For generic information on cordons and control, refer to Incident command – Structuring an incident.
Numerous cordon distances are appropriate for electricity, gas and fuel. Guidance about distances relevant to electrical sources are included in the control measure – Safe System of work: High-voltage electricity.
Cordon distances for gas and fuel are given in Hazardous materials.
Pre-planning is a key part of determining safe distances for different scenarios involving utility or fuel supplies, providing responding fire and rescue service personnel with accurate and relevant information. Depending on the nature of the utility or fuel incident, specialist advice from utility suppliers and ongoing liaison with on-site specialists, where available, will be required to ensure cordons are suitable and adequate.
In the petrochemical industry, cordon distances can be assessed by calculating the heat flux for different petrochemical products and storage facilities. These calculations are normally undertaken by consultants and experts in the field as part of pre-planning risk assessments and to identify suitable rendezvous points (RVPs), holding points, etc.