Author(s)

P. L. Metropolo & A. E. P. Brown

Abstract

The explosion scenario of a 30,000 m3 naphtha tanker that lay at anchor in port is simulated. The tanker geometry is enforced by a double steel plate, with the hazardous gas storage in the middle tanker containment. Baker’s method was used to determine overpressures levels and damage distance from a potential confined vapour cloud explosion. The people vulnerability study at the port facility vicinity is also elaborated by using Probit equations. The explosion can be started by a simple electrostatic spark, human error, by sabotage or by acto of terrorism. Safety measures are recommended. Keywords: risk analysis, fire, explosion, hazardous materials transportation, safety. 1 Introduction Globalization has promoted an increase in the amount of hazardous materials transportation by road, air or sea. Great tankers transporting oil, petrochemical products and flammable gases, discharge these products in ports all over the world. At peace time this is a normal activity, but in conflict areas this simple activity may represent a great danger to port facility activities, its vicinity and materials that can result in a catastrophe. Besides process safety procedures, port security activities have also to be enforced in order to guarantee port safety. In Brazil, the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) code regulations are attended to enhance maritime security, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Diplomatic Conference of December 2002. As accidents can happen, prevention studies can be performed to figure out fire or explosion damages extension. Risk analysis is a strong tool to help port

Keywords

risk analysis, fire, explosion, hazardous materials transportation, safety.