About

Overview

Refineries and chemical industry facilities store and use large quantities of chemicals. Some of these chemicals pose health risks since they may be toxic, become toxic due to reactions in the atmosphere, or pose a fire or explosion hazard. In response to recent episodic releases and fires from such facilities, the state of California has requested that the Air Quality Research Center at UC Davis convene a conference on this subject to exchange information on the state of science and policy related to these risks and appropriate responses. The conference will cover:
1) Modeling episodic and ongoing emissions from these facilities
2) Measuring these emissions
3) Using these models and measurements for appropriate emergency response
 

What?

An educational symposium on the use of modeling for emergency preparedness and response for California refineries.  The scope of the symposium would include:

  • Modeling for both emergency and routine operations;

  • Improvements and enhancements of air modeling, air monitoring, and coordination during significant releases from refineries; and,

  • Harmonization of modeling and emergency air monitoring with recent state initiatives that require enhanced routine air monitoring at and near these facilities.

Who?

Participants: Governmental agencies, academics, community groups, industry representatives, and consultants.

Conference Chair: David Allen, University of Texas

When?

November 6-8, 2019

Where?

UC Davis Conference Center

Why?

Some modeling strategies have been in use for decades and are overdue for review.  Many approaches don’t include evaluation of likely release scenarios including modeling of cascading effects or modeling of specific hazards such as hydrofluoric acid releases.  Additionally, improved modeling and coordination by first responders and local air agencies can inform initial public protection actions, control fear and rumors during incidents, and inform “all-clear” determination.

Hosted By?

UC Davis Air Quality Research Center

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Contact: Sandra Hall, sehall@ucdavis.edu