The Risk Assessment of Fire and Explosion in Fuel Storage Tanks Using Fuzzy Hierarchy Analysis (Fahp) Approach: A Case Study Publisher



Aa Moein Ali AKBAR ; A Behroozy ALI ; Sr Azimi Pirsaraei Seyed REZA ; M Naderi MAZIAR
Source: International Journal of System Assurance Engineering and Management Published:2025

Abstract

This study presented a comprehensive risk assessment of fire and explosion hazards in fuel storage tanks located at an oil depot in Zanjan, Iran, utilizing the Fuzzy Hierarchy Analysis (FAHP) method. Data were collected on various parameters, including fuel types, storage capacities, tank locations, and historical incident records, which informed the development of a robust risk assessment model. The Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) technique was employed to systematically evaluate operational risks associated with the tanks. Additionally, a panel of experts participated through structured interviews, surveys, and workshops to gather insights and reduce biases in the risk evaluation process. The fuzzy logic framework enabled a nuanced representation of uncertainty in expert judgments, facilitating the conversion of qualitative assessments into quantitative risk scores. The final risk score for the evaluated fuel storage tank was calculated as 0.5122, placing it within the moderate risk category. Importantly, the results indicated that the highest risk factors for fire and explosion were related to the mixture of air and fuel vapors, with operational errors—particularly overflow incidents caused by malfunctioning measurement systems—contributing significantly to the overall risk. This study revealed the critical importance of conducting detailed fire and explosion risk assessments in fuel storage facilities to proactively address potential hazards and enhance safety protocols. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.