Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Table of
Contents
Emergency Planning
Plan Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Fire Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Fire Prevention and Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Static Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Fire and Explosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fire Fighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fire Suppression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Environmental
Spills and Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Waste Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Absorbents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Bulk Handling
General Design Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Tank Cleaning & Equipment Repair
Work Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Control of Hazardous Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Confined Space Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Equipment Cleanout and Recommissioning Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Maintenance and Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Delivery & Transfer
Considerations for Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Rail Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Considerations for Unloading Rail Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
General Guidelines for Unloading Rail Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Tank Trucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Consideration for Unloading Tank Trucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
General Procedures for Unloading Tank Trucks . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
ISO Containers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
ISO Tank Shipments and Unloading Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Material and/or Container Return Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
ii
Table of
Contents
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Tables
Table 1 Propylene Oxide Physical Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Table 2 Propylene Oxide Density as a Function of Temperature . . . . . 5
Table 3 Propylene Oxide Vapor Pressure as a Function of Temperature . 6
Figures
Figure 1 Flammability Diagram for Propylene Oxide . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Figure 2 Flammability Triangle for Propylene Oxide . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 3 Typical Pressure Storage Tank Configuration . . . . . . . . . 31
Figure 4 Typical Tank Car Dome Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Figure 5 Typical Tank Car Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Figure 6 Typical Tank Car Unloading System Configuration . . . . . . 45
Figure 7 Typical IMO Tank Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
iii
Contact Information
& Legal Notice
General Information
General Information
General Information
General Information
Physical Properties
Table 1 Propylene Oxide Physical Properties
PROPERTY VALUE
Physical State Liquid
Color Colorless
Molecular Weight 58.08 g/mol
Boiling Point, 101.3 kPa 34.5C (94.1F)
Freezing Point -111.93C (-169.47F)
Density 25C (77F) 0.823 g/cm3 (6.87 lb/gal)
Density of Saturated Liquid See Table 2
Vapor Density (Air=1.0) 2.0
Vapor Pressure See Table 3
Index of Refraction
@ 25C (77F) 1.3632
@ 20C (68F) 1.3670
Coefficient of Cubical Expansion @ 20C (68F) 0.00151/C (0.00084/F)
Critical Temperature 209.1C (408.4F)
Critical Pressure 4.92 MPa
Critical Volume 3.2025 cm3/g (0.513 ft 3/lb)
Critical Compression 0.228
Acentric Factor 0.2683
Heat of Combustion, Liquid @ 25C (77F) -426.745 kcal/mol
Heat of Formation, Vapor @ 25C (77F) -22.395 kcal/mol
Heat of Formation, Liquid @ 25C (77F) -29.302 kcal/mol
Heat of Fusion @ -112C (-170F) 1560.9 cal/mol (2809.6 BTU/lbmol)
Flash Point, TAG-Closed Cup -37.2C (-35F)
Autoignition Temperature 449C (840F)
Upper Explosion Limit 42 vol%
Lower Explosion Limit 1.6 vol%
Solubility @ 20C (68F) 39.5% PO in Water, 12.5% Water in PO
Alcohol: Ether:
Saturation Concentration in Air @ 25C (77F) 82.6 wt% (70.32 mol%)
Dipole Moment 6.70 x 10 -30 Cm
Electrical Conductivity 2.4 x 10 -8 mhos/cm
Specific Heat, 0C (32F) 2.0 J/(gC) (0.48 BTU/lb/F)
Viscosity, 25C (77F) 0.29 centipoise (mPas)
Specific Gravity See Table 2
(Rowley et al., 2004)
General Information
General Information
Physical Properties
Table 2 Propylene Oxide Density as a Function of Temperature
Temperature Grams Lb. per Specific Temperature Grams Lb. per Specific
per U.S. Gravity to per U.S. Gravity to
C F Cubic cm Gallon 60C (140F) C F Cubic cm Gallon 60C (140F)
4.4 40 0.8488 7.083 1.0164 21.7 71 0.8275 6.905 0.9908
5.0 41 0.8481 7.077 1.0156 22.2 72 0.8268 6.899 0.9900
5.6 42 0.8475 7.072 1.0148 22.8 73 0.8261 6.893 0.9891
6.1 43 0.8468 7.066 1.0140 23.3 74 0.8254 6.887 0.9883
6.7 44 0.8461 7.060 1.0131 23.9 75 0.8247 6.881 0.9875
7.2 45 0.8454 7.055 1.0123 24.4 76 0.8239 6.875 0.9866
7.8 46 0.8448 7.049 1.0115 25.0 77 0.8233 6.870 0.9858
8.3 47 0.8441 7.043 1.0107 25.6 78 0.8226 6.864 0.9849
8.9 48 0.8434 7.038 1.0099 26.1 79 0.8219 6.858 0.9841
9.4 49 0.8427 7.032 1.0091 26.7 80 0.8211 6.852 0.9832
10.0 50 0.8420 7.026 1.0082 27.2 81 0.8204 6.846 0.9824
10.6 51 0.8414 7.021 1.0074 27.8 82 0.8197 6.840 0.9815
11.1 52 0.8407 7.015 1.0066 28.3 83 0.8190 6.834 0.9807
11.7 53 0.8400 7.009 1.0058 28.9 84 0.8183 6.828 0.9798
12.2 54 0.8393 7.003 1.0050 29.4 85 0.8176 6.822 0.9790
12.8 55 0.8386 6.998 1.0041 30.0 86 0.8168 6.816 0.9781
13.3 56 0.8379 6.992 1.0033 30.6 87 0.8161 6.810 0.9772
13.9 57 0.8372 6.986 1.0025 31.1 88 0.8154 6.804 0.9764
14.4 58 0.8365 6.980 1.0017 31.7 89 0.8147 6.798 0.9755
15.0 59 0.8359 6.975 1.0008 32.2 90 0.8140 6.792 0.9747
