(BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Chlor-alkali ...

Chapter 4
presented are an indication of possible measures that can be taken. The local situation will
determine the final package of measures that is required.
General measures
General measures related to safety are mainly linked to reliable and efficient safety management
systems based on:
Training of personnel including:
basic knowledge of chlorine properties
correct operating practice
emergency procedures
frequent refresher training
making sure that contractors’ personnel on the site are familiar with the safety
regulations and procedures for the site
Identification and evaluation of major hazards
written information for personnel about safety measures in normal and abnormal
conditions
Instructions for safe operation including:
permanent monitoring of the installations under the responsibility of a designated
person specially trained for chlorine hazards
good compliance with safety parameters defined in the safety report, including periodic
inspection and control of materials specified according to safety hazards
maintenance programmes for the installations: for example, storage, maintenance of
pipework, pumps, compressors, monitoring of moisture concentrations, impurities in
liquid chlorine
Planning for emergencies and recording of accidents and near-misses
preparation, test and review of emergency plans
The safety management systems should be completed with appropriate technical measures, such
as:
high quality preventive and protective systems, in particular in the loading area
enhanced leak detection and leak isolation
good protection of employees and temporary workers on the site with appropriate and
well maintained equipment
In the chlor-alkali plant
In the chlor-alkali plant, safety measures refer in particular to the prevention of liquid chlorine
spillage, using means such as:
WORKING DRAFT IN PROGRESS
overfilling protection systems
correct choice of construction material and regular inspection of vessels
bunding for vessels containing hazardous material
and also:
Preventing impurities to avoid any explosive mixture. Measuring and control of
hydrogen concentration in the chlorine gas from the cell room and after each
liquefaction step, and measuring and prevention of possible NCl3 accumulation.
Prevention of failure of the electrical supply. Emergency generators for supply of power
to vital equipment when/if grid power fails and also the prevention of failure of the
instrument air supply.
218 December 2011 TB/EIPPCB/CAK_Draft_1