What is a common reason for purging a vessel in fire hazards management?

Purging a vessel is a critical procedure in fire hazards management, primarily to remove flammable vapors. When a vessel contains flammable materials, the buildup of hazardous vapors can pose a significant risk of explosion or fire. By purging, operators replace the air or potentially hazardous atmosphere inside the vessel with an inert gas or vapor that is not flammable, significantly reducing the risk of ignition.

This safety measure is particularly important before maintenance, repair activities, or when switching from one chemical process to another, ensuring that the environment inside the vessel is safe for personnel and equipment. Additionally, purging can help in preparing the vessel for safe operation or for inspection processes.

The other options refer to different processes that do not specifically address the primary safety concern of flammable vapors. Increasing storage capacity, changing vessel material, or sterilizing equipment do not directly relate to the immediate need to mitigate fire risks associated with flammable vapors.