15.6 60 0.8352 6.969 1.0000 32.8 91 0.8133 6.786 0.9738
16.1 61 0.8345 6.963 0.9992 33.3 92 0.8125 6.780 0.9729
16.7 62 0.8337 6.957 0.9983 33.9 93 0.8118 6.774 0.9721
17.2 63 0.8330 6.951 0.9975 34.4 94 0.8111 6.768 0.9712
17.8 64 0.8324 6.946 0.9967 35.0 95 0.8104 6.762 0.9703
18.3 65 0.8317 6.940 0.9958 35.5 96 0.8097 6.756 0.9695
18.9 66 0.8310 6.934 0.9950 36.1 97 0.8089 6.750 0.9686
19.4 67 0.8303 6.928 0.9942 36.7 98 0.8082 6.744 0.9677
20.0 68 0.8295 6.922 0.9933 37.2 99 0.8075 6.738 0.9669
20.6 69 0.8289 6.917 0.9925 37.8 100 0.8068 6.732 0.9660
21.1 70 0.8282 6.911 0.9917
(Rowley et al., 2004)
General Information
General Information
Physical Properties
Table 3 Propylene Oxide Vapor Pressure as a Function of Temperature
Temperature Vapor Pressure Temperature Vapor Pressure
C F mm Hg psia C F mm Hg psia psig
-28.00 -18.40 40.20 0.78 34.48 94.06 760.00 14.70 0.00
-26.00 -14.80 45.43 0.88 35.00 95.00 774.24 14.97 0.28
-24.00 -11.20 51.21 0.99 40.00 104.00 922.24 17.83 3.14
-22.00 -7.60 57.60 1.11 45.00 113.00 1091.51 21.11 6.41
-20.00 -4.00 64.65 1.25 50.00 122.00 1284.06 24.83 10.13
-18.00 -0.40 72.39 1.40 55.00 131.00 1502.00 29.04 14.35
-16.00 3.20 80.89 1.56 60.00 140.00 1747.51 33.79 19.10
-14.00 6.80 90.20 1.74 65.00 149.00 2022.85 39.12 24.42
-12.00 10.40 100.38 1.94 70.00 158.00 2330.38 45.06 30.37
-10.00 14.00 111.50 2.16 75.00 167.00 2672.54 51.68 36.98
-8.00 17.60 123.60 2.39
-6.00 21.20 136.76 2.64
-4.00 24.80 151.06 2.92 Key
-2.00 28.40 166.55 3.22 psia: pounds per square inch absolute
0.00 32.00 183.31 3.54 psig: pounds per square inch gauge
2.00 35.60 201.42 3.89
4.00 39.20 220.97 4.27
6.00 42.80 242.02 4.68
8.00 46.40 264.66 5.12
10.00 50.00 288.99 5.59
12.00 53.60 315.08 6.09
14.00 57.20 343.04 6.63
16.00 60.80 372.96 7.21
18.00 64.40 404.93 7.83
20.00 68.00 439.05 8.49
22.00 71.60 475.42 9.19
24.00 75.20 514.16 9.94
26.00 78.80 555.35 10.74
28.00 82.40 599.13 11.59
30.00 86.00 645.59 12.48
32.00 89.60 694.85 13.44
34.00 93.20 747.02 14.45
(Rowley et al., 2004)
General Information
General Information
Flammable Region
Upper Flammability
40 Limit = 41.6%
(Air)
Propylene Oxide (mol %)
AIR
LINE
30
=20
.95
mol
20
Oxy %
gen
10
Oxygen (mol %)
Larry Britton, Neolytica, February 2005
All values are in percent mole.
LFL (Lower Flammability Limit)
Test Methods
LOC (Lower Oygen Content)
UFLLimiting
ASTM E 2079 (Upper Flammability Limit)Concentration in Gases and Vapors
Oxygen (Oxidant)
ASTM E 681 Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases)
Test Conditions
5-liter stainless sphere
100C (212F) at 1 atmosphere
General Information
General Information
Upper Flammability
Limit = 86.5% Oxygen
Nit
rog
AIR
ide
en
Ox
LINE
ene
pyl
Flammable Region
Pro
Lower Oygen
Lower Flammability Content = 6.9%
Limit = 1.56%
0% 100%
100%
Oxygen 0%
General Information
General Information
General Information
General Information
10 General Information
First Aid
11 First Aid
First Aid
boots. Chemical goggles and proper respira- Because rapid absorption may occur through
tory protection should also be worn. If a the lungs if aspirated and cause a systemic
fire hazard exists, a suitable flash suit and effect, the decision to induce vomiting or not
hood should be substituted for the rubber should be made only by a physician. When
slicker suit. stabilized sufficiently as determined by
medical authorities, the patient should
Inhalation be transported to a medical facility for
Propylene oxide may be irritating to the continued treatment.
membranes of the respiratory tract and to
the eyes. High concentrations may cause
serious adverse effects, even death. In areas
with poor ventilation, leaks or spills may
result in accumulation of acutely toxic and
potentially lethal concentrations. Signs and
symptoms of excessive exposure may include
eye and respiratory tract irritation, cyanosis,
and possibly anesthesia and narcosis.
If overcome from inhalation of propylene
oxide, a victim should be moved from the
contaminated atmosphere into fresh air at
once by persons properly equipped with
appropriate personal protective equipment
(PPE). Treat for shock if necessary. If the
victim has stopped breathing, give artificial
respiration. Caution should be used to
prevent responder exposure to propylene
oxide from the victim. If breathing is dif-
ficult, oxygen should be administered by
qualified personnel. Once revived, keep
the victim warm and calm. Seek prompt
medical attention.
Ingestion
Exposure through ingestion of propylene
oxide is unlikely. If propylene oxide should
be ingested, give the patient, if conscious,
lukewarm water. Do not induce vomiting.
12 First Aid
Hazard Assessment
The primary route of exposure to propylene possibly central nervous system effects
oxide is through inhalation of fugitive such as coordination problems and general
emissions in the workplace. Propylene oxide depression.
is likely to be readily absorbed through the Propylene oxide generally does not cause
respiratory tract and rapidly metabolized by adverse effects to the skin if it can freely
conjugation with glutathione, or hydrolyzed evaporate. However, confinement under
to 1,2propane diol (propylene glycol). clothing or in shoes or jewelry prevents
Acutely, propylene oxide is a severe skin, evaporation resulting in irritation, blistering,
eye, and respiratory irritant. and possible burns. Contact with even dilute
Long-term studies in animals have clearly solutions of propylene oxide (10%) can cause
shown that chronic exposure to high levels irritation, blistering, and burns with a single
of propylene oxide can induce site-of-contact short-term exposure.
malignant tumors and that propylene oxide Data from animal studies indicates that
should be considered a possible human single exposure to propylene oxide by ing-
carcinogen (see page 14, Carcinogenicity). estion or by inhalation is moderately toxic.
