What are the hazards of a BLEVE?
There are several hazards with large propane fires. First, there is a massive shockwave from the sudden release of the pressurized commodity. Fragments are also a risk. Large sections of the pressurized tanks can be propelled hundreds of metres. Theoretically, the fragments could fly up to 1.6 km, which is why we saw such a large evacuation area [in the Aug. 10 Toronto explosion]. Finally, the released propane can mix with air and ignite. You then have the fireball, which we saw in Toronto. The fireball from a tank of a highway truck, you might get 100- 150-metre fireball. If you’re in it, you’re going to be burned severely. And if you’re within two or three fireball diameters there is a good chance you’ll be burned by thermal radiation from the explosion.
