(87a) Management of Hazards Associated with Location of Process Plant Portable Buildings

This paper provides an overview of the recently released API-753 which provides guidelines for the siting of portable buildings relative to process plant explosion, fire, and toxic hazards. Noteworthy subject matter in API RP-753 includes but not limited to 1) defined guiding principles; 2) management of personnel in portable buildings (occupancy considerations and essential personnel); 3) information on blast effects on wood framed trailers; and 4) a simplified method for siting; 5) discussions concerning detailed blast analysis methods; and, 6) fire and toxic discussions. An important aspect of API-753 is the guidance provided by the use of what are called ?Zones?. Three zones are identified that provide guidance for allowable uses and locations of portable buildings. Finally, potential impact of API-753 on the upcoming revision to API-752 is discussed.

It is important to note that API has a formal process for responding to interpretations to their standards and that process applies to API-753. Information regarding that process is listed in the forward to RP-753. The information in this report and the associated presentation are the opinion of the author and not those of API. For a formal response, all interpretations must be submitted in writing to the Director of the API Standards Department.