IFP Issue 34

An MDM PUBLICATION

Issue 33 – May 2008

www.mdmpublishing.com

THE GLOBAL VOICE FOR PASSIVE & ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

An MDM PUBLICATION




INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTIONINTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION

Always.

continuing symbol of quality, reliability and ingenuity since 1915.defender of life, property and the environment since 1939.participating member of NFPA since 1943.

INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION 1

Front cover courtesy of Total® – TycoFire Suppression & Building Products

PublishersMark Seton & David Staddon

Editorial ContributorsRay Hope, Tim Williams, RonMarcus, Mark Froggatt, RandyClark, Graham Lowe, Steve Walker,Peter Kristenson, Claus Caspari, JanKnappert, Heinrich David, PeteHarrod, Jeremy Mason and MartaLeon

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The views and opinions expressed inINTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION are notnecessarily those of MDM Publishing Ltd.The magazine and publishers are in noway responsible or legally liable for anyerrors or anomalies made within theeditorial by our authors. All articles are protected by copyright and writtenpermission must be sought from thepublishers for reprinting or any form ofduplication of any of the magazinescontent. Any queries should be addressedin writing to the publishers.

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Page design by DorchesterTypesetting Group Ltd

Printed in Singapore

An MDM PUBLICATION




An MDM PUBLICATION





May 2008 Issue 34

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41-43

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Contents4-15 News, Previews& Product Profiles

17-20 FireDetection: The State of Play

23-26 Life SafetyIssues Associated withColleges and Universities

29-31 Preview forthe NFPA World SafetyConference &Exposition, June 2nd-5th, Las Vegas, USA

33-34 UsingWireless Toxic GasMonitors for ConfinedSpace Entry DuringPlant Turnarounds

37-39 AdvancedFire SystemCommunications

41-43 Cradle toGrave Responsibilityfor Clean Agents

45-46 FireProtection at theJunction . . .

49-50 Smoke, Heatand Flame – MakingSense of Detection

53-56 DescriptiveAnalysis on Water MistFire ExtinguishingSystems

58-60 Rogue Cables– a Risk Not WorthTaking

62-65 RepeatingHistory is Not a BadThing: RecentDevelopments In TheFirestop Industry

67-70 PortableExtinguishers – Trainingis the Key to Safe andEffective Use

73-76 Storage TankFire Protection –preparing for the worst

77-79 Fireprotection: Fire alarmsystems

80 Advertisers’ Index

4 INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION

NEWS

Syncro Matrix from KENTECuses flexible, fibre optic lightguides to illuminate areas ona fire alarm mimic displayfloor plan, laid over a high-resolution grid and it can beconnected to any panel inKentec’s Syncro and SyncroAS fire alarm panel range.Syncro Matrix is alsouniquely flexible and future-proofed as it completelydispenses with wiring,enabling indicators to bemoved, removed or addedon site.

Syncro Matrix can besupplied with or withoutLEDs and controls. OptionalLEDs indicate Power on,Fire, Fault and Disablementand optional controls are forAlarm silence, Buzzersilence, Lamp test andReset.

Housed in attractive,

SYNCRO MATRIX is arevolution in fire alarmmimic display technology

Syncro Matrix from Kentec – a clear, geographicalindication of fire alarm activation for speedyidentification of the source of an alarm

After extensive product testing, the LossPrevention Certification Board (LPCB) hasawarded RAFIKI’s Sita intelligentaddressable fire detection system withLPCB approval.

The Sita 200 Plus from Rafiki is a firedetection system which allows up to 200detectors and sounders to be connectedon one loop, a specification currentlyunmatched in the marketplace. It featuresa maximum loop length of 2km, a fastshort circuit isolator in every device anddigital communication with high powertransfer. Sita can be pre-configured on aPC or via a control panel on site, and foradded flexibility there is a choice of up to15 combinations of smoke or heatdetection.

Certification by the LPCB is a mark ofexcellent quality and safety. The LPCB isthe leading international certification bodyin the fields of security and fire protection,and is recognised by governments andregulatory authorities across the world.Product approval is also maintained byregular product audits.

Commenting on the certification, Rafikimanaging director Bill Amlani said, “The

LPCB approval is a worldwide recognisedstandard of excellence and we are verypleased to have achieved this with Sita.The Sita system can support 200multipoint combined detectors andsounders on a single loop, and importantlySita equipment is easy to install,commission and maintain.”

Further information is available from RafikiProtection Ltd, telephone 01633 865558,by emailing [email protected] or by visitingthe company’s website www.rafiki.biz

SITA Awarded LPCBApproval

RockwoolOpens NewLondonHeadquartersAs part of a major £70 million expansionplan, ROCKWOOL – the market leadingmanufacturer of stone wool insulationsolutions – has announced the opening ofa new corporate and marketingheadquarters in Hammersmith, London.

Managing director, Hans Schreuder, willbe based at the new HQ, together withRockwool’s corporate and marketingteams. Schreuder was appointed in May2007 to oversee the expansion ofRockwool’s UK operations to meetgrowing demand for the company’smarket leading products and solutions inthe UK and Ireland.

Commenting on the move, HansSchreuder said: “Rockwool has aggressivetargets for growth in the UK and we seeexpanding our UK operations to London asa key part of this process.

“In addition to sending a positivemessage to the industry and investors, itwill provide a strong base to lobby UKlegislators and regulators, as part of our on-going campaign for greatertransparency and clarity in fire safety and wider building regulations.”

As well as establishing a new LondonHQ, Rockwool is also currently doublingcapacity at its manufacturing facility inBridgend, South Wales, which will becomplete by the end of 2008.

This large-scale expansion programmewill include the installation of a third,technically-advanced production line,which will significantly increase Rockwool’scapacity and create 110 new skilled jobs.

In addition, the investment programmewill also see the creation of newwarehousing, technical support anddistribution facilities to support theincreased capacity and ensure a responsiveand flexible service, industry wide.

For further information contact:Rockwool Limited Website: www.rockwool.co.uk

slimline enclosures to match Syncro andSyncro AS fire alarm panels and with highquality, full colour or monochrome floorplans, Syncro Matrix provides a clear,geographical indication of fire alarmactivation enabling speedy identification ofthe source of an alarm.

For more information please contactKentec on +44 (0)1322 222121Email: [email protected] or visitwww.kentec.co.uk


PROFILE

The two industry-standard models are 6-litreand 9-litre portables that are suitable for bothClass A fires that involve wood, paper, straw

and textiles, and Class B flammable liquid firesinvolving petrol, tar, paints and oils. The Kite-marked and BAFE-approved AFFF (Aqueous FilmForming Foam) extinguishers are also Wheel-markcertified for use in maritime environments.Significantly, they leave no particulates or harmfulresidue and so have zero effect on the earth’sozone layer. The antifreeze-protected version ofthe 6-litre portable can withstand temperatures aslow as minus 20 degrees C and so is ideal for useon forecourts, loading bays, quaysides and inwarehouses.

The TOTAL Eco Range 6-litre foam portableoffers users a major environmental bonus, as thefoam concentrate is completely encapsulatedwithin a cartridge inside the extinguisher. Thismaximises the life of the foam concentrate. Thecylinder is pressurised only when in use, and the foam is propelled by CO2 (Carbon Dioxide).The cartridge can be removed from the cylinderprior to discharge for testing and re-use, and it canbe environmentally-friendly recycled at the end ofits working life.

In addition to these “standard” foam portables,the new special-application 6-litre TOTAL foamportable is effective on a whole raft of polarliquids, including alcohol, methanol, acetone,propanol and ethanol. It is specifically designed tofight polar liquid fires that are prone to occur incosmetic, pharmaceutical, and adhesive produc-tion environments, and in distilling industries. Itshould also be of particular interest to manufac-turers of household, commercial and industrialcleaning products and disinfectants.

This portable overcomes the ineffectiveness of conventional foam extinguishers on polar fires by the use of a specially-formulated foamagent developed by TOTAL, and the incorporationof a nozzle designed to deliver the optimum foam density. It too is part of the TOTAL Eco Range offering, encapsulating the foam

concentrate within acartridge inside theextinguisher.

All of these newfoam portables weredeveloped at the dedi-cated TOTAL portablesresearch and manu-facturing facility inNeuruppin in Germany.Virtually every stage of cylinder manufac-ture is under the direct control ofTOTAL, including mat-erial selection andsourcing in Europe, themost advanced low-heat plasma welding,fabrication, assemblyand high-performancepowder-coating, 100percent cylinder pres-sure testing and agentfilling. This commit-

ment to quality is underpinned by uniquelynumbering each and every cylinder to provide acomplete and reliable quality audit trail.

All TOTAL portables are manufactured fromspecially formulated steel that remains flexible afterforming and welding. The one-millimetre-thickinternal powder coating is widely recognised asthe industry’s most hardwearing surface. Everycylinder is electrode-tested to ensure that there areno pin-point flaws in the coating, and the qualityof the finish can be judged by the fact that there isa complete absence of colour fading that is acommon feature of many inferior quality cylinders.Even the cylinder wall-mounting brackets aredesigned to ensure that there is no metal-to-metalor metal-to-wall scuffing.

TOTAL portables are guaranteed for five years,providing they are serviced from new in accordancewith the appropriate regulatory standards. IFP

New Total®

Foam Portablesmeet industries’needsThe new TOTAL® range of premium-build foam portable fire extinguishers

includes two industry-standard models, an antifreeze-protected portable, an

environmentally-friendly cartridge-operated extinguisher, and a special-

application foam portable specifically designed to fight polar liquid fires.

TOTAL portables areavailable in the UK throughExpress Fire in Manchesteron 0161 688 5050, or fromTyco Fire Suppression &Building Products on 01493417600.

NOTIFIER, a world leading manufacturer ofcommercial fire alarm technology andsystems, will exhibit its new MassNotification solutions product line and itsUL 864 Ninth Edition listed ONYX® Seriesof intelligent fire alarm control systems atthe upcoming NFPA World Safety

Conference & Exposition, June 2-4, 2008,at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center inLas Vegas, NV.

In the event of an emergency, NOTIFIERMass Notification systems broadcast live,up-to-the minute emergency informationto everyone in a building, campus, and

surrounding area to help prevent injuriesand save lives. For multiple buildings orcampuses spread across a city, state oreven the globe, NOTIFIER has harnessedthe latest Voice over IP (VoIP) technology,delivering live voice messaging toanywhere in the world via the Internet.NOTIFIER Mass Notification systems fit awide range of facility types andapplications including K-12 schools, high-rises, and mass transit hubs, as well ascollege, university, and manufacturingcampuses.

The ONYX Series of intelligent firealarm control panels speeds alarmresponse, simplifies maintenance andusability, and maximizes flexibility. TheONYX Series is comprised of the NFS-320for small applications such as restaurants,strip malls, and standalone retail facilities,the NFS2-640 for mid-size applicationslike office buildings, assisted livingfacilities, and school buildings, and theNFS2-3030 for larger installations such ashigh-rise buildings, hospitals, shoppingmalls, and airports. The ONYX Series isalso the only complete line of fire alarmcontrol panels in the industry that meetsthe new UL 864 Ninth Edition standardtoday.

All ONYX Series panels featuresNOTIFIER’s patented FlashScan®

intelligent device polling protocol, which exceeds worldwide coderequirements for response time. This,combined with ONYX Intelligent Sensingtechnology, an integral part of all ONYXSeries panels, ensures a faster response to smoke and heat conditions whilesubstantially reducing nuisance alarms.Each panel also offers built insynchronization protocol for SystemSensor, Wheelock, and Gentex notification appliances.

Learn more about NOTIFIER MassNotification Solutions, the ONYX Series,and UL 864 Ninth Edition, visit NOTIFIER atbooth 1015 at the NFPA World SafetyConference and Expo, June 2-4, 2008, atthe Mandalay Bay Convention Center in LasVegas, NV


NEWS

HOCHIKI EUROPE, the UK-basedsubsidiary of the Tokyo-basedHochiki Corporation, whichdesigns, manufactures andmarkets a broad selection of firedetection and alarm products, iscommemorating the Japanesecompany’s 90th year in the firesafety business.

Founded in 1918, thecompany installed Japan’s firstpublic fire alarm in 1920 anddeveloped the world’s firstaddressable manual call point.Today, it is an internationalbusiness with an annual globalturnover in excess of £400million. Currently it manufactures morethan five million detectors every year, andhas the largest fire test laboratory in theworld.

Hochiki Europe was established in theUK in 1992 and is headquartered at apurpose-built facility in Gillingham, Kent,from where it manages Hochiki’s extensivebusiness interests throughout the EMEAregion, Russia and the Commonwealth ofIndependent States, and the Indiansubcontinent. With more than 100employees, the UK-based operationpresently produces annually in excess of800,000 conventional and intelligentdetectors and ancillaries.

Commenting on the anniversary,Hochiki Europe’s Managing Director, MsMinako Adachi says:”Hochiki

Corporation’s history is one of dedicationto improving life safety and the protectionof property. Our continuous investment indeveloping new and ever more reliabletechnology for the early and accuratedetection of fire demonstrates that 90years later Hochiki is still as committed toimproving life safety across the world.”She continues: “In the past year we haveintroduced several new products and haveexpanded our UK and international salesteams to enable us to provide enhancedservice levels to our trading partners.”

Further information is available bytelephone on +44 (0)1634 260133, or viaemail at [email protected]. The company’s website is atwww.hochikieurope.com

Hochiki Commemorates90 Years Of Fire Safety

NOTIFIER toShowcase MassNotification andComplete Line of UL864 Ninth EditionListed Fire Systemsat NFPA WorldSafety Conference


PROFILE

The company has harnessed its entire pan-European manufacturing capability for thebenefit of all of its customers. This provides

every Draka customer, in every country, with accessto the production resources of 13 separate low volt-age cable manufacturing plants, the latest of whichis in the Czech Republic and is arguably the mostadvanced building wire plant in Europe. This hasseveral customer benefits over the approach morecommonly adopted within the cable industry, whichis to implement a narrow country-by-country policy,where each country’s manufacturing plant operatesin virtual isolation. With Draka, customers canchoose from the market’s broadest selection ofworld-class products, and they are ensured ofconsistently high cross-boundary quality.

At the same time, the company has launchedtwo new cables. Both complement the company’saward-winning Firetuf range of performance cablesthat today embraces low voltage (cables up to 1kV)building wires and power cables that are availablethroughout the UK, Ireland and the Middle East.

Saffire is a new generation of 0HLS – HalogenFree – cable that sets a new and higher level of firesafety performance, while Firetuf Powerplus is anew 600/1000V SWA (Steel Wired Armoured)power cable that provides enhanced circuit integrityperformance. It meets the demanding requirementsof BS 7346-6:2005 and the more stringentdemands of, for example, the UK’s ApprovedDocument B (Fire safety) 2006 of the BuildingRegulations for England and Wales.

Saffire 0HLS enables consultants to specify cablethat provides enhanced safety in line with the latestfire safety legislation, and greatly assists in identify-ing that superior fire safety is being incorporatedinto a building. Saffire 0HLS also sets a new bench-mark brand for third-party approved fire safetycabling, extending the safety benefits of 0HLScables to a much wider marketplace.

Increasingly, fire safety systems require a securepower supply that will retain its integrity in theevent of fire, which highlights the imperative needfor enhanced performance power cables. Suchsystems include: automatic fire suppression installa-tions; fire detection and alarm systems; firecompartmentation; smoke control and ventilation;sprinklers and wet risers; ventilation and shutters;and firefighting lifts.

In Firetuf Powerplus, Draka has developed a solu-tion that uniquely meets this requirement. It utiliseshigh-performance materials to achieve BS 7346’s

maximum 120-minute rating when subjected to inte-grated testing involving flame irradiation exposure,direct impact and high-pressure water spray. It hasbeen introduced to provide the superior performancecharacteristics required by today’s sophisticated fireengineering solutions that are becoming increasinglycommonplace, and the more widespread utilisationof fire engineering principles and techniques that callfor greater reliance on complex life and propertyprotection systems and protocols.

New catalogue and cables handbookDraka has also published its latest all-productscatalogue. It runs to a full 108 pages and describesin detail the company’s entire range of third-partyapproved cables that meet the demands of the vastmajority of construction and industrial applications.This includes house wiring and low voltage supplycables for use in domestic, commercial, retail,healthcare and leisure sector buildings. It also coversspecialist communication and data transmissioncables, and Draka’s market-leading fire performancecables that are used extensively for safety-criticalapplications within the general construction,petrochemicals, security and mass transit sectors.

The company has also published the 2008edition of its cable and table handbook called ACloser Look at Cable. It runs to over 200 pages and,like its predecessor, is expected to become essentialreading for anyone involved in specifying orinstalling cabling – architects, fire engineers, systemdesigners and installers. IFP

Draka OffersGreater Choice andSuperior Service Draka, the Derby-based cable manufacturer, now provides the market with thewidest possible choice of low voltage cable, following the implementation of apan-European manufacturing strategy focused around how best to meet themarket’s needs in every country.

Full details on Drakaproducts are available bytelephone on +44 (0) 1332345431, by fax on +44 (0)1332 331237, and via emailat [email protected]. Thecompany’s website can befound at www.drakauk.com


NFPA PREVIEW

The Education Conference

This year’s conference will feature more than150 education sessions within 11 conferencetracks. In 2008 the special track on Fire

Protection Engineering sponsored by the Society ofFire Protection Engineers (SFPE), will once againtake place. In addition, the Building and Life Safetytrack will be expanded to offer more than 30sessions. The Building and Life Safety Track con-centrates on practical information needed bydesigners, engineers, and building and fireofficials, such as plans review, inspection tech-niques, and updates on code requirements, newtechnologies, and best practices. Rounding out theconference tracks are: ● Codes and Standards – includes information

on the reasons behind important code changesand how they will be implemented, and appliesspecific code requirements to particularoccupancies.

● Detection and Suppression – Focuses oncode requirements and design issues, theapplication of new technologies in alarm andsuppression systems, and the impact of main-tenance on systems performance.

● Disaster Preparedness/Business Continuity –Includes information on assessing risks andconsequences, emergency preparedness, con-tingency planning, incident management, andrecovery plans.

● Fire and Emergency Services – Includescurrent information on fire-fighting apparatusand technologies, safety and preparedness forfirst responders, incident command strategies,and fire prevention and inspection techniques.

● Industrial Fire Safety and Security – providespractical information centered on environ-mental health and safety, and loss preventionissues.

● necforum™ – Considers new electrical designissues, successful maintenance programs, bestpractices in electrical contracting, effective

inspection techniques, and practical electricalsafety programs.

● Premises Security – Examines issues related tocreating and implementing security plans, aswell as designing, installing, and maintainingsecurity systems.

● Public Education – Includes fire and life safetyplanning and strategies. Also offers the latest insafety education including challenges andcreative solutions.

● Research – Considers the latest informationavailable on many timely issues, such as videosmoke and flame detection systems andreliability of water mist fire protection systems.

