QSHE Guidance 9.04 Rev 1 PDF

QSHE Guidance: 9.
04 Formerly Part E of
HSE Manual
STORAGE SYSTEMS Page 1 of 29
Rev. 1 of January
06
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................................................2
1.1 PURPOSE OF THE SPECIFICATION ........................................................................................2
1.2 APPLICABILITY ....................................................................................................................3
2 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS TO HC STORAGE SYSTEMS ..........................................4
2.1 FRENCH REGULATIONS AND LAWS ......................................................................................4
2.2 OTHER COUNTRY REGULATION AND LAWS .........................................................................4
2.3 CODES, STANDARDS AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICES ......................................................4
3 PARTICULAR REQUIREMENTS AND DESCRIPTION OF SAFETY TO HC
STORAGE SYSTEMS..............................................................................................................6
3.1 CLASSIFICATION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBONS.....................................................................6
3.1.1 French regulation ........................................................................................................6
3.1.2 British regulation ........................................................................................................6
3.1.3 American regulation (NFPA)......................................................................................7
3.2 LAY-OUT...............................................................................................................................8
3.2.1 Maximum storage capabilities ....................................................................................8
3.2.2 Safety distances...........................................................................................................9
3.2.2.1 Impacted area.............................................................................................9
3.2.2.2 With the other units in the installation.....................................................12
3.2.2.3 With the other storage units .....................................................................13
3.2.2.4 Between storage equipment......................................................................15
3.3 CONTAINMENT ...................................................................................................................18
3.3.1 Containment control .................................................................................................18
3.3.2 Gas detection.............................................................................................................19
3.3.3 Dykes ........................................................................................................................19
3.3.4 Dykes drainage .........................................................................................................22
3.3.5 Catch pit / Impoundment Area..................................................................................22
3.4 FIRE PREVENTION AND CONTROL......................................................................................23
3.4.1 Bonding.....................................................................................................................23
3.4.2 Passive fire protection...............................................................................................23
3.4.3 Fire detection ............................................................................................................23
3.4.4 Fire-fighting means...................................................................................................23
3.4.4.1 Primary fire-fighting means .....................................................................24
3.4.4.2 Secondary fire-fighting means .................................................................24
3.4.4.3 External support.......................................................................................24
3.4.5 Fire-fighting application rates...................................................................................24
3.4.6 Fire-fighting application times .................................................................................28
4 RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS..........................................................................................29
PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

QSHE Guidance: 9.04 Formerly Part E of
HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE OF THE SPECIFICATION
The purpose of this specification is to define the requirements for the location and the
protection of the onshore overhead hydrocarbon storage atmospheric tanks and pressure
vessels. Hydrocarbon storage systems can be sorted in three categories:
- Tanks for the storage of liquid hydrocarbons:
- fixed roof tanks,
- floating roofs tanks.
- Pressure vessels for storage of liquefied hydrocarbons (LPG storage):
- above-ground,
- under-ground or under-embankment. (Requirements for these are not covered in
this Guidance)
- Refrigerated vessels at atmospheric pressure for storage of liquefied hydrocarbons (LNG
storage), not covered by this specification.
Their safety requirements depend on:

- Fluid category (or class) of hydrocarbons stored,
- Associated transfer operations,
- Pressures @ storage temperature:
- True Vapor Pressure (TVP),
- Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP),
- Type of storage tanks or vessels:
- above or under-ground,
- fixed or floating roofs,
- Capacity of the storage tanks or vessels:
- individual,
- total in a dyke,
- overall in the installation,
- Impact to:
- inhabited or public places,
- moderate or important traffic roads,
- railways.
- Vicinity of:
- other storage installations,
- other or public fire-fighting facilities.
The following safety features shall be examined:

- Lay-out (refer to chapter 3.2):
- maximum capacity of storage,
- safety distances,
- Containment (refer to chapter3.3):
- containment control,
- loss of containment control:
- gas detection,
- dikes,

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- Fire control (refer to chapter 3.4):

- passive fire protection,
- fire-fighting means,
- fire-fighting application rates,
- fire-fighting application times.
1.2 APPLICABILITY
This specification applies to onshore installations only. As a general rule, it shall apply to new
installations and to major modifications or extensions of existing installations. Some countries
(France for instance, the regulation of which were used to establish this specification) impose
retroactivity for LPG storage.
This specification does not cover:

- Storage of liquefied hydrocarbons refrigerated at atmospheric pressure,
- Storage of miscellaneous liquid hydrocarbons commonly required for the processing or
utilities, such as jet-fuel, diesel-oil, methanol, glycol, treatment chemicals, paint, etc. These
types of storage generate hazardous areas to be taken into account in design and
operations.
- Under-water storage of hydrocarbons,
- Under-ground (under grade) storage of hydrocarbons,
- Mobile storage facilities,
- Transfer operations.

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2 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS TO HC STORAGE SYSTEMS
2.1 FRENCH REGULATIONS AND LAWS
a) General:
- "Arrêté du 4 septembre 1967" (JO 6/10/1967),
- "Arrêté du 9 novembre 1972" (JO 31/12/1972).
- "Arrêté du 19 novembre 1975" .
b) Specific to liquid hydrocarbons:

- "Arrêté du 19 novembre 1975" (JO 23/1/1976),
- "Instruction Ministérielle PRME 89/61.679 C du 9 novembre 1989", and subsequent
clarification by GESIP.
c) Specific to Liquefied Petroleum Gases under pressure (LPG):

