Gasoline Explosion Events – Improved Consequence Awareness

      Transport Canada identified a need for an improved understanding of tanker explosion events and the consequences that follow in order to ensure the safe passage of vessels in the St. Lawrence. Therefore, an assessment was to be conducted in order to indentify these consequences and evaluate the suitability of a risk modelling tool for marine applications.

       In order to meet these needs, simulations of specific explosion scenarios were performed under conditions resembling those of the St. Lawrence. Scenarios including collision, gas leakage and unsafe loading or unloading procedures yielded data that was then analysed to evaluate the associated risks. Among these risks were identified overpressure, heat radiation and toxic emissions. Tanker characteristics were also taken into account as a significant influence on outcomes (e.g. size, type, cargo).

        A number of modifications to the modelling tool were recommended following the simulations. This allowed for a more appropriate application to marine release events as well as a more user friendly approach.