Guidelines for gas turbines

The use of gas turbines for power generation is well established. The risks associated with it arise from the use of fuel under pressure, often in an enclosure, the high speed rotating equipment, noise, and electrical hazards. There have been a number of major incidents, and a larger number of lesser incidents in recent years. HSE was concerned over these risks and the dangers to personnel.

HSE published the first edition of PM 84 in 2000 as a means of providing guidance to manufacturers, suppliers and operators, and to its Inspectors, on the principles that should be applied to reduce these risks so far as possible.

The first edition of PM 84 was well received and has been widely applied. Following comments from the industry, requests for additional information and references, technical developments, and incident experience, HSE has revised and expanded the guidance.

The risk assessment section has been revised to take account of recent legislation, in particular the requirements of DSEAR, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 which implement the Atex "Workplace" Directive.

It is anticipated that the revised document will represent a clear and comprehensive set of guidelines, and will help to improve and maintain a high safety standard in this industry pending the publication of ISO 21789, a new Gas Turbine Applications Safety Standard, which is currently being drafted.