Consistent with good industrial hygiene
practice, exposures should be carefully Repeated Exposures
controlled to prevent adverse health effects; Repeated exposure to excessive levels of
the ACGIH TLV (8-hr TWA) is 2 ppm. For propylene oxide vapors may cause eye and
more detailed toxicity information and the respiratory irritation, and lung and nasal
most recent Material Safety Data Sheet tissue injury. Effects to the nerves of the
(MSDS), contact Dow. extremities (peripheral neuropathy) have
been noted following extremely high
Acute Effects of Overexposure (>1000 ppm), repeated exposures in
Single exposures to liquid propylene oxide
laboratory animals.
can cause severe skin and eye irritation,
which may lead to severe tissue injury if In short-term, repeated animal exposure
not treated promptly. There are reports in studies, concentrations of propylene oxide
the literature that indicate that excessive above 1000 mg/m3 (420 ppm) were irri-
exposure to liquid propylene oxide may tating to the eyes and respiratory tract,
induce allergic skin reactions in workers; causing lung edema (fluid in the lungs) and
ACGIH notes propylene oxide as a skin central nervous system depression. Repeated
contact sensitizer. Exposure to high vapor high oral doses of propylene oxide resulted
concentrations can cause irritation of the in damage to the stomach lining and a slight
eyes and respiratory tract, cyanosis, and
depression of body weight.
13 Hazard Assessment
Hazard Assessment
14 Hazard Assessment
Hazard Assessment
Exposure Limits
The companies strongly recommend that
users comply with the ACGIH TLV guideline
of 2 ppm (established in 2002). Users should
remain aware of local TWA, STEL, PEL,
or other occupational exposure level
requirements. Propylene oxide users can
find current information about ACGIH
evaluations of propylene oxide on the
organizations web site (www.acgih.org).
Current information can also be found
on the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
provided by Dow with shipments of pro-
pylene oxide.
15 Hazard Assessment
Personal Protective
Equipment
System designs should focus on eliminating Are there ways to reduce expected
the need for personal protective equipment. exposures by instituting changes in
However, personal protective equipment either equipment use or procedures?
may be required in certain operations, or in Is the exposure likely to be at levels
locations where exposure to vapor or liquid above the occupational exposure
is possible, such as in the event of a system guidelines?
failure. Identification of use requirements and
selection of personal protective equipment Is the exposure likely to be of very short
demand careful management consideration. duration, after which decontamination
can be immediately accomplished, or is
An overall appraisal should be made of a lengthy exposure likely?
plant operations, exposure potentials,
expected exposure duration, the specific Is the exposure likely to occur only once
activities being performed, and the training or twice per month as might occur in
on personal protective equipment to be some unloading operations?
provided to workers. This appraisal should Is single-use equipment desirable?
be performed by a qualified industrial
NOTE: The Material Safety Data Sheet
hygienist in conjunction with engineering,
(MSDS) for propylene oxide suggests that
maintenance, supervisory, and management
air purifying respirators, supplied air, or
staff. A written exposure control plan should
self-contained breathing apparatus be used
be developed. The plan should identify:
depending on conditions and when respira-
types of approved equipment (including tory protection is required.
manufacturer, make, and model);
types of protective equipment to use for
Eye Protection
Propylene oxide may cause severe eye
specific situations;
irritation and possibly corneal burns. High
procedures for maintenance, cleaning, levels of propylene oxide vapors may also
and storage of the protective equipment; irritate the eyes. Cup-type plastic chemical
training required in proper use of the safety gogglesof gas-tight design and
protective equipment; and equipped with impact-resistant lenses
should be worn whenever there is potential
other issues relevant to specific
for exposure to vapor or liquid. A face shield
operations.
(8-inch minimum) may be worn to provide
When selecting personal protective equip- added splash protection. Or, if vapors cause
ment and managing equipment programs, eye discomfort, a full-face respirator should
the overall assessment of potential exposures be worn. Eye protective measures should
should be considered. Issues to be addressed meet ANSI Z87.1 specifications.
include the following:
Individuals wearing contact lenses while ventilated areas), use an approved positive-
working with or around propylene oxide pressure self-contained breathing apparatus
should wear chemical safety goggles at all or positive-pressure airline with an auxiliary
times. The potential for an increase in eye self-contained air supply.
injury of contact lens wearers exposed to
chemicals has not been determined. A General Protective Clothing
conservative approach in the selection of Even well-engineered systems will require
personal protective equipment is warranted. the use of personal protective clothing in the
event of spills or other potential exposure
Respiratory Protection situations.
Propylene oxide has a sweet, penetrating NOTE: Personnel should be required to wear
odor that does not provide adequate work clothes, stored separately from their
warning to prevent overexposure. The street clothes. This allows the industrial
odor threshold for propylene oxide for laundry to handle and wash work clothes
most people is between 10-200 ppm. that could be chemically contaminated.
However, the eight-hour TLV (threshold
limit value) recommended by the ACGIH In all operations involving propylene oxide,
is 2 ppm and the OSHA PEL (permissible and where employee exposure is possible,
exposure limit) is 100 ppm. An active workers should wear chemical workers
propylene oxide testing and monitoring goggles, safety hats, impervious boots, gloves,
program is recommended. and protective outer clothing.
Atmospheric levels should be maintained Trousers should be worn outside the boots
below the appropriate exposure guideline and sleeves should be taped to gloves (with
for propylene oxide. When respiratory tapered sleeve inserts between sleeve and
protection is required, use an approved glove) to prevent contact of propylene oxide
air-purifying or positive-pressure supplied- with the skin.
air respirator, depending on potential Clothing type, make, and materials of
airborne concentrations. For short-term or construction should be carefully evaluated
limited single-use situations, an approved using an exposure control management
air-purifying respirator with a cartridge for approach that evaluates each potential
organic vapors is recommended. However, exposure situation. For example, protective
the limitations and benefits of using clothing for splash protection (which is
air-purifying respirators should be disposed of or immediately cleaned after
clearly understood. exposure) may not need to be as durable as
For emergencies and other conditions when protective clothing for continuous exposure
the exposure guideline may be exceeded situations. Thoroughly evaluate the data
(for example, in confined spaces or poorly supplied by your clothing manufacturer,
The following information is provided with Examples of glove barrier materials that have
the caution that it should be understood that been found to be protective in propylene
gloves and clothing are used as a means of oxide exposures include:
preventing incidental contact only. butyl rubber,
When choosing impervious protective chlorinated polyethylene,
clothing, there are several factors to consider
polyethylene,
in addition to the intrinsic barrier properties.