Spotlight SessionsWithin these 11 conference tracks are sessionsthat are highlighted due to their focus on currentindustry topics and relevancy. Enhance yourprofessional growth and learn from leadingauthorities by attending one of these five SpotlightSessions:● Sprinkler Actuation with Low-Speed High-

Volume Fans● Health Care Occupancy Changes to the 2009

NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code®

● Recommendations of the U.S. Chemical SafetyBoard

● Things You Will Want to Know About the 2010NFPA 72®

● CANCELLED – The Monte Carlo Fire –Challenges and Lessons Learned

The ExpositionThe three-day product exposition will showcasemany of the latest technologies and services frommore than 300 of the top solution providers in thefire and life safety, electrical, and security indus-tries. Knowledgeable representatives from thesecompanies will be available to answer your ques-tions and offer solutions to your most pressingchallenges. The exposition provides attendees the

This June more than 5,000 fire and life safety, electrical and securityprofessionals will convene in Las Vegas for NFPA®’s World Safety Conference& Exposition® (WSC&E®) – and it’s sure to be a hit! With annual attendanceincreasing by 137% since 2003, the WSC&E is the undeniable industry leaderin the fire, life safety and electrical sectors. This event is truly like no other – itoffers an unrivaled educational experience, networking opportunities andinvaluable solutions to your on the job challenges.

ideal location to see, touch and try products aswell as meet with a company’s technical staff. Asalways, the exposition is free when you register inadvance.

Ask the ExpertsThis informal Q&A session held on the expositionfloor is a great feature of the WSC&E. During this21/2-hour time period, NFPA staff will field coderelated questions from attendees. This helpfulquestion and answer session offers you a chanceto find solutions to some of your most pressingcode related challenges. Make sure that you areavailable for this session on Wednesday June 4from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Pre-Conference SeminarsThe 2008 NFPA World Safety Conference & Exposi-tion will officially begin on June 2nd, but manypeople find the lure of NFPA’s pre-conferenceseminars hard to ignore. Some of these seminarswill only be offered in Las Vegas and is a truecompliment to attending the exposition. This yearNFPA is offering 23 pre-conference seminars onSaturday, May 31, and Sunday, June 1. Theseseminars are priced separately from the mainconference and are offered at a substantialdiscount from NFPA’s regular seminar pricing. ● Six 1-Day Seminars are being offered on

Saturday❍ Emergency and Standby Power ❍ Emergency Evacuation for People with

Disabilities❍ NEC® Changes ❍ NFPA1/UFC – Spray Booth❍ NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire

Extinguishers❍ Stallcup’s Grounding & Bonding

● Ten 2-Day Seminars are being offered onSaturday and Sunday❍ CFPS Primer ❍ Environment of Care BaseCamp❍ Fire Protection Plans Review❍ Fire Protection Systems and Equipment

Maintenance❍ NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code™❍ NFPA 1600, Disaster/Emergency Manage-

ment and Business Continuity Programs❍ NFPA 70E®, Electrical Safety in the

Workplace®

❍ NFPA 921, Fire and explosion Investigations❍ Public Information and Media Relations❍ Sprinkler Hydraulics

● Six 1-Day Seminars are being offered on Sunday❍ Dust Explosion Hazards❍ Emergency Evacuation and Relocation❍ NFPA 1/UFC – Hazardous Material❍ NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities❍ Stallcup’s High-Voltage Electrical Systems❍ Behind-the-Scenes Tour & Technical Presen-

tation – JUST ADDED!

Association Technical Meeting SessionAt the heart of the codes and standards develop-ment process is the technical committee reportsession. More than 25 documents are up forreview this June including NFPA 101, Life SafetyCode and NFPA 70E, Electrical Safety in the Work-place. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the codemaking process in action. Documents that coveraircraft and airport facilities rescue and fire fight-

ing, fire tests, forest and rural fire protection,building codes, life safety, hazardous materialsresponse personnel, pyrotechnics and more will bevoted on during these sessions. New for 2008, alltechnical committee members will receive a 20%off conference registration prices. In addition, atechnical committee AND an NFPA member yourdiscount is may be greater! For more information,visit nfpa.org/wsce.

General Session Special PresentationDuring the WSC&E General Session on Monday,June 2 enjoy an amazing Las Vegas magic showfeaturing Penn & Teller. This dynamic duo is acouple of eccentric guys who have learned how todo a few cool things together. Together since1975, their award-winning theater show has beena long-running hit on and off-Broadway. This duohas currently has a nightly show at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Las VegasAlthough ‘Vegas’ may be notorious for gambling,did you know that Las Vegas offers much morethan casinos and bright lights? When you travel toLas Vegas, you enter a world that will captivateyou by its international flare, exquisite diningchoices and many award winning shows. You aresure to be impressed by the unique building struc-tures, massive hotels and the countless attractions,sights and sounds of this destination city. Flights toLas Vegas are relatively inexpensive; couple thatwith endless dining options and reasonable hotelrates, and you have a perfect destination for anycompany budget. Come to the 2008 NFPA WorldSafety Conference & Exposition for an incom-parable learning experience, and be sure toexplore all that Las Vegas has to offer. Find outmore at nfpa.org/wsce! IFP


NFPA PREVIEW

Penn & Teller

FIRERAY5000 fromFire FightingEnterprisesUnderwriters Laboratories Inc. has evaluatedand listed their first motorised beam detector ascompliant with the American NationalStandards for safety. The FIRERAY 5000 fromFIRE FIGHTING ENTERPRISES now boastscertification from UL in addition to LPCB, VdS,CPD & EN54:12, breaking new ground in thedevelopment of this smoke detectiontechnology.

The F5000incorporatesseveraltechnologicaladvancementsthat set it apartfrom previousdetectors. Anewly-developedmotorised beamhead works inconjunction withthe sensor to

automatically optimise the signal strengththroughout the life of the unit. This works tokeep the beam aligned with the reflective prismeven in the event of gradual building shift, andcan also factor in environmental factors such asdust build-up. These features strengthen falsealarm immunity over time, and help to reducethe need for maintenance operations.

These new additions for the F5000 improveits functionality, whilst it retains the benefitsintrinsic to the tried, tested and trusted beamtechnology that has preceded it: large areacoverage per unit (~19800 sq ft as opposed to~900 sq ft for a point type detector), reducedcabling and installation costs, and minimalaesthetic intrusion.

The FIRERAY’s low-level system controller isconnected to the detector head by a two-wirecable, and can be used to fully control andadjust the beam – making installationsignificantly easier. The detector head housesboth the transmitter and receiver, with thebeam being bounced off a prismatic reflector onthe opposite wall. Beam-type detectors areparticularly suited to protecting wide indoorspaces such as warehouses, open-plan offices,corridors and meeting-halls. By covering largeareas with few units, costs and disruptionscaused by installation and maintenance can begreatly reduced, and the fire security system canbe much less obtrusive – which can be ofparticular benefit in historic or stylish settings.

Fire Fighting Enterprises can offer a completerange of optical beam smoke detectors for allapplications. Products include end-to-end,reflective and flameproof variants.

Further information and data sheets can befound on our website at www.ffeuk.com

NEWS

DRAKA has played an important part inbreathing new life into the old MillenniumDome in Greenwich. It has supplied 80kilometres of its award-winning Firetufplus“enhanced” fire rated cable for therenamed O2 arena’s sophisticated firedetection and alarm system that willprotect concert goers and sports fans. Thecabling was used by Epsom-based CarmelBuilding Services to install over 900 smokedetectors, 50 call points and eightnetworked control panels throughout thevenue.

O2, which is owned and operated byAEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group), isbeing heralded as “Europe’s finest indoormusic and sports venue”. When it openslater this year it will host a variety ofmega-star entertainment events, includingJustin Timberlake and Scissor Sistersconcerts, and a host of major sportingevents including, ice hockey, basketball,tennis, gymnastics and boxing.

Described by AEG as “a city-within-a-city”, the O2 arena will be surrounded byan entertainment district that will open toall, night and day. This will comprise anumber of leisure attractions, including an11-screen cinema, exhibition space, anindigo music club, restaurants, bars andcafés, all lining an avenue as wide andlong as Bond Street.

With such a complex redevelopment ofthe 365-metre diameter, 50-metre highdome, and with visitor numbers to eventsrunning into their tens of thousands,quality was the deciding factor when itcame to selecting the fire rated cabling.According to Carmel Building Services’ Ray

Cavendish, Firetufplus was chosen“because of its proven performance andparticularly because of its superiorpliability, its robustness and flameretardancy”.

Firetufplus exceeds the requirements ofBS 5839 Clause 26.2e, providing 60minutes fire and mechanical protection,followed by 60 minutes of fire, mechanicalimpact and water protection. In commonwith all Draka’s Firetuf cables, itsperformance is verified by BASEC (BritishApprovals Service for Cables) and LPCB(Loss Prevention Certification Board)independent testing and approval.

It is an OHLS – Zero Halogen, LowSmoke – cable that meets the “enhanced”category of BS5839 – 1:2002. It isavailable in long lengths and has a twistedcore construction to improve signal clarity.Other benefits that added to its attractionfor the O2 arena contract included lowertermination costs, legendary ease ofhandling and installation, and the lack ofany need for special tools or training.

Derby-based Draka UK is the country’sleading designer and manufacturer of fireperformance cables, zero halogen powercables and building wires. The company ispart of Netherlands-based Draka HoldingsNV, which has over 9,000 employeesworldwide.

Full details on Firetuf and other Drakaproducts are available by telephone on +44 (0) 1332 345431, by fax on +44 (0) 1332 331237, and via email [email protected]. The company’s websitecan be found at www.drakauk.com

Draka’s cable performancehelps bring dome back to life



PROFILE

The system was commissioned by the RoyalNavy’s facilities management company, FleetSupport Ltd, from Fareham based commercial

sound specialists, Sound Advice PA InstallationsLtd. The requirement was for an audio/visual site-wide personnel alerting system for Her Majesty’sNaval Base, Portsmouth, including the site’sHeritage Museum areas.

Extensive research was undertaken regardingthe various signal distribution methods and asecure, wireless system proved to be the most eco-nomical solution. Although such systems are usedthroughout the world in US military bases, govern-ment buildings and high profile tourist attractions,this is the first of its type to be employed in theUK.

The system features three computer controlledbase stations, providing full audio coverage overthe entire 333 acre site. Some 255 digital radiotransceivers and 570 loudspeakers allow both digi-tal, pre-recorded messages and live speech to betransmitted to selected single radio units, multipleunits (ie pre-defined zones) or throughout thewhole site.

The complex layout of the site which includesdockyard buildings, cobbled streets, rail tracks, drydocks and historically significant buildings present-ed significant problems for the traditionalapproach. This would have involved extensivecabling between amplifiers and loudspeakers,both externally and internally, causing what weredeemed to be unacceptable levels of disruption.Also, the budgetary costs of over £1million for thecabling infrastructure alone made a conventionalsolution financially prohibitive. By adopting a wire-less system, not only were significant cost savingsmade but disruption to the site and its day-to-dayoperations were kept to a minimum, with aninstallation period of only 15 weeks.

Given the military significance of the site, theheightened threat from terrorism, along withother potential security breaches, were the focusof the system design. Conventional cabled systemsrely on the integrity of the cable and its connec-tions. By adopting a wireless approach, this con-cern was removed, but in its place came thepotential vulnerability of the radio signal. Because

scanners purchased from any High Street electricalcomponent retailer can be used to jam or interferewith the signals, radio is often used only as aback-up to conventional cabled systems. However,on the Portsmouth site, Sound Advice employed atotally secure digital radio technology designed bythe military for battlefield communications. Ittransmits using a spread-spectrum, frequency-hop-ping signal in the 2.4 GHz band, changing ran-domly at up to 85 times a second to makejamming impossible. It is the only system to havepassed the Joint Chiefs of Staff AntiTerrorism/Force Protection criteria in the USA andis the preferred system for US military bases world-wide. Under circumstances that may compromisea conventional system, the radio signal will seekanother active unit and continue to broadcast.

Along with visitors to the Historic Dockyard,there can be thousands of military and civilian staffin the Naval Base at any one time. This innovativesystem has been designed to provide immediate,site-wide information for any major incidents andcan be used in conjunction with other securitymeasures such as CCTV and perimeter intrusionprotection systems. IFP

MassNotificationSolution for UKNaval BaseCooper Notification – the platform which comprises Fulleon, MEDC, Wheelock,Roam Secure and MadahCom – has supplied the world’s largest site-wide radiopublic address/mass notification system for HM Naval Base in Portsmouth.

For more informationcontact:Bob ChoppenProduct Manager, Cooper FulleonTel: +44 (0)1633 628500Web:www.fulleon.co.uk


PROFILE

Cranford Controls was established in 1993 andhas grown from strength to strength tobecome a leading UK independent manufac-

turer of sounders, beacons and ancillary devices.Their range is further expanded by their well

established distribution agreements with manu-facturers of complimentary products ensuring thatCranford Controls can cover your every fire safetyneed.

Recently developed and now available isCranford’s brand new VSO LED base sounder/beacon. This innovative product enables, throughits specially designed lens, light to be diffused in alldirections providing a full 360° light output, beingthe first one like it to the fire safety market.

As this product enables both a visual and audibleindication of a fire it is compliant with the DisabilityDiscrimination Act, which is of ever growingimportance.

The product is available with a choice of clear,red, amber or blue lens with complimentary andcustom LED’s to ensure optimum light output, andin an option of 4 or 32 tone choices.

In-keeping with Cranford Controls’ original VSO,their VSO LED is also engineered to fit all leadingbrands of smoke detectors and can be used with orwithout this; a lockable cover plate is also availablewhen a detector is not in use. The VSO LED basesounder/beacon is also EN54-3 approved.

Cranford Controls is also listed as a preferreddistributor of Fireco products, and have recentlyadded the Dorgard (door retainer), Deafgard andSystem X to their distributed products range. All ofthese products are wireless, and work via acoustic

and radio signals, and all feature a fail safe mode.They are also compliant with the DDA.

The Deafgard is perfect for use in hotels, forexample, where there is the possibility of deaf orhard of hearing people staying, who will need tobe woken from their sleep in the case of a fire in aneffective manner.

Door Retainers are an ideal preventative againstthe spread of fire and smoke, shutting the fire door upon the triggering of a fire alarm. The most popular types are electromagnetic andacoustic/radio controlled all of which CranfordControls supply.

Cranford’s well established and popular range istheir flagship VTG sounders, VXB beacons and VTBsounder/beacons. These are all available with eithera red or white body, and all beacons with a choicelens colour of clear, red, amber or blue, the same asall of their products with lenses. All are aestheticallypleasing.

For further information on any of our productsor about what else is in our range please do nothesitate to contact one of our friendly sales teamon +44 (0) 1420 592 444 and they will be happy to help. IFP

Cranford Controls– covering yourevery fire safetyneedDue to an increasing amount of legislations put in place regarding fire safety,builders, architects, business and service providers all have a responsibility tomake sure all persons within their premises are safe. Because of this they areconstantly looking for the best possible fire safety equipment, many turn toCranford Controls, with their up to date and constantly expanding productportfolio, for peace of mind.


By Jan Knappertand Heinrich David

PROFILE

These extremely low temperatures have givenfire fighters severe difficulties in Fire FightingFoam Concentrate selection when dealing with

fuels containing alcohols and polar solvents.Originally Alcohol Resistant Foams were devel-

oped using Polysaccharide Polymer Additive to forma stable blanket between the fuel and foamblanket, this minimises vapourisation of the fuel andminimises the alcohol absorbing the water in thefoam bubble wall and causing it to break down andbecome ineffective.

In low temperature environments these Poly-saccharide containing foams become extremelyviscous because of their chemical composition (theyare also known as Thixotropic or Non-NewtonianLiquids) and are then difficult to pump, at tempera-tures below –15°C, they will start to solidify and willbe rendered unusable.

Ongoing product development between MSRDosiertechnik GmbH and Dr Sthamer – Hamburg,

have developed not only a revolutionary lowtemperature foam for use at extremely low temper-atures down to –25°C but also the means toproportion accurately at these extremely lowtemperatures.

FireDos is water driven foam proportioner, whichdoes not require any external energy. Changingflow-rates, working pressures and viscosities of the dosing material have no influence of theadmixing-rate.

The system consists mainly of a water motor anda piston pump. The foam concentrate is stocked inan atmospheric tank. The shaft of the water motorand the shaft of the piston pump are connected overa clutch. The whole water volume to the foam gen-erators is passing the water motor. The number ofrotations of the water motor are flow-proportional.The water motor is actuating a piston pump. Thedischarge volume of the piston pump is proportionalto the number of rotation.

Alcohol Resistant FIn Extremely Low TRecent oil and gas discoveries have been found in the most inhospitable climates,where extremes of temperature are common, notably the Middle East where blackbodytemperature can achieve +90°C and within the artic circles of –40°C and lower.

www.firedos.de

• No external energy required• Working flow-proportional• Easy installation and handling• Retrofitting into existing systems possible• Versions for stationary installations, or vehicles and mobile applications available,

also for use with seawater• Large flow ranges and dosing ranges covered• Not affected by changing pressure or flow rate• Suitable for all common fire-fighting liquids

Auf der Kaulbahn 6 • D-61200Wölfersheim • GermanyTel. +49(0)6036/ 9796-0 • Fax +49(0)6036/ 9796-30 • E-Mail [email protected]

The intelligent choice for admixing systems

Any change of water flow changes without anydelay the discharge volume of the piston pump,therefore the concentration remain constant.

The combination between water motor (positivedisplacement system) and piston pump (positivedisplacement system) create a accurate admixingrate, also in case of admixing rates of 1% or lower.

FireDos creates a pressure loss in the watersystem. The pressure loss is depending of the flow-rate, the working pressure and the admixing-rate. Incase of a maximum flow-rate, a water pressure fromaround 10 bar and an admixing rate of 1% thepressure loss will be approx. 1 bar.

The system is able to admix all types of commonfire fighting foam concentrates, also alcoholresistant foam concentrates and protein foams.

In combination with the right foam concentrateand foam generators low expansion, medium expan-sion and high expansion foams can be produced.

An excellent combination is FireDos and DrSthamer – Hamburg Moussol APS LV 1x1Alcohol resistant low viscosity foam concentratewith an admixing rate of 1%. Foam temperaturesfrom minus 27°C and plus 25°C had no influencesof the admixing rate. An ad-mixing rate 1.08% wasachieved across the whole temperature range withdifferent water flows and water pressures. Manyinstallations have now been made with thiscombination of ad-mixer and foam concentrate.

FireDos is a compact admixing system and canbe used for any fire fighting application, like fixedinstallations, in fire trucks, on ships, off shore inmobile applications. The water can be fresh water,brackish water or sea water. The systems are inflow-rates from 10 l/min and 20,000 l/min, withfixed, in steps changing or simultaneously changingadmixing-rates from 0,1% up to 10%, workingpressures from 16 bar, 25 bar and 40 bar and work-ing temperatures up to 50°C and 80°C available.

The biggest advantage of FireDos is, that thesystem can be tested under real conditions foam towater without producing any premix solution.

An other possibility is the remote injection of the

foam concentrate. Between the system with foamtank and the injection point can be a distance up to1,000 metres away.

With features like reducing of the minimum flowcan the flow-range expanded up to 1:100.

