Physical and Chemical Properties


TLV/TWA for benzene is only 1 ppm. Emergency responders must initially use self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) until air monitoring results permit the level of respiratory protection to be downgraded.


3. Distillates, such as diesel fuel and jet fuel, are combustible liquids and pro- duce fewer vapors than gasoline.


4. All refined petroleum products have vapors that are heavier than air and a specific gravity less than 1.0. Vapors will collect in low areas, while spills will float on the surface of water. Spills and vapors may migrate long distances through drain tiles, sewers, or other conduits.


5. Liquefied gases that are lighter than air, such as anhydrous ammonia, will initially hang low and collect in low areas until the vapors “heat up” and rise. In addition, propane and butane vapors will extend beyond the visi- ble vapor cloud.


6. All liquid petroleum products have increased volatility when released under pressure as an aerosol. In addition, warm weather can increase the volatility of all refined petroleum products.


7. Diesel and jet fuel vapors are not easily detected with a combustible gas indicator (CGI) due to their low vapor pressure.


SUMMARY


Knowledge of the container and its contents, and the characteristics of both, are critical in sizing up the problem, assessing the behavior of each, estimat- ing future outcomes, and developing a sound incident action plan for pipeline emergencies. Knowledge and understanding of the chemical and physical properties of the liquids being transported in the pipeline are critical to a safe and effective emergency response. The key properties that must be understood include flash point, flammable limits, specific gravity, and vapor density.


The most common types of liquid products transported in pipelines are


flammable and combustible liquids, ammonia, liquefied petroleum gases (e.g., propane and butane), and carbon dioxide. Responders should be aware that both flammable and combustible liquids may have more than one haz- ardous property. For example, a sour crude oil will also give off hydrogen sulfide gas.


In many instances, the initial response to a pipeline emergency may be


dispatched as a call for a strange odor in the area or as an unknown type of hazardous materials leak or spill. Responders must be cautious in approach- ing these incidents scenes and look for clues that a pipeline is involved.


Since pipelines usually terminate at a bulk storage facility, emergency


responders must be familiar with the types of storage tanks and loading rack emergencies that may occur at these facilities.


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