Performance factors to consider include: ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH) laminate,
20 Sampling Equipment
Sampling Equipment
21 Sampling Equipment
Emergency Planning
According to the Occupational Safety and One of the first steps in developing a crisis
Health Administration (OSHA), the chem- management plan is to define various potential
ical industry in the U.S. has one of the best crisis scenarios as they are related to planning,
safety records of any industrial sector. To preparation, mobilization, response, recovery,
maintainand even improvethis superior and post-incident follow-up. The process
safety record, it is very important that should be comprehensive and consider all
chemical manufacturers and processors aspects of potential emergencies, including
establish an effective, well-developed plan warning alarms, evacuation assembly areas
to ensure quick and effective response to and escape routes, personnel accountability,
emergencies. communication vehicles, chain of command,
Emergency planning should consider all notification of authorities, dealing with the
aspects of emergency situations, including media, and other important concerns. If your
not only those that may occur on-site, but plant does not have a crisis management plan,
also incidents that may occur en route to it is recommended that one be developed.
the site, in the surrounding community, or Assuming that a general plan exists for your
in the community at large. facility, the task of preparing for a new instal-
This section describes a process for lation starts with proper design. Engineers
emergency planning and provides specific should design the bulk storage and handling
information about spills, fire-fighting, and system to minimize hazardous conditions and
associated waste disposal. Plans should be to allow quick response if emergencies occur.
developed with the assistance of local fire For example, the use of nitrogen padding is
fighters and other emergency response recommended on propylene oxide storage
personnel. vessels to eliminate oxygen from the vessel
and thereby reduce the risk of fire. An excel-
Plan Development lent way to test a new design is to perform
Many organizations have published a process hazard analysis. As part of the
comprehensive guidance on developing hazard identification and management
crisis management plans. For example, OSHA process, it is also important to develop
has developed a booklet called How to Plan safe operating procedures.
for Workplace Emergencies and Evacuations After completing both an overall crisis
(http://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3088. management plan and a process hazard
html). The discussion presented here is not analysis, the next logical step is to develop
all-encompassing; rather, general prin- written procedures for responding to pos-
ciples important for propylene oxide users sible emergencies associated with the new
to consider are discussed. installation. These plans should be carefully
22 Emergency Planning
Emergency Planning
tied into the emergency plan and cover all of propylene oxide. Aqueous mixtures as low
the aspects required in the overall plan. The as 0.75% propylene oxide may be flammable.
procedures should also include a specific plan Storage areas should be designed to prevent
for controlling the emergency. Procedures exposure of propylene oxide containers to
should cover all parameters, including fire hazards from potential fires (see page 30,
extinguishers and other fixed fire protection Bulk Handling). Page 38, Delivery &
equipment, emergency block valves, spill Transfer, includes recommendations for
containment, personal protective equipment the safe unloading and transfer of propylene
and clothing, and so on. All post-emergency oxide, which are necessary to minimize the
procedures, such as waste cleanup, waste fire and explosion hazard while performing
disposal and equipment checks, and proper these operations.
reporting should also be considered. The plan
should be tested in a simulated situation to If propylene oxide is involved in a fire,
ensure its effectiveness in a real emergency. prevent unauthorized individuals from
entering the area, and evacuate the area
Another important step in developing an downwind from the fire. Fires should
emergency plan involves community interac- be fought from a safe distance upwind.
tion. The plan should be integrated into the Thermal decomposition products, such
community-wide emergency response plan. as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide,
Fire Hazards and perhaps other toxic gases and vapors,
may be generated. Propylene oxide, when
The Occupational Safety and Health
involved in a fire, burns rapidly with
Administration classifies propylene oxide1
tremendous heat. Table 1 (page 4) and
as a Class 1A flammable liquid. The National
Figure 1 (page 7) provide propylene oxide
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code
flammability limits.
30 defines propylene oxide as a Class 1A
flammable liquid. For application of the Fire Prevention and Protection
National Electrical Code2, propylene oxide
Propylene oxide, when ignited, burns rapidly
is a Class 1, Group B* flammable liquid.
with high heat. Because of the high vapor
Vapors of propylene oxide at concentrations pressure of propylene oxide, it is capable of
between 1.6% and 42% in air can explode readily forming explosive mixtures. Sources
if an ignition source is present 3. Propylene of ignition, including heat, sparks, flames,
oxide vapors are heavier than air and may and static electricity, must be avoided.
travel a considerable distance toward a Compliance with this basic rule requires
source of ignition and flash back. All continual oversight and management that
precautions necessary for the safe handling should typically include the following
and storage of a volatile flammable liquid combination of work practices and
or vapor should be strictly observed for mechanical controls:
1
29 CFR 1910.106
23
2
NEC-NFPA 70
3
Emergency Planning
See Figure 1 on page 7.
Emergency Planning
Defining no smoking and hot work Per the NFPA, the electrical classification
policies in areas where propylene oxide for well-designed and maintained propylene
is used; oxide handling areas is Class 1, Division 2,
Using non-sparking tools if working in Group B*. Areas where the presence of
an area where propylene oxide vapors propylene oxide vapors is probable, such
could be present; as immediately above tanks or vessels, near
vents, or within buildings or retaining walls
Grounding metallic containers/vessels should be classified as Class 1, Division 1,
in which propylene oxide is stored; Group B*.