FireDos has the VdS approval, the KFI (KoreanFire Institute), GL (Germanischer Lloyd, Marineapproval), GOST-R approval (Russian Federation),approval from the Czech and Slovakian Republic.Applied for FM approval. The first batch of theseunits are in the FM laboratories for testingprocedures. IFP


PROFILE

oam Proportioningemperatures

HeadquartersLiebigstr. 5 · D-22113 Hamburg

Telephone +49 (0) 40-73 61 68-0

Telefax +49 (0) 40-73 61 68-60

E-Mail: [email protected] · www.sthamer.com

Branch OfficeKönigsteiner Str. 5 · D-01796 Pirna

Telephone +49 (0) 35 01-46 44 84 + 52 40 06

Telefax +49 (0) 35 01-46 44 85

FOAMFIGHTS

FIRE

We present a comprehensive range of high-performance and environment compatible fire fighting foam concentrates.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE +49 (0 ) 40-736 16 80

PRODUCT NEWS

MOUSSOL APS LV 1�1

Alcohol ResistantAFFF

Low Temperature UseGuaranteed –25°C (–13°F)


DETECTION SYSTEMS

Amore educated market, tighter regulations and a better understanding of the nature of fire has led to some significant develop-

ments in fire detection technology within the lastfew years. The market has moved from a relativelysimple choice between conventional and analogueaddressable fire detectors to a position of con-siderable sophistication in the types of detectionmethods and product designs on offer.

Identifying the correct type of fire detector foran application is largely a question of establishingwhat type of fire is likely to be encountered andwhat fire detection technology is available. Thereare some basic questions you need to ask in orderto arrive at the best possible fire detectionsolution.

What do we want from a fire detector?The objective is to save lives and protect property,so we want a fire detector to detect fires, to avoidunwanted alarms and to buy time for people toescape and for a fire-fighting response.

How does a fire detector work?Fire detectors cannot detect a fire directly. Theyonly detect the symptoms of a fire. ‘General

purpose’ detectors need the combustion products– smoke particles, gas, heat or radiation – to travelto their sensors where they must be differentiatedfrom similar effects not relating to a fire, such ascooking fumes, condensation or dust.

What type of fire is likely to beencountered?Typically, a fire will start as a low energy fire –smouldering in some way – with the risk of devel-oping into a high energy fire. Given the correctcombination of fuel and air, the conflagration mayquickly or instantly be a high energy fire. There areendless variables.

What technology is available?When designing a fire protection system, it isimportant to understand and identify the charac-teristics and fuel material of a potential fire, theenvironment in which the detector will be sitedand the risk of fire. For general use, smoke detec-tors are recommended since they give the highestlevel of protection – providing sufficient earlywarning to allow the evacuation of occupants.Smoke detection traditionally meant a choicebetween ionisation or optical sensor types, but

By Tim Williams

President, Apollo America

Fire Detection:The State of PlayTim Williams, President, Apollo America, looks at the latest developments in firedetection technology.

Discovery Multisensor:Multisensor detectors,proven in the field toreduce false alarms,combine smoke andheat detection elements

issues over shipment and disposal of the smallradioactive source in the former have largely ruledthis technology out.

Optical smoke detectors are equipped with aninfrared LED and detector arranged to measurelight scattered by smoke particles. They are goodfor a wide range of smoke types symptomatic ofearly stages of fire i.e. slow-burning, smoulderingfires that produce smoke with large particles. Theyare also insect immune and offer improved designsfor airflow and drift compensation.

Heat detection uses thermistor sensors – areliable and inexpensive technology that offersprotection in areas such as kitchens, saunas andgarages, where the environment has a highpresence of airborne smoke or vapour particles.However, heat detectors only respond when a fireis well-established and generating a high heatoutput – offering no early warning of fire.

Another means of fire detection is the carbonmonoxide (CO) detector. Using an electrochemicalcell, the CO detector provides good early warningof deep-seated, smouldering fires and is unaffectedby common sources of unwanted alarms such assteam, cooking or dust. However, CO detectionshould only be used as an adjunct to generalpurpose smoke detectors – never as a substitute.

MultisensorsFor their sheer flexibility, multisensors, of whichthere are several types, are the best general-

purpose detectors currently available. The mostestablished type offer a combination of smoke andheat sensors, combining optical readings withtemperature change to give a rapid response tothe widest range of fire of any detector type,dramatically improving rejection of unwanted falsealarms.

The dual optical detector is a more recent intro-duction. This type of device uses two internal LEDswhich, it is claimed, can determine particle size,enabling the device to distinguish between steamand smoke because water vapour has largerparticles than smoke from a fire.

While laboratory tests can be used to demon-strate this proposition, care must be taken. Thistype of device must not reject smoke as well assteam, or a genuine alarm will be suppressed withpotentially serious consequences.

Both types of multisensor device are capable ofoperating in a number of different modes, oftenreferred to as sensitivity settings. These differentsettings are provided to enable users to select themost appropriate operating mode for the localenvironment in which that device is sited – amechanism for false alarm reduction. The sensitivityof the device can therefore be set depending onwhether it is, say, in a hotel bedroom with an ensuite shower or in a communal corridor in a houseof multiple occupation.

Care should be taken to ensure that the multi-sensor has passed the approvals test in everyoperating mode. If the approval does not apply forsome of the operating modes, it limits the choiceof setting available. This could lead to the devicebeing less effective than it could be, or to thedevice invalidating insurance cover if it is found tobe programmed for a non-compliant setting in theevent of a fire.

Multisensors can also provide an option forswitching between multisensor mode and heat-only mode. This allows protection during fireverification and is also proving useful in universityaccommodation blocks or nurses’ quarters wherecooking can cause nuisance alarms. It has alsobeen used successfully in theatres where specialeffects such as dry ice could cause false ‘smoke’readings.


Mini Switch Monitor:The new Mini SwitchMonitor measures just39mm x 39mm x 20mmfor projects where spaceis limited

The National IndoorArena has just installedmultisensors to combatfalse alarms in themultiuse arena

FIRE DETECTION: THE STATE OF PLAYDETECTION SYSTEMS

The purpose of a fi re detector is to save lives and that’s the top priority of Apollo’s design engineers. Good design means reliability of detection.

But a good design means much more: it means the lowest possible incidence of false alarms caused by the detector. At Apollo, attention to the detail of mechanical and electronic design means detectors that have a reputation for reliability of alarm and very low false alarm incidence.

Take the Discovery range. It operates in one of fi ve panel-selectable modes to suit the environment of installation. Algorithms process measured values to decide if an alarm should be raised. Whatever the false alarm trigger—steam, cooking, smoking—Discovery will cope.

How can we be so sure? Because Discovery is offi cially tested and approved in all fi ve operating modes. Look it up on the internet.

Choose the mode to suit your fi re risk and be sure that you are covered.

Offi cially tested

and approved in

all fi ve operating

modes.

5 modes

approved

Apollo America, 821 Ulrich Avenue,Louisville, Kentucky 40213, USA.

Tel: +1 502 964 6565Fax: +1 502 964 6229

Email: [email protected]: www.apollo-fire.com

See us on Booth 513NFPA World Safety Conference & Exposition . June 2–5 2008 . Las Vegas, Nevada

Special circumstancesThere are also fire detectors developed to combatapplication-specific risks. The optical beamdetector is one example. It comprises an infraredtransmitter and receiver so that a light beam canbe sent and received across large voids such aswarehouses, atria and theatres. If smoke obscuresthe beam, less light will be measured by thereceiver and the alarm will be triggered.

Another application-specific example is theflame detector, designed to detect either theultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) radiation emitted bya fire. Flame detectors are effective in protectingareas where open flames present a significant riskand can even detect gas fires, which are not visibleto the naked eye.

Apollo has recently introduced a point FlameDetector to its XP95 range. It monitors for bothUV and IR radiation and is marine approved. Thedevice fits a standard XP95 base and is suited foruse in vessel engine rooms, or situations where theuse of a smoke detector is inappropriate.

Where explosion is a constant risk, in chemicalprocessing or paint and solvent storage areas, forexample, the use of intrinsically safe fire detectors ismandatory. Detectors for use in these areas need tobe designed so they cannot ignite the explosiveatmosphere either in normal or fault conditions. Thenature of the hazard and the electrical apparatusrequirements are governed by the ATEX directive.

What next?Some ‘standard’ fire detection products are beingrefined to make them even more reliable, oradapted to meet specific requirements.

The introduction of wireless fire detection tech-nology that uses radio transmission rather thanhard wiring to communicate with the controlpanel is one example. XPander, Apollo’s newwireless fire detection system (pictured above),includes smoke and heat detectors, call points andalarm devices. It can be used to expand an existingApollo intelligent fire detection system to coverremote buildings without the cost and disruptionof installing a hard wired extension to the firesystem, or to protect heritage sites where minimaldisruption to period features is a high priority.

Ancillary products are also being refined tomake the installation of fire systems easier andquicker. A recent example is the Apollo MiniSwitch Monitor (pictured page 18). Developed inresponse to customer feedback, the new devicemeasures just 39mm x 39mm x 20mm and offersisolate, interrupt and non-interrupt functions in asingle unit. The new Mini Switch Monitor replacesall existing models and can be DIN-Rail mountedor fitted into the backbox of a manual call point.

Final SummaryFire detection products continue to be developedas new detection techniques and applicationsemerge. However, as sophisticated and reliablethis new technology is, detectors still need to becorrectly specified, positioned and checkedregularly to ensure they keep pace with the firedetection requirements of building occupants.Appropriate application of the best technology,coupled with regular maintenance, is essential inensuring that people and property are protectedfrom the risks of fire. IFP


XPander is Apollo’swireless range thatcommunicates with theXP95 loop by radiosignals

FIRE DETECTION: THE STATE OF PLAYDETECTION SYSTEMS

Fike doesn’t just offer protection. We develop technologically advanced firesuppression systems that protect your bottom line, as well as your facility andassets. ECARO-25, PROINERT, DuPont™ FM-200® & FE-227™ areUSGBC LEED® recognized. At Fike, we’re known for:• Innovative, reliable products• Fast, responsive service• Creating a partnership with our customers

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Unique inert gas valveyields significant systemand installation savings.

FIKE HAS THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE, INNOVATIVEFIRE SUPPRESSION SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE.

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THERE IS MORETHAN ONE WAY TOSUPPRESS A FIRE.

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Storage Sprinklers fromReliableNew

N252 EC,K-25 EC Pendent& Recessed Pendent J168, K-16.8 Upright

An Extended Coverage Pendent & RecessedPendent for Density/Area Design

Approved for coverage up to 196 square feet(14’ x 14’) for extra hazard and storage applications

Can be installed directly on the piping forexposed pipe systems. Unlike upright sprinklers,sprig-ups are not required for larger diameter piping

cULus Listed for a minimum of deflector tocommodity distance of 36” and for unobstructedor non-combustible obstructed construction

Pendent version is FM ApprovedComplies with the criteria for protection of retailstores as described in NFPA 2002, section 12-7.2

Installations for finished ceilings utilize thepush-on, thread off FP recessed escutcheonwhich provides a 2” (13mm) adjustment

No Safety Caps - saves time and labor

Temperatures: 165°F (74°C) & 212°F (100°C)Finishes: Brass, Chrome,White & Black Plated

Refer to Bulletin 008

New control mode, density/area upright sprinkler

Primarily for extra hazard and storageoccupancies as designed and installed underNFPA 13 requirements

Can allow reduced design areas, higher storage,reduced ceiling clearance to storage, and other savingsin sprinkler design

Uses the robust Model G solder capsule that has beeninstalled in millions of sprinklers over the last 30 years

No Safety Caps - saves time and labor

cULus Listed and FM ApprovedAvailable with various temperature ratings and finishes

Refer to Bulletin 011

UK Email: Graeme Leonard, Director of Sales & Marketing [email protected]

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www.reliablesprinkler.com

University of MichiganMOJO Dormitory


SCHOOL & CAMPUS FIRE PROTECTION

With this nostalgia, often comes olderbuildings that are challenging to reno-vate while maintaining their historic

fabric. Couple this with the fact that the wayuniversities operate is ever changing these existingbuildings often become increasingly more difficultto use as they age. Changes occur due to a myriadof factors such as new administrations, demandsfrom significant donors, and probably most impor-tantly demands of students. This article outlineshow a masterplaning approach with a greaterattention paid to code compliance implicationscan result in a more functional and cost effectiveproject.

Determining the Applicable CodesWhen a project begins, an important first step thatmust be taken is to determine the applicable

codes. Too often however, enough due diligence isnot performed to completely understand all of theapplicable standards and how the authoritieshaving jurisdiction (AHJ) interpret these codes. Forexample, many states retroactively adopt the exist-ing building requirements of NFPA 101, The LifeSafety Code (LSC), as a portion of their fire code.Although, these sections of the LSC may not beenforced until a building undergoes a renovation,alteration, or addition, the AHJ may have theauthority to retroactively mandate complianceregardless of proposed work.

Most states also adopt the International Build-ing Code (IBC) as the basis for their building codewhich may reference the International ExistingBuilding Code (IEBC) to address existing buildingsundergoing renovations, alterations, and addi-tions. It is important to understand if the particular

By Jeremy Mason &Peter Harrod, P.E.

RJA Group

Life Safety IssuesAssociated withColleges andUniversitiesDesigning buildings in the college and university setting can be challenging for amultitude of reasons. Many institutions have rich traditions and standings intheir respective communities.

jurisdiction in question also still adopts Chapter34, Existing Buildings, of the IBC and/or the IEBC.Jurisdictions may adopt both Chapter 34 and theIEBC and give the owner a choice of which codeto use. It is in the best interest of the college oruniversity to analyze both codes to understandhow each one effects their building in questionand which code is more suitable.

Masterplanning and ChallengesMost universities have a masterplan that clearlydefines how existing and new buildings will beused over the coming years and even decades.Though, it is generally understood that when abuilding undergoes substantial renovation, alter-ations, and even an addition that the building, fire,and accessibility codes take this opportunity toimprove the overall safety of said building. Oftentimes, however, when the masterplan is being cre-ated, not enough attention is given to the fire pro-tection, life safety, and accessibility implicationsassociated with partial renovation and reuse. Notaccounting for the addition or upgrades of thesefeatures can add considerable cost to the overallmasterplan

Another issue that is sometimes overlookedduring the masterplaning phase involves proximityof buildings to one another. For example, a recentarchitectural trend includes physically connectingexisting building(s) with new building(s) to bridgethe new innovative campus with the rich historictradition of the institute. Alternatively, siteconstraints sometimes dictate new construction belocated within close proximity of existing non-conforming buildings When buildings are locatedclose to one another, a litany of issues often arises.For example, when buildings are consideredseparate and distinct, an assumed lot line must bedrawn between the two buildings such that the

buildings do not expose each other to fire. The lotline must be strategically located so as not torender the openings and wall of the existingbuilding non-compliant. What often becomes anissue is that the assumed lot line is located closerto the new building than the college would desire,which limits the amount of windows permitted inthe new building.

Another building proximity issue occurs whenbuildings connect to one another. This becomesless of an issue if the existing construction classifi-cation affords the new building to simply be a partof the new building. However, buildings that aresignificantly old were often constructed far differ-ently than today’s buildings and often constructed

to primitive or no codes at all. For example, whatlooks to be a solid masonry building from theexterior may have concealed wood framing. Themasterplan may call for a new five story Assemblybuilding that is seamlessly connected to the exist-ing building. In this case, the existing constructiontype may simply not allow the new building to beconsidered an addition and thus be seamlesslyconnected. Several impractical code compliantsolutions include creating separate buildings withrated walls and limited openings or tearing out thewood floors in the existing building to upgrade


MIT Brain and CoginitiveSciences Center

SCHOOL & CAMPUS FIRE PROTECTION

Most universities have a

masterplan that clearly defines

how existing and new

buildings will be used over

the coming years and

even decades

the construction type. It is often possible to justifycode compliant alternatives that solve this particu-lar issue without taking the drastic measuresspecified above. One solution that has been imple-mented involves the creation of an atriumbetween the two buildings that also acts as apedestrian bridge. Fire resistant rated separationsare permitted to be glass with closely locatedsprinklers that allows the two buildings to feel likea single building that ultimately was what theuniversity was looking for.

Campus planners should consider retaining afire protection engineer (FPE) in the initial master-plan so major hurdles become evident andalternatives can be considered. The FPE would beresponsible for performing an initial review of theexisting buildings and reviewing the masterplan to flush out major issues, especially those thathave significant economic consequences. This can enable the stakeholders to be able to conveyan accurate assessment of the situation to thecampus planner who ultimately accept the master-plan. This can enable those responsible for themasterplan to look smart and informed!

AccessibilityAnother area of a masterplan that is often over-looked is accessibility. Accessibility is a prominentand challenging issue facing universities today as itis more than ever in the public eye. College anduniversities are often constructed in topographicallychallenging areas that include hills or within cityconstraints that make the traverse. Where the land does not feasibly allow traveling on anaccessible ramp or level surface, unique solutionshave to be developed. This may include using abuilding’s new elevator as an accessible route intravelling through campus.

Other accessibility issues arise during the adap-tive reuse of buildings. Generally, the accessibilitycodes require that a portion of the money that isspent on a project be allocated to accessibilityupgrades, in the hope of improving the generalaccessibility of the building. For example, theAmerican Disability Act Accessibility Guidelines(ADAAG) requires that up to 20% of the projectcosts be spent to make a building accessible. If thebuilding is largely accessible, then the owner may

not need to spend 20% of the project cost tomake the rest of the areas accessible. On the otherhand, where a building is not accessible at all,ADAAG would only require 20% of the money bespent on accessibility upgrades.

Assuming a building is initially not accessible,money should be spent to provide an accessibleentrance, accessible routes within the buildingincluding a vertical accessible route to the primaryfunction areas of the building, and at least oneaccessible bathroom. If the applicable accessibilitycode(s) still require that additional monies bespent, many other accessible items can be up-graded including signage, handrails, etc. Moniesshould also be spent to improve the primary use ofthe building. For example, if a building is a

classroom facility, classrooms should be upgradedto be accessible which may include dispersedaccessible wheelchair and companion seats and anaccessible route to lecture or performance areas. Itshould be noted that spending more than 20% ofthe project cost may be viewed as excessivelyonerous to the owner which could prohibit theproject from moving forward. Thus ADAAG onlyrequires that up to 20% of the project be spent onaccessibility upgrades.

Fire Protection and Fire AlarmMany colleges and universities have undertakeninitiatives to improve the fire protection and lifesafety of their buildings. This generally starts withinstalling or improving the fire alarm and thesprinkler systems. Often times there are challengesassociated with installing these systems intobuildings.


LIFE SAFETY ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIESSCHOOL & CAMPUS FIRE PROTECTION

Campus planners should

consider retaining a fire

protection engineer (FPE) in

the initial masterplan so major

hurdles become evident and

alternatives can be considered

Norwich University Campus Center

Although colleges and universities wouldcertainly like to improve the life safety of theirbuildings, there is a substantial cost and often adisruption associated with providing thesesystems. Not only are staff and/or residents oftendisrupted by the installation of new fire protectionsystems, but configuring these systems in anarchitecturally seamless yet cost-effective mannercan be challenging. Considering these hurdles, it isoften possible to negotiate with building and fireofficials on behalf of the university to come upwith unique and creative solutions.

