Document ExnVN0okw81Xg7kG0xjveeowj
cc:
R. G. Fitzgerald A. J. Gosselin G. W. Moore
G. L. Mullenix - Indianapolis N.I. - Indianapolls^^,.^^^
Follow-up
Mr. D. D. Ward Corporate Risk Manager Air Products & Chemicals, P.0. Box 538
Inc.
Allentown, PA
18105
October 10, 1978
IRMNDPJ S
CT 12 197Q
Dear Dave:
AIR PRODUCTS & CHEMICALS, INC. CALVERT CITT, KENTUCKY E-13289/W-52039
VAPOR DETECTION SYSTEM PVC PLANT
We have completed our review cf the many drawings that you recently submitted to us shoving the vapor detection system to be installed in the PVC plant at the above plant, and we have the following comments:
\
1. The most serious problem is that the spacing of the detectors is Inadequate.
We had previously sent you eopies of our guidelines for detector spacing, which indicated that we were looking for spacing 20 to 40 ft. horizontally between detectors1around the perimeter of the area and structures. Where multi-level structures were encountered, spacing would always be 15 to 20 ft., staggered in a vertical direction. In. addition, detectors would be placed over all points of potential release. We would also expect detectors to be placed between 18-36*' above floor levels.
2. In addition to the drawings provided, we need electrical diagrams of the Bacharach internals as well as internals of all equipment located at tha deluge valve, so we can be assured that the circuits between the Bacharach control panel and the deluge valve are supervised (would sound a trouble signal with one wire broken or grounded; and still be capable of tripping the deluge valve).
3. Back on May 18, 1978 I wrote a rather lengthy letter discussing our philosophy regarding location of alarms covering fire emergency situations. We would like to reiterate that ve do not believe chat the process operators are qualified to properly receive and react to fire signals. In other words, fire type alarms are to be received at a constantly attended location by people performing no other task, and trained in the proper disposition of fire signals. Process operators do not fulfill this need.
AP00044842
-2-
Mr. D. D. Ward Air Produces & Chemicals, Inc.
October 10, 1978
Because of the above, we are not In a position to indicate our approval and acceptance of the submitted information. Please contact the necessary people and have revised information prepared and submitted for our approval as soon as possible.
If you or your people have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch with
us.
Sincerely,
Jcs
pc: Mr. C. J. Drygaa
Fire Protection Consultant
M & M Protection Consultants
1221 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY
10020
G. W. Moore Chemical Account Engineer
AP00044843