Demonstrating the Adequacy of Buildings to Protect Personnel

摘要

The American Petroleum Institute (RPI), the UK Chemical Industries Association (CIA) and others have issued guidance on determining the adequacy of buildings to protect personnel from fires, explosions and toxic-gas hazards. Following the publication of such guidance, many in industry have conducted studies to ensure adequate protection of personnel and thereby demonstrate the adoption of best practice in facility siting. In response to site specifics, and the availability of expertise and resources, it is not surprising that these 'facility siting' studies have illustrated a diverse interpretation of the guidance. This can lead to inconsistencies in the level of protection across industry. Furthermore, it can result in some organisations spending far more time and money than others on studies and subsequent elimination/protection measures (i.e. too much or too little). This paper summarises the differences in the assessment approaches adopted by a number of organisations. It then discusses whether these differences are significant with respects to equitable protection of personnel across industry and the time, effort and costs involved.