An example that outlines challenges associatedwith installing sprinkler and fire alarm systems iswhen a portion of an existing building is plannedto be renovated over the summer break. Theportions of the building that are planned to be

renovated are not separated with fire rated con-struction from the spaces that are not going to berenovated. Based on the percentage of spaces thatare being renovated, the building code wouldrequire that either the entire building be sprink-lered and provided with a new fire alarm system or that all of the renovated areas be sprinkleredand provided with a fire alarm system and beseparated from the non-renovated spaces. Therequirement to provide systems throughout thebuilding or install rated separations is often exces-sively onerous to the university. In lieu of providingsystems through out the building, it may be possible to develop solutions that are acceptableto both the AHJ and the university. Examples ofthese solutions include phasing the installation of

new systems with a firm commitment by theuniversity, adding standpipes that allow increasedfire fighting capabilities, improving means ofegress to allow occupants to egress the buildingquicker, and limiting the combustibles in the build-ing. Generally these innovative solutions requirediscussions and ultimately the blessing of the AHJ and are often much more amenable to theuniversity or college

EgressExisting buildings often contain challenges includ-ing exits that are undersized, not remote from oneanother, and not enclosed in sufficiently ratedconstruction. Adding or reconstructing exits canbe a painful and expensive exercise that can alsodramatically alter the architecture around the exits. It is often necessary to engineer uniqueapproaches that solve these problems. Suchapproaches may include performing a timedegress analysis that shows occupants can safelyexit the building in what is considered a safeamount of time. Other approaches may entailadding increased levels of safety to the buildingthat more quickly notify occupants (i.e. smokedetection even though it may not be required in a fully sprinklered building) or ensuring a saferpath of travel to exit stairs by creating ratedcorridors.

Summary and ConclusionAs evident throughout this article, there are manydaunting fire protection, life safety, and accessibilitychallenges that colleges and universities face whendeciding it is time to renovate their buildings. Withsome strategic feedback from the project teamduring the initial planning process, the college oruniversity can avoid many pitfalls and give a clearpicture of what is actually going to be required inthe near future. Once the design process begins,then creative and alternative approaches may beimplemented to allow the building to be reused tothe satisfaction of both the owner and the localauthority having jurisdiction. The fire protectionengineer should certainly be in integral part of thisprocess to ensure a safe and cost-effectivebuilding is designed. IFP


Case Western ResidentialVillage

LIFE SAFETY ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIESSCHOOL & CAMPUS FIRE PROTECTION

Although colleges and

universities would certainly like

to improve the life safety of

their buildings, there is a

substantial cost and often a

disruption associated with

providing these systems

Jeremy Mason is aConsultant for Rolf Jensen &

Associates, Inc., a leading fireprotection and life safety

consulting firm. He is basedin the Boston office and

can be reached by phone (+1 508 620-8900) or e-mail

([email protected])

Peter Harrod, P.E. is aRegional Business

Development Manager forRolf Jensen & Associates,

Inc., a leading fire protectionand life safety consulting

firm. He is based in theBoston office and can be reached by phone

(+1 508 620-8900) or [email protected])


VIMPEXShaping Alarm Technology

NEW

FREEVideo

PresentationDVD

nowavailable

Tel: +44 (0) 1702 216 999

Fax: +44 (0) 1702 216 699

E-mail: [email protected]

The new Fire-Cryer Plus fromVimpex - be seen, heard and understood!

Fire-Cryer Voice ounders have always been both .

Now Vimpex are making another clear and statement with the latest addition

to the Fire-Cryer family - the Fire-Cryer Plus.

With bold styling, integrated synchronised LED strobe and 7 selectable messages from a

of over 300, the Fire-Cryer Plus enables a standard fire alarm system to signal much more than just fire.

Using just 2 wires the Fire-Cryer family is the ideal partner for new and retrofit fire systems.

®

®

®

®

7-message

heard and understood

unambiguous

multi-lingual library

DDA-compliant

®

®

S

It just can’t stop talking....

CRYERFIRE® Fire Bomb Alert Coded Messages Terrorist Attack

Public Warning System Test Phased Evacuation


Another Bright Idea .....Yodalex

Clifford & Snell has extended its range of Explosion Proof Audible & Visual Signalling devices with the introduction of a new series of 10 & 20 Joule Beacons.

Features include:• High intensity light output 10 & 20 Joules• Award winning design• ATEX Approved• Dual cable entry• 7 lens colour options• Lens guard supplied as standard

The Yodalex range also includes an omni-directional high output sounder and a 5 joule combination sounder/strobe unit, with 32 selectable sound tones and IP66 NEMA 4X protection.Baseefa

ATEX Approved

5J

10J

20J

NEW

CS&Clifford & Snell

For more information please contact the Clifford & Snell sales office:9750 Whithorn Drive, Houston, Texas 77095, USA

Tel: +1 281 859 5300 Fax: +1 281 859 5317Email: [email protected] Web: www.cliffordandsnell.net

TO BE LAUNCHEDAT NFPA

LAS VEGAS

Signalling Solutions from Klaxon

Klaxon Signals LimitedWrigley Street, Oldham, Lancashire, OL4 1HW

T. +44 (0) 161 287 5555F. +44 (0) 161 287 5511www.klaxonsignals.com

KLAXON SIGNALS manufacture a wide range of FIRE and INDUSTRIAL signalling equipment for the

european and worldwide market place.

Our extensive product range includes, electronicsounders, Voice sounders, sirens, beacons and bells forcommercial, industrial, OEM and hazardous areaapplications.We are fully RoSH complaint and meet all major industrystandards including EN54, CPD, LPCB and Vds.

VISUAL & VOICE ALARM ROUND UP


UK-based, leading manufacturer ofAudible and Visual Alarm products,CLIFFORD & SNELL has announced itsintention to strategically expand itsbusiness in the US.

The company’s products are renownedfor their innovative design and high per-

formance for applicationswhich range from generalsignalling including Haz-ardous Areas to processcontrol, industrial andmarine.

Trevor Gage, Directorand General Manager,Clifford & Snell, believesthat the success that thecompany has achieved inkey markets such as theFar East, Middle East andScandinavia can also beattained in the USA.

“I am delighted toannounce the appointmentof Phil Hausman as BusinessDevelopment Manager for

the Americas. Hausman has established aClifford and Snell sales office and ware-house in Houston which will act as a USbase and provide the conduit for growth insales and service with existing customerswhilst offering new customers theopportunity of accessing our extensive

product range with US-based support,”said Gage.

Phil Hausman comes to Clifford & Snellwith an extensive knowledge of the oil/gasand petrochemical markets and has partic-ular experience in the areas of offshoreand industrial applications. According toGage, Hausman brings considerable tech-nical expertise and a wealth of knowledgewithin US markets which will assist Clifford& Snell to provide an exceptional level ofservice and commitment to customersthroughout the Americas.

For further details, contact:Stand No. 1161, NFPA WORLD SAFETYCONFERENCE & EXPOSITION, LAS VEGAS

orPhil Hausman9750 Whithorn Drive, HoustonTexas 77095, USA Tel: +1 281 859 5300 Fax: +1 281 859 5317Email: [email protected] Website: www.cliffordandsnell.net

(L to R) Trevor Gage, Director & General Manager,Clifford & Snell with Phil Hausman, BusinessDevelopment Manager, The Americas

COOPER FULLEON’s flexible andadaptable Voice+ technology is beingreleased in the low current Symphonisounder and the Symphoni AVsounder beacon for DDA applica-tions.

The technology endows thesounders with much greater messageon-board storage while doing awaywith the EPROMS previously used.With up to eight user selectabletones and 16 messages the sounderscan be configured so that users andstockists can have a single unit pre-programmed with their mostfrequently used tones and messages.A further benefit is that the sounders canbe reprogrammed for specific applicationsusing a suitably equipped PC and securityinterface. The interface ensures onlyauthorised personnel can connect to thesounder for reconfiguration.

Programming sounders will be familiarto anyone who uses a portable musicplayer, with the ability to select individual

messages or create playlists for downloading to the sounders.

Further details: Danielle Sharp, Cooper Fulleon Ltd, Llantarnam Park Cwmbran, Gwent NP44 3AW Tel: +44(0)1633 628500 Fax: +44(0)1633 866346Email: [email protected] Website: www.fulleon.com

Cooper Fulleon introducesVoice+ technology to theSymphoni

VTG 24 Volt 32-Tone SpatialSounderApproved to EN54-Part 3 by the LPCB and VdSon tones 1, 8, 11, 25 and 27, Cranford Controls’UK manufactured VTG 24 Volt 32-Tone SpatialSounder is in high demand. The product’saesthetically pleasing appearance is also highlypopular with its unique nose-cone designenabling a strong and full sound output.

The VTG is available with a red or white bodyand a deep or shallow base; the various tonesinclude the well recognised Cranford sweep andvarious universal tones, including Dutch sweeptone, German DIN tone and French tone AFNOR,making it ideal for world-wide distribution.

Clifford & Snell’s Strategic

Expansion into the USA


The VTG is CE marked and, as with all Cranford products, it is also RoHSand Weee compliant. The products low current consumption is also desirable.

The DIL switch, located on the VTG’s PCB board, allows the user toselect between three varying volume settings, low, medium or high, withthe high setting being recommendable for facilities where additional soundoutput may be required.

The VTG also utilises a universal locking system via an industry standardlocking system, thus providing an aid in protection against vandalism, andmaking the VTG also fully compliant with the latest requirements of Britishand European standards.

Further more there are other varying products within the VTG rangethat compliment one another, including the VXB Beacon and the VTBSounder/ Beacon all of which are manufactured and distributed to thesame high degree Cranford Controls works to.

For further details, contact:Cranford Controls Ltd Unit 2 Waterbrook Estate, Waterbrook RoadAlton, Hampshire GU34 2UD, UKTel: +44 (0)1420 592444Fax: +44 (0)1420 592445Website: www.cranfordcontrols.com

Spectra beacons coverall the basesE2S, Europe’s leading manufacturerof warning sounders and beacons,has developed the Spectra beaconfamily to extend its industrial rangeof audible and visual signallingdevices. Available in three sizes, sixlens colours and a choice of static,flashing filament, Xenon strobe,rotating or LED versions, Spectraoffers a solution for all situationsincluding safety warning, statusindication and fire alarm.

The LED option gives longer operational life and lower life coststhan a traditional filament lamp, particularly important for con-tinuous use or where access or maintenance is difficult. The lowvoltage DC LED version has a choice of nine user-selectable modesgiving continuous, flashing, rotating, double strike and alternateside flash modes; up to three stages of alarm can be selectedthrough the appropriate wiring connections. The B300 has a dualfrequency option where a flash rate of 1Hz or 2Hz can be selectedremotely through the wiring configuration to provide two stagesof warning. The Xenon strobe B300 and B400 models are option-ally available in synchronised versions, so that all devices on thesame power supply circuit flash in unison, a particular benefit infire alarm applications.

Primarily intended for surface mounting, pole and wall mount-ing options are available to make installation neat and easy. Allunits have a choice of cable entries for ease of wiring. Manufac-tured from UV stabilised polycarbonate, Spectra beacons will notfade when exposed to direct sunlight and are protected to IP65,making them suitable for outdoor applications.

For further information contact:E2SPeter Fay, Managing Director, European Safety Systems LimitedImpress House, Mansell Road, London W3 7QHTel: + 44 (0)20 8743 8880 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8740 4200Email: [email protected] Website: www.e2s.com

Why not call us on...

T: +44 (0)1420 592 444F: +44 (0)1420 592 445

or find us at www.cranfordcontrols.com

This aesthetically pleasing product is a much desired andwelcome addition to the fire safety market. The lens has beenspecially designed to ensure light is diffused out in all directions,guaranteeing a full light output of 360°, the only one of its kind onthe market.

The VSO Sounder/ Beacon is available in 32 tone including all themajor worldwide tone variants and provides both visual andaudible alert.

The VSO range has been carefully engineered to fit all leadingbrands of detectors and can also be used as a wall mountedsounder/ sounder beacon by using it in conjunction withCranford’s readily available cover plates. For more information onour products please contact us.

Cranford Controls prides itself on its uniqueand constantly expanding product range.Adding to this is their brand new innovativeproduct – the VSO Sounder/ Beacon.

FIRE & SECURITY

Out of this world


Fire Alarm EncouragesQuick Response

The Nexus Voice Sounder from KLAXONSIGNALS is a fire alarm that combinesnormal sounder signals with a clear, syn-chronised voice message to provideauthoritative instruction that eliminatesconfusion after an alarm sounds.

Units are available with 4 pre-pro-grammed messages, selected from a mes-sage library that covers an extensive rangeof applications, and bespoke messages arealso available on request. The unique horn

design feature ensures superior message quality over other voice soundersavailable in the market.

Combined with an interface control unit, the Nexus voice sounders cantransmit up to four messages over two wires – making them suitable forfire alarm systems. A USB interface allows special messages in WAV formatto be downloaded onto the sounder from any PC, providing users with theflexibility of adding and removing messages in-house.

They have a high 110 dB output, are weatherproofed to IP66 and canbe installed in almost any location. A choice of sound outputs means thereis a model to overcome most levels of background noise.

Either xenon or high efficiency LED beacons can be added to the Nexussounder. The combination of a clear voice message, powerful sounder andhigh output beacon ensures a highly effective warning tool.

Klaxon Signals Limited is one of the world’s leading manufacturers andsuppliers of sound and vision signalling equipment for fire and life safety,industrial and security applications. Part of Halma p.l.c., Klaxon offers anextensive range of fire alarm sirens, electronic sounders, buzzers, beaconsand bells, in addition to innovative evacuation technology and software.

Reader Enquiries: Sara MudaligeKlaxon Signals LimitedWrigley Street, OldhamLancs OL4 1HW, UKTel: +44 (0)161 287 5555Fax: +44 (0)161 287 5511Email: [email protected]

Fire-Cryer® Voice SoundersFIRE-CRYER® voice message sounders pro-vide simple, cost-effective fully synchronisedvoice annunciation for all forms of evacua-tion and information broadcast. They requireno special wiring and can be retrofitted toexisting installations. The units can be fullysynchronised and have a low current con-sumption allowing simple replacement ofexisting sounders and bells.

Fire-Cryer® products comprise the broad-est range of voice sounders currently avail-able, from the Mini Fire-Cryer® designed for discreet mounting under firedetector heads to the powerful Midi & Maxi Fire-Cryers® for open spaces,warehouses and industrial sites.

All Fire-Cryers® can broadcast 4 user-selectable messages chosen froma library of hundreds. Foreign language and bespoke messages are alsoavailable. Fire-Cryer® voice sounders can be both heard and understood.

The five Fire-Cryer® voice sounder models in the range meet everyrequirement from residential and light commercial to heavy industrialapplications.

For further information contact:Vimpex Ltd.Tel: +44 (0) 1702 216 999 Fax: +44 (0) 1702 216 699Email: [email protected] Website: www.vimpex.co.uk

Leading naturallySignallingFulleon has over 30 years experience in the design and

manufacture of alarm signalling devices

� Wide range of markets catered for, including:

� Fire

� Industrial

� Security

� Hazardous Areas

� Products for indoor and outdoor use

� Wide range of applications

� High efficiency, low current design

� Compliant with a wide range

of standards

T:+44 (0)1633 628 500 F:+44 (0)1633 866 346

[email protected] www.fulleon.com

www.cooperindustries.com

www.draeger.com

PIONEERING SOLUTIONS >>

Detection

Personal Protection

Diving Technology

System Technology

Services

Good choice.For others, see the yellow pages.

Keeping leadership in technology is very simple:Before we optimise a solution, we listen to our clientsand their needs. We focus on pioneering solutions for theprotection of life. That’s why Dräger products always sethigher standards. Like the Dräger X-am 2000.The new personal gas warning instrument can measureup to four gases and marks the highest level of reliabilityand handling. It’s not only water-resistant, butwater-proof according to the ingress protection rate IP67. Easy one-hand operation and small size makes itcomfortable to use. Function testing with the DrägerBump Test Station is quick and uses a minimum amountof gas. The highest quality doesn’t mean the highestprice. Just ask one of our worldwide representatives.

That’s what we call a good choice.

Draeger Safety UK Limited • Tel: 01670 352 891

• Fax: 01670 356 266 • E-mail: [email protected]


GAS DETECTION

The positive side can be substantial: an increasein equipment reliability, and a lower risk thatbroken equipment will cause an unscheduled

outage or catastrophic accident. Many times repairsneed to be made in the “confined spaces” of pres-sure vessels, separators, feeders, storage tanks andvalve systems. These limited access, limited ventila-tion confined spaces present a challenge to bothworker safety and retrofit time. A “confined space”as defined by OSHA, has limited or restricted meansof entry, exit or ventilation, is large enough for a per-son to enter and perform work, and is not designedfor continuous occupancy.

Confined space entry is inherently dangerous, andin the high intensity environment of a plant turn-around, it becomes especially challenging to manageworker safety against the need for efficiency and theeconomic pressures of getting the plant back on lineas quickly as possible. Employees who work inconfined spaces can be seriously injured or killed byentrapment, engulfment, or the hazardous atmos-pheric conditions found in these spaces. Theatmosphere in a confined space can becomehazardous for a variety of reasons. Welding opera-tions can produce toxic fumes, and decomposingorganic material can release chemicals such ashydrogen sulfide or methane. Heavier than air gaseslike carbon dioxide can sink to the bottom of aconfined space and reduce the level of oxygen tofatal levels. Oxygen can also be consumed by manychemical processes such as the formation of rust orbacterial action in the fermentation process. Theremay also be residual chemicals from the productionprocesses that can include volatile organic com-pounds (VOCs), or hydrocarbons, which are bothtoxic and flammable and potentially an explosionhazard.

All of this work falls under the guidelines of con-fined space entry found in United State OccupationalSafety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation1910. This regulation was originally written for sewer

entry where the decomposition of biological materialproduced expected hazardous threats includingoxygen depletion, accumulated methane gas, carbonmonoxide and hydrogen sulfide. Those threats havetraditionally been handled by a four-gas confinedspace entry monitor. When working in the industrialenvironment the hazardous threats change based onthe processes and chemicals in use. The OSHAregulation was revised with the addition of subpart146 Appendix E which states:

“…where the employer has not been able toidentify the specific atmospheric hazards presentor potentially present in the workspace, broadrange sensors are preferable because they indi-cate that the hazardous threshold of a class (orclasses) of contaminants (i.e. hydrocarbons) inthe work environment have been exceeded.”

In OSHA 1910 Subpart Z, more than 80% of thegases and vapors listed as “Toxic and HazardousSubstances” are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)or hydrocarbons. And most are toxic long before they are combustible, they also go unobserved by the standard four-Gas monitor.

The presence of VOCs immediately calls for theuse of either a dedicated photoionization detector ora multi-gas monitor that includes a PID. In the lastseveral years 5-gas monitors have been available inboth handheld and wireless configurations.

As a turnaround work-shift begins each of theconfined spaces on the facility would need to bemonitored prior to entry for the time specified by theresident industrial hygienist. OSHA requires that con-fined space entry permits be reissued every twelvehours or when a new shift starts. This has traditional-ly been a manual process, and it takes several hoursto revisit the work sites, resample the environment,and then reissue the permit. Hours of downtime dur-ing each shift of a plant turnaround can cost com-panies thousands of dollars. After each work breakthe confined space in question would again have to

By Bob Durstenfield

Using WirelessToxic Gas Monitorsfor Confined SpaceEntry During PlantTurnaroundsWhen power plants, oil refineries, food processing, pharmaceutical, chemical,paint or plastic plants need to have major service, be upgraded or retrofitted thisis called a plant turnaround. These times of zero production are both high stressand high cost both in terms of labor and lost production revenue.

