Crude oil transfer safety analysis and oil spills prevention in port oil terminal

The paper describes the problem of crude oil transfer in a port oil terminal and includes the safety analysis of this operation and analysis of potential causes and possible scenarios of oil spill events in a port terminal. The operation process of crude oil transfer is described and its statistical identification is given. The reliability and availability analysis of the system of crude oil transfer in a port terminal is performed. Moreover, analysis of crude oil transfer process taking into account the human factor is provided. The Fault Tree Analysis and sensitivity analysis for oil spill event in a port terminal is proposed to identify and analyse potential causes and possible scenarios of oil spill. Introducing methods for the prevention of oil spills, special attention is paid to safety procedures during liquid cargo transfer. Technical solutions used in oil terminals are described and recommendation regarding the Emergency Shutdown System are given. Additionally, associated safety systems, such as surge relief system, are described. Emphasizing the role of human factor in the process of crude oil transfer and its safety, trainings on the Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator are proposed to improve skills and knowledge of personnel on board and ashore.