Risk Analysis of Jet A-1 Tank Filling and Storage Processes at the Shorebase

Abstract

Coastal Logistics Centers (CLS) provide logistics support to deep-sea drilling operations. Jet A-1 (helifuel), required for helicopters that transfer personnel to drilling ships, is filled into tanks from the tanker arriving at CLS and stored in open areas. Jet A-1 is a hazardous chemical with flammable and toxic effects and can also explode when exposed to flame. Risk analysis of this hazardous chemical is essential for CLS. This study aimed to determine the process hazards and risk analysis in the filling and storage operation of Jet A-1 from tankers to tanks. For this purpose, the Preliminary Hazard List (PHL) and Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA) were performed. Then, a Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) study was carried out based on these analysis results. The HAZOP study identified Jet A-1 overflow from the tank as a high-risk event. Afterward, Event Tree Analysis (ETA) was performed on the initial event of Jet A-1 spilling due to tank overflow. In ETA analysis, immediate ignition, delayed ignition, and explosion probabilities resulting from delayed ignition were calculated with the CCPS (Center for Chemical Process Safety) Module. The probability and frequency values of accident scenarios were calculated as P=0.0028, f=1.736 x10-4 year-1 for jet fire, P=0.0225, f=1.395x10-3 year-1 for vapor cloud explosion, P=0.127, f=7.874x10-3 year-1 for flash fire, P=0.847, f = 0.0525 year-1 for toxic release, respectively. It was determined that all accident scenario frequency values were above the legislation threshold value (10-4 year-1). Design solutions and preventive measures have been proposed to reduce risks. The combination of risk analysis methods is effective in risk assessment studies.