- "Instruction Ministérielle PRME 89/61.680 C du 9 novembre 1989", and subsequent
clarification by GESIP,
- "Arrêté du 10 mai 1993" (fluid category A2).
2.2 OTHER COUNTRY REGULATION AND LAWS
There is no international regulation.
Reference shall be made to local regulations where existing and as applicable. In the absence
of any local regulation, practice is to follow the present document, and/or to issue a particular
project specification. Where the local regulations are less stringent than the present
specification, this latter shall apply, unless a derogation dossier has been submitted to, and
approved by COMPANY.
On top of this, additional demands could be put in force where applicable such as IP Code
Part 3 and Part 9. If the decision to use these Codes (or part of them) is made, then the more
stringent requirements shall apply.
2.3 CODES, STANDARDS AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICES
a) General:
- API 2000: Venting Atmospheric and Low Pressure Storage Tanks.
- API 2001: Fire Protection in Refineries.
- API 2021: Fighting Fires in and Around Flammable and Combustible Liquid
atmospheric Storage Tank.
- GESIP 91/01: "Commentaires sur le Projet de Règles d'Aménagement et
d'Exploitation des Dépôts d'Hydrocarbures Liquides",
- GESIP 93/04: "Incendie des grandes cuvettes, prévention et stratégies
d'intervention",
- GESIP 93/10: "Recommendations pour systèmes de fermeture de canalisation en
pied de bac"
- GESIP 98/01: "Guide de sécurité pour l'exploitation des dépôts d'Hydrocarbures
Liquides" (also available in english under the code 98.05)
- NFPA 11 (2005 Edition): Low, Medium and High Expansion Foam
- NFPA 15 (2001 Edition): Fixed Water Spraying Systems

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- NFPA 16 (2003 Edition): Installation of Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water

Spray Systems
- NFPA 20 (2003 Edition): Fire Water Pumps

- NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
- NFPA 31: Oil Burning Equipment
- IP Code Part 3: Refining Safety Code
- IP Code Part 9: Liquefied Petroleum Gas
b) Specific to liquid hydrocarbons:

- NFPA 11 (2005 Edition): Low, Medium and High Expansion Foam.
c) Specific to Liquefied Petroleum Gases under pressure (LPG):

- API 2510: Design and Construction of LPG Installations
- API 2510A: Fire Protection Considerations for the Design and Operation of
LPG Storage Facilities
- IP Code P9: Large Pressure Storage and Refrigerated LPG
- NFPA 11 (2005 Edition): Low, Medium and High Expansion Foam
- NFPA 58: Standard for the Storage and Handling of LPG
- NFPA 59: Standard for the Storage and Handling of LPG at Utility Gas
Plants.

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3 PARTICULAR REQUIREMENTS AND DESCRIPTION OF SAFETY TO HC

STORAGE SYSTEMS
3.1 CLASSIFICATION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBONS
3.1.1 French regulation
Fluid category A: liquefied hydrocarbons with True Vapor Pressure (TVP) > 1 bar a at
15°C:
- A1: liquefied at t < 0°C,
- A2: liquefied in other conditions.
Fluid category B: liquid hydrocarbons with flash point < 55°C.
Fluid category C: liquid hydrocarbons with: 55°C≤ flash point < 100°C :
- C1: with flash point ≤ storage temperature,
- C2: with storage temperature < flash point.
Fluid category D: liquid hydrocarbons with : 100° ≤ flash point :

- D1: with flash point ≤ storage temperature,
- D2: with storage temperature < flash point.
French classification is used in the development that follows.
3.1.2 British regulation
As per British regulation, hydrocarbons fluids are classified as follows:
Fluid class 0: liquefied petroleum gases (LPG).
Fluid class Ι: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point below 21°C.
Fluid class ΙΙ: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point above 21°C but below 55°C.
- ΙΙ (1): stored below flash point,
- ΙΙ (2): with storage temperature above flash point.
Fluid class ΙΙΙ: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point above 55°C.
- ΙΙΙ (1): flash point above 55°C but below 100°C.and stored
below flash point,
- ΙΙΙ (2): same as 3 (1) but stored above flash point.
Unclassified: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point above 100°C. Unclassified

petroleum liquids should be considered as class ΙΙΙ (2) when handled
at, or above, their flash point temperature.

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3.1.3 American regulation (NFPA)
As per American regulation (NFPA), hydrocarbons fluids are classified as follows:
Flammable liquids: Any liquid that has a closed cup flash point that is below 37.8°C and a
Reid vapour pressure not exceeding 2068 mm Hg at 37.8°C. There
are 3 classes of flammable liquid:
Class ΙA liquids: liquid having a flash point below 22.8°C and a boiling point below
37.8°C.
Class ΙB liquids: liquid having a flash point below 22.8°C and a boiling point at or
above 37.8°C.
Class ΙC liquids: liquid having a flash point at or above 22.8°C but below 37.8°C.
Combustible liquids: A liquid that has a closed cup flash point at or above 37.8°C. These
are 3 classes of combustible liquid:
Class ΙΙ liquids: liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8°C and below 60°C.
Class ΙΙΙA liquids: liquid having a flash point at or above 60°C and below 93°C.
Class ΙΙΙB liquids: liquid having a flash point at or above 93°C.

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3.2 LAY-OUT
3.2.1 Maximum storage capabilities
a) Tanks for liquid hydrocarbons:
There is no regulatory limitation in size for the liquid hydrocarbon storage. The equivalent
storage capacity is defined as the sum of all the fixed and mobile capacities, multiplied by the
following factors:
- fluids categories B, C1 and D1 : 1,
- fluids category C2, exclusive of heavy fuel-oils : 1/3,
- heavy fuel-oils : 1/15,
- fluids category D2 : 0.
In this document, it is assumed that the equivalent storage capacity exceeds 1000 m3.
However, less stringent rules (to be defined for each project and in function of local
regulation) are acceptable where equivalent storage capacity doesn't exceed 1000 m3. A
derogation dossier shall be established and submitted to COMPANY’s approval.
Experience has demonstrated that there is a maximum practicable size for the extinguishing of
a pool fire, which is about 7 000 m2. Where capacities are larger, it should be assumed that
the fire extinguishing might be impossible. For reasons of fire fighting effectiveness there
should not be more than two rows of tanks in the same dyke and between two adjacent access
roads.
b) Pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons:
b1) General for pressure storage:
Pressure storage means that the TVP @ storage temperature > 1.6 bar a. Maximum capacity
of each storage vessel is 500 m3 for above-ground vessels
b2) Specific to LPG storage :
For Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) whose TVP @ 15°C > 20 bars a, the maximum
capacity of each above-ground storage vessel is 120 m3, if the storage temperature is such that
TVP @ storage temperature > 5 bars a.

