1GAIL (India) LimitedJubilee Tower B-35/36, Sector-1, Noida (U.P.) - 201301

July 2016

2

Editorial Editorial Board

DisclaimerThe article published in this journal are sole views of respective Authors. The Editorial

Board does not necessarily subscribe to the views expressed in this journal.

Issue No. 03

Con

tent

Contents Page No.Valve Interlock System 3

Safety Awareness Through Comic 4-5

16th Annual HSE Workshop 6-7

Safety of Natural Gas Pipelines in India

8-9

General Safety Rules For Welding Jobs

9-10

3rd All-India Global Methane Initiative Oil & Gas Sector Meet

11-12

Innovative Technologies for Pipeline Surveilliance

13-14

Managing Safety & Risk: - LNG facilities (a brief of understanding)

15-17

Stroke 18

HSE Crossword 19

Patron in ChiefB C Tripathi, CMD

PatronsM Ravindran, Director (HR)

A Karnatak, Director (Projects)Editor

S P Garg, GM (HSE)Sub Editor

S K Mishra, CM (HSE)M C Sharma, Manager (HSE)

Site Coordinators

Joydip Paul, DGM (F&S)D K Sharma, DGM (F&S)

D V Pant, CM (F&S)G Senthil, CM (F&S)

Dinesh Mendulkar, SM (F&S)

"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

– World Health Organization

The concept of Occupational Health has evolved from work related illnesses and injuries. Occupational Health Management is the promotion and maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental and social well-being of workers in all occupations.This refers to the identification and control of the risks arising from physical, chemical, and other workplace hazards in order to establish and maintain a safe and healthy working environment. To provide more thrust to Occupational Health, we are observing this year as ‘Health Year’.An initiative has been taken by Corporate HSE and Medical Services Department to formulate Occupational Health Guidelines, which were released by CMD during Annual HSE Workshop recently.

From this Issue of HSE Bulletin, we are adding two pages exclusively on “Occupational Health Aspects”.Hope these articles on Occupational Health will be useful to you.

– S.P. Garg

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Valves play an important role in safety of operation in many process plants, refineries, Oil and gas

installations etc.. The opening and closing of valves, especially block valves, in the wrong sequence can lead to serious consequences such as human fatal injuries, loss of production and damage of equipment. Therefore valves are critical for safety of the operations and can be equipped with interlock system to ensure that valves are operated in a safe sequence and maintained in a safe position. The valve interlocks not only control the opening and closing sequence of process valves but also prevent their unauthorized operation.

A valve interlock is a trapped key lock assembly which locks the valve in one or two positions - open and/or closed - with one key trapped within the lock assembly and one key free. To change the valve position (open to close or close to open), two keys need to be inserted into the lock assembly. The free key can only be released when the valve is in the open or closed position. Alternatively a 'single keyed interlock' only allows removal of the locked open or closed key when the valve is in the correct locking position.

The types of interlock systems are based on the principle of key exchange. Valves can only be operated in a predetermined sequence which is designed to maintain production, availability and the safety of systems. The lock mechanism is designed to ensure that valves are always either fully open or fully closed. Generally, the system is based on the operating principle of one key free when the valve is locked closed and the other key free when the valve is locked open.

Valve Interlock System for Increasing safetyFor Example, in any product

pipeline operations, Pigging is one of the most common activity carried out to clean the pipelines. Pig launcher and Pig receiver are used to launch a pig and receive it at the end of pipeline. During this process the prescribed SOP has to be followed. During pigging operation it is extremely important to depressurize and drain completely the pig launcher and then load the pig in the system by opening pig launcher door. Similarly before taking out the pig from the receiver, depressurizing and draining operations are conducted by isolating receiver from the main line.At any stage, by human error, trapper doors can be operated when launcher or receiver are under pressure. This can cause non-repairable accidents and damage to life and equipment.

To avoid suchunsafe situations and to ensure the prescribed sequence of valve operations, Valve Interlocks are mounted on the Drain, Vent, Isolation Valves etc. and Trapper Doors. Valvesare operated in a sequence to conduct safe operation ensuring Launcher and Receiver doors can be opened only when system is completely drained and depressurized. Coded keys are used to open the Valve Interlocks in predetermined sequence as per design.

Valve Interlocks are specially designed to handle complex operations with ease without any human error. n

D Ratnaji RaoSr Mgr ( Op ) G Kondruru

4

Safety Awareness Through Comic Complied by:

Himanshu SharmaSr. Officer (F&S),

Nasirabad

Farik and Raout are working up on the floor...

I'm going onlunch, Raout....

Okay, I'll have lunch soon too.

I think I'm just going to take a shortcut across the formwork.

Farik! Formwork is not the right means of access and it's not safe to walk over it. You should use the access

ladder over there.