Employees who work in confined spaces can be seriously injured or

killed by entrapment, engulfment, or the hazardous atmospheric

conditions found in these spaces.

be monitored before work could resume. In additionto the work crew a “spotter” would be assigned toeach hole or worksite. This person would be respon-sible for making sure that the working atmosphere ofthe work site did not pose a safety threat. Typicallythe spotter would be issued a hand held monitor thatmight include a drop line of extended tubing toactually sample the work area. If there was a problemit was the spotter’s job to clear the worksite, beginventilation and then eventually give the approval toreturn to work. This presented two problems, thespotter had to know how to interpret the alarm andhad to get help if workers were endangered. Often,the spotter became tired or distracted and couldmake mistakes in judgment when reading alarms onmonitoring equipment.

Initially, site safety officers began deploying wire-less monitor as a back up to the fixed-gas systemsthat were turned off during the service cycle. Theysoon realized that they could also provide a back upto the spotter, and even continuously watch the holewhen the spotter was not there. The advent of wire-less gas detection has given facility operators andsafety officers a new approach to this solve “holewatch” problem.

Using wireless gas detection networks with sen-sors at each confined space worksite and a centralcommand center, safety officers could continuouslymonitor a work site, even when workers where notpresent. Procedures were developed so that if a worksite had not alarmed during the break, then is couldbe assumed that it was safe to re-enter the work siteimmediately. This cut the wait time after each breakand provided a cost effective way to safely increaseproductivity.

One of the early adopters of wireless gas dictionhas been the Valero oil refinery in Delaware. Thisfacility brings down each of six major areas for 60days at a time. Significant time is saved by not havingto recertify confined spaces for each work shift. Thisis done by using the wireless gas monitors to con-tinuously monitor and only requiring recertification ifthere has been an alarm.

The Wireless Monitor DeploymentThe facility has six independent wireless networksthat are linked to a local control rooms. Data fromeach of the six control rooms is uploaded to an off-site data server that integrates all of the site data.The master control room monitors all six productionareas through the web-based terminal viewer. Theviewer provides visibility to all 36 deployed wirelessmonitors as well as real-time maps showing the

location and alarm data for allunits. This facility deployment cur-rently includes:1 a coker system with 5 currently

deployed monitors2 a crude unit3 a desulferizer4 an FCCU DGA with 10 currently

deployed monitors5 a hydrocracker6 a sulfur plant with 7 currently

deployed monitors

AlarmsAlarm notification is handled inthree layers:1 Individual monitors provide local

alarm notification at the worksite

2 The local control room is noti-fied of an alarm over the wire-less network and is displayed on

the remote base station so that a response can beinitiated if necessary.

3 Each local control room uploads the real time dataover hardwire Ethernet cable onto the secureoffsite data server.

4 Data is monitored real-time on secure webterminal in the Master control room.

5 As a back up – Email alerts are issued wheneverany wireless monitor on site goes into alarm.

One of the other advantages of the wireless gasmonitoring system has been that all of the data forall of the worksites is immediately stored on a com-puter for both future reference and as part of thelegal safety record for the site. This has given OSHAinspectors instant access to the exposure data foreach work site.

The use of wireless toxic gas monitors has come ofage. Today’s monitors are quick to deploy or reconfig-ure and offer the ability to use global positioningsatellite technology to know exactly where and alarmis coming from. Wireless gas monitors have beenfound to provide both a better worker safety net andsignificant cost savings to industrial facilities thatmust continually improve their production andmanage their costs.

ReferencesNIOSH: Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, NIOSH

Publications, Cincinnati, OH 1994DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 79-142, 2002Worker Deaths in Confined Spaces-A Summary of

NIOSH Surveillance and Investigative Findings, January,1994, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 94-103

OSHA 1910 Subpart Z – Toxic and HazardousSubstances

Guide to Occupational Exposure Values – 2002,compiled by ACGIH

NFPA 325, Guide to Fire Hazard Properties of FlammableLiquids, Gases, and Volatile Solids, 1994 Edition

RAE Systems: Correction Factors and IonizationPotentials (Technical Note TN-106)

RAE Systems: AP-211: PIDs for Continuous Monitoringof VOCs

IFP


USING WIRELESS TOXIC GAS MONITORS FOR CONFINED SPACE ENTRYGAS DETECTION

Bob Durstenfeld has spentmore than five years at RAE

Systems as Director of PublicRelations and Investor

Relations. Before joining RAESystems, Durstenfeld servedas Senior Account Manager

and Staff Technologist for theSilicon Valley office of

Fleishman-Hillard PublicRelations. Bob has also held

management positions atAgilent Technologies and

Hewlett-Packard Company.He has published articles on

Port Security and WirelessGas Detection.

Mr. Durstenfeld received hisMasters in Engineering

Management andInternational Marketing from

Santa Clara University andhis BS in Engineering and

Biology from UCLA.

Unit Alarm

Control Room Alarm

RAEShare Terminal Alert Alarm

Email Notification

Process 4

Control Rm

Process 5

Control RmProcess 6

Control Rm

Process 3

Control Rm

Process 4Process 6Process 5

Process 3

Ethernet Gateway

RAEShare

Process 1

Control Rm

Process 1 Process 2

Master Control Room

Process 2

Control Rm



ALARM SYSTEMS

There are two areas in which advancedcommunication technologies are having animpact on fire systems, remote communica-

tions over the Internet and fire panel networking.

Remote Communications over theInternetIn the late 1970s a standardized communicationsprotocol was developed that would change world-wide communications forever. This standardizedTransmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol,commonly abbreviated to ‘TCP/IP’ or simply ‘IP’,enabled the inter-connection of computer net-works on a global scale. Now, 30 years on, TCP/IPis a fully established communication protocol andis used for communication on the World WideWeb (Internet). However, TCP/IP is not exclusivelyfor use with computers and provided certain rulesare followed it is possible to connect virtually anydevice on to a TCP/IP network, including thecontrol equipment and associated peripheraldevices of a fire network.

Nearly every commercial building has a computernetwork already installed. For a device to

communicate over this network, it simply needs tosupport the TCP/IP protocol and be connected to aspare network port. Therefore, suitably enabledfire detection equipment can communicate overthis network without the need to install anyadditional communication cabling.

Once the device is connected to the network ithas to be identified so other devices can commu-nicate with it. This is achieved with the IP address.The IP address is unique to each device on the net-work and allows messages to be sent to, andreceived from the device from anywhere on thenetwork. In fact it is possible to communicate withthe device from anywhere within a building oreven multiple buildings, provided those buildingshave a common TCP/IP network.

Can IP Networks Replace Dedicated FirePanel Networks?Inter-connecting fire panels over an existingcomputer network lends itself to many, potentiallyhazardous, problems. First and foremost computernetworks are generally wired using non fire-resistantcable. If there is a fire, the cable connecting the

By Ray Hope

Managing Director,Advanced Electronics

Advanced FireSystemCommunicationsThe application of communication technologies to fire systems is becomingincreasingly important. Ray Hope, Managing Director of Advanced Electronicsdescribes how the use of communications is bringing major benefits to both theinstaller and the end-user.

fire panels could be damaged rendering the net-work useless.

Secondly, the fire system would be sharing thenetwork with other non-fire devices such ascomputers, printers and other IT equipment. Thefire system has no control over these other devicesand therefore cannot guarantee how they mightinteract or how network performance might beimpaired during a critical fire situation.

However, this doesn’t mean that there is not aplace for TCP/IP in fire systems. Just because firepanels are not linked together on a TCP/IP networkdoesn’t make TCP/IP superfluous. TCP/IP solutionscan be seen as secondary enhancements to the pri-mary function of the dedicated fire panel network.

Using TCP/IP as a Gateway into the FireNetwork

Creating devices which cancommunicate and interactwith an existing dedicatedfire network opens up in-novative possibilities, as is

demonstrated by the new ipGateway™ productfrom Advanced Electronics.

ipGateway™ is a fully interactive internet portalfor the Mx-4000 range of fire alarm control panels,which allows remote monitoring of any Mx-4000series fire system, both stand alone and networked,from anywhere on the internet using a standardweb browser. A distinct advantage is gained fromthe use of a web browser to view the information asit eliminates the need for any proprietary softwareto be installed on each PC that uses ipGateway™.

When accessing ipGateway™ the user is pre-sented with comprehensive information about thefire system. This includes a breakdown of all thezones, a detailed description and current status ofall devices contained within each zone and anoverall indication of the current status of thesystem. The information displayed on the user’sweb browser is updated in real time, ensuring thatany change to the status of the system is clearlyidentified and reported to the user as it happens.

In addition to the visual representation,ipGateway™ allows the user to interact with thefire system as though they were stood in front of afire panel. From a remote location anywhere in theworld a user, with the correct authority and accessrights, can enable/disable zones, enable/disabledevices, reset networks, reset, mute, silence orresound sounders on a panel or a network. Whenconnecting the system to the Internet a higher levelof security is needed to counter threats such asviruses and unscrupulous access. The built-in secur-ity features of ipGateway™ require anauthorizeduser to logon using a password and to connect tothe remote system via a secure IP address.

ipGateway™ can also be configured to use anexisting email server to send a notification as a resultof an event on the fire system. Each event can besetup to alert a number of different personnel atvarying times of the day. This is useful for environ-ments where a number of people are responsible forthe fire system, but those people work various shiftsthroughout the day. These e-mail addresses aresimple to set-up in the web browser without theneed to configure local e-mail clients.

It should be noted at this point that theipGateway™ is not intended as a replacement foran existing fire system control and indication


ALARM SYSTEMS

interface, instead it should be seen as a secondaryenhancement by providing a set of tools andfunctions to compliment the everyday operationand maintenance of a fire system.

The remote interrogation of the fire systemopens up possibilities for maintenance companiesto identify problems before they actually happen,saving time and money by reducing unnecessaryjourneys to site. The fire system can also beconfigured to send maintenance and status infor-mation as a text message or e-mail.

By enhancing the built in functionality of a firesystem with a TCP/IP gateway, both their visibilityand reach can be significantly enhanced andextended.

Hi-Speed Fault Tolerant Networks forFire SystemsIt is already common practice to connect fire alarmcontrol panels and peripherals, often located inphysically different locations, over a proprietarynetwork. However, the design and performance ofthe network can have a significant effect on theoverall operation of the system.

Advanced Electronics Ad-NeT+ fire network canbe configured to allow the inter-connection of upto 200 panels (nodes) in a fault tolerant configura-tion. The maximum cable length between nodes is1.5km, with a total loop length of 20km. The net-work is capable of withstanding a single faultbetween nodes without loss of communications toany single panel. This is all achieved using standardtwo-core fire resistant cable.

Indication and response times from Control andIndicating Equipment (CIE) are set-out in the ENstandards and EN 54-13:2005 (E) 4.3.2.1 statesthat “a fire alarm condition on a CIE shall beindicated on the main CIE within 20sec.” Thetypical delay on an Ad-NeT+ 50 panel network foreach panel to indicate a fire from any zone is lessthan one second and 3.5 seconds for a full 200panel system.

The network operates as a true peer-to-peersystem allowing information from any input oroutput device to be passed over the network anddisplayed on any control panel or remote terminalas required. Details include Fire, General Alarm,Pre-alarm, Fault, Control Inputs and Disablementas well as analogue values, test instructions andstatus information. The Ad-NeT+ systems DynamiXzoning facility allows the networked system to uti-lize up to 1000 zones providing non-confusingindication and allowing true peer-to-peer crosspanel report, control and site-wide cause andeffect functionality. No single panel is required toact as a ‘Master’ for the network to operate. IFP


ADVANCED FIRE SYSTEM COMMUNICATIONSALARM SYSTEMS

Recycle Your Halon.The future of the planet

is in your hands.

8601 73rd Avenue Suite #11, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428 USATel: 001-416-458-1990 Fax: 001-763-315-0399

[email protected] | www.halonbankingsystems.com

It’s imperative to the health of our planet that we reduce the impact that halon has on our atmosphere. Halon Banking Systems is dedicated to the environmentally responsible recycling and redeployment of halon for essential end-users. Let us help you dispose safely of your

halon, and together, we can make the world a better place.

Contact us today 001-416-458-1990.


CLEAN AGENTS

Ten years later, the Kyoto Protocol wasadopted on 11 December 1997 at the thirdConference of the Parties to the UNFCCC

(COP 3) in Kyoto, Japan and went into effect on16 February 2005.

The Protocol’s major feature is that it hasmandatory targets on greenhouse-gas emissionsfor the world’s leading economies, which haveaccepted it. These targets range from –8 per centto +10 per cent of the countries’ individual 1990emissions levels “with a view to reducing theiroverall emissions of such gases by at least 5 percent below existing 1990 levels in the commit-ment period 2008 to 2012.” In almost all cases –even those set at +10 percent of 1990 levels – the

limits call for significant reductions in currentlyprojected emissions.

The goal is to lower overall emissions of sixgreenhouse gases – carbon dioxide, methane,nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluoro-carbons, and perfluorocarbons – averaged overthe period of 2008-2012.

These commitments have not been withoutdifficulty and continue to evolve.

Most importantly, as regulations continue toevolve, manufacturers, distributors, installers andend users face increasing exposure and penaltieswhen these materials are mishandled from cradleto grave.

This responsibility may even extend beyond the

By Ron Marcus

Remtec International

Cradle to GraveResponsibilityfor CleanAgentsThe regulatory requirements for the management of halocarbon emissions havecontinued to increase since first introduced in 1974 with the publication of theMolina-Rowland report. This report started a process that eventually culminatedin the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987.

normal chain of custody to lenders and investors.Schnapf Environmental Report, a newsletter cover-ing environmental developments and case lawreported in 2003, “With over 160 countries nowcommitted to following the Kyoto Protocol andmany countries adopting legal mechanisms toimplement the goals of the treaty, it is increasinglyimportant for purchasers and lenders of certainindustrial sectors to evaluate potential climatechange impacts on businesses during due diligence.Moreover, corporate directors and officers couldpossibly face liability under the “Business JudgmentRule” if they can be shown to have failed to exer-cise due care by disregarding information about thepotential adverse financial consequences or reputa-tional risk of climate change on their business.Indeed, some in the insurance industry believe theyare already feeling the impacts of climate change asa result of weather-related losses. Administrators ofinstitutional investment funds may also feel thatthey have a fiduciary duty to determine the impactsof climate change and seek changes in corporatestrategies towards their GHG emissions.”

As the responsibility for management of thesematerials continues to grow, the protocol for theirhandling for re-use or destruction becomes anincreasingly important aspect of any projectproposal.

RemTec International specializes in acceptingHalons as well as a broad range of ODS and GHGsfrom international sources for reclamation anddestruction.

Our protocol for shipping material for eitheroption into the United States, calls for completetraceable and verifiable records not only for pur-poses of obtaining an export permit from the

source country and a US Environmental ProtectionAgency, (EPA) for entry into the United States, butalso as a means of validating each step of theprocess.

Reclamation is the first option forconsideration Reclamation is an option for Halon 1301. In accor-dance with the Regulation (EC) No 2037/2000 ofthe European Parliament and of the Council of 29June 2000 on substances that deplete the ozonelayer, Halon 1301 can be employed in critical usessuch as the following.● in aircraft for the protection of crew compart-

ments, engine nacelles, cargo bays and drybays,

● in military land vehicles and naval vessels forthe protection of spaces occupied by personneland engine compartments,

● for the making inert of occupied spaces whereflammable liquid and/or gas release could occurin the military and oil, gas and petrochemicalsector, and in existing cargo ships,

● for the making inert of existing mannedcommunication and command centres of the

armed forces or others, essential for nationalsecurity,

● for the making inert of spaces where there maybe a risk of dispersion of radioactive matter,

● in the Channel Tunnel and associated installa-tions and rolling stock.

PermittingThe export permit must be obtained in compliancewith the source country’s Ministry of Environmentregulations. The procedure starts with an inventoryof the cylinders to be offered for destruction orreclamation. This inventory includes cylinder infor-mation, estimated weight and end-users’ contactinformation. An export permit from the sourcecountry must be approved prior to the applicationwith the US EPA.

A permit from the US EPA can take up to 40business days. The US EPA verifies the accuracy ofthe application including contacting the originalsource of the material. Once all information hasbeen confirmed, a Non-objection notice is issuedby the US EPA.

Packaging and ShippingProper packaging of hazardous commodities andshipping documents (shipping labels, bill of lading,Material Safety Data Sheets, export permit, andthe US EPA Non-objection permit) are required. Insome countries, Halons and CFCs are consideredhazardous wastes and must be labeled as suchwhen shipping. In the United States, Halons andCFCs are not considered hazardous wastes, buthazardous materials. Cylinders manufactured out-side the United States are not regulated by USDepartment of Transportation (DOT) and thereforecannot be legally transported over US roadways.The hazardous materials must be transferred intoDOT-approved cylinders.

Tracking and DocumentationProper documentation of the US receipt of thematerial should include leak detection, cylinderweight, gas purity verification and actual weightcalculation of the ODS or GHGs recovered.

Testing accuracy is important for verificationpurposes. RemTec is one of only four Air Condi-tioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) certifiedlaboratories in the US. ARI establishes specifica-tions and maintains quality control standards forthe industry.

Certifications and Site Audits The US EPA certifies facilities for the reclamation ofODS. This provides assurance that all materials are


CLEAN AGENTS

In almost all cases – even those

set at +10 percent of 1990 levels

– the limits call for significant

reductions in currently

projected emissions.

The export permit must be

obtained in compliance with

the source country’s Ministry

of Environment regulations.

The procedure starts with an

inventory of the cylinders to be

offered for destruction or

reclamation.

processed in compliance with all applicable regula-tions. US EPA Certification should be verified.

Site audits are useful to verify and insure com-pliance. For those reasons, RemTec is EPA-Certifiedand encourages site audits.

RemTec International is unique as a dual-processing facility for reclamation and destructionof ODS and GHGs. RemTec provides a Certificateof Reclamation or Destruction to our customersfor their records. This certifies that all materialshave been processed in accordance with allapplicable regulations.

A significant concern to all in the chain of cus-tody is the proper disposal at the end of useful life.The technologies for disposal are an increasinglyimportant issue as responsibility and exposureexpand.

One of the technologies for disposal that isgaining support from governmental and privatesectors is plasma arc destruction, which providesseveral significant benefits.

Destruction Tracking and VerificationBecause plasma arc destruction can accept a100% feed of halocarbons into the destructionchamber, the waste can be tracked and measuredthrough the destruction process.

Plasma arc destruction provides instrumenta-tion, principally the Coriolis Mass Flow meter andpressure and temperature sensors that enableaccurate tracking of the material as it is destroyed.The recording systems pro-vide verification during thedestruction process and apermanent record to vali-date the destruction.

Traditional incinerationrequires that these materi-als are trickle fed into a kilnwith other waste streamsmaking exact tracking moredifficult.

DestructionEfficiency Plasma arc destructiondestroys the halocarbons attemperatures in excess of6,000 degrees centigradeproviding a Destruction andRemoval Efficiency (DRE) of99.9999%. The following

diagram demonstrates theimpact of increased tempera-ture in terms of time requiredfor destruction.

