The Environmental Risk Assessment of Fire and Explosion in Storage Tanks of Petroleum Products

Abstract

The present study provides a framework for assessing the environmental risk associated with fire and explosion of gasoline storage tanks in oil depots. The proposed framework includes three main steps: problem formulation, risk analysis, and risk description. The necessary basic details were identified and collected in formulating the problem. The source, pathway, receptor (SPR) model was employed in the risk analysis process. Each part was analyzed using tools that provide appropriate results and maintain the model integrity; additionally, the findings can be used in the whole process. The Dow Fire and Explosion Index (F&EI) was deployed to scrutinize the source, the pollutant dispersion and transmission path characteristics were measured to inspect the pathway, and the vulnerability indicators of the receptor and the degree of impact were determined to scrutinize the receptor. Finally, the risk assessment results were presented in the form of risk description tables. The purpose of this integration was to develop a framework thoroughly evaluating the risk associated with fire and explosion to the point of environmental consequences and providing a better understanding of the outcomes. This study, conducted for the first time specifically for an oil depot, provides an exhaustive view highly contributing to managers and decision makers.