We read often in newspapers about a number of mishaps and accidents taking place near construction sites. The accidents, in most of the cases, happen due to the careless attitude of contractors and employees who lack good training to work in hazardous areas, especially construction within a petroleum industry complex.
Working in such facilities requires a careful planning since plants and support facilities under construction are generally next to those already in operation. An accident at a construction site can have a serious impact on a nearby oil or gas facility and vice versa, as a result of a large amount of fuel present at both locations. As a matter of fact, the factors that must be considered before the work starts in these construction sites, include site preparation, work permit schedules, types of work permits required and type or quantity of equipment required on site. As part of this process, the contractor must take into account the potential hazards that can be dealt with on site; protection of machinery and equipment; control of ignition sources; storage of flammable and combustible materials; housekeeping; staff training; end off shift checks. In reality, a good layout helps ensure the project can be carried out efficiently. Some principles of project layout and organization can help minimize fire risks: Avoid congestion around machinery and equipment where there is a high level of activity and traffic. Operations having a high fire risk, such as welding and spray painting, should be isolated from flammable and explosive materials or specially protected. — Anees Lokhande, Alkhobar
Mishaps at construction sites
