ON THE MANAGEMENT OF SEVERE CHEMICAL ACCIDENTS DECARA - A COMPUTER CODE FOR CONSEQUENCE ANALYSIS IN CHEMICAL INSTALLATIONS - CASE-STUDY - AMMONIA PLANT

A computer package is presented for the integrated risk assessment of accidental releases of hazardous substances. DECARA provides an integrated risk analysis including source-term strength evaluation, estimation of the hazardous cloud dispersion and quantification of health impacts. Multiple accidents, each with a certain probability of occurrence can be handled. Dispersion of heavier as well as lighter-than-air gases released instantaneously or continuously, can be simulated. Time-varying release rates are possible. Uncertainty analysis can be performed including both parameter and modelling uncertainty. The code calculates the unconditional fatality probability at any point around the site of release. Isorisk curves or maximum individual risk versus distance from the source can be generated. The computer package is portable and available for running in personal computers