The Use of Dedicated System Tools in Integrated Management in Environmental Protection on the Example of LDAR Program

Abstract

Fugitive emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the chemical industry are, in addition to channelled emissions, an important element of the total emission into the air. The Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) program is one of the tools to control this type of emission and is a key component of an integrated approach to environmental management. This paper presents the genesis and general assumptions of LDAR, the methodology of fugitive emissions analysis, including its quantification, an example of how to proceed with the implementation of a comprehensive LDAR system, including tools to support its functioning. The potential environmental and non-environmental benefits of implementing the LDAR program in the refining and petrochemical industry are also presented.

Keywords

• fugitive emissions
• VOC
• LDAR
• refinery
• petrochemistry
• integrated environmental management