Annexes to the permit documents

Accident modelling, or dispersion modelling, is a method for estimating the dispersion and impact area of a chemical accident. It can be used to predict the dispersion of toxic gases, the pressure effects of an explosion or the extent of thermal radiation, for example.

Modelling is an essential part of chemical safety risk management. It is required as an annex to, for example, a chemical permit, an environmental permit or a SEVESO plant safety report. Authorities use modelling data to assess the impact of activities on people, the environment and neighbouring areas.

What does dispersion modelling involve?

Release modelling includes a calculated estimate of how a hazardous substance may be released and spread in the environment in the event of a chemical accident. The modelling typically covers:

• Definition of accident situations (e.g. tank leak, fire, explosion)

• Characteristics, quantity and release rate of the chemical to be released

• Weather conditions affecting dispersion (wind, temperature, air stability)

• Calculation of impact zones and estimation of exposure levels

The accuracy of the dispersion modelling depends, among other things, on the size of the facility, the hazardous nature of the chemicals and the location of the activity.

When does an organisation need accident modelling?

Accident and dispersion modelling is particularly relevant where activities are involved:

• Industrial installations where dangerous substances are handled or stored

• SEVESO installations subject to a major hazard obligation

• For permit applications, such as an environmental permit, a chemical permit or a safety report

• Siting of activities close to settlements, water bodies or other sensitive areas

• For projects where studies are carried out in connection with the EIA procedure

The modelling will ensure that operations are safe and that the safety distances and contingency measures required by the authorities are properly implemented.

Protect offers expert assistance in accident modelling as part of a comprehensive chemical safety service.
Contact us, and we will ensure that your modelling meets all requirements and supports a smooth permitting process.

HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study) is a systematic and effective method for assessing risks in the process industry. It can be used to identify potential hazards and operational deficiencies at the design stage or before commissioning, allowing proactive risk management.

HAZOP looks at how and why different parts of the process may deviate from their intended function, and how these deviations may lead to safety risks or availability problems. The method is based on guiding questions that systematically analyse each part of the process.

Why is HAZOP important?

• Allows hazards to be identified before the process is put into operation.

• Highlight shortcomings in planning, operations and governance.

• Helps to optimise the safety and availability of the process.

• Supports regulatory requirements for process safety management.

When is the HAZOP done?

HAZOP is particularly useful at the detailed design stage, when the process diagrams are ready but changes can still be made. It is also suitable for later stages, such as commissioning reviews or process change control (MoC) assessments.

High quality HAZOP - guided by an expert

The HAZOP process, led by a Protect expert, ensures that the review proceeds as planned and that everything relevant is fully documented. High quality guidance and a participatory approach are prerequisites for a successful HAZOP. Contact us!

The management plan for fire-fighting wastewater and chemical spills is a document aimed at preventing the release of hazardous substances into the environment in the event of an accident or fire. The plan describes how fire-fighting water and any chemical spills will be collected, managed and treated so that they do not contaminate soil, groundwater or watercourses.

The plan includes:

• chemical and risk point mapping

• a study on catchment areas and drainage

• structural and technical solutions (e.g. basins, sluices, valves)

• policies and allocation of responsibilities in different situations

• cooperation with rescue authorities and water utilities

When is a management plan needed?

A management plan for fire-fighting wastewater and chemical spills is required when an activity poses a risk of significant chemical spills or the generation of fire water.
Legislation - such as the Rescue Act, the Chemical Safety Regulation and the Environmental Protection Act - requires emergency preparedness. The plan can also be part of the environmental permit process or a safety report.

Examples of such destinations include:

• industrial installations and energy production

• warehouses and logistics centres

• areas for the handling of liquid fuels or dangerous substances

• grocery stores that store large quantities of flammable or harmful chemicals

How can Protect help?

Protect offers expert assistance in drawing up and updating management plans.

Our services cover:

• On-site mapping of risks and catchment areas

• Preparation of the plan in accordance with the requirements of the authorities (Tukes, environmental permit, rescue authority)

• Coordination with the emergency plan and other safety documentation

• Planning exercises and training

• Technical solutions: guidance or design for structural and operational solutions (e.g. shut-off valves, reservoirs, run-off collection systems)

We help ensure environmental safety and business continuity - efficiently and in compliance with regulatory requirements. Contact us to find out more!