Multiscale Modeling for Process Safety Applications

2.3. Toxic Effects

One of the major hazards that could be present in a facility is the release of a toxic chemical. In general, this type of hazard depends on various different elements such as the conditions of exposure and on the properties of the substance that is being released. To determine the effects, one should focus on both: brief exposures at high concentrations and prolonged exposures at low concentrations. For instance, release of a very toxic chemical such as chlorine should be treated with caution as it could disperse through large areas and have much larger effect than those of fires or explosions leading to catastrophic incidents. Although the toxic releases occur less frequently than a fire or explosion still, the scenario ...