Okay, Raout! It see you soon.

At lunchtime...

Farik, I must tell you again that you should never take a shortcut across formwork.

We should only walk on the platforms and access ladders to get anywhere.

5

Safety Awareness Through Comic

We need to prevent falls in many different ways. We shouldn't put ourselves in

any risky situations.

There was recently a worker at another site who fell when he was

taking a shortcut.

Oh no! He must have been badly

Injured...

Yes, he hurt his leg and had to go

to the hospital.

We should learn from his mistake and not take any shortcuts when we are working at heights.

It's not worth it!

We must ensure that there are always proper,

stable and secure ladders available.

That's great, Raout, And I know it's also our responsibility to act safely, especially when working at heights.

Yes, as your supervisor I will make sure that you are able to work safely it's my

responsibility!

That's true, Farik.

6

The 16th annual HSE Workshop by Corporate HSE Department was organized on March 02,

2016 at GAIL Jubilee Tower, Noida on the theme, “Occupational Health”. The workshop was attended by around 50 delegates comprising of OICs/WICs, Doctors and F&S In-charges from the work centres. The workshop was inaugurated by Shri B. C. Tripathi, Chairman and Managing Director through Video Conferencing from Corporate Office. Shri M. Ravindran, Director (HR) and Dr. Ashutosh Karnatak, Director (Projects) were present during the Inaugural Session at Jubilee Tower, Noida.

Dr. Ashutosh Karnatak, Director (Projects) addressed the participating delegates. Director (Projects) appreciated the activities being carried

16th Annual HSE Workshop

that safety should not only be considered as HSE’s baby, but sites should also own it. He assured that the HR department is always there to help and bring out the best from an individual.

Chairman and Managing Director Sh. B. C. Tripathi released “Occupational Health Guidelines” at Corporate Office. These Guidelines will form a structured and systematic approach towards health care of employees and establishment of infrastructure and resources. He addressed the gathering through video conferencing from Corporate Office. CMD stated that our assets and employees are ageing and updating of technology and systems is also need of today. He said that all most all work centres are having Gyms but a very few people are utilizing them. He stressed that OICs should introspect for Pipeline out by Corporate HSE Department. He opined that

people first, plant later should be adopted while carrying out different activities at site. He also said that safety has gone to our heart and we should migrate from compliance to commitment in following SOPs. He showed concern about health of some employees of Vijaipur and Dibiyapur and advised to develop a positive attitude towards maintaining good health.

Shri M. Ravindran, Director (HR) then addressed the participating delegates. He expressed that individuals should attribute to safety and site OIC should play a vital role in development of young executives joining the organisation. He also opined

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and Process Safety and accordingly should motivate employees under them. He advised that there is still a lot to be done for creating safety culture in the organisation. CMD also advised that at induction level, employees should be sensitized about safety.

He opined that Health and productivity should be measurable and sites should be awarded suitably

on the basis of Health Index. It was advised to devise means for providing incentives for highest productivity, least medical costs and highest man-days. He advised to develop a system for reviewing of Occupational health of sites on MSD format or separately.

He pointed out that efficacy of BBS efforts should be taken care at ground level. He appreciated about 360o evaluation system. He also complemented for conducting occupational workshop for creating awareness of health importance.

A trophy was presented to Vaghodia for best BBS implemented site amongst Gas Processing Plants. Appreciation certificates were given to best lead trainers of Gas Processing Plants and further an appreciation certificate was also given to GPU, Vijaipur by Dir. (HR) and Dir. (Projects) for development of good HSE Management system. n

Photograph of Faculty & Participants

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India has a gas pipeline network of approximately 14,987 kms spread over 15 States & UTs. In next

few years, India is likely to have the natural gas grid of approximately 30,000 kms connecting consumers to the respective source.

Apart from price and handling advantages, there are some environmental benefits associated with natural gas. It is possibly one of the cleanest fuels composed mainly of methane which on complete combustion gives carbon dioxide and water vapour as byproducts. Impurity content in Natural gas is also less as compared to oil or coal and it results in less emission of CO2 which is the primary greenhouse gas.

Every natural gas pipeline operator’s primary focus is on operation and maintenance of natural gas pipeline in such a way that it would continuously provide un-interrupted services to customers with utmost reliability and safety without any untoward incident which can adversely impact the environment.

The Heat of Combustion of Natural gas (54 KJ/g) is higher than diesel (45 KJ/g) and naturally the damage distances for natural gas are higher than that of diesel. Frequency of occurrence of Jet fire is equally prominent in both Natural gas & Diesel. Rupture of Natural Gas Pipeline can cause the maximum damage. Damages due to natural gas pipeline are significantly higher than diesel especially in case of a rupture.

