Chemical Equipment ShelterCase Study
Containment Floor Protects Against Spills
Chemical feed systems used in nuclear power plant cooling towers pose a significant risk of leaks or spills that can lead to equipment damage, safety hazards, and environmental violations. These systems often handle corrosive substances, making proper containment critical. To address these challenges at one facility, Shelter Works engineered a fiberglass equipment shelter with an integrated secondary containment floor, providing a turnkey chemical storage building that protects both personnel and infrastructure while meeting regulatory requirements.
The project required a structure that could withstand the corrosive elements from the use of bleach and bromine while also protecting against spills or leaks that could pose safety hazards or regulatory concerns. To meet this need, Shelter Works integrated a 5-1/2 inch-deep no-slope containment floor capable of holding up to 605 gallons of liquid within the shelter. This basin functions as a critical secondary containment system, capturing any chemical leaks and preventing environmental exposure until proper clean-up protocols can be followed.
A fiberglass-grated surface covers the containment basin, providing a stable walking area that allows fluids to pass through to the containment basin below. This setup ensures that in the event of a spill or leak, personnel can safely enter and exit the shelter without stepping into hazardous materials. The grating is supported by fiberglass-encapsulated supports that were integrated into the subfloor during manufacturing. The supports were designed to accommodate heavy dynamic loads typical of chemical drum storage. These reinforcements maintain floor integrity, preserving safety and performance over time.
A unique requirement for this shelter was the inclusion of an emergency shower inside the shelter to meet OSHA and plant safety protocols. The containment basin was divided into two sections to keep the shower runoff separate. The 4-foot by 3-foot by 5-1/2-inch deep area beneath the emergency shower includes an individual drain that routes clean water away from the chemical containment basin, maintaining the integrity of both systems.
Constructed from Shelter Works' proprietary FiberBeam™ technology, the shelter offers complete corrosion resistance and long-term durability with minimal maintenance. Shelter Works' prefabricated fiberglass shelters arrive on-site fully assembled, reducing installation time, minimizing labor requirements, and avoiding disruptions in secure or sensitive plant areas. Combined with containment systems like this one, they offer a complete solution for chemical safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational efficiency.
When protecting chemical feed systems in nuclear power environments, secondary containment isn't optional, it's essential. Shelter Works provides engineered shelter systems that help engineers and integrators meet stringent safety standards without compromising performance.