API RP 2001

API’s Fire Protection in Refineries, First Edition, appeared in 1933 as the beginning of fire safety guidance series for the “downstream” segment. This 1Oth Edition recommended practice builds on experience gained over seven decades.

The purpose of this recommended practice is to provide a better understanding of refinery fire protection and the steps needed to promote the safe storage, handling, and processing of petroleum and petroleum products in refineries. A basic premise of this standard is that fire prevention provides the fundamental foundation for fire protection.

This publication covers basic concepts of refinery fire protection. It reviews the chemistry and physics of refinery fires; discusses how the design of refinery systems and infrastructure impact the probability and consequences of potential fires; describes fire control and extinguishing systems typically used in refineries; examines fire protection concepts that should be covered in operating and maintenance practices and procedures; and provides information on organization and training for refinery emergency responders.

Many of the concepts, systems and equipment discussed in this document are covered in detail in referenced publications, standard or governmental requirements.