Strategies for Reducing Safety Distances for LPG Tank Installations without Fire Suppression System

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tank installations require careful consideration of safety distances to minimise the risk of accidents. While the installation of a fire suppression system is typically recommended, there are circumstances where it may not be feasible or practical. In such cases, alternative strategies can be employed to reduce safety distances while ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This article explores strategies for reducing safety distances for LPG tank installations without a fire suppression system, taking into account relevant regulations such as those outlined by the South African National Standards (SANS) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Risk Assessment and Compliance with SANS and NFPA Regulations

Before implementing any strategies to reduce safety distances, a comprehensive risk assessment must be conducted, considering the specific site characteristics and potential hazards. In South Africa, the SANS 10087 series of standards provide guidelines for the installation and storage of LPG, including safety distances. These standards take into account factors such as tank size, quantity of LPG stored, and the proximity of structures.

For a site without a fire suppression system, it is crucial to ensure compliance with the relevant SANS standards, such as SANS 10087-1:2013, which provides general requirements for the storage and handling of LPG, and SANS 10087-2:2013, which specifically addresses bulk LPG storage installations. These standards provide guidance on safety distances, separation distances from buildings, and other safety considerations.

In addition to SANS standards, it is also valuable to consider the guidelines provided by the NFPA. NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code is a widely recognised standard for the safe storage, handling, and use of LPG in the United States and internationally. While not specifically focused on safety distances without a fire suppression system, NFPA 58 provides comprehensive guidance on LPG installations, including safety measures and best practices that can inform risk assessment and implementation of alternative strategies.

Strategies for Reducing Safety Distances

  1.  Enhanced Physical Barriers:  Implementing enhanced physical barriers around LPG tank installations can help reduce safety distances. The materials and design of these barriers should comply with the fire resistance requirements outlined in SANS 10400-T:2010, which deals with the application of the National Building Regulations regarding fire protection. These barriers, such as fire-resistant walls, blast-resistant fences, heat shields, and radiation deflectors, are designed to withstand thermal radiation and pressure generated during a fire or explosion.
  2. Active Fire Detection and Suppression: While a fire suppression system may not be installed, implementing an active fire detection system is crucial. Smoke detectors, heat detectors, or flame detectors should be strategically placed near the LPG tanks and connected to an alarm system. These systems should comply with the requirements outlined in SANS 10139:2012, which specifies the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems.
  3. Site Layout and Separation Measures: Optimizing the site layout is essential to minimize safety distances. Proper spacing between LPG tanks, as well as adequate separation from adjacent structures or potential ignition sources, should be ensured. These measures should align with the guidelines set forth in SANS 10087-2:2013, which provides specific requirements for the bulk storage of LPG, including separation distances.
  4. Structural Fire-Resistant Design: Incorporating fire-resistant design principles into nearby structures can enhance safety without requiring excessive safety distances. Materials and construction techniques should comply with the fire protection requirements specified in SANS 10400-T:2010.

In conclusion

While the installation of a fire suppression system is ideal for LPG tank installations, situations may arise where it is not feasible or practical. By implementing alternative strategies within the framework of SANS and NFPA regulations, such as enhanced physical barriers, active fire detection, optimized site layout, and structural fire-resistant design, it is possible to reduce safety distances while maintaining a high level of safety for LPG tank installations without a fire suppression system.

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