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3.2.2 Safety distances
The safety distances shall be governed by three main criteria:

- Definition of the impacted area around the installation in case of a catastrophic failure,
- Safety distances between the different units in the installation:
- between storage and other units,
- between different storage units,
- Safety distances between the different equipment within the same storage unit.
3.2.2.1 Impacted area
a) General:
The impacted area is the area that can be affected by a catastrophic failure of the installation.
As far as practicable, COMPANY's practice is to control and/or protect by a security fence the
whole area that can be impacted. Fences shall be at least 2.5 m high.
Wherever this cannot be achieved (e.g. densely inhabited areas), mitigating measures shall be
enforced:
- traffic and construction shall be minimized and controlled,
- uncontrollable activities such as campsites shall be prohibited,
- a contingency plan shall be defined with the local authorities.
In the development that follows, and with reference to French regulation, the definitions listed
below shall be contemplated:
Public places: Places receiving public, or with buildings higher than 28 m.
Inhabited places: All places not meeting the public place criteria. Note that for the
French regulation, the motion of desert place does not exist.
Important traffic: Road with more than 2 000 vehicles per day or passengers
transportation by railway.
Traffic : External roads with more than 200 vehicles per day or railways
devoted to the installation and under control or external railways
without passengers transportation.
Other traffic: External roads with less than 200 vehicles per day or roads devoted
to the installation, and under control.

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b) Tanks for liquid hydrocarbons:

b1) Impacted area:
Distance (d)
Formula Minimum
Inhabited places
or 2.8 L 0.85 (1 – 0.0022 L 0.85 ) 50 m
moderate traffic
Public places
or 3.8 L 0.85 (1 – 0.003 L 0.85 ) 100 m
important traffic
Notes: d: minimum distance (m) from the edge of the dyke or of the loading area
L: width of the dyke as seen from the impacted area (m), it can be a diagonal.
Table 3.2.2.1.b1 – Impacted area around above–ground of storage of liquid

hydrocarbons
b2) Distances between above-ground tanks, loading posts, and inhabited places:
Distance (d)
To inhabited places To public
Equipment Fluid Fluid Fluid Fluid
cat. B cat. C cat. B cat. C
Loading posts 10 m 3m
Storage ≤ 200 m 3 15 m 10 m 75 m 60 m (2)
Storage ≤ 1000 m 3 30 m 20 m 75 m 60 m (2)
Storage > 1000 m 3 30 m 30 m 75 m 60 m (2)
2/3 Φ (1) 2/3 Φ (1)
Notes: d: minimum distance (m) from the skirt of the tank or of the edge of the loading area.
(1) Whichever is larger.
(2) For heavy fuel–oils, this minimum distance may be reduced down to 40 m.
Table 3.2.2.1.b2 – Minimum distances between above-ground storage of liquid

hydrocarbons and inhabited places
b3) Minimum distances between above-ground tanks and traffic:
Distance (d)
To inhabited places To public
Equipment Fluid Fluid Fluid Fluid
cat. B cat. C cat. B cat. C
Loading posts 15 m 10 m 15 m 5m
Storage ≤ 200 m 3 15 m 10 m 15 m 5m
Storage > 200 m 3 30 m 20 m 15 m 5m
Notes : d: minimum distance (m) from the skirt of the tank or of the edge of the loading area, to
the limit of the road or the closest rail.
Table 3.2.2.1.b3 – Minimum distances between above-ground storage of liquid

hydrocarbons and traffic

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c) Pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons:
c1) Impacted area:
Distance (d)
Inhabited places Public places Fence
or or
moderate traffic important traffic
Above-ground 3.12 M1 0.425 4.71 M10.405 50 m
Under- 9 M2 0.333 22 M2 0.333 50 m

embankment
Notes: d: minimum distance (m) from the limit of an above-ground vessel tank or from the top
piping outlet of an under-embankment vessel
M1: mass of liquid stored in the vessel (kg)
M2: mass of gas between the adjacent isolation valves which can release to atmosphere
increase of surface piping upset (kg).
Table 3.2.2.1.c1 – Impacted area around pressure storage of liquefied gases
c2) Atmospheric storage of LPG:
Distance (d)
Inhabited Moderate Public Important
places traffic places traffic
Capacity ≤ 1500 m 3 100 50 200 100
Capacity ≤ 10000 m 3 200 100 400 200
Capacity ≤ 50000 m 3 500 250 1000 500
Capacity > 50000 m 3 900 450 1800 900
Note : d: minimum distance (m) from the limit of an above-ground vessel tank or from the top
piping outlet of an under-embankment vessel. Here above rules for storage whose capacity
exceeds 10 000 m3 apply for old storage vessels.
Table 3.2.2.1.c2 – Impacted area around atmospheric storage of liquefied gases

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3.2.2.2 With the other units in the installation
The storage unit(s) in an installation shall be in a, or a set of, dedicated fire zone(s), apart from
the production and processing units fire zones. With reference to the French regulation, the
minimum safety distances to the other units in the installation are summarized in next table.
Distance (d) See Note (1)

