Mathematical modelling and computer simulation of toxic gas building infiltration

A toxic gas release, e.g. H₂S, from pipeline accidents or sour wells, although improbable, may lead to serious consequences for the health of people and the environment. Such incidents might also jeopardize occupants of nearby indoor environments via infiltration of toxic contaminants. Despite that risk, there is still a lack of data and of comparative studies concerning the appropriate models and mitigation methods. The purpose of this work is, therefore, the improved modelling of toxic gas building infiltration, by a combination of tools and approaches. Using a realistic release scenario, the present comprehensive analysis demonstrates the need to consider the detailed building characteristics and meteorology. Significant deviations are observed between simple and advanced building ingress models. Furthermore, the consequences assessment leads to contradicting conclusions depending on the employed dose-response approaches. The proposed methodology could serve as a guide for the improvement of relevant risk-assessment tools and of future studies.