techniques and Monte Carlo simulations, are also described.

Domino Effects in the Process Industries discusses state-of-the-art theories, conceptual models, insights and practical issues surrounding large-scale knock-on accidents—so-called domino effects—in the chemical and process industries. The book treats such extremely low-frequency phenomena from a technological perspective, studying possible causes and introducing several approaches to assess and control the risks of these scenarios. The authors also examine these events from a managerial viewpoint, discussing single and multi-plant management insights and requirements to take pro-active measures to prevent such events. Academics, regulators, and industrialists who study and analyze domino effects in order to prevent such events will find the book unique and highly valuable. Outlines available methods in analyzing these events, aiding understanding of the accidents and their causes Covers current modelling, control and management tactics of domino effects, -facilitating prevention Identifies areas where new research is needed

Domino effects may cause more severe accident scenarios in the chemical and process industries. An introduction is given to the context and state of the art of technical and scientific knowledge concerning accident scenarios where domino effect(s) took place, as well as to European regulations on the subject. The specific context of chemical clusters with respect to safety and security assessment when dealing with domino scenarios is also introduced.

Dynamic Risk Assessment and Management of Domino Effects and Cascading Events in the Process Industry provides insights into emerging and state-of-the-art methods for the dynamic assessment of risk and safety barrier performance in the framework of domino effect risk management. The book presents methods and tools to manage the risk of cascading events involving the chemical and process industry. It is an ideal reference for both safety and security managers, industrial risk stakeholders, scientists and practitioners. In addition, laymen may find the state-of-the-art methods concerning domino effects (large-scale accidents) and how to prevent their propagation an interesting topic of study. Includes dynamic hazard and risk assessment methods Presents methods for safety barrier performance assessment Addresses the effect of harsh environment on domino risk assessment Relates physical security in relation to domino effects Includes innovative methods and tools

Risk-based design has an important role in the inherent prevention of domino effect, limiting the possibility of escalation by both physical distances between units and introduction of robust safety barriers. In this chapter, the role of design in reducing domino hazard has been explored. Layout definition was identified as a key factor for the prevention of escalation. Threshold values for escalation to be used in design activities were defined. Thus, criteria for the assessment of appropriate safety distances were developed and implemented in layout design. The integration of different strategies in accident mitigation was identified as the key in achieving safer plants with respect to domino accidents. Since conceptual tools alone frequently fail in solving the tradeoffs related to the conflicting needs in the design improvement, inherent safety metrics were introduced to support design activities.

The assessment of hazards related to domino accidents is an important issue in the safety analysis of an industrial site. Several methodologies exist and different levels of detail may be used in the analysis. The present section provides a framework and a classification of the available techniques that may be used for domino assessment. Three approaches having a different level of detail are outlined and linked to needs and/or specific phases of process safety assessment. Criteria for the selection of the most appropriate approach are also discussed.

Nowadays the application of decision support systems (DSSs) in process safety is more important than ever. The use of DSS for preventing domino effects is one of the diverse applications of these computer-automated toolkits. Different software packages were developed in recent years, each trying to manage domino risk by a specific approach. In this chapter, the definition, architecture, benefits and essential characteristics of DSS toolkits are described. The application, scope, approach, technical features, advantages, shortcomings and limitations of all the available computerized tools and software packages presented up to now for managing domino effect are then discussed and analyzed thoroughly. Finally, a framework for an integrated DSS to prevent domino effects based on all existing advancements and potential possibilities for improvement is introduced.