Bonding and grounding metallic
receiving containers;
Static Electricity
The transfer of propylene oxide can create
Enforcing stringent welding, cutting, and
static electricity charges, which can act as an
burning permit systems; and
ignition source for flammable vapors. The
Implementing inside and outside charge can develop even when the liquid
storage methods that comply with legal flows or is poured through air. To minimize
requirements and good industry practice. the risk of ignition, bonding and grounding
Tanks and equipment containing liquid of equipment is required by federal regula-
propylene oxide should be protected with tion (29 CFR 1910.107), building and fire
automatic deluge or sprinkler systems codes, and industry practice (NFPA 70,
including coverage of pumps and shaft seal NFPA 77, NFPA 30). Bonding provides a
areas (per NFPA design criteria). A manually low-resistance path to current flow between
activated, remotely located switch should two surfaces that are physically separated or
also be provided. become separated. Per NFPA 77, a maximum
of 1 megaohm is acceptable, though lower
The use of installed flammable (combustible) values reduce risk.
gas detectors in at-risk areassuch as those
around propylene oxide pumps or loading Grounding connects the containment
and unloading operationsis recommended. vessels, pipes, etc., to a grounding electrode
(ground) in the earth by means of conductors
Heat may create a build-up of pressure and welded or attached to both the equipment
cause closed containers to rupture. A water and the ground.
fog may be used to cool the containers. Water
may be ineffective as an extinguishing agent. Filling vessels and containers through a dip
Prevent liquid from entering external water tube or through a bottom nozzle to minimize
sources and sewers by building dikes as the static created by free-falling liquid is
necessary to contain flow. recommended.
24 Emergency Planning
Emergency Planning
25 Emergency Planning
Emergency Planning
After a fire has been extinguished, residual Propylene oxide is soluble in water and
propylene oxide contamination may occur. the resulting solution requires substantial
Residual contamination may require a dilution to control the vapor above the
cleanup of the liquid. Individuals who mixture. In confined spaces such as sumps
engage in such a cleanup should be thor- or sewers, a dilution factor greater than
oughly trained in proper techniques and 150 to 1, or less than 0.75% propylene
have received training in accordance with oxide, may be necessary to prevent vapor
the OSHA Hazardous Waste Operations concentrations above the 20% lower exposure
and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) limit (LEL).
standard, 29 CFR 1910.120. Portable fire extinguishers should be placed
Fire Suppression in the vicinity where propylene oxide is
Some foam systems may be used to extinguish handled or stored and in locations where the
fires, but the effectiveness of the foams must potential for spills or leaks exists. Class B
be reviewed with the foam manufacturer. dry chemical or foam extinguishers should
The intensity of a propylene oxide fire may be used when fighting small propylene oxide
significantly diminish the effectiveness of fires. NFPA10 contains guidelines for the
certain foams. Foam applied directly to correct selection, use, distribution, inspection,
open surface fires will require a higher maintenance, and recharging of portable fire
concentration, a higher application rate, extinguishers and should be referred to when
and/or repeated applications. Because of designing a work area.
propylene oxides low flash point and high
vapor pressure, propylene oxide may reignite
from hot surfaces.
The emergency response plan (see page
22, Plan Development) should include
the amount and locations of extinguishing
equipment necessary to extinguish a
propylene oxide fire and an evaluation
of a worst-case fire scenario is prudent.
26 Emergency Planning
Environmental
Aqueous solutions of propylene oxide used to retain propylene oxide within the
degrade in the environment and are hydro- containment area, thus minimizing worker
lyzed to propylene glycol with an average exposure and overall environmental impact.
half-life of 13 days. The length of time The total volume of the containment area
for propylene oxide degradation varies should be adequate to handle a worst-case
depending on conditions of the aquatic release of propylene oxide. For storage tanks,
medium. Aquatic organisms can metabolize the capacity of the containment area is, at
propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is a minimum, generally the volume of the
classified as readily biodegradable. largest storage tank in the dike area. Dike
or curb design should provide an allowance
C3H6O + H2O C3H8O2 for accumulated rainfall.
Propylene + Water Propylene
Pumps, piping, and equipment designed to
Oxide Glycol
operate within potential spill areas should
Propylene oxide may contaminate soil if be compatible with propylene oxide and free
accidentally spilled and spread by rain or of potential ignition sources.
groundwater. Degradation in wet soil occurs
through hydrolysis to propylene glycol. In dry If possible, all pumps and ancillary equip-
soil, propylene oxide evaporates into the air. ment should be located outside the primary
containment area and should be provided
Studies indicate that propylene oxide, because with curbing to collect drips, leaks, and
of its water solubility and conversion to minor spills. Drain valves may be installed
propylene glycol, does not accumulate in at the low point of the containment area or
aquatic or terrestrial life forms. sump. During normal operations, all drain
Spills and Leaks valves should be in a closed position.
Facilities in which propylene oxide will be The reportable quantity (RQ) for propylene
stored and/or handled should be designed to oxide spills in the U.S. is 100 pounds. In
contain and/or control spills in process areas the event of a propylene oxide release to
as well as in loading/unloading operations. the environment equal to or greater than
Soil and groundwater contamination that may 100 pounds, the National Response Center
result from an accidental spill of propylene must be notified. The telephone number
oxide can be minimized by installation of the National Response Center is
of curbs, sumps, and impervious contain- (800) 424-8802. This reporting requirement
ment areas. is a provision of Sections 103(a) and (b) of
the Comprehensive Emergency Response,
Concrete curbs or earthen dikes should be
Compensation and Liability Act of 1980
sloped from the point of the potential spill
(CERCLA), as amended. Reportable quantities
to a collection basin or sump and should be
are listed in 40 CFR 302.4, Table 302.4.
27 Environmental
Environmental
28 Environmental
Environmental
29 Environmental
Bulk Handling
30 Bulk Handling
Bulk Handling
4 15
12 REFRIGERATION
1 SYSTEM
19 5 PC
LT 15 15 15
PROPYLENE OXIDE
DIP TUBE
RECYCLE
14
LT LI 6
TI
10
18
M 11
3 15
2 15 2 15 9 15
7
TO PROCESS
16 15
17 8 8 17 8
31 Bulk Handling
Bulk Handling
32 Bulk Handling
Bulk Handling
pressure relief valves, so one valve is in Both local and remote operation of the
service at all times. Discharge from pressure valves should be provided. The valves should
relief valves should not be manifolded and fail closed in the event of instrument air
should be directed away from equipment, or electrical failure. The closure rate of
piping, and personnel. Design of safety the emergency block valves should be
valves should consider the possibility of adjusted so as to prevent hydraulic shock
fire damage to the vessel being protected. upon closure.
Rupture discs, used in conjunction with Emissions resulting from loading and
pressure relief valves, should be provided unloading operations should be controlled
with a bleed-type opening between the disc using contained systems; vapor balancing
and valve, and the connection should be and product recovery are the preferred
piped into the relief valve discharge piping methods. Vents may be directed to flares or
through a restricting orifice. A combustible incinerators, provided they are remotely
gas detector that activates an alarm should located and are designed with flame arrestors
be placed downstream from the bleed return and associated instrumentation to prevent
and relief valves. flashback.
