3.1 LAYOUT
Platform layout has been designed to minimize the number of people potentially involved in the running of the plant, prevent escalation and allow escape and evacuation if necessary.
This project consider a maximum amount of personnel simultaneously present on the Platform (POB) of 10 operators. This is consistent with the size for which the Survival Module is designed.
Layout represents a crucial factor in the economics and safety of installations.
Some of the ways in which a well-designed layout contributes to safety and loss prevention are:
• segregation of different risks;
• minimization of vulnerable pipework;
• containment of accidents;
• limitation of exposure;
• efficient and safe construction, operation and maintenance;
• safe control rooms design;
• emergency control facilities;
• quick and safe access for emergency services;
• maximization of natural ventilation effectiveness;
• minimization of liquid/gas accumulation with consequent reduction in risk of fire and/or explosion events.
Main objectives of well-designed layout are:
• to minimize the possibility of hazardous accumulations of both liquids and gaseous hydrocarbon and to provide for the rapid removal of any accumulation which could occur;
• to minimize the probability of ignition;
• to minimize the spread of flammable liquids and gases which may results in a hazardous event;
• to minimize the consequence of fire and explosions;
• to provide for adequate arrangement for escape and evacuation;
• to facilitate effective emergency response.
Each system of Platform is graded according to the nature of the hazard:
• systems which have the potential to emit flammables;
• systems which are possible sources of ignition;
• systems which are considered non-hazardous;
• systems which are located in non-hazardous area.