Summary of the causes of accidents during fluid storage, transportation, loading, and unloading
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1. Leakage incident during the loading of C9 at Donggang Petrochemical: The reason was the drop in water level and the increase in the ship’s weight, which caused the hull to sink and thus the hoses to be continuously pulled downward. Since the ends of the hoses were secured with ropes, limiting their length, the strong pulling force eventually tore the hoses apart. Technical reflection: Why are the ends of the hose secured with ropes? Is it necessary to constantly monitor the pipeline length and relative displacement? Solution: At the hose connection points, it is necessary to ensure a proper connection, the ability to disconnect in emergency situations, and prevention of leaks. 2. Blasting accident during the loading of 4.25 gasoline at Dongying Hansen Chemicals: Cause 1: Inadequate safety facilities such as static electricity grounding; Cause 2: Excessive amount of oil and gas in the gap between the loading hatch and the dip pipe. Technical reflection: Can the issue of excessive oil and gas levels be addressed through improvements in the design of the connecting equipment? Solution: Leak-free loading and unloading connection equipment. 3. Explosion and fire incident during the unloading of 6.5 units at Linyi Jinyu Petrochemical: Cause – The liquid-phase connection fitting for liquefied gas suddenly came loose, resulting in rapid vaporization and dispersion of the liquefied gas; upon encountering an ignition source, an explosion occurred. Technical reflection: Flow can occur even if the quick-connect fitting is not properly connected, posing a serious hazard. Solutions: The quick-connect fitting should have a signal indicating proper connection; safety pins can be installed, as well as leak-free emergency disconnection devices. 4. Poisoning and asphyxiation accident at Handan Longgang Chemical on 11/28 during liquid ammonia loading: Cause – Aging and fracture of the stainless steel hexagonal bolts used to secure the interface for liquid ammonia. Technical insight: Stress changes in the connecting bolts require regular replacement; even partial breakage can lead to leaks. Solution: Use a reliable connection method that prevents leaks, eliminates the need for spare parts, and reduces safety risks
In response to the accident at Jinyu Petrochemical, we carried out technical upgrades that allow the emergency shut-off valves on tank trucks to be turned off remotely.
1. The shutdown can only be carried out after receiving signals from the site or feedback from personnel; by that time, leakage and spread have already occurred, resulting in a delay. 2. Emergency shut-off valves are, to a certain extent, remedial devices designed to prevent further deterioration of leaks; however, the problem of improper connection due to human error by on-site personnel has not been resolved at its root.