In this example, toluene, asolvent, requires over one sec-ond to be destroyed throughincineration while plasma arcrequires 5.5 nanoseconds. Theenvironmental concern is thelonger destruction timeincreases the potential for theODS and GHGs to escape tothe atmosphere.

For purposes of perspective,a comparison must be demon-strated in terms of light speed.Light would travel 186,000miles in the second required

for destruction using incineration. Light wouldtravel a mere 1.6 meters using plasma arc destruc-tion. Plasma arc provides almost instantaneousdestruction reducing any potential of ODS orGHGs escaping to the atmosphere.

Reduces the potentials of Dioxins andFurans from formingDioxins are one of the most toxic man manufac-tured chemicals ever made; furans are one tenth as toxic. After the destruction process, themolecules may reform into dioxins or furans.Plasma arc significantly reduces the opportunityfor reformation. The molecules are quicklycombined with a caustic soda solution andtransformed into salt water.

Emissions to the atmosphere areminimizedAdditionally, air emissions affecting the atmos-phere are de minimis since the primary effluentfrom the process is salt water. (See Diagram)

As responsibility and exposure increase, theproper management of these materials fromcradle to grave becomes an ever-increasingconcern. The tracking and technologies used forthis purpose are becoming increasingly important.Combining the highest standards for tracking andverification with state-of-the-art technologies fordestruction and to reduce risk and exposure for allparties in the chain of custody. IFP


CRADLE TO GRAVE RESPONSIBILITY FOR CLEAN AGENTSCLEAN AGENTS

PROFESSIONALS IN PROTECTION

Saved by“The time creator”

Lives can be saved with passive fi re protection. When exposed to a fi re, structural steel frames can lose their load bearing

capacity, leading to structural failure. Passive fi re protection ensures the safe access for fi re fi ghters and allows for safe

evacuation of people.

Steelguard of PPG Protective & Marine Coatings is a product range of thin-film intumescent coatings, epoxy

intumescent coatings and vermiculite cement sprays. With an experienced coatings supplier like PPG Protective &

Marine Coatings custom-made solutions can be developed to ensure dependable and compliant fire protection.

Steelguard is used for • Shopping centres • Warehouses • Stadiums • Airport terminals • Refi neries • Chemical plants

• Offshore constructions • Gas storage tanks • Tunnels

PPG Protective & Marine Coatings, Micro House, Station Approach, Wood Street North Alfreton DE55 7JR, United Kingdom

Telephone +44 1773 837 300 • Fax +44 1773 837 302 • [email protected] • www.ppgpmc.com

80018_PPG_Adv_Steelguard_210x2971 1 04-02-2008 12:29:08


PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION FORUM

One such ambiguity concerns the approachto be adopted at the joints between twosystems, when a new type of fire protection

material is being installed alongside an existingalternative type on load bearing structural steelelements. The question is; exactly how do you deal with the junction, to ensure uninterruptedprotection?

It is when such clarification is required thatorganisations such as the Association for SpecialistFire Protection (ASFP), with its wealth of technicaland practical knowledge, come into its own.

The ASFP has always considered it best practiceto completely protect individual structural steel, orstructural elements, with the same fire protectionsystem and that the mixing of fire protection sys-tems should be avoided on single steel elements,since the fire testing of all possible interfaces isimpractical. So, in general, the advice would bethat the use of different built-in fire protectionsystems on individual steel or structural elements

of construction should be avoided. The Associa-tion recognises, however, that on some occasionsthe situation is unavoidable. It has, therefore,produced new guidance on how to deal with thevarious scenarios.

In the first instance, the individual product man-ufacturers should always be contacted for relevantadvice on their system being used alongside theother, but further considerations should:● Note that off site sprayed beams are not

treated at the connection point and care withinterfaces will be needed. See generalcomments and [a] to [j] below

● The failure temperatures in fire are different foruniversal beams, cellular beams and universalcolumns. The abutting systems should besuitably selected

● The existing fire protection system, to beabutted or overlapped, must be fully cured andchemically compatible with any other system tobe in contact with it

By The Associationfor Specialist FireProtection (ASFP)

Fire Protection atthe Junction . . .

The use of board, coating

and spray systems to

protect steel in the event

of a fire is generally quite

straight forward and well

documented. But

occasionally a technical

matter crops up that is a

little outside the norm.

The ASFP has always considered it best practice to completely

protect individual structural steel, or structural elements, with the

same fire protection system and that the mixing of fire protection

systems should be avoided on single steel elements, since the fire

testing of all possible interfaces is impractical.

● Overlapping or abutting different systemsneeds careful consideration since they maybehave in different ways in fire. For example,‘shrink back’ of any system in fire, at junctions

● The specific procedure will be affected bywhichever fire protection system is first appliedon site and by the interval before a secondsystem can be added.The types and sequence of installing PFP

systems can be illustrated by the table above.

Adding a reactive coatingGuidance for adding a reactive coating (a) next toan existing reactive coating system, (b) next to anexisting sprayed system or (c) next to an existingboard system is the same for each. Where a reac-tive coating fire protection system is to be addednext to an existing fire protection system, the bestguidance is to have a simple butt joint betweenthe two different systems. If this is not possible,advice should be sought from the two fire protec-tion system manufacturers and based on the testinformation available, or alternatively from inde-pendent consultants, as described in governmentguidance documents.

Adding a spray coatingWhen adding a spray coating adjacent to reactivecoating [d], the spray should overlap the reactivecoating by a minimum of 100mm where it meets areactive coating.

Different spray systems may have differentchemical compositions, so when adding sprayadjacent to an existing spray system [e], contactthe manufacturers concerned to confirm thechemical compatibility between the two systems.Once compatibility is established, a tight butt jointbetween the two systems should be used. Ifcompatibility is not established, do not use theintended spray system.

When adding spray adjacent to existing boardsystem [f], always contact the spray systemmanufacturer for the detailed procedure to befollowed.

Adding a board systemWhen adding a board system adjacent to reactivecoating [g], ensure the board system overlaps thereactive coating by 100mm where it meets the re-active coating, before being capped off. Note theneed for chemical compatibility of any materials/adhesives used with the reactive coating system.

Where a board system meets a spray system [h],the existing spray should be cut back to provide aflat edge. The board system should be capped off

at the junction and a suitable overlap may need tobe incorporated, if advised by the manufacturer ofthe board system being added.

If adding a board system next to an existingboard system [i], they may be of different thick-ness and the joints may be complex. It is thereforerecommended that the web of both board pro-tection systems should be capped off, using therelevant protection material, to prevent thepassage of fire into the web.

Note that alternative methods may be availablefrom manufacturers for specific products.Manufacturers may, for example, advise that coverstrips with a minimum specified overlap should be used. For any situation or scheduling notcovered by the guidance above, consult themanufacturer of the fire protection system to be added/abutted to the existing protectionsystem.

Junctions between protected andunprotected steelThe potential for heat transfer from unprotectedstructural steel into protected structural steel mustalso be considered. It is normally believed goodpractice to protect the adjoining 500mm of‘unprotected’ structural steel to limit unwantedheat transfer.

In the case of boxed systems, the end of thesystem should be capped off to prevent passage offire into the web of a beam or column. This meansfilling the end of the boxed system with at leastthe same board thickness as used for the primaryprotection of the steel element, using tested fixingsystems.

In the case of profiled spray systems, the unpro-tected steel should be masked prior to applicationof the spray such that a clean edge is achieved forthe full depth of the sprayed system. Profiledboard systems will be expected to have a squareedge.

Further information is available from the ASFPwebsite at www.asfp.org.uk or from the ASFP,Tournai Hall, Evelyn Woods Road, Aldershot GU112LL. Tel: 01252 357832. Fax: 01252 357831.Email: [email protected] IFP


FIRE PROTECTION AT THE JUNCTION . . .PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION FORUM

Existing type of Product being considered for adding to steelwork where [x] refers to thefire protection system notes below the tableon the steelwork

Reactive coating* Reactive coating [a] Spray [d] Board [g]

Spray** Reactive coating [b] Spray [e] Board [h]

Board system** Reactive coating [c] Spray [f] Board [i]

*Reactive coatings, such as intumescent paints, are defined as: products that are specifically formulated toprovide a chemical reaction upon heating, such that their physical form changes and in so doing providefire protection by thermal insulative and cooling effects**Fire resisting boards and sprays are defined as: products which do not change their physical form onheating, providing fire protection by virtues of their physical or thermal properties

The potential for heat transfer

from unprotected structural

steel into protected structural

steel must also be considered.

20137 Milano - Via Ennio, 25 - ItalyTel.: + 39 02 5410 0818 - Fax + 39 02 5410 0764E-mail: [email protected] - Web: www.controllogic.it CONTROL LOGIC s.r.l.

20137 Milano - Via Ennio, 25 - ItalyTel.: + 39 02 5410 0818 - Fax + 39 02 5410 0764E-mail: [email protected] - Web: www.controllogic.it CONTROL LOGIC s.r.l.

CONTROL LOGICSparkdetector

designed fordust collectionsystemsto protectstorage silosfrom the riskof fi re.

Sparks fl yat high speed.

They travel at a hundred kilometresper hour along the ducts of the dustcollection system and reach the silo

in less than three seconds

The CONTROL LOGICSPARK DETECTOR

is faster thanthe sparks themselves.

It detects them with its highlysensitive infrared sensor,

intercepts and extinguishesthem in a fl ash.

It needs no periodic inspection.

The CONTROL LOGIC system is designed for “total supervision”.

It verifi es that sparks have been extinguished, gives prompt warning of

any malfunction and, if needed, cuts off the duct and stops the fan.

BETTER TO KNOW IT BEFOREEye is faster than nose.

In the event of live fi re the IR FLAME DETECTOR

responds immediately

CONTROL LOGICIR FLAME DETECTOR

the fastest and most effective fi re alarm devicefor industrial applications IR FLAME DETECTOR

RIV-601/FAEXPLOSIONPROOFENCLOSURE

For industrial applications indoorsor outdoors where is a risk of explosionand where the explosionproof protection is required.One detector can monitor a vast areaand responds immediately to the fi re, yet of small size.

IR FLAME DETECTORRIV-601/F

WATERTIGHTIP 65 ENCLOSURE

For industrial applications indoorsor outdoors where fi re can spread out rapidly due to the presence of

highly infl ammable materials,and where vast premises need an optical

detector with a great sensitivityand large fi eld of view.

Also forRS485 two-wire serial line

25SF-c275x185gb.indd 1 24-06-2005 12:50:37


•Ease of Installation

•Ease of Set-Up

•Ease in Operation

•Easy!

FIRERAY - The leading lightin smoke detectors

FIRERAY 5000The Ultimate motorised auto-aligning beam detector

Mot

oris

ed A

uto-

alig

ning

Approved by

R

9 Hunting Gate, Hitchin

Hertfordshire SG4 0TJ, U.K.

T +44 (0) 845 402 4242

F +44 (0) 845 402 4201

E [email protected]

W www.ffeuk.com

• Modular Design

• Easifit First Fix System

• Ground Level Control

• Laser Assisted Alignment

• AutOptimise Beam Alignment

• UniBeam Technology

• Contamination Compensation

• Building Shift Compensation

• Cost Effective

Rapid fire detection – thanks to clever cables.The SecuriSens® TSC temperature sensor cables

Securiton AG, Alarm and Security Systems www.securiton.eu, [email protected]

A company of the Swiss Securitas Group


SMOKE, HEAT AND FLAME

No two buildings are the same in terms ofhazard or fire protection. Even buildings thatare architecturally similar will have their

unique safety challenges. Room sizes may not beidentical, evacuation routes may differ, the goodsstored in each building may vary in volume or fuelload, and the fire threat posed by nearby struc-tures or processes may have a significant impact.This, of course, is why such legislation as the UK’sRegulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order makes itmandatory for every building owner or occupier toundertake a fire risk assessment, and ensure thatthis assessment is kept up to date.

So, while it is essential to get expert professionaladvice when selecting fire detection devices,ensuring that the installation remains appropriateto changes in the building structure or use isequally vital. To put that another way, to be effec-tive, the detection devices – indeed the fireprotection installation as a whole – has to matchthe risk that exists when a fire breaks out; this maybe different to the risk that was identified when

the system was originally designed. So, the goldenrule is to keep reassessing fire protection, in theform of re-visited fire risk assessments, high on thecorporate agenda.

Detector optionsIn terms of fire detection, there have been anumber of innovations in recent years that haveadded to the sophistication and reliability of theindividual devices. However, the downside of thesedevelopments is that those responsible for firesafety can be easily confused by the options that are now available, unless they are intimatelyfamiliar with the new technology.

Essentially sensors and detectors can be fittedthat detect smoke, heat and flames, and the char-acteristics of each depend on the type of firedetection and alarm system that is being installed.These are known as “non-addressable” and“analogue addressable” systems. In a non-addressable installation, detectors are in one oftwo states – normal or alarm. Individual detectors

By Graham Lowe

UK Sales Manager,Hochiki Europe

Smoke, Heatand Flame– Making Sense of DetectionThere is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all fire detection solution. Here, GrahamLowe, UK Sales Manager at Hochiki Europe, which designs and manufactures abroad selection of fire detection and alarm products, explains why.

are not identified or given a specific “address”, sonon-addressable systems tend to be used insmaller buildings. In an analogue addressablesystem, each sensor has its own unique “address”number on the control panel, and these systemsare invariably the preferred solution for high-hazard, large or complex buildings, or those withcomplicated or phased evacuation procedures. Theterm “sensor” is normally used for analogueaddressable devices, while “detector” usuallyapplies to non-addressable devices.

Optical devices detect smoke using light scatteror obscuration techniques; when visible smokeenters the device’s chamber some light is scatteredby the smoke particles, which is then detected bythe sensor. Ionisation detectors were once used fordetecting smoke but are now less popular due totheir radiation content and issues surroundingtheir shipment and ultimate disposal. Aspiratingsmoke detectors sense microscopic smoke particles in a sampling chamber, and beamdetectors work by smoke obscuring a percentageof the light between an infrared transmitter andreceiver.

Some heat detectors use what is called athermistor to detect temperature changes, whileothers use resistance as a type of detection. Fixeddetectors have a pre-set temperature threshold,and rate-of-rise detectors react to a sudden risefrom a baseline condition. A linear detector uses aspecial cable to detect heat anywhere along itslength. A flame detector detects either ultravioletor infrared light emitted by a fire.

In addition to straightforward smoke, heat,flame and beam detectors the current Hochikinon-addressable offering, for example, alsoincludes: intrinsically safe smoke and heat detectors;waterproof fixed temperature heat detectors; andindustrial intrinsically safe and industrial explosion-proof flame detectors. The company’s analogueaddressable sensor line-up comprises: high perfor-mance optical sensors; combined optical and heatmodels; variable temperature and multi-heatsensors; and waterproof multi-heat sensors.

So, each type of detector is designed for aparticular fire risk. Change the risk – for example,turn an office into a test laboratory – and you maywell need to change to another type of sensor ordetector to maintain the integrity of the installa-tion, which reinforces the need for ongoing firerisk assessments. A failure to spot the need tochange the detector may, at best, lead to the now-inappropriate device initiating false alarms; at worst, the outcome could be a fire, followed by

an investigation by the local fire safety enforcingauthority. Neither are appealing outcomes, partic-ularly as modern detectors and sensors can bechanged so easily, and as expert advice of deviceselection is so readily available.

Enhanced performanceIn recent years there have been a number ofimprovements to detection devices that haveboosted their reliability and performance. In partic-ular, major advances have been made to theirability to differentiate between a real fire andenvironmental pollution or other conditions thatmay previously have initiated a false alarm.

For example, Hochiki incorporates what is calledFlat Response high performance chamber technol-ogy into all of its optical sensors and detectors,including the intrinsically safe and marine-approved devices. This optimises the device’ssensitivity to both smouldering and flaming fires.Also, by re-engineering and refining the internaloptics, the sensor’s or detector’s reaction to awider range of inputs has been enhanced.

A suite of false alarm management tools isincorporated within Hochiki’s ESP – EnhancedSystem Protocol – analogue addressable openprotocol to further improve immunity from falsealarms. This suite, called ARM – which stands forAlarm Reduction Management – includes DriftCompensation that, when activated by the controlpanel, automatically recalibrates sensors every 24hours. ESP also provides what is called full digitaltransmission for exceptionally secure signalling,and incorporates Checksum error checking tosafeguard the integrity of the data and ensurereliably correct communication. It also has highimmunity from electrical noise, so there are nofalse alarms due to corruption.

Siting detection devicesBS 5839 Part 1: 2002 (Fire detection and alarmsystems for buildings. Code of practice for systemdesign, installation, commissioning and main-tenance) is the appropriate European standard. Itprovides recommendations for fire detection andfire alarm systems in and around buildings, otherthan dwellings. The Standard covers systems thatrange from those comprising only one or twomanual call points and sounders to complexnetworked systems that incorporate a large num-ber of automatic fire detectors, manual call pointsand sounders, connected to numerous inter-communicating control and indicating panels.

It sets out a number of requirements that applyto detectors and sensors. These include: thecoverage radius and need for overlapping to avoid“blind spots” for optical smoke and heatdetectors; the requirements for smoke and heat detectors in rooms with apex ceilings; thespacing of devices in corridors; and the positioningof devices in relation to obstructions. The Standardalso covers the mounting of devices near lightfittings, in ceiling voids, near lifts, elevators andstairways.

To assist installation designers and installers,Hochiki has produced a free Guide to BS 5839 Part 1: 2002, which illustrates the main pointscontained in the Standard. However, this is in no way intended as a substitute for the Standard itself. Copies are available via email [email protected]. IFP


SMOKE, HEAT AND FLAME – MAKING SENSE OF DETECTIONSMOKE, HEAT AND FLAME

Full details on Hochikiproducts are available bytelephone on +44 (0)1634260136, and via email at [email protected] company’s website can be found atwww.hochikieurope.com

Hochiki Europe (UK) LtdGrosvenor Road, Gillingham Business ParkGillingham, Kent ME8 0SA UKTel: +44 (0)1634 260136 Email: [email protected]

www.hochikieurope.com

The phrase? Above All Expectations

Hochiki. Because nothing else is quite good enough.

If you want to know more, talk to Hochiki today.

Above All Expectations. There’s only one phrase that sums up the latest products from Hochiki.

There’s a low-cost voice alarm system that’s feature

packed and new industrial flame detectors that will

dramatically reduce false alarms. Then there’s a new

fast-fit module housing system that will revolutionise

site installation and a new high-sensitivity system that

cuts the cost of smoke detection.


WATER MIST

The advantages of these systems are importantand can be summarised as follows:

● Economical. Minimum cost of extinguishingagent

● Ecological. No harm to the environment● Electrically non-conductive● Efficient for flammable liquid fires ● Safe for the protected equipment and occupied

personnel

● Reduction of water damage compared withconventional water systems

● Significant reduction of enclosure temperature● Removal by washing of toxic gas and smoke● Multi-discharge systems

Water mist systems provide a fast and efficientsuppression for class A (wood, paper), B (liquidfuels) and C (electrical)* fires. They eliminate thehazard of re-ignition, offer an unparalleledsuppression of deep seated fires, destroying and

By Alex Palau

LPG Product Manager

DescriptiveAnalysis onWater Mist FireExtinguishingSystemsWater mist extinguishing systems optimise the amount of water used throughmaximising their effective volume, through the dispersion of tiny droplets. This inturn maximises the cooling capacity for a given amount of water. The reductionof water volume reduces the damage that can be caused using conventionalwater extinguishing systems.

filtering smokes. Perhaps the most important factof all is that only very small amounts of water areused.