Design all vessels so that propylene oxide Refrigeration and insulation of storage tanks
cannot free-fall through the vapor space of are necessary only when dictated by the users
the vessel. One design that has been found process. For refrigerated storage of propylene
effective is to install dip legs with siphon oxide, cooling by plate coils attached to the
breakers in vessels where entry is through tank exterior is recommended to prevent
the upper portion of the vessel. Design all possible contamination by the coolant. When
tanks and equipment to eliminate stagnant a greater degree of cooling is required, an
areas where little or no fluid turnover occurs external heat exchanger with propylene
in either the vapor or liquid. Flat-bottomed oxide circulation is recommended over an
pressure storage tanks should be designed internal coil.
with foundations that will withstand the
compression load of the tank full of water, Instrumentation situated on or in propylene
and should be reinforced with a head stiff- oxide tanks and vessels should meet electrical
ening ring and anchored around the bottom. classification NFPA 30 guidelines [Class 1,
Group B*]. Instrumentation should be
The number of vessel nozzles should be held
designed so that propylene oxide will not
to a minimum. Special attention should be
make contact with energized electrical
given to all normally active nozzles in the
connections and will not enter air supply
liquid zone, as these should be fitted with
lines because of a ruptured diaphragm or
motor-operated emergency block valves.
other failure.
33 Bulk Handling
Bulk Handling
34 Bulk Handling
Bulk Handling
35 Bulk Handling
Tank Cleaning &
Equipment Repair
How will the transfer of the load into NOTE: This is required by DOT for
the tank be monitored to verify move- trucks. If a rail car is involved, how will
ment of product when the pump is it be monitored?
started and to ensure that the product is How will the operator know when the
going to the correct locations? How will vehicle is empty so that the pump can be
the movement of vapors through the shut down after it loses suction pressure?
vapor return line to the vehicle be
established and verified? If the liquid line will be blown clear prior
to disconnection, how will the nitrogen
NOTE: At any sign of safety relief be regulated to not exceed the pressure
valve activation, the transfer should at which the vehicles safety system begins
be stopped. to relieve? What steps will be followed
Is the off-loading procedure clear about if a blow-down is performed?
the location and size of the liquid and NOTE: Hoses should not be left
vapor lines? hydraulically full.
If dry disconnects are used, are they What procedure will be used to ensure
locked in place by securing the arms in all liquid and vapor return lines on the
a closed position? car and piping system are correctly
When opening the valves on both the blown clear, depressurized, and blocked
vent and liquid sides, will a careful check to secure the system and the delivery
for leaks be made? vehicle?
Are flammable (combustible) gas When disconnecting the fitting, does the
detectors installed at strategic points procedure require the use of appropriate
to sound an alarm if a leak occurs? protective gear?
What is the pressure inside the How will the hoses be secured to keep
storage tank? them clean and contamination-free for
NOTE: If it is at a pressure that exceeds the next load?
the vehicle safety system, the pressure How will the operator ensure that the
relief valve will open and a vapor cloud fall restraint, chocks, ground strap, and
will be released. Relief pressure can barricades are removed (and that the
vary, depending on the type of vessel placards are reversed and derail and
used by the supplier. warning signs are removed before
After the transfer is initiated, is the releasing a rail car)?
operator required to stay within a certain Rail cars and some intermodal containers
distance of the connections until the load have top discharge lines; establishing
is completely transferred? pump suction requires specific operating
NITROGEN
LIQUID LIQUID
1 1
LIQUID LIQUID
2
B
C C
NITROGEN
6 1 7
A C C A
1 1 LIQUID 4
2
LIQUID 5
C 3 C
6
SECTION C-C
7
MANWAY BONNET
SIDE COVER
(ACCESS TO VALVES)
1 B
NITROGEN OR VAPOR 3
2
BALANCE LINE
SECTION B-B
SECTION A-A
1. Vapor Valve 13. Dry Disconnect & Flexible Hose Assembly with 2
2. Manway NPT Connections
3. Liquid Valve 14. Nitrogen High-Point Purge with Block Valve
4. Placard (All 4 Sides) 15. Pump
5. Wheel Chocks 16. Pressure Gauge with Diaphragm Seal
6. Approved Ground Clamp 17. Approved Ground
7. Filter 18. CHEMTREC Emergency Number (800) 424-9300
8. Pressure Control Valve 19. Handrail
9. Pressure Safety Valve (N2) 20. Hand Brake Wheel
10. Check Valve 21. Derailer
11. Block Valve 22. Pressure Gauge
12. Flexible Hose Assembly with 2 23. DOT Classification No.
NPT Connections
2 1 3
DOT 105J
23
PROPYLENE OXIDE
20
18 4 21
19 19
4 CHEMTREC (800) 424-9300 4
5 5
6
VAPOR VALVE 9. PRESSURE SAFETY VALVE (N2) 17. APPROVED GROUND
MANWAY (see figure 9-3) 10. CHECK VALVE 18. CHEMTREC EMERGENCY NUMBER 800/424-9300
LIQUID VALVE 11. BLOCK VALVE 19. HANDRAIL
PLACARD (Figure 11-2 & 11-3) 12. FLEX. HOSE ASSEMBLY W/2 NPT CONN. 20. HAND BRAKE WHEEL
(ALL 4 SIDES) 13. DRY DISCONNECT & FLEX. HOSE ASSEMBLY 21. DERAILER
WHEEL CLOCKS W/2 NPT CONNECTIONS 22. PRESSURE GAUGE
APPROVED GROUND CLAMP 14. 44 VALVE
NITROGEN HIGH POINT PURGE W/BLOCK 23. Delivery
DOT CLASSIFICATION NO.& Transfer
FILTER 15. PUMP
PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE 16. PRESSURE GAUGE W/DIAPHRAGM SEAL
Delivery &
Transfer
5
NITROGEN
14
6 6
15
10
17
7 7
2
3
1 1
TANK
CAR 4
17 11
6
13 14
12
8
11 11 11 15 11
16
All fixed components of the unloading Eye wash and safety shower stations
system must be located outside an area should be located on both the ground
that complies with the appropriate codes and platform level. Provide personal
and standards to provide adequate protective equipment and have appro-
physical clearance. priate tools stored nearby.