Unit Fluids Fluids Fluid Fluid
A B, C1, D1 C2 D2
Well heads (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Process units 60 m 30 m 20 m 15 m
Transfer stations fluids A (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Transfer stations fluids B, C1, D1 (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Transfer stations fluids C2 (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Transfer stations fluids D2 (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Pipe-rack (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Oily water basins 40 m 20 m 20 m 20 m
Storage fluids A (Note 3) (Note 3) (Note 3) (Note 3)
Storage fluids B, C1, D1 (Note 3) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Storage fluids C2 (Note 3) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Storage fluids D2 (Note 3) (Note 4) (Note 4) (Note 4)
Fired heaters 60 m 40 m 25 m 15 m
Electrical (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Transfer pumps 20 m 20 m 20 m 20 m
Fire Fighting 60 m 30 m 30 m 20 m
Control room (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Workshops 60 m 40 m 30 m 20 m
Offices 60 m 40 m 30 m 20 m
Utilities (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2) (Note 2)
Fence 30 m 15 m 10 m 10 m
Flares > 30 m 60 m 60 m 60 m 60 m
Notes: (1) d: minimum distance (m) between the edges of the units
(2) Not defined in French regulation
(3) Refer to Paragraph 3.2.2.3
(4) Refer to Paragraph 3.2.2.4.
Table 3.2.2.2. – Onshore recommended distances between units based on French

regulation

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3.2.2.3 With the other storage units
There is no required minimum distance between two different liquid hydrocarbons storage
units, provided their dykes are different and they meet the requirements of the minimum
distances between equipment as defined in next paragraph 3.2.4.
The minimum distances between storage units apply only to the liquefied gas vessels, either
with the liquid hydrocarbons tanks, or between themselves, and can be summarized as
follows.
Liquid hydrocarbons storage shall be at a minimum distance of liquefied hydrocarbons

storage. Where the total capacity of liquefied hydrocarbons doesn't exceed 4000 m3, the
minimum distances depend only upon whether the storage are above-ground or under-
embankment. Where the total capacity of liquefied hydrocarbons exceeds 4000 m3, the
minimum distances depend only on the fluid category of liquid hydrocarbons.
Distance (d)
Liquefied hydrocarbons Above ground At least one
total capacity Storage under embankment
storage
Capacity ≤ 70 m 3 10 m 5m
Capacity ≤ 4000 m 3 20 m 10 m
Distance (d)
Liquefied hydrocarbons Liquids category B Liquids category C or D
total capacity
Capacity > 4000 m 3 40 m 25 m
Notes: d: minimum distance (m) between the limits of the vessels.
Table 3.2.2.3a – Minimum distances between storage of liquid hydrocarbons and storage
of liquefied hydrocarbons
Two LPG storage dykes shall be considered as different if they comply with the following :
- minimum distance between vessels : ≥ 150 % Ø + 5 m.
- and way : ≥ 2.5 m,
See hereafter Figure 3.2.2.3.b.
Two under-embankment or under-ground storage vessels are considered as different provided

they comply with the distances between equipment as defined in next paragraph 3.2.2.4.

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Ø1
Ø2
> 1.5Ø1+5m
> 2.5m
Road
Figure 3.2.2.3.b - Minimum distances between two different LPG storage dykes

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3.2.2.4 Between storage equipment
Skirt to skirt distance between two tanks above-ground within a common dyke area:
Minimum
Distances
Diameter d of the Fluid category Fluid category
largest tank B, C1, and D1 C2, and D2
d≤6m 1.5 m 1.5 m
d ≤ 24 m d/4 d/5
d ≤ 40 m d/3 d/5
d > 40 m d/2 d/5
Capacity > 50 000 m 3 (Note 1) (Note 2)
Notes: For fluid category D2 always 1.5 m between vertical shells.

(1) Imposed by American insurance Companies (IRI), not mentioned by French regulation.
(2) Not discussed in IRI. To be checked for each specific case.
(3) When tanks holding fluids B, C1, C2 and/or D2 are located in the same dyke area, the
more stringent safety distances shall be used.
Table 3.2.2.4.a1 – Minimum distances between tanks for liquid hydrocarbons within a
common dyke area
Skirt to skirt distance between two tanks above -ground within two adjacent dykes areas:
Minimum
Distances
Tank type Fluid category Fluid category
B, C1, and D1 C2, and D2
Floating roof / 0.65 d 0.2 d
floating roof
Fixed roof / 0.8 d 0.2 d
fixed roof
Fixed roof / 0.65 d 0.2 d
floating roof
Note : d: diameter of the largest tank.
Table 3.2.2.4.a2 – Minimum distances between tanks for liquid hydrocarbons within a
common dyke area
If tank holding fluids category B, C1 or D1 are in the first dyke area and tanks holding fluids
C2 or D2 are in the second dyke area, then the distances between two tanks shall be 0.5 x+0.2
y, with diameter of the largest tank holding fluid B, C1 or D1 and y diameter of the largest
tank holding fluid C2 or D2.
- Between tank and dyke: 1 m.
- Between laboratories for metering and analyzing, and:
- above-ground storage: 15 m,
- transfer pumps: 15 m,
- loading posts: 15 m.

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- Between tanks and loading areas:
Fluid category Loading from Loading

mobile tanks mobile tanks
B 5m 15 m
C 2.5 m 7.5 m
Table 3.2.2.4.a3 – Minimum distances between tanks for liquid HC and loading areas
Notes: - The location of horizontal and vertical tanks within the same dyke is not permitted.
- Liquefied hydrocarbon tanks shall not be installed in the same dyke as liquid hydrocarbon
tanks.

