Mark V, Inc.

A significant percentage of all episodic incidents in the chemical, petrochemical and refining industries involve reactive chemicals.  Reactive chemicals are those chemicals that react with themselves or other chemicals to produce a different chemical or chemicals.  In most cases, the reaction is intended and is used to make valuable products.  However, if the desired reaction proceeds faster than intended, or if undesired reactions occur, there is the potential for a runaway reaction that results in fire, explosion, personal injury and death, as well as significant property damage and loss of production.  Mark V is working proactively with government agencies and industry to minimize the occurrence of runaway reactions by encouraging the use of Recognized And Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP). 

Recommendations to Chemical Safety Board

Relief System Design for Reactive Systems - Get the Facts

Recomendations to New Jersey DEP

One of the keys to preventing reactive chemical incidents is to have a good reactive chemical management program.  RP-101 Recommended Practice for the Control of Reactive Chemical Hazards provides guidance and a checklist for setting up such a program and auditing existing programs.  Many of the principals and practices discussed in this recommended practice are also applicable to non reactive systems.

Download Recommended Practice 101 – Control of the Hazards Associated with Reactive Chemicals.