Nowadays water mist systems are used in theprotection of civil and military ships, machinesrooms, machinery spaces, data processing centre,bilge, cabin and public areas.

Likewise, their use in industrial applications isgrowing widely covering applications such as tur-bine rooms, machinery rooms, generator rooms,data processing centres, archives, subway andunderground hazards and mobile material, etc.

The only standard on water mist systems that iscurrently published, NFPA 750, establishes themethodology to be followed for system design,installation and testing, indicating which parts arerequired to be approved, and what documentationis required. The onus is on the manufacturer to beresponsible for the design and specific applicationengineering.

Use in Normally Occupied AreasThe most important aspect for the use of systemsin normally occupied areas is that of toxicity. Anextinguishing agent may create a toxic atmospherewhich is hazardous to those personnel occupyingthe area.

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) inthe USA established a program on Classificationand Acceptance of new extinguishing agents usedto substitute Halons. This program is called SNAP(Significant New Alternatives Policy).

For the approval of water mist systems fornormally occupied areas EPA set up a medical panel for a study on possible health hazardsassociated with the inhalation of water mist froma discharge, etc.

The results of this study show no local orremote toxicity link and as a result water mistsystems are approved for areas normally occupiedas long as drinking water or sea water is used(Federal Registry, 28th July 1998).

Water Mist Extinguishing MechanismIt is well known that conventional extinguishingagents, with the exception of the Halons and dry

chemical powder, act on fire by means of thefollowing mechanisms: cooling, combustiblesmothering or oxygen starvation. Halons and drypowder act mainly by cessation of combustionthrough the inhibition of free radicals. Thesemechanisms are described by the “fire triangle”and “fire tetrahedron”.

Water mist owes its extinguishing efficiency tothe combination of the following three methods:● Cooling: Water mist has a large cooling capacity.

Water spread in micron size droplets produces a large surface area for heat absorption.Additionally these micro-droplets vaporise oncontact with hot bodies or gases absorbing alarge amount of heat equivalent to 540calories/gram

● Smothering: The vapour generated displaces anequivalent volume of oxygen which produces asmothering effect

● Attenuation: Radiation is produced through theincrease of combustion temperature of addi-tional black body mass. Mist formed in theprotected volume significantly reduces theeffects of this radiation.Other after secondary effect is considered:

● Dilution: A degree of vapour flammability isrequired to maintain combustion. Under certainconditions water mist appears to decrease thevapour concentration below the flammabilitylimit.It is worth reflecting briefly on the combustion

and flammability of solids and liquids. The com-bustion of solids or liquids starts when sufficientheat is present to generate flammable vapours andto reach the ignition temperature. The heat willgenerate more volatility of combustible materialand generate a chain reaction.

It follows that any extinguishing mechanismshould be produced in conditions such that thevolatility and ignition occur. The efficiency of watermist is in its ability to mix within this environment.Therefore water mist systems will only be efficientif they are capable of establishing contact with thecombustible material in this phase.

Applications of Water Mist SystemsWater mist systems are mainly used in the follow-ing applications described within NFPA 750:● Fire control: Limits the spread of fire

growth; “pre-wetting” of adjacent combustiblematerials; controlling upper combustion airtemperature

● Fire suppression: Substantial and rapid reduc-tion of fire related factors, releasing of heatduring the discharge period

● Fire extinguishment: Complete fire suppressionand control of combustible material.

Toxicology There are innumerable micro-organisms in water.The two main carrier methods of disease are wateringestion and inhaling. As most of the dropsexceed 20 microns in diameter ingestion is themost important method.

The conditions which affect water are:● The type of water. It is assumed that drinking

water contains few micro-organisms in compar-ison to non-potable water. If the concentrationof chlorine is increased from 2mg/l to 4mg/lLegionnaire’s disease is eliminated

● The type of container. There are containers


DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS ON WATER MIST FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMSWATER MIST

*Note that for Electrical Fires Class C is used in the USAand Class E in the UK.


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which facilitate the growing of micro-organismsbut others that do not. Appropriate main-tenance and cleaning of containers willeliminate the formations of micro-organisms.Legionnaire’s disease is transmitted by inhaling

contaminated water. Assuming that little water isinhaled and that if water is inside enclosures (as inLPG systems) the risk is very low. It is assumed thatin general the risk of disease transmission is lowand insignificant when maintenance and cleaningoperations are carried out.

It is considered that the amount of corrodedpipe elements is insignificant to health.

The inhalation of water containing toxic firecomponents is dependent on the type of com-ponents. Part of the component could bedissolved in the water and enter into the lungsand most will be in contact with the skin and eyes.Results are difficult to establish as it depends onfire type but it is considered better to have aneffective fire extinguishing system and that lesssmoke is generated.

The use of water additives should be consideredfor each particular case and depends on the prod-uct added. Additives with low toxicity or thoseused in small amounts will not cause problems.

StandardsThere are few standards for water mist systemsand none of them will give any guidance on wherenozzles shall be placed and which is the correctflow rate of them for each application. NFPA 750standard, which can be considered as main refer-ence standard, only describes existing water misttechnologies, gives hydraulic calculations methods

and gives minimum requirements for pipes,hangers . . . NFPA 750 considers that water mistsystems must be listed for specific hazards andprotection objectives due to the absence of a gen-eralized design method. At his last revision (2006edition) there is a list of worldwide published andrecognized fire protocols that can be referenced(some of them are still under discussion).

These worldwide published fire protocols arepublished by different recognized entities (IMO,VdS, FM, UL . . .). Protocols main purpose is toevaluate water mist performance under specificconditions. It’s very important to understand thatprotocols are design in accordance to the intendeduse of the fire protection system as defined by thestandard or by the design and installation manualapproved by a recognized entity. As an example,CEN water mist task group has develop a standard(nowadays under review) which includes a proto-col to evaluate total flooding water mist systemperformance to protect enclosed rooms wherepool fires may develop. Some of the fires on theprotocol are small (around 1 MW) and obstructed.Degree of obstruction has been a compromise toguarantee full develop fire (increasing obstructionmay had restricted air entrance to flame) and toprovide a reasonable degree of obstruction towater droplets. It’s believed that this protocoldefines a representative hard enough scenario butat any case is believed that it is a real scenario.Because of that, CEN standard specifies as pass/failcriteria, that all fires described on the protocolhave to be extinguished for the system to beallowed to be installed as a control system(minimum discharge time 30 minutes). IFP


DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS ON WATER MIST FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMSWATER MIST

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ROGUE CABLES

When, in the UK, the former DTI (Depart-ment of Trade & Industry) – now calledthe Department for Business, Enterprise

and Regulatory Reform – and BASEC (BritishApprovals Service for Cables) go public about theirconcerns regarding rogue cables being availableon the market, it is most certainly time to sit upand take notice.

While some of the evidence is anecdotal, it istoo plentiful to continue ignoring, particularly withthe increasing prospect of legal action following inthe aftermath of a fire. And the situation showslittle sign of abating. Like many of the reputablecable manufacturers, Draka has a sin-box ofsample rogue cables that is filling up fast.

The message from BASEC could not be clearer.A press release issued by the organisation includedunequivocal advice to everyone in the market: donot take a supplier’s claim at face value, as faultyor non-compliant products are becoming a majorindustry issue. Its warning is that there is now a“severe danger” of cables being supplied andinstalled that lack independent third-party approvaland fall short of the required performance level.

Dr Jeremy Hodge, chief executive of BASEC, isquoted as saying: “A common misunderstandingis thinking that a cable is compliant, or is even

BASEC approved, just because the supplier claimsthat it has been produced to a certain standard.This is not the case. Cables marked with just astandard number should be treated with extremecaution. It is possible that no-one has indepen-dently examined that cable.”

What’s the problem?The problem seems to have its origin in the esca-lating price of copper over the past few years.Reports soon circulated that some unscrupulousproducers had fallen prey to the temptation to cutcorners and use less copper in the manufacturingprocess. Reducing the diameter of the copper wiretoo much has the effect of reducing the currentrating and increasing the resistivity of the cable.This could potentially result in overheating, whichcould lead to fire or reduce the level of safetyagainst electrical shock.

From there the situation worsened. Recently,there have been instances where materials otherthan pure copper, such as steel wire, copper-coat-ed aluminium or badly recycled copper have beenused in cables. These instances seem to be restrict-ed to cable originating outside of the EU, and nowalso seem to include incorrect cable constructionresulting in inferior fire performance. This can have

By Mark Froggatt

Marketing ServicesManager, Draka UK

Rogue Cables – a Risk

Internationally, the talk about poor quality cables is reaching a crescendo. Butwhat is it all about? And why should it concern everyone in the fire industry?Mark Froggatt, Marketing Services Manager of UK-based cable manufacturer,Draka UK, explains.

a serious detrimental impact on the safety andreliability of fire detection and alarm systems, andemergency lighting installations.

Why worry?Because this is a problem for everyone; nobodycan wash their hands of it.

Just consider the following scenario. A contrac-tor buys cable requesting that it is to comply witha specific British, European or international stan-dard. Cable is supplied that is proudly inscribedwith the claimed standard, indicating a specificfire-resistance rating. Thousands of metres of thecable are installed when fate steps in and fire

breaks out. The cable is found to be defective.Welcome to the world of litigation, substantialcosts, and a reputation that has taken time tobuild and grow, goes from well respected and intothe dustbin in one quick step.

The specifier defends his actions by pointing outthat he had clearly stated the standards to whichthe cable must apply. Attention then swings to theinstaller. In turn, they show the cable the whole-saler or distributor supplied, which probably hasthe standard printed on the outside. They willundoubtedly argue that they asked for compliantcable, and relied on their trade supplier’s expertadvice and care. Finally, the wholesaler will be

asked to prove that the materials supplied werebacked up by the required levels of certificationand accreditation from the manufacturer.

Sound bad enough? Well, that could be just thebeginning. How long do you think it would bebefore other customers are asking questions aboutthe “compliant” cable supplied to them? It is thisscenario which is causing concern, and why thereare certain reputable manufacturers who aredelivering this warning message to the whole ofthe supply chain.

In England and Wales, for example, the Regula-tory Reform (Fire Safety) Order has made themarket far more conscious of the need to use only

proven, third-party approved, top quality products.Relying on assertions that a cable is manufacturedto a specific standard simply will no longer do. TheFire Safety Order places responsibilities on all of usto take ‘reasonable’ steps to ensure fire safety andso it is reasonable for wholesalers to demand inde-pendent test certification by such fully accreditedorganisations as BASEC, TÜV or LPCB (Loss Preven-tion Certification Board).

The importance of this third-party accreditationis that the specifier, the trade supplier and theinstaller can be sure that the cable being suppliedtoday is built to exactly – and the key word is“exactly” – the same standard and specification as


ROGUE CABLES – A RISK NOT WORTH TAKINGROGUE CABLES

Not Worth Taking

A press release issued by the organisation included unequivocal

advice to everyone in the market: do not take a supplier’s claim at

face value, as faulty or non-compliant products are becoming a

major industry issue.

the cable that was originally tested and approved.If the cable is from a producer that does not havethis third-party accreditation there is, in reality, noguarantee whatsoever that it is manufactured tothe standard being claimed for it.

This is important even when buying cable froma well known manufacturer. Earlier cable from thatsupplier may have been up to standard, but re-sourcing materials and accepting a different speci-fication, changing the formulation of the coatingor sheathing, or modifying the design are justexamples of changes that can affect the perfor-mance of a cable that still proudly – but now erro-neously – bears the standard’s compliance mark.

Consider for a moment the growing interna-tional trend to use fire engineering principles and

techniques to devise fire safety solutions. This isparticularly so for large or complex buildings, orthose that establish new architectural or buildingdesign boundaries. Frequently in these structures,occupant safety, structural integrity and propertyprotection rely solely on the dependable operationof sophisticated fire detection and alarm systems;smoke venting systems; electrically-operated firedoors and smoke curtains; firefighting lifts; pres-surisation and depressurisation fans; motor-drivensmoke control dampers; and pumps for sprinklersystems and wet-risers.

To be effective, these life-preserving systemsand components must remain operational underfire conditions, the more so if, as is increasingly

becoming commonplace, they are integrated intoa single building management system. So, toensure that they continue to operate in a fire, it isabsolutely essential that the power circuits contin-ue to function to the standard required by legisla-tion and the specifier’s requirements. Use asub-standard rogue cable in these instances andthe results could be catastrophic in terms of loss oflife and the destruction of property.

Never mind the quality, what’s theprice?The fact that these rogue cables and sharp prac-tices have come to light actually increases theneed to insist on supplying and using only third-party accredited cable and, of course, making sure

that hard evidence of that accreditation is pro-duced. This gives out very positive and powerfulmessages. For example, it can be used to illustratethat quality is of paramount importance to thecompany, while also demonstrating its under-standing of the increasingly legislative environ-ment in which the market now operates, and ofthe need for full compliance with the country’s firesafety legislation.

Mark Froggatt can be contacted by telephone on+44 (0) 1332 345431, by fax on +44 (0) 1332331237, and via email at [email protected]. The company’s website is atwww.drakauk.com

IFP


ROGUE CABLES – A RISK NOT WORTH TAKINGROGUE CABLES

The fact that these rogue cables and sharp practices have come to

light actually increases the need to insist on supplying and using

only third-party accredited cable and, of course, making sure that

hard evidence of that accreditation is produced.

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PENETRATION SEALS

This quote from the philosopher GeorgeSantayana is often reduced to the one line:“Those who cannot remember the past are

condemned to repeat it.” Often this is an admoni-tion to remember the mistakes made in the pastand not to repeat them. But, this is not always thecase. Yes, we must know our history but it is notall filled with mistakes. We have had numerousaccomplishments in the relatively short history ofour Firestop Industry. Some of the recentdevelopments (or what well may be considered

accomplishments) include those found in: Codes,Standards and in the various Organizationsassociated with our Industry.

If memory serves, it was in the 1988 edition ofthe UBC where Firestopping was first associatedwith compliance to ASTM E814. Before that time,compliance to Firestopping was by the use of “anapproved method”. This was very much open tointerpretation by the Code Officials; but byprescribing compliance to E814, progress wasmade. At that time, the major model Building

By Randy G. Clark

Manager, FirestopTechnologies,International Div.RectorsealHouston, TX

“Progress, far from consisting in change, depends on retentiveness. Whenchange is absolute there remains no being to improve and no direction is set forpossible improvement: and when experience is not retained, as among savages,infancy is perpetual. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned torepeat it. In the first stage of life the mind is frivolous and easily distracted; itmisses progress by failing in consecutiveness and persistence. This is thecondition of children and barbarians, in which instinct has learned nothing fromexperience.”

George Santayana, The Life of Reason, Volume 1, 1905

Repeating History Recent Developments In The Firestop

Codes in the United States, weredominated by three regional Codeorganizations: Building Officials andCode Administrators International(BOCA), International Conference ofBuilding Officials (ICBO) and SouthernBuilding Code Congress International,Inc. (SBCCI). For many years, there hadbeen the desire to have one ModelBuilding Code recognized throughoutthe country. In 1994, the InternationalCode Council was formed by theseCode organizations to accomplish thetask. There was even participation bythe National Fire Protection Associ-ation (NFPA) in this endeavor. Workbegan on what was to become theInternational Building Code (IBC), which was firstpublished in 1997. In 2000, the ICC developed aseries of International Codes. During those years,NFPA pulled out of the alliance and began workon a competing National Model Building Code, tobecome known as NFPA 5000. Their Code wasfirst published in August 2002 and its early‘preprint’ followed the original “EPCOT” basedformat. Though the NFPA has a long history withthe establishment and publication of Codes, forexample NFPA 101, “Life-Safety Code” and NFPA70, “National Electrical Code”; the pursuit to havetheir Building Code adopted by local jurisdictionshas greatly fallen behind the adoption of the IBC.

It is a monumental accomplishment and anarduous task to blend three long standing modelBuilding Codes into one document acceptable toall. It is a process of compromise as well as anopportunity to come together to strengthen thefinal document in areas where there may havebeen room to improve issues of Life-Safety. It hasbeen the opinion of many in the Industry, includ-ing my own, that the new Code provides toomany areas where ‘trade-offs’ occur. For example,areas where using sprinklers could allow a reduc-tion or elimination of previously required fire ratedbarriers. Sprinklers have a long history as a primaryactive part of a Total Fire Protection Package.However, it is widely accepted that a “Balanced”approach for Total Fire Protection could better

serve the public and after all, it is they, along withthe noble men and women serving as Fire Fightersand Life Rescue Personnel, whom we need toprotect. A Balanced approach is needed where thevital elements of Detection, Suppression andCompartmentation work together, as ‘active’ and‘passive’ parts to complement and enhance eachother; not one overshadowing the others, but allworking together as a team. This is to what weshould aspire.

There have been recent developments withinthe Standards relating to both Testing and Prac-tices directly related to our Firestop Industry. Wenormally trace our Fire Test Standards to ASTM

E119, “Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests ofBuilding Construction and Materials”, which wasfirst published in 1917. It is still used today in thetesting and rating of walls, floors, beams andcolumns. It was from the roots of E119 that ourIndustry produced ASTM E814, “Standard TestMethod for Fire Tests of Through-Penetration FireStops”. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) also pro-duced similar Test Standards with the issuance ofUL 263 and UL 1479, respectively. Though theNFPA published their own Standard for E119/UL263 in the form of NFPA 251, they have as yet notpublished one specific to Penetrations. During theearly 1990s, the Industry sought to address theFire Testing of rated construction joints whichresulted in the publication of UL 2079, “Standard


REPEATING HISTORY IS NOT A BAD THINGPENETRATION SEALS

is Not a Bad Thing:Industry

During the early 1990s, the Industry sought to address

the Fire Testing of rated construction joints which

resulted in the publication of UL 2079, “Standard for Tests

for Fire Resistance of Building Joint Systems” in 1993 and

which was later followed by the ASTM E 1966, “Standard

Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems”.

for Tests for Fire Resistance of Building JointSystems” in 1993 and which was later followed bythe ASTM E 1966, “Standard Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems”. These standardsallowed for further refinement in the testingspecific to construction joints in that they allowedfor the cycling of the joint, a characteristic longsuspect in the severity of performance. The Stan-dards also allowed for tests to be performed onsmall scale furnaces, a realistic advantage so long

as the joint’s length to width ratio was no greaterthan 10:1. The Standards maintained the integrityof the rated adjacent surfaces, in that the jointand the area adjacent to the joint must maintainthe same limits for the temperature rise on theunexposed side of the assembly. Additionally, withthe rise in 3rd Party Inspections, ASTM has devel-oped specific Standard Practices with ASTME2174, “Standard Practice for On-Site Inspectionof Installed Fire Stops” as well as with ASTME2393, “Standard Practice for On-Site Inspection

of Installed Fire Resistive Joint Systems and Perime-ter Fire Barriers”. Both Standards lend themselvesto the establishment of a more comprehensive andconsistently performed inspection by providingexcellent guidance for not only what needs to beinspected but also as to how the inspections canbe performed.