Catastrophes can be either prevented or the level of disaster could be reduced by some emergency preparedness plans. For example, a professional can be assigned to detect methane on a lead acetate coated paper. Even a recent research in Sweden proved that Christmas trees have a potential of absorbing methane gas. So such plantations could be put to use. Methane leakage should be avoided as much as possible because apart from it being an explosive gas, it also causes global warming and has a potential of almost 21 times that of CO2. Estimation of the risks posed by the pipeline transportation has always been a valuable input both the designers and statutory authorities are looking at. Various sophisticated models approved by EPA, USA, Netherlands Disaster Prevention Committee

Safety of Natural Gas Pipelines in Indiaare in use in estimation of damage distances arising due to fire, explosion and gas dispersion etc. The selection of suitable software and parameters for consequence modeling is crucial for risk estimation. Event modeling allows the user to identify a location (factory, hazardous material location, rail track intersection, etc.), place a point on the map, and run a selected model. Models could be anything from plume dispersion to an explosion. GIS can display the model on the map; delineate various levels of danger; and identify exclusion zones, infrastructure damage, and population effects. In addition, road closure requirements, safe routes into and out of the hazardous area, and appropriate hospitals that could quickly service the emergency can be displayed along with other information for emergency decision support. Modeling can be used for analyzing vulnerabilities, preplan development, training, or communicating with the public and policy makers. SCADA systems have also been used to monitor and control a plant or equipment in industries such as energy, oil and gas refining and transportation. A SCADA system gathers information, such as where a leak on a pipeline has occurred, transfers the information back to a central site, alerting the home station that the leak has occurred, carrying out necessary analysis and control, such as determining if the leak is critical, and displaying the information in a logical and organized fashion.

Any development activity by a department in the vicinity of pipeline network may result in an accidental damage to the pipeline and viceversa. While laying of pipeline, care is to be taken for other utilities coming close to the pipeline route. Therefore, a close coordination is required with all these agencies and departments. The coordination between various departments is essential and the connections can be made using the latest and Smart GIS technologies such as SCADA systems.

The Gas companies have made several efforts in pipeline protection, gas venting and valve regulation. But an emergency situation doesn’t

Sumit NangiaDM ( F&A )Delhi Corp

9

turn up with a warning. The network building is a complex task as it involves quite a heavy number of pipes along with their branches and distributing outlets. The pipes also include valves through which the flow and pressures are maintained. The material of construction of pipes is either steel, polyethylene (PE) or a hybrid variety including both. The more the number of branches, the more are the valves, bends and other appurtenances associated with it. There is a great need for providing in-built safety systems and a special team needs to be trained for handling any emergency situation.

As safety cannot be compromised, all the standard codes in design and construction have to be followed and compliance has to be strictly ensured.Once the network has been set up and gas is charged in the pipeline network, it is not only required to ensure continuous availability of gas to the consumers but also to maintain the health of the pipeline system. The safety of the system and the surrounding areas is

of paramount importance in city area. A small leakage or an accident / fire in gas pipeline may result into a big catastrophe.

It has been an industry goal to protect oil & gas pipelines against risks such as sabotage, illegal tapping, terrorist action, detecting of leaks and in-line equipment failure. Any threat to pipeline infrastructure can have a significant effect, whether from an intentional disruption from externalities or inadvertent damage caused by everyday operational activity or natural events.

Recognizing the vital importance of a safe, reliable energy supply to our nation’s prosperity, the motto should be to reduce the level of risk through analysis and implementation of security programs which should be supported by increasing the level of domain awareness, information sharing, response planning and coordination. n

While the Fire Detection System was initially installed in GAIL Bhawan during its very inception in 1989

& had always been maintained well since then, it had over the years become outdated on technology and faced problems on parts & components obsolescence. The old system was bereft of centralized command & control management, lacked the characteristic to identify exact location of incident and was restricted to only zone / floor identification and also could not be integrated to the Public Address System. This all was leading to delayed response from the installed system in both alarm identification and associated notification & safe evacuation.

Thus a decision was taken to do the complete overhaul of the installed system and get a new Intelligent Fire Detection & Alarm System with Integrated Emergency Voice Evacuation System Installed in the facility.

Design Philosophy

The major challenge faced was that there were no soft copies of Shop Floor drawings available for GAIL

GAIL Bhawan: Installation of Intelligent Fire Detection & Alarm System- A Case Study

Bhawan. As such a complete& detailed Site Survey was conducted by Fire Safety Team & Technicians and an in-house System Design was done to comply in respect with all pertinent codes, rules, regulations pertaining to Fire Alarm and Detection System of IS-2189, NFPA-72. The system design was done on a distributed philosophy of having individual Fire Alarm Panel for each floor with a Centralized Control & Command through seamless, peer to peer networking and centralized & automated emergency evacuation system. The Single Line Diagram here below details the philosophy:

Selection Philosophy

G4S Security Systems – ESS was shortlisted to execute the work after the requisite tendering process. Post onboarding, G4S completed the System Configuration and proposed Intelligent Fire Alarm & Detection System of NOTIFIER make, which was one of our approved makes.

