CGA H-14

This publication applies to HYCO plants. Information in this publication may also be applied to facilities, such as trailer fill stations, cylinder fill stations, electrolytic production facilities, or vehicle fueling stations.

This publication covers methodologies for prevention of, detection of, and response to flammable and/or toxic gas leaks that occur within the fence line of these facilities. Typical leak detection technologies are discussed including personal monitoring, fixed monitoring, and specialized detectors for identifying leak location. This publication also addresses the specifics of gas leaks occurring at unmanned or remotely monitored sites.

The leaks discussed in this publication are due to a loss of containment in process piping and equipment. A loss of containment is an unexpected release of process fluid to the atmosphere. A leak of this type is typically through a failed sealing device (e.g., stem packing, flange gasket) or a failure of the pressure boundary (e.g., crack in a weld). Many jurisdictions use the concept of fugitive emissions for leaks that are too small to repair, which are not covered in any detail in this publication due to jurisdictional variances.

This publication does not cover leaks from transportation piping or components leading to flares or process vents. It does not address routine oxygen deficiency and enrichment as these are covered in other harmonized publications (EIGA Doc 23, Safety Training of Employees; EIGA Doc 44, Hazards of Inert Gases and Oxygen Depletion), as well as in CGA SB-2, Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres. It also does not address fire and smoke detection in buildings as these are covered in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and local building codes.

The reader should determine applicability for facilities other than those described in this publication or for leaks entering the facility from outside of the perimeter.