Introduction
A Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) is a structured engineering study used to identify credible fire and explosion hazards in industrial facilities. It evaluates how these hazards may develop due to Loss of Containment (LOC) and assesses their potential impact on personnel, equipment, and operations. The study ensures that risks are clearly understood and reduced to acceptable levels through appropriate safety measures.
FERA Methodology
The FERA approach is built on a well-defined and traceable framework, ensuring consistency with regulatory expectations and practical applicability in real plant environments.
- Scope Definition and Data Collection
- Hazard Identification
- Frequency Evaluation
- Physical Effects Modelling (PEM)
- Consequence Analysis
- Risk Evaluation
- Risk Reduction Measures
Conclusion
FERA provides a clear and structured understanding of fire and explosion risks under realistic operating conditions. It supports validation of safety systems and identification of necessary improvements. Overall, it ensures safer, more reliable, and compliant facility operations.
1. FERA Study for Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) Upgrade of QatarEnergy
Client: QatarEnergy
Facility: Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP)
Introduction
The Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) was completely carried out by iFluids Engineering and Consultancy WLL for the early works of the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) upgrade at QatarEnergy Refinery, Mesaieed. The study focused on evaluating potential fire and explosion risks associated with demolition and relocation activities prior to EPIC execution. Critical systems such as recovered oil storage tanks and pumps were assessed to ensure safe integration with the upgraded facility. The assessment followed QatarEnergy guidelines using a consequence-based approach to validate plant safety and protection measures.
Project Insights
Conducted a Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) for early-stage works of a wastewater treatment facility upgrade, focusing on pre-construction activities.
- Assessed key process areas and equipment to identify potential fire and explosion risks within the facility.
- Adopted a consequence-based assessment approach, aligned with industry guidelines, to evaluate impact severity rather than likelihood.
- Identified major hazard scenarios including jet fire, pool fire, flash fire, and explosion events based on credible leak conditions.
- Performed advanced consequence modelling under realistic operating and environmental conditions to understand hazard impact.
- Evaluated thermal radiation effects and escalation potential to ensure safe equipment layout and spacing.
- Verified adequacy of existing fire protection, gas detection, and emergency response systems, including assessment of explosion impacts.
Outcomes
The study confirmed that existing fire protection and detection systems are adequate, with minimal risk of escalation due to proper equipment layout. No significant explosion overpressure risk was identified. However, passive fire protection is recommended for critical cables exposed to high thermal radiation.
2. FERA Study for Gas Production Facility Modifications (NFA & WHP-3) of QatarEnergy
Client: QatarEnergy
Facility: Gas Production Facility
Introduction
A Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) was carried out by iFluids Engineering and Consultancy WLL to evaluate risks associated with modifications in a gas production facility. The study analysed Loss of Containment (LOC) scenarios and their impact on safety and equipment, ensuring compliance with QatarEnergy requirements and validating the adequacy of existing fire protection systems.
Project Insights
- Conducted FERA for modified process systems including drain networks and hydraulic units.
- Evaluated key fire and explosion scenarios, including jet fire, pool fire, flash fire, and vapour cloud explosion (VCE).
- Defined credible LOC scenarios using P&IDs and valve configurations.
- Performed consequence modelling using PHAST and SAFETI under realistic conditions.
- Evaluated thermal radiation and gas dispersion to assess hazard zones.
- Assessed adequacy of fire protection, gas detection, and passive safety systems.
- Analysed explosion overpressure impacts considering facility conditions.
Outcomes
The study confirmed that existing fire protection and safety systems are adequate to manage identified risks. Fire and explosion impacts were within acceptable limits, with minimal escalation potential. Overall, the facility modifications meet safety requirements and maintain acceptable risk levels.
3. Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) for Fire Protection of Refrigeration System (Propane Loop)
Client: Oryx GTL
Facility: Fire Protection of the Refrigeration System (Propane Loop)
Introduction
A comprehensive Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment (FERA) was performed by iFluids Engineering and Consultancy WLL for the propane refrigeration system located in Unit-35 at Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLIC). The assessment focused on identifying credible fire and explosion hazards associated with propane handling systems and analysing their potential impact on nearby equipment and facilities. The primary objective was to enhance the existing safety framework by recommending effective mitigation measures and improving overall system reliability.
Overview of Ras Laffan Industrial City
Ras Laffan Industrial City, situated approximately 80 km northeast of Doha, is a key industrial zone supporting Qatar’s gas processing and export infrastructure. Since its development in the mid-1990s, it has grown into a world-class energy hub, providing advanced infrastructure and logistical support for large-scale natural gas and petrochemical operations.
Project Insights
- Jet fire scenarios from a 25 mm leak may generate significant thermal radiation, with higher intensity cases increasing escalation risks.
- The occurrence of jet fire events is considered credible, necessitating the implementation of robust fire protection strategies.
- Pool fire scenarios, although involving flammable inventory, are largely confined within the unit boundaries with limited offsite impact.
- Active fire protection systems, including deluge and water spray systems, play a vital role in controlling fire intensity and preventing escalation.
- Application of passive fire protection, particularly for structural elements and critical components, is essential to maintain equipment integrity during fire exposure.
- Fire and gas detection systems are crucial for early leak identification, enabling timely isolation and emergency response.
- Emergency depressurization systems significantly reduce the consequences of major fire or explosion scenarios by lowering system pressure.
Outcomes
The Fire and Explosion Risk Assessment study provided a detailed understanding of fire and explosion risks associated with the propane refrigeration system and highlighted the importance of integrating both active and passive protection measures. Implementation of the recommended safeguards enhances overall plant safety by reducing escalation potential, improving detection and response capabilities, and strengthening system resilience. The study supports safer operations and ensures alignment with industry-recognized fire risk management practices.