The major components in the system included:

a) ONYXWorks® Graphics Work Station: This graphics software is the next generation in life safety

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and building systems integration for monitoring fire, security, card access, and other facility information.

i. It offers dynamically generated floor plan overview – Floor plans can be zoomed in and out and devices can be placed at different zoom levels.

ii. All off-normal events displayed simultaneously with text and corresponding graphic screens

iii. Full linked multimedia (text, audio, video, and bitmaps) to any device, all definable by the administrator

b) NFS2-3030 intelligentfirealarmcontrolpanel: The panel is part of NOTIFIER’s UL 864 9th Edition listed ONYX Series.

i. It has total capacity of Intelligent Devices: Max. 3,180 total devices per panel; 159 detectors + 159 modules per Signaling Line Circuit (SLC)

ii. It has large 640-character Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

iii. Program keypad: full QWERTY keypad

iv. Integrated Digital Voice Audio Controller

v. Integrated Fire Fighters Talk Back System

vi. Inbuilt Memory of 4000 events + 1000 alarms

vii. Fail Safe Mode in case of CPU failure

viii. System will trigger SMS to pre-designated phone nos. in case of any alarm / emergency.

c) Onyx Digital Voice Command: This is NOTIFIER’s UL 864 9th Edition listed multi-channel digital audio evacuation and paging system.

i. Digital Audio Channels: 8; can operate simultaneously (Allows different messages for different floors for situational control)

ii. Firefighter Telephone Channels 5; can operate simultaneously (Allows conferencing between various handsets for better & faster coordination)

iii. Message Storage Capacity (minutes) 32 minutes

d) Emergency Evacuation System – Visual

i. Exit Marking Tapes

i. Will provide a safe, illuminated path through stairwells and hallways when the lights go out

ii. Printed in directional graphic style of ‘Arrows’

ii. LED Exit Signage

i. The LED exit signs include backup batteries, so they will remain lit during a power failure.

ii. The Letter of Text Message is in ‘RED’ color

iii. The LED Exit Sign are double-faced sign with white Housing Color

Execution PhilosophyIt was asked to G4S to develop Project Activity Plan

to do Floor wise phased execution & commissioning to ensure zero downtime on installed system. Completion of Project and Successful Handing Over of the System was planned withinStipulated Time from the date of Award. At no point, any floor / part of the building was rendered without protection from Fire Detection System. Execution Activities were carried out only in evening hours and weekends to ensure minimal disturbance to the occupants of the facility.

Grounding of System is Critical

Fire Alarm Panels have been earthed with Copper Bonded Earthing Rod with 6 bags of Earth Enhancement Compound, Poly pit Covers and Clamps and along with requisite interconnecting copper strips.

Safe Disposal of old Fire Alarm System

It was ensured that vendor shall facilitate e-waste disposal of the old installed system and also the safe disposal of any radioactive element (in case of ionization detectors), as applicable, in accordance with AERB Guidelines.

Approvals from the Fire Authorities

Requisite NOC approval from the respective Fire Authorities shall be taken.

User Training

Till date job of 9 floors has been completed. On-Job system training to Safety Personnel on the user interface of the complete system along with the basic programming training of the system has been done. However a systematic training shall be done by G4S after completion of the job.

The vendor shall alsoprovideGAIL the licensed copy of the software that would enable our staff to program (with authorized access) as & when required without the need for any additional dongle.

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Global Methane Initiative (GMI), Natural Gas STAR International is a voluntary partnership

between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and the international oil and natural gas industries to identify and promote cost-effective technologies and practices to reduce methane emissions. EPA’s Natural Gas STAR Program has provided significant economic and environmental benefits in terms of reducing methane emissions and increasing revenue to companies through increased gas sales and improved operational efficiency.

The India Forum of GMI was started in 2013 with ONGC hosting the first Meet followed by Cairn. The 3rd All-India Global Methane Initiative Oil & Gas Sector Meet was hosted by Corporate HSE Department, GAIL with United States Environmental Protection Agency being the co-host. The meet was organized on March 11, 2016 at GAIL Jubilee Tower, Noida. The workshop was attended by delegates from United Nations Environment Program, United States Embassy in New Delhi and Indian Oil & Gas Companies ONGC, CAIRN, Petronet, IGL, etc.

The objectives of the meet were:

To bring the oil and gas companies together to identify, evaluate, and deploy best practices and state of the art technologies to economically improve environmental performance and energy security.

