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Safety Study Review

For safety studies, in particular for QRA and fire and explosion studies, it is increasingly easy to obtain a certain result but the interpretation of the results and the reliability of the methods used to obtain them may not be as easily attained.  In some markets, the lowest bidder wins the RFP and this sometimes means a less thorough product delivered to the operator. 

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We have therefore, seen increasing need for the review of safety studies over the last 5 years,  in particular for QRA and fire and explosion studies, as well as, safety cases. Issues such as: the number of cases considered for dispersion and explosion, the ignition probability model used have key impacts on the outcomes of many types of studies and care needs to be taken when addressing these. 

 

A good review will ensure that any study will adhere to a minimum requirement to guarantee reliable outcomes and that if any processes are deficient, that the deficiency does not affect the final result outcome.

 

One example is the quality of a 3D geometry used for simulations. Is the level of detail suitable for the type of study undertaken? Have simplifications resulted in a large uncertainty in the results? For example, for the purpose of  explosion modelling, the omission of certain details in the geometry can result in an underestimate of the overpressures by one to two orders of magnitude. 

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Our most experienced staff have had many years' experience in carrying out and using the results of safety studies.

2D to 3D conversion

Safety Surveys and Audits

The purpose of a safety survey or audit is to highlight any major safety concerns prior to committing to a Safety Case

 

It is an investigation seeking reasons why a Safety Case may not be approved and determine a budget for any required upgrades. This is normally performed in conjunction with a “Gap Assessment” against the latest Codes, Standards and Legislation. 

 

Some Clients require us to perform an annual audit to confirm compliance with the Safety Case. This also often includes a review of the facility hazards. 

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Safety surveys and audits are a critical component of any safety management program. They provide valuable insights into potential safety hazards and risks and help to ensure the safety of personnel, equipment, and the environment.

Hazardous Area Classification

Hazardous Area Classification is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment in facilities where flammable gases, vapors, liquids, or combustible dust may be present. The process involves identifying and classifying areas where there is a risk of explosive atmosphere formation, based on the flammability of materials and the probability of such an atmosphere occurring.

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The Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) schedule is a comprehensive document that outlines the hazardous zones within the facility and the associated requirements for electrical apparatus used in these zones. The HAC schedule is typically developed during the project design stage and should be regularly reviewed and updated throughout the facility's life cycle.

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At Advanced Analysis, we follow AS standards for Hazardous Area Classification in Australia or similar IEC and NFPA standards for other regions. Our team of experts works closely with clients to perform the HAC study, develop the HAC schedule, and recommend appropriate electrical equipment for use in the hazardous areas.

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A detailed Hazardous Area Classification study can identify potential explosion hazards, determine the extent of hazardous areas, and recommend mitigation measures to reduce the risk of explosion or fire. This proactive approach can significantly improve the safety of the facility, its personnel, and the surrounding environment.

Hazardous Area Classification

Passive Fire Protection Optimisation

Passive Fire Protection (PFP) is a crucial aspect of risk mitigation in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and other high-hazard industries. PFP refers to various types of fire-resistant materials, such as coatings, wraps, and cladding systems, that are used to protect critical equipment and structures from the effects of fire.

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At Advanced Analysis, we specialize in PFP optimization and reevaluation studies, which involve analyzing the effectiveness of the existing PFP systems and identifying potential improvements. We use various methods, including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to assess the requirements for PFP and determine the optimal locations for its installation.

 

Our team of experts also utilizes analytical methods to assess the performance of PFP systems under different fire scenarios, such as jet fires and pool fires, to ensure that the PFP systems provide adequate protection. In addition, we assess the potential for escalation due to stress rupture of adjacent process equipment and provide solutions to protect critical structures, such as flare towers.

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By performing PFP optimization and reevaluation studies, we help our clients ensure the safety of their facilities and personnel and minimize the risks associated with fires and explosions.

Passive Fire Protection (PFP)
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