- Two above-ground vessels:
- two spherical vessels: 75% biggest sphere,
- a spherical vessel and a cylindrical vessel: 75% largest Ø
See hereafter figure 3.2.2.4.b1.
- two cylindrical vessels:

capacity ≤ 70 m3: 1 m,
capacity >200m3: 100% largest Ø.
See hereafter figure 3.2.2.4.b2.
- Above-ground and under-embankment or under-ground vessels:

- an above-ground vessel and an under-ground or under-embankment vessel: 2 m,
- PSV discharge of an under-embankment vessel and an above-ground vessel:
capacity > 200 m3: 10 m.
- Two under-ground or under-embankment vessels : 1 m.

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a b c
d1 d2
d3
a: ≥3m capacity > 200 m3 b: ≥ 0.75 d1

a: ≥2m capacity ≤ 200 m3 c: ≥ 0.75 d2
Figure 3.2.2.4.b1 - Safety distances between two spherical and/or cylindrical above - ground
pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons
a b c
d1 d2 d3
Capacity ≤ 70 m3 a=1 m b=1m c=1m

Capacity ≤ 200 m3 a=2 m b=2m c=2m
Capacity > 200 m3 a=3 m b = d1 or d2 c = d2 or d3
Figure 3.2.2.4.b2 - Safety distances between two cylindrical above - ground pressure vessels for
liquefied hydrocarbons

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3.3 CONTAINMENT
The containment devices of overhead hydrocarbon storage shall consist in a combination of:
- control devices for the containment in the tank or vessel, normal operations
- gas detection and dykes (in case of loss of containment).
- dyke drainage and catch pit (if any) to dispose liquids out of the dyke.
3.3.1 Containment control
The containment control of atmospheric tanks for liquid hydrocarbons storage shall consist in
the set of the following:
- Design of floating roof: shall preclude any risk of liquid over-flowing through the annulus
between the roof and the skirt of the tank.
- Isolation valves: each loading/unloading line shall be fitted with a fail-to-close automatic
shut-down valve (SDV). The SDVs that can be exposed to fire, and in particular those
installed in the dykes, shall be fire resistant as per codes BS 5146, 6755/2 or equivalent.
- Level control: LI, LAH provides an alarm, LSH 90% stops loading and provides an alarm.
- Pressure control: Atmospheric tanks shall be protected from over-pressurization and
vacuum by an adequately-sized vent system, taking into account both thermal breathing
and fire case, and as per API 2000. All above ground tanks shall have emergency relief
venting to relieve excessive internal pressure caused by an exposed fire. A flame arrester
shall be included in the vent system to prevent flame migration back to the vessel. A
pressure-vacuum relief device (PSV) or a second vent should be installed to protect the
tank in case the primary vent control device fouls or otherwise obstructs flow.
- On fixed roof tanks, a gas blanketing system shall be installed to exclude air and to
compensate for the maximum flow that can be pumped out the tank, and the shrinkage for
ambient temperature decrease, or increase in heat transfer rate (wind gusts, rainfalls, etc.).
- If the atmospheric vessel is heated, a TSH sensor shall be provided to shut-off the heat
input when temperature becomes excessive.
- Vaults: Aboveground tanks can be installed in vaults that meets the requirements of NFPA
30, with walls and floor made of reinforced concrete at least 150 mm thick, an approved
vapor and liquid detection system and equipped with on-site audible and visual warning
devices.
The containment control of pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons storage shall consist in
the set of the following:
- Isolation valves: each loading/unloading line shall be fitted with a fail-to-close automatic
shut-down valve (SDV). In addition, and in order to minimize the mass of gas which can
release to atmosphere in case of surface piping upset, an internal fail-to-close automatic
shut-down valve (SDV) or a fail-to close automatic check-valve (FSV) shall be installed.
By derogation, where the fluid category or the design of the vessel makes the sitting of
internal safety devices impossible, a fail-to-close automatic shut-down valve (SDV) shall
be fitted as close as possible to the vessel.
- Level control: LI, LSH 90% stops loading and provides an alarm, LSHH 95% detected by
two different systems, with line monitoring; same actions as for LSH plus automatic
closure of the loading isolation valves.

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- Pressure control:
- PI,
- n+1 PSVs, n being able to relief excess gas to maintain pressure < 110% design
pressure; the PSVs shall be sized for the general protection of pressure vessels and
for the fire case; these two functions can be achieved either by one single set of
PSVs, or two different sets of PSVs each devoted to one function,
- thermal safety valves (TSVs) shall be provided on liquid lines and equipment that
can be blocked between two SDVs,
- vessels that may be damaged by internal vacuum shall be protected accordingly.
- The provision of leak detectors such as low temperature thermal detectors shall be
assessed.
3.3.2 Gas detection
Gas detection devices are not required by French regulation. They shall not be provided,
unless otherwise stipulated in local regulations, or required by a particular project
specification.
As per French regulation, gas detectors shall be provided around the storage installations, with
the following logic : 20% LFL provides alarm, 50% LFL triggers ESD.
3.3.3 Dykes
Each fixed storage tank, or set of storage tanks, each set of mobile storage tanks handling
liquids hydrocarbons of class B shall be provided with a liquid retention device, which, in
most cases, is a dyke area for a set of tanks. The different fluid categories of liquids stored in
the tanks in a same dyke shall be compatible each-other.
The minimum capacity of the dykes shall be, for a set of fixed tanks:
Fluid Category
Storage capacity Heavy fuel-oils Others B, C, D
in the dyke
Capacity ≤ 10000 m 3 50 % biggest tank, 100 % biggest tank,
20 % total (1) 50 % total (1)
Capacity > 10000 m 3 100 % biggest tank, 100 % biggest tank,
20 % total (1) 50 % total (1)
Note: (1) which either is the greater.
Table 3.3.3.a – Minimum distances between tanks for liquid hydrocarbons and loading
areas

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
Experience has demonstrated that there is a maximum practicable size for the extinguishing of
a pool fire, which is about 2 000 m3. This corresponds, for instance, to share dyke of 57
meters wide, containing a circular tank of 20 meters in diameter. It is recommended that
independent dykes have a net area not exceeding 2 000 m3, otherwise it should be assumed
that the fire extinguishing might be impossible.
Where a common dyke contains a set of independent storage tanks, it shall be divided at least
by embankments or walls 70 cm high.
The minimum capacity of the dykes, for a set of mobile storage tanks handling liquids
hydrocarbons of class B, shall be 60% of the maximum capacity of all the mobile tanks.
The dykes shall be liquid-tight.