To share success stories for benefits of the peer companies.

The workshop was inaugurated by Shri M Ravindran, Director (HR). Dr. Ashutosh Karnatak, Director (Projects) was also present during the Inaugural Session. Shri M. Ravindran, Director (HR) addressed the participating delegates and emphasized on the need for sensitizing self as well as all the employees to take all possible actions in their capacity for reduction in fugitive emissions. He accorded special attention

3rd All-India Methane Initiative (GMI) Oil & Gas Sector Meet

on speeding up methane mitigation measures and also advised Operation & Maintenance team to initiate quantifiable actions and improve the achievements. He also asked Team Pata to gear up on this front of methane emission reduction.

Dr. Ashutosh Karnatak, Director (Projects) in his address emphasized that environment protection is required not only for today but for generations to come and hence desired all to have proper thoughts for environment protection. He advised that we must move ahead from environmental compliance to commitment for the environment and should work with the mission that there should be no green house gas emission from our operations. He appealed all the participating industries to collaborate for introduction of new technologies as companies can exist only if the environment is in place.

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Mr. Ray Sudweeks from United States Embassy in New Delhi delivered a special address on the occasion of this event. He lauded Indian Prime Minister’s ambitious goals in the areas of clean energy for the country. He discussed about the US Department of Energy working closely with Ministry of New & Renewable Energy for conception and implementation of clean energy projects. He emphasized on the importance of the meet and requested all the oil & gas industries to sincerely work in co-ordination for reduction of methane emissions.

Mr. Scott Bartos, GMI International Program Manager from United States Environmental Protection Agency gave an overview of Global Methane Initiative Program. He emphasized on the importance of focused and collaborative approach for moving ahead in the mission of methane emission reduction. He elaborated the extent and various initiatives being taken up by oil & gas industries across the globe.

Ms Giulia Ferrini, Advisor, United Nations Environment Program gave an introduction to Climate and Clean Air Coalition Oil & Gas Methane Partnership. She briefly described how the CCAC Oil & Gas Methane Partnership provides companies with a credible mechanism to systematically and responsibly address their methane emissions and to demonstrate this systematic approach and results to stakeholders. She also urged the Indian Oil & Gas industries to become a partner in United Nation’s

CCAC Oil & Gas Methane Partnership for the sake of structural and focused reduction in methane emissions.

The day long meet had a Panel Discussion on ‘Contributing to India’s Climate Action Plan through GMI’ in which representatives from US EPA, UNEP, DGH and GMI partner companies ONGC, GAIL, CAIRN &Petronet participated. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Scott bartos from US EPA. All the participants put forth their views on how the Global Methane Initiative could be helpful in protecting the environment.

GMI Partner companies ONGC, CAIRN India, Petronet and GAIL (India) Limited shared their experiences on GMI with the participants. Representatives from all these industries discussed about the initiatives being taken by them for

methane emission reduction. Representative from M/s FLIR also shared the benefits of the IR Cameras to the participants. The IR Camera was also on display for a first hand feel to the audiences.

The experience sharing session was wrapped up by Mr. Scott Bartos and Shri S P Garg. Mr. Bartos applauded the focused approach of the Indian oil & gas companies towards methane emission reduction and for their enthusiastic participation in the program. n

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If we want to achieve the mission and vision of GAIL be the leading company in Natural Gas and beyond,

with Global Focus, Value Creation for all Stakeholders and Environmental Responsibility then we cannot ignore the strategic significance of pipeline security because it is an integral part of our success story.

We are covering more than 10900 Km Natural gas Pipeline and 2040 Km LPG Pipeline in various States of the country. Security of Pipeline is vital for maintaining its integrity.

A small mistake in Pipeline security in the form of illegal tapping, terrorist action, leakages, and sabotage may cause significant revenues losses, environmental damages, and a potential danger to the local population. A terrorist attack on an unprotected Pipeline can create a greater imbalance between demand and supply over a long time also.

Small mistakes in Pipeline security will disrupt our social, legal, political, cultural equations for a long time. This mistake will not affect only ongoing project but it could also affect the future coming projects.

Now we are well aware about importance of safety of Pipelines so we should follow following steps before establishing the security standard for safety of Pipeline:-

(a) Identification of risk involved in pipelines security(b) Evaluation of risk involved in Pipeline security.(c) Development of risk mitigation plan for Pipeline

security (d) Re-evaluation and re-assessment of

implemented risk mitigation plan.

Before implementing the Global security standard we should also look the probability of risk factor involved in pipeline security are:-

a) Types of Hazards

b) Frequency of Hazards

c) Prediction of degree levels of Hazards

Innovative Technologies for Pipeline Surveilliance

Murli ManoharJr Acctt Dibiyapur

d) Assessment of loss due to Hazards

e) Loss of implementation of plan.

