AICHE T-91 PDF

INTRODUCTION: CHEMICAL EXPOSURE INDEX

The Chemical Exposure Index (CEI) provides a simple method of rating the relative acute health hazard potential to people in neighboring plants or communities from possible chemical release incidents. Absolute measures of risk are very difficult to determine, but the CEI system will provide a method of ranking one hazard relative to another. It is NOT intended to define a particular design as safe or unsafe.

All Dow facilities storing or handling acutely toxic material are expected to calculate the Chemical Exposure Index. This includes new projects as well as existing facilities.

The CEI is used:

• For conducting an initial Process Hazard Analysis (PHA).

• In the Distribution Ranking Index (DRI) calculations.

• By all locations in their review process, which provides the opportunity to make recommendations for eliminating, reducing or mitigating releases.

• In Emergency Response Planning.

Please note that the flammability and explosion hazards are not included in this index. There are other process hazard analysis methods used to identify and flammability and explosion hazards. (Refer to AIChE publication, Fire and Explosion Index Hazard Classification Guide.)