The maximum allowable velocity of liquids through the dykes is 10-8 m/s.
Each fixed storage vessel with a capacity exceeding 70 m3 or 50 tons shall be provided with a
liquid retention device, which, in most cases, is a dyke area for a set of tanks.
If the total capacity of storage doesn't exceed 70 m3 nor 50 tons, it is admissible that they
have no liquid retention device, provided the area is graveled, and/or the area is surrounded by
a wall of 10 cm.
See hereafter Figure 3.3.3.b.1.
The dykes shall slope downwards, with a minimum slope of 2%, to a basin located away (but
still in the dyke) from the storage vessels in order to minimize the heat flux to the vessels in
case of fire in the dyke. The dykes shall be designed in order to minimize the evaporation of
the liquefied hydrocarbons.
In the case of several tanks in the same dyke, the minimum capacity of the dyke shall be at
least 20% of the capacity of the biggest vessel in the dyke. However, a specific risk
assessment should be carried-on to check this minimum value.
Liquid hydrocarbons tanks and liquefied hydrocarbons pressure vessels shall not be in the
same dykes since their liquids are not compatible with each-other.

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
C = 20% R
Figure 3.3.3.b.1 - Dyke arrangement for one storage pressure vessel of liquefied hydrocarbons
Rn Rn-1
R1
C = 20% (R1 + R 2 ....Rn)
Figure 3.3.3.b.2 - Dyke arrangement for several storage pressure vessels of liquefied hydrocarbons

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
3.3.4 Dykes drainage
Dykes drainage shall be equipped with a suitable drainage system to handle rainwater,
firewater and hydrocarbon spillage from dykes areas.
The water from the dykes shall be considered as continuously or accidentally contaminated.
Each dyke drain shall be connected with a manual valve, Normally Closed (NC), to the open
drains system from hazardous areas. The draining and subsequent treatment processing
procedures shall be covered by specific operating procedures.
A simplified drainage and primary treatment scheme for an onshore installation is provided in
QSHE Guidance 8.07 – Liquid Drainage.
See QSHE Guidance 9.07 – Environment, sub-paragraph 6.3.2., for details

on waste water and sewage minimum requirement.
3.3.5 Catch pit / Impoundment Area
In some particular circumstances, experience has proven beneficial to empty a dyke on fire to
a dedicated catch pit / impoundment area in order the minimize the duration of fire. This
however, can lead to the draw-effect of promoting the spread of fire to external areas.
Therefore, a general rule, a catch pit is not required.
The decision to implement or not a catch pit shall be taken by the COMPANY at the design
stage, after discussion with the local authorities. It is part of the safety concept.
Where a catch pit is to be implemented, a particular project specification shall be released to

define at least the following issues:
- the loss of containment and fire scenarios,
- the minimum distance between the catch pit and other units, public and traffic,
- the capacity of the catch pit,
- the fluid transfer procedures and means,
- the treatment procedures and means.
Where such catch pits / impoundment areas are used their design should meet the
following guidelines:
• Such system shall have a slope of not less than 1 percent away from the tank for at
least 15m toward the impounding area.
• The catch pit / impoundment area shall have a capacity not less than that of the largest
tank that can drain into it. If this is not possible, exception can be made if the required
volume exceeding the capacity of the partial remote impoundment is provided by
dyking.
• The route of the draining system should prevent any fire seriously exposing tanks and
adjoining property.
• The confines of the impoundment area shall be located so that, when filled to
capacity, the liquid level will not be closer than 15m from any property line that is or
can be built upon or from any tank.

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
3.4 FIRE PREVENTION AND CONTROL
3.4.1 Bonding
For dissipation of electrostatic charge, tank shall be bonded in such a way that resistance to
earth does not exceed 20 ohms (French Regulation).
Visual inspection capability of bonding connections shall be provided. All conducting objects
within a tank as floating covers, gage floats, cables, mixers, etc.; shall be electrically bonded
to the tank shell. Special care shall be taken that metal object are not accidentally insulated by
the application of paint or by the formation of deposits.
For further details refer to QSHE Guidance 8.04 – Safety rules for electrical Systems
3.4.2 Passive fire protection
Passive fire protection devices are not required by French regulation. They shall not be
provided, unless otherwise stipulated (local regulations, particular project specification…).
The basic passive fire protection of large pressure vessels containing liquefied hydrocarbons
shall consist in a layer of 1 meter of sand or soil above the vessel. The pressure vessels for
liquefied hydrocarbons with capacities exceeding what is defined in Chapter 2.1. , Maximum
storage capabilities (120 m3 for LPG, 500 m3 for other pressure vessels) shall be, as per
French regulation, covered by an embankment.
Where covering by an embankment is found un-practicable, it has been envisaged to cover the
above-ground vessels with fire protection materials. The set of possible deviations from is not
yet clearly defined, and is not covered by the present general specification.
Passive fire protection devices are not required by French regulation for liquefied
hydrocarbons pressure vessels with capacities lower than 120 m3 for LPG or 500 m3 for other
pressure vessels.
Passive fire protection shall not be provided, unless otherwise stipulated in local regulations,
or required by a particular project specification.
3.4.3 Fire detection

Minimising the detection time of an incident can necessitate fixed detection systems
(hydrocarbon detectors, fire detectors, instrumentation systems or equivalent) with an alarm
transmitted to the control room and a reinforced surveillance by personnel.
3.4.4 Fire-fighting means
The fire-fighting means consist in a combination of primary means, secondary means and
external support where available. The activation of the fire-fighting means shall be at least
automatic upon fire detection and manual from a remote push-button.