Common pipeline security measures include aerial surveillance, installation of pipeline warning boards/markers, deployment of security personnel, and conducting awareness campaigns to educate habitants and workers along the pipeline route. Advanced telecommunication systems and leak detection systems are also widely used to improve the monitoring and remote control of pipelines.

In recent years, innovative technologies for pipeline surveillance against third-party damage or intrusion have become increasingly available. With advances in miniaturized sensors, standardized data processing and reliable communications, oil and gas companies now have access to robust tools for the monitoring of extended and complex pipeline systems.

Latest Pipeline Monitoring Solution:-

DAS Technology provides around-the-clock distributed acoustic monitoring over very long distances. Operators can monitor the entire length of the fiber optic cable continuously and detect, classify and locate any number of simultaneous disturbances anywhere along the fiber with excellent resolution. Most importantly, the signal extracted from each section of fiber is unaffected by the vibration on any other section.

The most advanced DAS-based solutions are designed to perform acoustic sensing for pipeline condition monitoring and leak detection on the same strand of fiber, making them ideal for retrofit projects with existing cable installations. These systems can also cover up to 60 miles of cable between power and network connections.

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Equipment monitoring

Various pieces of pipeline equipment (especially those with rotating parts such as pumps, valves or generators) produces strong acoustic fingerprints. DAS technology can detect changes in the underlying acoustic signature of equipment and machinery.

SONAR PROCESSING TECHNIQUES :- By using this techniques the sounds received from the virtual microphones are analyzed and converted into a simple graphical display showing the operator what is happening along individual lengths of the fiber. For example, the sensor system can detect the difference between mechanical digging and a person walking. It can also pick up the sound of leaks from gas pipelines.

OPTA SENSE SYSTEM:- The OptaSense system is designed to prevent pipeline damage from occurring in the first place by providing advance warning of the events leading up to an incident. OptaSense works by sending a pulse of light down the fiber optic line from an IU.

Optasense actively carries out acoustic sensing detection for pipeline condition monitoring. In a fragile economy, any threat to pipeline infrastructure can have a significant effect, whether from an intentional disruption or simply inadvertent damage caused by everyday activity or natural events.

These significant effects may be in following forms:-

(a) Incremental operating cost

(b) Business opportunity loss

(c) Loss of assets

(d) Loss of Goodwill

(e) Loss of revenue

(f) Negative Media coverage

(g) Less faith of stakeholders

(h) Loss of competitive Profit

(i) Legal action

This will reflect in less tragedies and hazards in pipelines area. n

DAS technology can be cost-effectively deployed on various types of pipeline systems to provide around-the-clock monitoring for threatening activity and abnormal operating incidents within the vicinity of the line and surrounding assets.

Typical applications include:

Third-party Interference

With a DAS-based monitoring system, operators have a reliable means of locating potentially hazardous movement within the pipeline corridor. Human movement can be detected within a few feet of the sensing cable, and mechanical digging identified up to much longer distances. In many cases, this allows intrusion to be detected and alarmed before contact with the pipe is made.

Asset protection

The DAS solution can utilize the fiber optic network around remote facilities to detect any unwanted intrusion and protect assets such as block valves and compressor stations. In addition, it can be integrated with existing security systems to activate cameras and personnel. This can be monitored at a central control center overseeing a number of diverse locations.

Event alarming

A key feature of DAS is to provide alerts for real threats only. This technique not only picks out the acoustic fingerprint of an event, but also monitors its activity over a short period of time to build up an exact picture of what the event is. In this way, nuisance alarms are effectively minimized.

Leak detection

DAS technology is able to detect the low frequencies associated with a gas pipeline burst. Where gas leaks cause a change in the temperature around the fiber, the technology can provide early warning and avoid dangerous and costly delays in detection.

Pigtrackingandprofiling

DAS can follow the progress of a pig throughout the pipe network by tracking the acoustic signature.

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Various codes and standards for maintenance and inspection of equipment in LNG service;

Overpressure protection (pressure controllers and relief valves);

Leakage detection and spill control through temperature probes;

Ignition source control;

Fire zoning;

Emergency depressurizing;

Passive fire protection, e.g., fireproofing, fire resistant barriers and coatings; and

Active fire protection.

Additional standard devices and practices specifically for tanks include:

Cool-down temperature sensors on the tank wall and base;

Leak detection equipment, e.g., temperature sensors, and low temperature alarms, located in the annular space;

LNG tank gauging systems to provide remote readings, with high/low level alarms which trigger emergency shut down systems; and

Combined temperature and density sensors to detect rollover potential.

