WHAT IS F&G MAPPING?
- Fire & Gas hazard is major threat to people, environment and asset. The early detection of a developing fire or gas leak and an early warning to operational and fire-fighting personnel form an important aspect in the basic concept of fire protection.
- Fire and gas detection systems are designed and installed to protect large and complex areas filled with process equipment from risks of combustible or toxic gas leaks, explosions and flames.
- The fire and gas detection system provide early warning to plant personnel of potentially dangerous situations in terms of flammable or toxic atmospheres or fires of in all plant areas.
- This enables the initiation of remedial actions to avoid or minimize escalation of events and risk reduction measures to be taken.
- Worldwide most oil & gas companies standards are based on the BP GP 30-85, Shell DEP 32.30.20.11, ISA standard & NFPA codes.
MAPPING METHODOLOGY
The following order is followed in the Mapping Methodology.
1.Obtain drawings & site Layout data
2.Identification of hazard and grading of areas
3.Define the performance target requirement
4.Coverage Verification
5.Fire and Gas detectors Layout
GRADING OF HAZARD
Grade Area Allocation as per BP GP 30-85 as:
| GRADE | AREA DEFINITIONS |
| A | Hydrocarbon handling, with high sensitivity |
| B | Hydrocarbon handling, with normal sensitivity |
| C | Hydrocarbon handling, with low sensitivity |
| D | No hydrocarbons, with protection of human life |
| E | No hydrocarbons, with protection of special equipment |
| S | Special risk, where no other grade is appropriate |
| T | Special risk, with turbine and other engine enclosures |
| V | Special risk, with ventilation air intakes |
SOFTWARE TOOLS
- Detect 3D
- Effigy
- AMNIS
BETTER SAFETY
- Fire and gas detector mapping are becoming more common place for oil and gas facilities, supported by sophisticated software tools.
- Ideally such studies should be undertaken in conjunction with related assessments since they can provide valuable insights into associated safety claims.
- In this sense, they can contribute to a more thorough understanding of the installed hazard protection and ultimately lead to improved safety through better risk-informed design.