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
3.4.4.1 Primary fire-fighting means
The primary fire-fighting means consist in the following :

- A foam solution ring shall be provided on the tank top for the protection and cooling of the
tank skirt.
- Fixed roof storage tanks shall be fitted with fixed foam system discharging directly into the
tank under the surface of hydrocarbon liquids.
- Floating roof storage tanks shall be fitted with a foam discharge ring to discharge foam on
the annular ring space between the tank skirt and the roof. Unless otherwise stipulated by
local regulations or required in a particular project specification, the single fire case to be
considered is the seal fire, and the full surface fire case resulting from a sinking of the
floating roof can be disregarded.
- Dykes shall be fitted with fixed foam discharges located so that any point in the dyke is at
less than 18 meters away from a discharge outlet.
By deviation from the above, fixed water/foam monitors can be considered as primary means
of fire-fighting for fixed roof tanks not exceeding 18 meters in diameter. The adjacent tanks
shall be water cooled as described in Chapter 4.4., Fire fighting application rates.
3.4.4.2 Secondary fire-fighting means
In addition to the above, water/foam monitors shall be provided as secondary means of fire-
fighting. Monitors shall be installed such as it shall be possible to reach any point to be
protected (including the tank roof) regardless of weather conditions.
In practice, each dyke should be equipped with one water/foam monitor at each corner.
3.4.4.3 External support
Where an external fire-fighting support is available, this can be taken into account to define
the fixed storage capacities of fire-water and foam concentrate. For further details refer to
paragraph 3.4.4., Fire fighting application rates. However the fire-fighting means defined
above as well as the application rates defined below shall be available and operational before
the external support shall intervene.
3.4.5 Fire-fighting application rates
The firewater flow-rates for cooling effect Q1 (water) and extinguishing effect Q2
(concentrate + water = foam), depend on:
- the type of tanks (fixed roof tanks, floating roof tanks),
- the fluid category of hydrocarbons (B, C1, C2, D1, D2),
- the type of foam (AFFF, FFFP, others...),
- the storage capacity (individual for the tank, total for the installation),
- the fire scenario (tank on fire, dyke on fire),
- the item to be protected (the tank on fire, tanks close to the tank on fire, tanks in the same
dyke than the tank on fire, the dyke on fire and tanks in an other dyke, close to the dyke on
fire),
- the fire-fighting means (fixed water spray, water monitors, fixed foam generators, foam
monitors, external mobile support).

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
The following minimum requirement are a combination of French regulation, subsequent

clarifications of GESIP, and NFPA 11:
Remark:
As per French regulation, the whole circumference of the tanks shall be cooled. It is
commonly verified at the design and project stages whether cooling half or part only of the
circumference is advisable, and acceptable by local authorities. In this case, a derogation
dossier shall be submitted to COMPANY for approval.
SCENARIO # 1: Tank on fire
Fixed roof tanks
Item to be protected Cooling effect Q 1 Foam Q 2
Tank itself 15 l/min and per m of Discharge into the tank at a rate
circumference of:
- 2.5 l/min/m 2 for fluids B,
C1,D1;.
– 2 l/min/m 2 for fluids C2
Tanks closer than: - 10 l / min and per m of
- 2.5 * Ø (Note 1), circumference, 3000 l / min
or minimum,
- Ø (Note 1 + 15 m) - or water curtains (Note 2)
Floating roof tanks
Tank itself 15 l/min and per m of Discharge onto the tank rim seal
circumference at a rate of (Note 3) :
- 7.5 l/min/m 2 for fluids B,
C1,D1;.
– 6 l/min/m 2 for fluids C2
Tanks closer than: - 10 l / min and per m of
- 2.5 * Ø (Note 1), circumference, 3000 l / min
or minimum,
- Ø (Note 1 + 15 m - or water curtains (Note 2)
Notes: (1) Ø = radius of tank in fire
(2) Rate shall be 25 l/min/m.
(3) Fluid classification as per French regulation
SCENARIO # 2: Dyke on fire

Fixed roof or floating roof tanks
Tank inside the dyke on fire Application of foam solution on the tank skirt at a rate of 15 l/min
and per m of circumference.
Dyke of fire itself. - Fixed foam generators (see
formula in Note 2)
– Add 50 % for fixed foam
monitors.
Tanks closer than : 15 l/min and per m of
- R (Note 1) + 30 m of the edge circumference
of the dyke on fire.
Notes: (1) R = radius of tank to be protected
(2) FBA being the foam solution flow rate in l / min to be applied directly onto the dyke, is
given by the formula FBA = S * q – Ft with :
S = Dyke surface (m 2) minus horizontal surface of the tank (s) in the dyke,
Q = foam solution application rate :
- 2.5 l/min* m 2 for fluids B, C1 and D1,
- 2 l/min* m 2 for fluids C2.,
Ft = Foam solution flow rate applied onto the tank skirt (l/min)