from both directions, a derail device, 4. Check that the bulk tag correctly identi-
sign, and lantern should be placed at fies the contents as propylene oxide.
each end of the tank car. Sampling the car can confirm product
All regulations, including DOT atten- identity and determine if the material
dance requirements, must be followed. is suitable for unloading (see page 20,
For additional safety, a person should be Sampling Equipment).
stationed close enough to maintain 5. Ensure that appropriate measures are
visual contact with the car during the taken to prevent storage tank overflow.
unloading operation. 6. Connect the liquid and vent lines to the
Unloading hoses and arms should be car. Open the bleed valves at the tank
disconnected when there is no one in car end. Purge air from the unloading
attendance or when transfer is stopped. and vent lines with nitrogen and
Tamper evident seals are applied to all pressure the lines (maximum 60 psig).
shipments of propylene oxide. Shippers are Pressure test the lines adequately, i.e.,
encouraged to apply tamper evident seals for about one minute. If the pressure
on residue rail cars returning to Dow. does not hold, search for leaks with
soap suds or other leak-detecting fluids,
General Guidelines for Unloading Rail Cars and correct leaks.
1. Confirm that the rail car contains
7. Open the vapor valve on the tank car
propylene oxide, i.e., perform a positive
and determine the car pressure, which
ID check or check shipping documenta-
may range from 10-40 psig. Confirm
tion such as the car number, the DOT
that the liquid and vapor valves at the
placards, the car label, and other
storage tank are open. Equalize the
shipping documentation.
pressure on the two tanks by opening
2. Per DOT regulations, place a blue the final vapor block valve at the rail
caution sign (or lantern) on the track. car rack.
Put a blue lantern on the flag if the job is
8. Open the liquid line on the rail car,
being done at night. Put the derail device
at the rack, and at the pump. Start the
in the derailing position. Chock the
unloading pump. Check the pump for
wheels. Set the hand brake. Activate the
leaks and proper operation. Tank cars
barricade system and operational lights.
may be off-loaded using nitrogen pres-
3. Attach the lower ground cable to the sure of 40-50 psig in lieu of pumping.
carriage support and confirm that the CAUTION: Do not exceed 60 psig in the tank
ground interlock is active. Extend and car, as this may cause premature relieving of
secure the loading rack to the top of the the pressure relief safety valve.
car. Open the dome cover and attach
the upper grounding cable to the dome.
9. As soon as the car is empty, stop the Different types of dedicated trailers are used
unloading pump. Avoid allowing the by suppliers to transport propylene oxide
pump to run dry to prevent damage to in North America. Typically DOT412 or
the mechanical seal. MC331-type trailers are used. Safety valve
10. Clear the liquid unloading line into the pressure settings of commonly used pro-
car by purging with nitrogen. Close the pylene oxide tank trucks can vary from
liquid valve on the car and empty the 25-260 psig, depending on the specifications
liquid line from the car into the storage used to design and manufacture the vessel.
tank by continuing to purge with Contact Dow for specific details.
nitrogen. Close the rack liquid valves, Propylene oxide trailers are commonly
the pump valves, and the liquid inlet equipped with a mechanical outage gauge,
valve into the tank. Close the vapor line a dial thermometer, and a pressure gauge.
into the tank. Adjust the nitrogen pres- All liquid and vent connections are typically
sure in the car to the 10-15 psig range located at the back, behind the rear wheels,
and close the vapor valve on the car and and are typically equipped with 2-inch dry
rack. Bleed down and disconnect the disconnect fittings.
loading lines. Cap them and secure them Tank trucks are sometimes equipped with
to the loading ramp. Replace the plugs in excess flow valves on the liquid line. Quick-
the rail car valves. Secure the magnetic acting lever-cable systems for remote shut-off
gauge. Remove the upper ground cable may be accessible from different locations
from the dome, close the dome cover, on the trailers. There are also terminal valves
and bolt it down. Retract the loading and quick-connect type plugs on the liquid
ramp. Remove the lower ground cables and vapor connections. A bleed valve for
from the carriage support. Remove blow-down is connected to a tee between
the blue flag, blue lights, and derails. the inside valve and the terminal block valve.
Remove the wheel chocks on the car.
Leave the brake engaged for the railroad Trailers may not be loaded completely full
crew to release. Deactivate the barri- because they must comply with maximum
cade system. load restrictions determined by state and
federal regulations. Prior to loading, the
Tamper evident seals are applied to all trailer is purged with nitrogen. After loading,
shipments of propylene oxide. Shippers are a residual nitrogen blanket in the range of
encouraged to apply tamper evident seals 25-30 psig will be left on the trailer.
on residue rail cars returning to Dow.
Considerations for Unloading Tank Trucks
Tank Trucks The site should be safely remote from
Acceptable tank trucks to transport propylene traffic, general activity, and ignition
oxide are defined in 49 CFR 173.243. sources.
Consider the use of road barricades and permanently attached to the pumping
warning lights to restrict traffic or other system. For this reason, Dow does not
operations from the unloading area. supply hoses or truck pumps.
The surface should be sloped to provide Steel pipe and swing joints for truck
drainage into a containment area for liquid and vent connections are pre-
spill control. ferred. Dedicated flexible stainless steel
The tank truck should be properly hoses are also acceptable. If flexible
electrically grounded. Interlocking hoses are used, a storage area for the
grounding devices and alarms should be hoses should be provided that will
used with the transfer system to provide protect them from damage and con-
automatic shutdown if the ground is lost. tamination. A documented hose testing
program is recommended, as they are
All electrical equipment, including probably the most vulnerable part of the
phones, radios, and intercom systems unloading system. All hoses should be
in the unloading area, should comply pressure tested prior to each use.
with the appropriate codes. Emergency block valves in the liquid
The unloading facility and the rear area of and vapor piping should be capable
the truck should have some form of fire of activation from both the elevated
protection devices, such as an automatic platform and ground level.
sprinkler system. It is recommended Eye wash and safety shower stations
that combustible gas detectors are should be located on both the ground
strategically placed in the general area. and platform levels. Provide personal
Dry-powder fire extinguishers should be protective equipment and have appro-
present and a firewater monitor should priate tools stored nearby.
be located within 40 feet of the trailer.
