S&J Ranch Bulk Propane Facility - Executive Summary |
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This facility complies with NFPA-58 requirements for LP-Gas storage, and it is our policy to adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws. If an emergency would occur, it is our policy to notify the Madera County Fire Department and request that they respond to the emergency. This facility is operated by a farm management company engaged in citrus production. On the ranch site is a 36,000 gallon propane tank facility which is used as a transfer station to bobtail trucks. The bobtail trucks refuel 200+ windmachines powered by propane engines in the surrounding citrus orchards which are used for frost protection. The maximum amount of propane that can be stored at this plant is 135,000 pounds. Worst-Case Scenario. - Failure of my largest storage tank when filled to the greatest amount allowed would release 135,000 pounds of propane. Company policy limits the maximum filling capacity of this tank to 85% at 60 F. The distance to the endpoint of 1 psi for the worst-case sc enario is offsite. Alternative Scenario. - An alternative scenario may be a hose rupture caused by a pull-away. A pull-away can occur is the driver fails to remove the hoses between the storage tank and the transfer vehicle before moving the vehicle. In this scenario, the failure involves an 18 foot length of unloading hose, 3" in diameter. The active mitigation devices are assumed to work as designed, limiting the release to the contents of the hose or 35 pounds. The release leads to a vapor cloud explosion (endpoint 1 psi). The release does not extend beyond the facility boundary. This facility complies with EPA's accident prevention rule and all applicable state and local codes and regulations. The propane system is designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with NFPA-58 and state law. We have not had an accident involving propane that caused injuries, deaths, property, environmental damage, or an evacuation at this site. In the event of an emergency involving our bulk propane storage tank, it is our policy to first call "911" to notify Madera County Fire Department and request that they respond to the emergency. The facility plans to implement the RMP program and to make appropriate safety improvements as necessary. |