1. Inflammation: a component of the explosion and fire hazard

To date, in risk analyses, the assessment of ignition probabilities is often carried out on a flat-rate basis, based either on values taken from databases, or on values obtained by applying mathematical models. However, the final results (probabilities of hazardous phenomena such as VCE, UVCE, flaming jet) may vary considerably depending on the quantification method used. The diagram in figure 1 illustrates the importance of taking particular care when quantifying ignition probabilities. Indeed, the diagram clearly shows that ignition is a component of fire and/or explosion risk.