doi:10.3850/978-981-08-7724-8_01-02

ABSTRACT

The paper surveys the analyses of the explosion at the Buncefield fuel storage site in the U.K. one of the most intense accidental explosions in recent times. It followed the release of approximately 300 tonnes of winter-grade gasoline when a 15 m high storage tank was overfilled for about 40 minutes before ignition. An explosion event of such severity had not been identified previously in a major hazard assessment of this type of facility. It was therefore imperative to investigate the event thoroughly and develop an understanding of the underlying mechanisms to inform future prevention, mitigation and land use planning issues.

The investigation of the incident was overseen by the Buncefield Major Incident Investigation Board, under the Chairmanship of Lord Newton of Braintree. It soon became clear that a separate Explosion Mechanism Advisory Group, comprised of explosion specialists, should examine the evidence and report on whether the severity of the explosion could be explained in terms of existing scientific knowledge. The Group was unable to meet its brief within the available time; it concluded that additional work was necessary and recommended that a 2-stage project be initiated; Phase 1 would complete the work of the Group and make recommendations on what further work should be done under Phase 2 of the project.

Keywords: Buncefield, Dispersion, Deflagration, Detonation.

© 2011 CPD Unit, University of Leeds