Locating LNG facilities and vessels a safe distance away from adjacent industry, communities and other public areas provides the assurance of protecting citizens from potential hazards in case a serious incident occurs. In the current environment, where there is a threat of terrorism, the public is understandably concerned that bulk storage of a flammable energy source represents a risk. Separation of LNG from the public can take the form

There are two types of safety features in an LNG facility: management systems and equipment/

technology systems.

Management systems include studies during the design process which first identify hazards and then review the design to ensure that these hazards can be controlled or mitigated. During the operational phases, procedures are written to ensure that safe working practices are encouraged, inspections and maintenance are conducted in an appropriate and timely manner and that the impact on the public and employees of any unexpected circumstance is minimized.

With regard to safety equipment and technology, LNG facilities have multiple levels of hazard detection, mitigation and intervention systems. There are two types of intervention systems: those based on passive technology, which require no interaction, and an active system, where action is either automatic or an operator is prompted to take action.

LNG facilities and LNG carriers are viewed in the industry as the “top of the line”. This view is justly predicated on their high quality, robust safety systems and overall attention to detail in design, solid construction and stringent operational practices. All of these factors collectively serve to prevent accidents, incidents and product releases of any kind.

Standard practices which are now established around the world to prevent leaks and their escalation include the following:

Compliance with known and proven codes and standards for designing and siting new facilities;

Siting new facilities a safe distance from adjacent populations based on risk assessments;

Construction of special materials and inclusion of systems designed to safely insulate and store LNG at temperatures of -162°C (-259 °F);

Managing Safety & Risk: - LNG facilities(a brief of understanding)

R.K.DuttaSr Mgr ( RM ) Noida

16

of exclusion zones for facility-siting or safety zones around LNG ships while underway.

The layers of protection generally implemented at terminals include risk mitigation measures such as the following:

Spacing and design of pipes, equipment and storage tanks: they must be made of specific materials in order to resist cryogenic temperatures and avoid LNG leaks. LNG tanks are equipped with integral impoundment.

Detectors: Facilities are constructed with a variety of leak detection devices, including cameras, temperature sensors and various kinds of very specific detectors (for discovering fire, flame, gas, smoke or tank overfill). This detection equipment communicates to the control Centre

Emergency shut-down (ESD) valves: In case of fault detection, ESD valves are automatically closed to prevent the further loss of LNG.

Impounding areas: In the event of an LNG leak, the spill is contained in these areas to control its spread, vaporization rate and, if a pool fire occurs, to minimize the consequence outside the terminal.

Fire control systems: LNG fires can be mitigated with fire-fighting systems available throughout the terminal.

Vapour reduction systems: if an LNG pool has formed, foam generators can be used to reduce the rate of vapour formation and movement.

Trained operators: operators are always present in the terminal to control operations and ensure rapid response to any emergency condition, including making emergency notifications to agencies and responders, as well as an emergency broadcast to the community.

Operations and maintenance personnel in LNG facilities are required to be trained, both initially and periodically thereafter, in:

The hazards of LNG;

The hazards of operation and maintenance activities;

How to recognize breaches of security and execute security procedures;

Understanding the potential causes, types, sizes and predictable consequences of fires and knowing and following fire prevention procedures;

How to perform their assigned functions during both normal operations and emergencies; and

How to provide first aid.

Several systems incorporate monitoring and control devices to detect deviation from acceptable parameters, thereby enabling corrective action to prevent unsafe conditions. Standards and codes require that combustible gas detectors and low temperature detectors are located at places where an LNG release might occur and where LNG or low temperature vapour might accumulate.

If a leak is detected, actions are taken to:

Prevent fire by securing the leak and the area, eliminating ignition sources, and monitoring vapours until no flammable vapours remain;

Warn and shelter facility workers and notify authorities as required or appropriate;

Control vapour dispersion with foam and/or water curtains;

Use water spray to increase the vaporisation rate of the LNG (rapidly warm it), which will facilitate a more rapid mixing and dilution of LNG vapours to outside flammable limits, and help them warm more quickly to the temperature at which they will become buoyant and rise away from ignition sources and people on the ground and

Control and manage/mitigate incidents if vapours are ignited, using dry chemical powder or foam, and applying water to plant equipment (not the LNG fire) to cool it down.

High-expansion foam and water-spray curtains help control LNG vapours in a proactive manner.

During an LNG incident, additional personal 5 protective equipment might include a breathing apparatus (depending upon the magnitude of any gas release), since LNG vapours can displace oxygen

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and lead to asphyxiation, along with fire protection gear such as:

Full protective clothing (coat and trousers), Anti-flash hood, Fire helmet with visor, Fire gloves, and Fire boots.

