Comparison of Domestic and Foreign Standards and Fire Case Analysis for Identifying Major Risk Factors in Petrochemical Plants

Petrochemical plants are industrial facilities with a high risk of accidents, including fires, explosions, and gas leaks, which can result in the loss of life and property, environmental pollution, and a decline in social credibility. This study analyzed domestic and international fire safety standards (e.g., the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), American Petroleum Institute (API), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)) and fire case studies to identify shortcomings in the safety management systems of petrochemical plants in Korea and determine major risk factors. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique was employed to calculate weights based on fatalities, injuries, and property damage, enabling a quantitative evaluation of the relative importance of key risk factors. The analysis identified inadequate management, maintenance, and repair practices owing to insufficient manpower and aging equipment as primary risk factors. Furthermore, Korea's safety management system was found to be insufficient compared with international standards. This study serves as a foundation for enhancing fire safety through data-driven risk factor analysis and prevention system development in the future.