Technical Manual - Section 3 (Safety Hazards)

Safety
Depending on the product and service, backflow prevention
from the discharge line may be needed. The failure of
automatic pump controls could cause a deviation in process
pressure and temperature. Pumps operated with reduced or no
flow can overheat and rupture. Pressure relief in the discharge
piping should be provided where pumps can be
overpressured. Provisions may be made for pipeline
expansion, movement, and temperature changes to avoid
rupture. Valves and instruments that require servicing or
other work should be accessible at grade level or from an
operating platform. Operating vent and drain connections
should be provided with double-block valves, a block valve
and plug, or blind flange for protection against releases.
Health
Safe work practices and/or appropriate personal pro-tective
equipment may be needed for exposure to haz-ards such as
those related to liquids and vapors when opening or draining
pumps, valves, and/or lines, and during product sampling,
inspection, and maintenance activities.
TANK STORAGE
Atmospheric storage tanks and pressure storage tanks are
used throughout the refinery for storage of crudes,
intermediate
hydrocarbons (during the process), and finished products.
Tanks are also provided for fire water, process and treatment
water, acids, additives, and other chemicals. The type,
construction, capacity and location of tanks depends on their
use and materials stored.
HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Fire Prevention and Protection
The potential for fire exists should hydrocarbon storage tanks
be overfilled or develop leaks that allow vapors to escape and
reach sources of ignition. Remote sensors,control valves,
isolation valves, and fire valves may be provided at tanks for
pump-out or closure in the event of a fire in the tank, or in the
tank dike or storage area.
Safety
Tanks may be provided with automatic overflow control and
alarm systems, or manual gauging and checking procedures
may be established to control overfills.
Health
Safe work practices and/or appropriate personal protective
equipment may be needed for exposure to hazards related to
product sampling, manual gauging, inspection, and
maintenance activities including confined-space entry where
applicable.
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