All transfer lines should be properly
Truck unloading can be done by either identified, so that proper alignment can
pumping or applying nitrogen pressure be made.
to the truck. The advantages and disad-
vantages of each method of transferring All regulations, including DOT atten-
product should be reviewed to make dance requirements, must be followed.
certain all safety and environmental An attendant must be stationed close
questions are answered. enough to maintain visual contact with
the truck during the unloading operation.
NOTE: To minimize personnel exposure
to propylene oxide, Dow encourages Unloading hoses and arms should be
customers to use a dedicated hose disconnected when there is no one in
attendance or when transfer is stopped.
General Procedures for Unloading valves and observe the pressure for about
Tank Trucks one minute. If the pressure does not
1. Make sure the unit is spotted correctly hold, search for leaks with soap suds or
and that its wheels are chocked, its brakes an equivalent leak detecting liquid and
are set, and the road barricades are up. make necessary repairs.
Turn on the flashing lights or other visual CAUTION: Some trailers are designed for
warning systems at the road entrance. lower pressures.
2. Place a placard on the windshield or 9. Confirm that the vent and liquid inlet
steering wheel of the truck to warn valves at the storage tank are open. Slowly
against moving the vehicle, or remove equalize the pressure on the truck and the
the keys and place in a secure area. vapor line to the truck.
Direct the driver to wait in a designated 10. Open the valves in the liquid line on the
area. The driver should not remain in tank truck, at the emergency block valve
the cab. at the pump suction, and discharge.
3. Attach the lower ground cable to the Check for leaks and proper operation.
carriage support and confirm that 11. If pressuring off the propylene oxide
ground interlock is active. with nitrogen, make certain that the
4. Confirm that the rail car contains nitrogen is dry and contains less than
propylene oxide, i.e., check the car 2% oxygen. Then open the tank vent
number, the DOT placards, the car label, line to an appropriate scrubber and
and shipping documentation. Sampling pressure the truck with nitrogen. Open
the car can confirm product identity the liquid line to begin the transfer.
and determine if the material is suitable CAUTION: Low-pressure trucks may not
for unloading (see page 20, Sampling be suitable for pressure off-loading. Provide
Equipment). provisions to ensure that the tank truck is
5. Ensure that appropriate measures are protected against vacuum to prevent
taken to prevent storage tank overflow. collapsing the cargo tank during the
unloading operation.
6. Connect the unloading line to the truck
12. As soon as the trailer is empty, stop the
liquid line.
unloading pump. Avoid allowing the
7. Connect the vent-back (vapor) line to pump to run dry to prevent damage to
the truck. the mechanical seal.
8. Purge the unloading and vent-back lines 13. Clear the liquid unloading line into the
with nitrogen and pressure up to 60 psig truck by purging with nitrogen. Close
to conduct a pressure check. Isolate the the liquid valve on the truck and empty
unloading lines with appropriate block the liquid line from the truck into the
storage tank by continuing to purge with Propylene oxide is shipped in other types
nitrogen. Close the pump valves, the of containers, such as IM101 and IM105
emergency block valves, and the liquid portable tanks, which contain approxi-
inlet valve into the tank. Close the vapor mately 4,000-6,000 gallons of product,
line into the tank. Adjust the nitrogen shipped under a nitrogen blanket of between
pressure in the car to the 10-15 psig 15-30 psig. Unloading valves are typically
range and close the vapor valve on the located at the rear of the tank (see Figure 7).
tank and at the load rack. Bleed down
ISO Tank Shipments and Unloading
and disconnect the loading lines. Cap and
secure the hoses. Place caps on truck
Guidelines
piping. Hoses need to be stored in a se- The ISO tank shipments and unloading
cure location. Remove the upper ground procedures are similar to the tank truck
cables. Check the trailer DOT placards procedures located on page 48, Tank
to see that they are properly affixed and Trucks.
in good condition. Remove the wheel Material and/or Container Return
chocks, take down the barricade, turn Guidelines
off the visual warning system, and release
Always contact Dow if there is reason to
the truck to the driver.
suspect the product has been tampered with
ISO Containers or damaged while en route to your facility.
Acceptable portable containers used to For safety and security reasons, DO NOT RETURN
transport propylene oxide are defined in THE PRODUCT WITHOUT PRIOR CONSULTATION
49 CFR 173.243. WITH AND APPROVAL from Dow.
ATMOSPHERE
25 17
15
NITROGEN SUPPLY
15 18 OR VAPOR BALANCE LINE
14
16 1
13
6
10 9 11 12 IM-101
(2) 24 5
PROPYLENE OXIDE
2 FROM SHUTDOWN
INTERLOCKS
26
21
28
8 M TO STORAGE
27 7 19 15
23
CHEMTREC (800) 424-9300
3 15 16 16
20
4
22 22
21
Employees must be sensitive to their work Additionally, using cable seals to secure the
environment and able to recognize normal loading or unloading fittings during transit
and suspicious activities, unusual behaviors, is strongly recommended. Personnel respon-
as well as any container abnormality. sible for loading, transporting, and unloading
Employees must also be able to implement propylene oxide should be trained to recognize
an action plan or notification sequence. and report tampering with the containers,
Possible threats may include fraudulent or when seals are missing, or when seals have
intentionally false statements to initiate a a different number than indicated on the
shipment of propylene oxide. Possible threats loading documents.
to the container in transportation or storage/ The elements of the plan should, therefore,
tank car must also be taken into account. A address:
plan is important to prevent unauthorized
access to propylene oxide containers at every Ensuring fulfillment only of legitimate
point in the supply chain and to ensure careful orders
monitoring of the movement and reporting Access to storage areas
of overdue or out-of-route shipments to
Sealing containers and recognition of
supervisors, shipping companies, and
compromised seals
appropriate law enforcement agencies.
53 Security
Regulations
54 Regulations
Regulations
55 Regulations
References
56 References
For current contact information for propylene oxide.
The Americas (except Brazil and Mexico)
1-800-447-4369
1-989-832-1542
NOTICE: No freedom from any patent owned by Seller or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one
location to another and may change with time, Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are
appropriate for Customers use and for ensuring that Customers workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and
other governmental enactments. Seller assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN;
ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
Published January 2007 Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) or an affiliated company of Dow Form No: 117-01736-0107 CRCG