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
The firewater flow-rates for cooling effect Q1 (water) and extinguishing effect Q2
(concentrate + water = foam) depend on:
- the type of vessels (cylindrical or spherical) and the vessel capacity.
- the type of foam (high-expansion, medium-expansion in windy areas, etc.),
- the fire scenario (cylindrical vessel on fire, spherical vessel on fire),
- the item to be protected ( vessel on fire, vessels close to the vessel on fire, spherical vessels
in the same dyke than the vessel on fire),
- the fire-fighting means available (fixed water spray, water monitors, fixed foam generators,
foam monitors, external mobile support).
With reference to French regulation, the firewater flow-rates for cooling effect Q1 (water)
and extinguishing effect Q2, can be summarized as follows:
Fire water flow

to each vessel to be cooled down
Type of Vessels to be Cylindrical Spherical
vessel in fire cooled down
Capacity Q1 Capacity
m3 m 3/h > 200 m 3
Cylindrical Vessel in fire & ≤ 25 5 3 l/min . m 2
vessels at less than ≤ 50 10 for the total surface of the
10 m of the skirt of ≤ 100 15 vessel
vessel in fire ≤ 150 20
≤ 200 25
Spherical Vessel in fire & ≤ 25 5 3 l/min/m 2
vessels at less than ≤ 50 10 for the total surface of the
R + 30 m of the ≤ 100 15 vessel
center of vessel in ≤ 150 20
fire ≤ 200 25
All spherical N/A N/A 1 l/min/m2
vessels in dyke total surface of the vessel
Table 3.4.4.b 1– Firewater flow-rates Q1 for liquefied hydrocarbons pressure storage
Overall storage capacity in the installation Q2

m 3/h
Capacity < 1000 m 3 40
Capacity ≥ 2500 m 3 120
Table 3.4.4.b 2 – Firewater flow-rates Q2 for liquefied hydrocarbons pressure storage

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
Cylinders A & B Q1
< 25 m3 25 m3/h
< 50 m3 25 m3/h
< 100 m3 25 m3/h
< 150 m3 25 m3/h
< 200 m3 25 m3/h
> 200 m3 3 l/m². min
Sphere C 3 l/m². min
J I
G
Dyke
Sphere on fire
Vessel Q1
I&J See table 2.4.4.b 1

H 1 l/m². min
F&G 3 l/m². min
Figure 3.4.4.b.1 - Firewater flow-rates Q1 for liquefied hydrocarbons pressure storage

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
3.4.6 Fire-fighting application times
The fire-water storage capacity shall be sufficient to supply the largest firewater flow-rate for
at least 6 hours, taking into account the availability of an external supply.
The storage capacity of concentrate foam shall be sufficient to supply foam for 20 min
(established time for extinction) for the scenario tank on fire, 60 min for the scenario dyke on
fire, whichever is larger, and taking into account the availability of an external supply.
These values are standard and don’t take into account the criteria of foam quality, nature of
the product on fire and operating conditions. In order to take into account degradation /
variation in foam quality and to better integrate the importance of operating conditions, it is
recommended to apply the methodology described in “Circulaire du 6 mai 1999 relative à
l’extinction des feux de liquides inflammables – Installations classées pour la protection de
l’environnement”.

HSE Manual
Rev. 1 of January
06
4 RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS
4.1 Proper containment and protection devices shall be provided for every storage system.
4.2 Storage tanks and drums for hydrocarbons (diesel-oil, fuel-oil, lube-oil, etc.) and
chemicals shall be located away from ignition sources and from living quarters, control
rooms or work shops.
Hazardous areas generated and needs for fire fighting shall be taken into account.

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QSHE Guidance: 9.

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

1.1 PURPOSE OF THE SPECIFICATION

Their safety requirements depend on:

The following safety features shall be examined:

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

- Fire control (refer to chapter 3.4):

This specification does not cover:

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

2 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS TO HC STORAGE SYSTEMS

2.1 FRENCH REGULATIONS AND LAWS

b) Specific to liquid hydrocarbons:

c) Specific to Liquefied Petroleum Gases under pressure (LPG):

2.2 OTHER COUNTRY REGULATION AND LAWS

There is no international regulation.

2.3 CODES, STANDARDS AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICES

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

- NFPA 16 (2003 Edition): Installation of Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water

- NFPA 20 (2003 Edition): Fire Water Pumps

b) Specific to liquid hydrocarbons:

c) Specific to Liquefied Petroleum Gases under pressure (LPG):

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

3 PARTICULAR REQUIREMENTS AND DESCRIPTION OF SAFETY TO HC

3.1 CLASSIFICATION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBONS

3.1.1 French regulation

Fluid category B: liquid hydrocarbons with flash point < 55°C.

Fluid category D: liquid hydrocarbons with : 100° ≤ flash point :

French classification is used in the development that follows.

3.1.2 British regulation

As per British regulation, hydrocarbons fluids are classified as follows:

Fluid class 0: liquefied petroleum gases (LPG).

Fluid class Ι: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point below 21°C.

Unclassified: liquid hydrocarbon with a flash point above 100°C. Unclassified

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

3.1.3 American regulation (NFPA)

As per American regulation (NFPA), hydrocarbons fluids are classified as follows:

Class ΙΙΙB liquids: liquid having a flash point at or above 93°C.

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

3.2.1 Maximum storage capabilities

a) Tanks for liquid hydrocarbons:

b) Pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons:

b1) General for pressure storage:

b2) Specific to LPG storage :

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

3.2.2 Safety distances

The safety distances shall be governed by three main criteria:

3.2.2.1 Impacted area

Public places: Places receiving public, or with buildings higher than 28 m.

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

b) Tanks for liquid hydrocarbons:

Table 3.2.2.1.b1 – Impacted area around above–ground of storage of liquid

Table 3.2.2.1.b2 – Minimum distances between above-ground storage of liquid

b3) Minimum distances between above-ground tanks and traffic:

Table 3.2.2.1.b3 – Minimum distances between above-ground storage of liquid

PERENCO WHEN PRINTED THIS IS AN UNCONTROLLED COPY – printed 26 January 2006

c) Pressure vessels for liquefied hydrocarbons:

c1) Impacted area:

Under- 9 M2 0.333 22 M2 0.333 50 m

Table 3.2.2.1.c1 – Impacted area around pressure storage of liquefied gases