Emergency Response Plans

A set of preparedness activities conducted before an incident helps assure that any incidents that do occur are well managed and mitigated. To be most effective, preparedness activities are conducted in a sequence, where the results of one activity leads into another, with the end result being that overall preparedness is constantly improving. This is referred to as the Preparedness Cycle. Preparedness is achieved and maintained through a continuous cycle of planning, organizing, training, equipping, exercising, evaluating, and taking corrective action. Ongoing preparedness efforts among all those involved in emergency management and incident response activities ensure coordination during times of crisis.

A good emergency response plan helps assure that responders have optimal control over an incident. Beginning to plan response actions at the time of an incident is an extra but avoidable challenge. For this reason, LNG facilities prepare and maintain emergency response plans which identify potential credible incident scenarios and then develop specific actions to mitigate the consequences of such incidents.

Emergency response plans must be approved before the terminal even begins operations must include scalable procedures for responding to: Emergencies within the LNG terminal; Emergencies that could affect the public near an

LNG terminal; Emergencies that could affect the public along an

LNG vessel transit route; Methods for notifying agencies and the public;

and Training and exercises using the plan.

Preparedness cycle

It is important to involve all response stakeholders (including adjacent facilities) in the planning process to develop the plan. The facility emergency response plan is prepared in consultation with appropriate local and national governmental agency representatives, including first responder representatives.

Another key component of emergency planning is the training of all emergency responders, which incorporates coordination, communication, drills and exercises. Hazards and mitigation scenarios are identified and used to develop responses and role assignments.

Participating in such training and exercises helps assure that the emergency response plan will be well understood by the organizations with responsibilities during an incident and that they are ready to respond effectively in the unlikely event of an emergency.

How much Risks and Danger of LNG

The Cleveland Disaster: The very first commercial LNG facility built in the United States in 1941, caused a major industrial accident known as the "The Cleveland Disaster." Where, in 1944, according to the U.S. Bureau of Mines report, LNG holding tanks failed and released their contents into the streets and sewers and their vaporous cloud ignited and fire engulfed the nearby residents and commercial establishments. n

Our vision:

“Detecting Risk Protecting Value”

“Risk comes from not knowing what you’re doing” --- Warren Buffet

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Stroke Arm weakness: The inability to

raise one's arm fully Speech difficulties: An inability

or difficulty to understand or produce speech

Time: If any of the symptoms above are showing, time is of the essence; call the emergency services or go to the hospital.

Risk factors for stroke:- Hypertension- Obesity- Diabetes mellitus- Smoking- Dyslipidemia- Family history- Decreased physical activity

Diagnostic Testing:CT or MRI of the brainCarotid ultrasoundECGEchocardiogram

Management:

Stroke is a medical emergency. Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke. The longer blood flow is cut off to the brain, the greater the damage. Immediate treatment can save people’s lives and enhance their chances for successful recovery.

Stroke, also known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurs when brain tissue is damaged from a sudden loss of blood flow resulting in a loss of neurological function.

Causes:- Blockage (blood clot) occurring inside a blood

vessel.- Blood vessel leaks blood due to rupture.

Types of Stroke:1. Ischemic stroke (85%): caused by interruption of

the blood supply to the brain.2. Haemorrhagic stroke (15%): result from the rupture

of a blood vessel.

Transient Ischemic attack (TIA):

A stroke like event lasting minutes or hours that occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen rich blood temporarily but in which the effects wear off completely after the return of blood flow.

- It does not result in permanent brain damage- It is serious and too often ignored

Signs and symptoms:- sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm

or leg especially on one side of the body- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or

understanding- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance

or co-ordination- sudden severe headache with no known cause

Early recognition:

FAST is an acronym used as a mnemonic to help, detect and enhance responsiveness to stroke victim needs. The acronym stands:

Facial drooping: A section of the face, usually only on one side, that is drooping and hard to move

Dr. R.K. PradhanCM (MS)

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A C BhushanSr. Engineer (HSE)

Readers may send their Entries to the Sub-Editor: DGM (HSE), JUBILEE TOWER, B 35/36, Sector 1, Noida,

RESULT OF LAST HSE CROSSWORD-4

HSE CROSSWORD-5

Across1. An Unwanted Situation2. A Good Quality of Human Beings3. A Property of Chemical for Idetification5. Residue After Any Fire 7. Sequence or Chain9. Fixed or Limited Period10. Region or Part of our Land13. Unpleasant taste or smell of Chemical14. Safety Device to Work at Height15. Result of an Incident 16. Undesired Event Having Potential to Loss

Down1. The Taking Away a Person Against Will

4. A Occupational Health Issue

6. A Situation Which Requires Precautions.

7. Mechanical Tool to Provide Branch

10. Fire and Blood

11. Analysis of Incident to Find Out

12. Estimation of Hazardous Property of Gas

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