The role of instrumentation and process controls in minimizing accidental releases

Most accidental releases are the result of either mechanical failures or measures taken to prevent such failures, such as, venting through emergency vents, relief valves, or rupture discs. Where the mechanical failure is the result of defective materials, inadequate design, or external factors, little can be done by means of instrumentation to prevent the release. It may be possible, however, to reduce the flow. Many failures are due to process upsets such as overpressure, internal explosions, and runaway reactions. The probability of these failures occurring can be substantially reduced by proper instrumentation.