Ignition

Question 1

Have all potential sources of ignition in the workplace been identified in the fire risk assessment?

Answer 1

One of the major objectives of any fire risk assessment is to identify potential sources of ignition in the workplace. These will include flames, sparks, hot surfaces, hot work, electrical fire hazards and areas of movement that may lead to the generation of heat by friction or the build up of static charges. All potential sources of ignition should be maintained well below the auto-ignition temperature of the most hazardous solvent in the area.

Question 2

Has an assessment of the lightning risk been undertaken in accordance with BS EN 62305 and RISCAuthority recommendations RC35?

Answer 2

Assessment of the lightning risk should be undertaken in accordance with BS EN 62305 (ref 30) and the requirements of RISCAuthority recommendations RC35 (ref 31). In the petrochemical industry a specific strategy is used that is outside the scope of this document. Particular consideration is warranted for buildings and tanks in the open containing flammable liquids.

Question 3

Is smoking prohibited in all areas where flammable liquids are used or stored with suitable notices being prominently displayed?

Answer 3

Smoking must be prohibited in all areas where flammable liquids are used or stored and suitable notices should be prominently displayed. Care should be taken when indentifying locations for smoking areas. Further information regarding designated smoking areas is set out in RISCAuthority recommendations RC51 (ref 32).

Question 4

Is all necessary maintenance or contractors’ work in areas where flammable or highly flammable liquids are in use carried out according to a Method Statement and under a ‘Permit to Work’ system?

Answer 4

All necessary maintenance or contractors’ work in areas where flammable or highly flammable liquids are in use should be carried out according to a Method Statement (provided by the contractor or the site occupier as necessary) and under a ‘Permit to Work’ system.

Special precautions are necessary when work may generate heat or sparks and strict safety procedures must be followed in respect of any work involving plant or equipment containing, or used for the handling of flammable liquids (see RISCAuthority recommendations RC7 (ref 33).

The measurement of vapour concentrations might be required in areas where the liquids cannot be safely removed or where it is suspected that high concentrations still exist, to ensure that the concentration is below the product’s lower explosive limit