Investigation of Critical Leak Locations in 1-Ton Chlorine Drums for Assessing Worst-Case Toxic Dispersion Accident Scenario Using ALOHA Simulation

Chlorine gas, commonly used in water treatment plants, poses severe risks during accidental releases. This study identifies critical leak points on 1-ton chlorine drums and simulates worst-case toxic dispersion scenarios using ALOHA (Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres) software. Leak positions along the drum’s vertical axis were analyzed under varying meteorological conditions, including wind speed, atmospheric stability, leak size, and ambient temperature. Wind speeds of 2.57 m/s (stability class B), 5.00 m/s (class D), and 2.05 m/s (class F) were used to represent typical daytime and nighttime conditions, with a prevailing northwest-to-southeast wind direction. Simulations assumed an ambient temperature of daytime at 30°C and nighttime at 25°C. The results show that a leak at position SR1 with a 150 mm hole under stability class F led to significant chlorine dispersion, reaching up to 2.9 km for IDLH and 2.2 km for AEGL-3 concentration levels which is a severe consequence to public and environment. These findings offer valuable insights for improving emergency response planning and safety measures in water treatment facilities, enabling better preparedness for hazardous chlorine gas releases.