Specifically to the testing of Through-Penetrations,UL has also added provisions to the UL 1479 andUL 2079 which call out the procedures for the

option to test in order to establish both L- and W-Ratings for either Penetration or Joint SystemDesigns. The L-Rating is an air leakage ratemeasured through the System determined fromtests conducted at both ambient (75ºF/24ºC) andat an elevated (400ºF/204ºC) temperatures with adifferential pressure of 0.30 inches of water(75 Pa). The W-Rating is for the evaluation of watertightness and indicates the level of water tightnessachieved during the test by the System Design.

Even more significant to the Industry was the


PENETRATION SEALS

Specifically to the testing of Through-Penetrations, UL

has also added provisions to the UL 1479 and UL 2079

which call out the procedures for the option to test in

order to establish both L- and W-Ratings for either

Penetration or Joint System Designs.

issuance by UL of two revisions to the UL 1479which: a) mandated the evaluation of the per-formance of Intumescent materials used withinSystem Designs and b) eliminated the use of a‘chase’ wall during a penetration test.

Often referred to as “Accelerated Aging”, thesetests “. . . were developed to address the perfor-mance of intumescent materials after installation.”As further stated by Bob Berhinig of UL in hisarticle, “UL’s Enhanced Requirements for Intumes-cent Firestop Products” published in “The Fire &Security Authority”, Issue 4 in 2006, he continuesby writing that the test protocols “. . . require thatthe expansion properties (are) to be demonstratedafter exposing the intumescent material to acceler-ated aging and high humidity conditions.” Hecontinues by saying that passage of the tests canbe “. . . determined using either bench top testingmethods or the traditional fire test method.”Though not perfect (but what test method is), itwas by this procedure that the Industry gainedsome uniform measure of comparative perfor-mance for intumescent products established by aworld recognized independent organization.

Additionally, UL implemented a change of thetest method with the elimination of the use of achase wall for concrete floor/ceiling assembliesand wood floor/ceiling assemblies where the

penetrants were contained within a fire-rated wallassembly. Before this time, the test assembly couldbe constructed with the penetrant housed withina rated chase wall, typically a framed gypsum wall,as it emerged from the floor. With this design, thepenetrants are ‘protected’ from the full exposureof the fire during the test period. I have usuallyreferred to this design as a ‘bake’ and not as a‘burn’, because of the ‘sheltering’ affect caused bythe chase wall. In UL’s explanation of the change(published on their website), they stated that “thisrevision reflects a more realistic worst-case condi-tion”. When testing a penetrant such as a 3 inch(75mm) non-metallic pipe which is installed withina tight opening, a typical firestop sealant could beused at the interface of the pipe and the hole andstill meet the Standard’s acceptance criteria. If thepipe was fully exposed and this design was used,the firestop sealant could never close off the pipesufficiently to pass the test. I agree that the fullyexposed penetrant is worst-case, but there are siteconditions where the penetrants do pass throughthe floor assembly into (that is through) the cavityof a framed gypsum wall, which could either be ofa rated or a non-rated construction. Over the pastyears, our Industry has attempted to educateBuilding Officials to approve for use only those

System Designs which match site conditions. Byeliminating the ability to test and list a chase wallapplication, are we meeting their needs?

Lastly, the 1990s saw the formation of twosignificant organizations in our Firestop Industry:the International Firestop Council (IFC) and theFirestop Contractors International Association(FCIA). The IFC was formed by leading manufac-turers of Firestopping Products and has for wellover a decade promoted “Saving Lives and Proper-ty Through Fire and Smoke Containment”. Thishas been done through the efforts of manydedicated people and companies by the promo-tion of Life Safety through the Balanced approachto Fire Protection. Through their efforts, Codesand Standards have been influenced and variousPrograms have been developed and used toeducate and inform Architects, Engineers andBuilding Officials, to mention only a few. It wasout of the IFC that several of the organization’sassociate members, mostly specialty contractors,formed what was to become the FCIA. Here too,this organization has grown and expanded inmembership and influence to become a respectedand influential member of our Industry.

One significant contribution by the FCIA hasbeen their influence and work in the establish-ment by Factory Mutual of FM 4991, the

“Standard for the Approval of Firestop Contractors”.With the introduction of this very comprehensiveprogram, Specialty Firestop Contractors haveraised the bar for installers in our Industry. Theyhave also proven influential with the architects asis evidenced by the increased appearance ofspecifications which call out the requirement forcontractors to have completed the FM 4991 Pro-gram. Their influence is also evidenced by UL’sintroduction of their own procedure for a “Quali-fied Firestop Contractor Program”. Obviously, theneed in having a procedure in place by whichthese specialty contractors can be trained andaudited has found a place within our Industry.

Santayana may have seen only the mistakes inour history and cautioned against repeating them,but there has been much good accomplished inour Industry’s history in recent years. I am confi-dent that with our many dedicated and committedpeople, who are willing to put Life-Safety issuesabove their own or their company’s desires, ourfuture will be bright. We will take the positiveelements from our history and not only learn from them, but also build upon them andcontinue to strive toward our mutual goal ofproviding the best Life-Safety protection for thePublic Good. IFP


REPEATING HISTORY IS NOT A BAD THINGPENETRATION SEALS

Lastly, the 1990s saw the formation of two significant

organizations in our Firestop Industry: the International

Firestop Council (IFC) and the Firestop Contractors

International Association (FCIA). The IFC was formed by

leading manufacturers of Firestopping Products and has

for well over a decade promoted “Saving Lives and

Property Through Fire and Smoke Containment”.

For further information, please contact:

Tyco Safety Products, Burlingham House, Hewett Road, Gapton Hall Industrial Estate,

Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 0NN. Tel: +44 (0)1493 417600 Fax: +44 (0)1493 417700

E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.macron-safety.com

Copyright © A subsidiary of Tyco Holdings (UK) Ltd.

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EXTINGUISHERS

Arisk assessment carried out recently at a British apartment block recommended that portable fire extinguishers be removed

from the common areas “as a way of improvingfire safety”. Considering that there is a mass ofstatistics from the UK and Europe that clearlyshow the life and property saving role thatportable extinguishers play, this seems to be a veryodd decision.

It becomes more puzzling with the news that itis a view that appears to be supported by the localfire brigade at a time when fire safety legislation in

the UK has placed the responsibility for fire safetyonto the shoulders of building owners and occu-piers. It also seems at odds with other fire brigadesthat are actually offering training in the use ofportable extinguishers. It has to be said that, if thisadvice to remove portable extinguishers is widelyadopted, we are in for a dramatic rise in thenumber of fires.

It appears that these particular risk assessorsbelieve that extinguishers are a hazard inuntrained hands and could encourage people totry to tackle a blaze themselves rather than leaving

By Steve Walker

UK Sales Manager,TOTAL® portables, Tyco Fire Suppression &Building Products

PortableExtinguishers – Training is the Key to Safe andEffective UseWhen fire breaks out, portable fire extinguishers are frequently the first line ofattack. However, there is clearly some confusion about their role in fire safety,and their safe and effective use demands proper training. Steve Walker, UK SalesManager for TOTAL® portables at Tyco Fire Suppression & Building Products,explains.

the building. But, considering the huge number offires that are safely extinguished every year usingportable extinguishers, surely it makes more senseto focus on providing training rather than remov-ing what has proven to be a very effective meansof containing a small fire?

The local brigade, according to newspaperreports, subscribes to the “get out, stay out andcall the fire service out” approach. However, thisadvice means that the residents of this multi-storeybuilding should resist any urge to extinguish aminor waste bin fire in the foyer, activate thealarm, evacuate the entire building and await thearrival of the fire brigade.

Facing the factsThis sounds like a credible solution until you takeinto account that things are very different intoday’s UK fire service. Following the Fire andRescue Act in 2004, every UK fire brigade now haswhat is called an IRMP – an Integrated RiskManagement Plan – that is aimed at the difficulttask of balancing its obligations with its resources.The outcome in some parts of the country is thatbrigades will now not respond to an alarm unlessthere is “visual confirmation” of a fire; otherbrigades will, in the first instance, send a four-wheel-drive vehicle to assess the fire beforecommitting further resources; others – unlessthere is reason to believe that people are insidethe building – will not permit firefighters to enteran unfamiliar building to tackle a blaze. Also,some stations now have lower manning levelsduring the night.

The fact of the matter, according to a surveyconducted by FETA (Fire Extinguishing TradesAssociation) – now merged with the BFPSA toform the Fire Industry Association – is thatportable extinguishers save the British economyalone around £500 million every year and extin-guish completely around 66,000 fires. Even thesefigures may underestimate the role played byportable extinguishers as they are designed toprevent relatively minor incidents becoming majorconflagrations, so their use often goes unreported.

To put this into perspective, the 66,000 fires

extinguished by portables compares with figuresfrom the UK government’s Department ofCommunities and Local Government that showthat the fire and rescue service in the UK attended88,400 fires in buildings in the UK in 2006. So thecontribution made by the effective use of portableextinguishers is undeniable, and adopting a wide-spread policy of removing them would place acrushing burden on an already strained fire service,possibly with catastrophic consequences. Anotherwise minor fire would be allowed to turn intoa major blaze while an overstretched fire servicestruggles to deal with a near doubling of calls forassistance.

Train for a safe outcomeSo, surely, we should be focusing on the safe useof portable extinguishers, rather than dismissingthem and – as it appears to be in the British apart-ment block – leaving nothing in their place. InEngland and Wales, for example, The RegulatoryReform (Fire Safety) Order covers the commonareas in such buildings, which means that there isa legal imperative to appoint a “responsibleperson”, to ensure that adequate training isprovided, and ensure that residents are aware ofthe fire safety precautions being implemented inthe building.

Training in the safe use of portable extinguishersis readily available and inexpensive. Many firebrigades now include information on the selec-tion, siteing and use of portable extinguishers ontheir websites, as well as offering short trainingcourses. Reputable suppliers of portable extin-guishers also are only too willing to work with abuilding’s ‘responsible person’ regarding theselection of the most appropriate extinguisher, itssiting, providing training, and help to ensure thatthe legislative requirements are being met.

In essence, the training should cover emergencyprocedures, familiarisation of the building and itsescape routes, an understanding of the differenttypes of fire and their likely causes, the differenttypes of portable extinguisher and their safe use,and when not to attempt to use a portableextinguisher to fight a blaze. This may, at firstglance, appear to be a somewhat onerous sched-ule, but most training courses take between acouple of hours for a basic portable extinguishercourse, to half-day courses run by such organisa-tions as London Fire Brigade that combineportable extinguisher training with fire awareness.


PORTABLE EXTINGUISHERS – TRAINING IS THE KEY TO SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USEEXTINGUISHERS

The contribution made by the

effective use of portable

extinguishers is undeniable,

and adopting a widespread

policy of removing them would

place a crushing burden on an

already strained fire service,

possibly with catastrophic

consequences.

In whatever form it takes, the training has toempower the user to make intelligent decisions,and to do this they must understand thesignificance of the information carried on theportable. One particular aspect relates to the useof portables on electrical equipment, as manyportables on the market state that they have beentested and are: “safe to use on electrical equip-

ment up to 1000v at one-metre distance”. Statedin this way, rather than as suggested by the FIA(Fire Industry Association), that the extinguishermay: “inadvertently be discharged on electricalequipment…”, could well imply to the uninitiatedthat the portable is recommended for electricalfires.

Train the trainerThe majority of fire risks can be easily identifiedduring a professionally conducted fire risk assess-ment and most minor outbreaks can be successfullydealt with using one of the industry-standardportable extinguishers designed to fight Class A

fires involving flammablesolid materials such as wood,paper, straw and cloth; ClassB fires involving flammableliquids or liquefiable solids;Class C fires involving gases,and Class D fires involvingmetals.

However, the reality is thatstandard portables are aimedat fighting broad-brushclasses of fire, and are notdesigned to fight very specificfire challenges, so there is awider training need wherespecial risks might beencountered. This trainingthough needs to be directedprimarily towards the tradeand fire risk assessors tomake them aware of thespecial risks and the portableextinguishers that are nowavailable to tackle them.

These special risks include:metalworking productionareas where light metal andalloy waste can catch fireduring machining operationsand can, typically, reach tem-peratures in excess of 2000degrees; mining and quarry-ing industries, where eventhe smallest amount ofkinetic energy can initiate acoal dust explosion; andsmouldering sawdust firesthat are a serious fire hazardin every joinery shop, furni-ture manufacturing plant and

timber processing facility. Other special risks are:fat and cooking oil fires that are difficult to extin-guish, due to their high auto-ignition temperaturesand where conventional extinguishers areineffective, as they do not cool the burning fat oroil sufficiently and may even cause flashback; andpolar solvent liquid fires where, again, conven-tional foam extinguishers are ineffective.

Training or education?A final thought on training in relation to portableextinguishers might well come under the heading“education”. The fire industry globally is becomingever more aware of the need for third-partyaccreditation as the only reliable means of verify-ing that products genuinely comply with thestandard being claimed for them. This is certainlythe case with portable fire extinguishers and endusers should be encouraged to put their faith onlyin portables that are certification by an approved,independent third-party accreditation organisationsuch as TÜV and LPCB (Loss Prevention Certifica-tion Board). IFP


PORTABLE EXTINGUISHERS – TRAINING IS THE KEY TO SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USEEXTINGUISHERS

The fire industry globally is becoming ever more aware of the

need for third-party accreditation as the only reliable means of

verifying that products genuinely comply with the standard

being claimed for them.


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STORAGE TANK FIRES

The statistics of the Buncefield fire make chill-ing reading; the fire engulfed more than 20large fuel storage tanks and over 250,000

litres of foam concentrate and 25 million litres ofwater were needed to put out the blaze. It wasthe largest peacetime fire in Europe since the endof the Second World War and certainly at the topof the” major incident” scale of storage tank firesthat occur, on average, once a month somewherearound the world, according to figures fromSveriges Provnings och Forskningsinstitut – theSwedish National Testing and Research Institute.

The Buncefield fire destroyed five percent of theUK’s petrol stocks, resulted in the evacuation ofsome 2,000 homes, and is believed to have costthe site’s operator and the British nation well inexcess of £I billion. Just eight months earlier, themassive explosion at BP’s Texas City refinery in theUSA killed 15 people and injured 170 others.

So, even though petrochemical production, pro-cessing and storage facilities are constructed withmeticulous care, and with painstaking attention tofire safety, tank farm fires do occur. When they do,firefighting protocols and equipment are tested tothe limit.

Hardly surprising then that the industry’s atten-tion is well and truly focused on the need toemploy the most effective fire safety measures.Incidents like Buncefield highlighted the necessityto embrace a more strategic approach to foamstocks and the need to forge closer workingrelationships between the petrochemicals industryand those companies best positioned to offerexpert advice and deliver integrated agent anddelivery solutions.

In reality, there are just two possible responsesto a storage tank fire, the first being to let it self-extinguish by leaving the fire to burn out. Clearly

By Peter Kristenson

EMEA Product Manager, foam products, Tyco Fire Suppression &Building Products

Storage TankFire Protection – preparing for the worstWhile oil and petrochemical storage tank fires are rare, the fire at the Buncefieldfuel depot in England in 2005 is a stark reminder of the imperative need toprovide them with truly robust firefighting solutions. So argues Peter Kristenson,EMEA Product Manager for foam products with Tyco Fire Suppression & BuildingProducts.

not an acceptable solution from any standpoint –environmental, economic or political – as it wouldresult in a massive fire that would burn for weeks,possibly months, and end only with the completeloss of the stored product. This response also callsfor a major cooling operation to stop the fire fromspreading to adjacent tanks and nearby structures.The second option, and far more effective andacceptable, is to actively extinguish the fire. Thiscan be achieved only by using firefighting foams.

Fixed foam protectionEffective fixed foam systems are undeniably thebest method of protection for storage tanks, asthey do not demand the hasty assembly of emer-gency equipment and manpower. However, thetype of system selected depends mainly on twofactors, the tank structure and the nature of itscontents.

It was almost 60 years ago that the first reliablestorage tank fire protection solution wasdeveloped by SKUMTM. Since then, SKUM brand

systems have been developed for cone roof andfixed roof tanks, open-top floating roof tanks,covered floating roof tanks, and horizontal tanks.However, an explosion – such as occurred atBuncefield – may well result in significant damageto the tank structure, seriously reducing theeffectiveness of foam generators used in fixed or“over-the-top” systems. So, while such systemshave a well-earned reputation for cost effective-ness and reliability, this risk has lead to the morewidespread use of the less vulnerable sub-surfaceinjection systems for applications where there issufficient water pressure available for their use.

In sub-surface systems, foam is introduced closeto the bottom of a tank through a separate foamline. The foam then floats to the surface to spreadand extinguish the fire. However, extreme careneeds to be taken to ensure that this technique is not used on gasoline blends that contain alcohol or other polar solvent additives asoxygenates, as polar solvents destroy the foam,even where alcohol-resistant concentrates are


STORAGE TANK FIRE PROTECTION – PREPARING FOR THE WORSTSTORAGE TANK FIRES

used. Sub-surface injection also cannot be used oncone roof tanks with internal floaters, in accor-dance with NFPA (National Fire ProtectionAssociation) 11 – Standard for Low, Medium andHigh-expansion Foams.

The semi-subsurface injection technique over-comes this problem. It can be used for all types offuel and has all of the benefits of sub-surfaceinjection. This technique uses a flexible hose that isfilled with foam under pressure. When the systemis activated, the hose floats from the bottom ofthe tank to deliver the foam to the surface. Thistechnique is cited by the NFPA as being successfullyinstalled in more than 60 countries around theworld.

Fixed monitors & generatorsFixed monitors have shown to be a cost effectivemethod for protecting relatively small storagetanks and associated spill or ground fires. Increas-ingly, remotely-operated monitors with electricalor hydraulic control systems and exceptional throwperformance are enabling firefighters to remain ata safe distance from the fire. So much so thatmonitors have been used successfully to extinguishfires in larger diameter tanks, using high-flowdevices and large diameter fire hoses. Today,delivery capabilities span from 1,000 litres-a-minute up to more than 20,000 litres-a-minute.However, in accordance with NFPA 11, monitorsshould not though be deployed as primary pro-tection for cone roof tanks with diameters inexcess of 18 metres.

Following an explosion, horizontal tanks havebeen known to rupture, so it is essential to ensurethat the bund area is sufficiently protected. Evenfor larger bund areas in major tank farms, fixedlow or medium-expansion generators can be usedto create an effective foam blanket, with anyresidual fuel in the tank being protected using amonitor. In fact, monitors can be used to protectthe bund area, but this results in much higherfoam consumption, and the recommendation isfor at least two monitors to protect larger bundsto ensure complete coverage and the effectivenessof the equipment in all wind conditions.

Fixed systems are also now more frequentlyused for floating roof tanks than was once thecase. SKUM has developed specialised equipmentfor these applications, where foam pourers areused to protect the rim seal area, with the foambeing contained by a foam dam. Nevertheless,good foam fluidity is essential to ensure thatcoverage is achieved rapidly. Some oil companieshave installed both foam pourers and sub-surface


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systems to protect covered floating roof tanks.Mobile trailer-mounted monitors come into

their own as back-up for fixed foam systems, pro-tecting the tank itself or the bund surrounding it,although with the advent of increasingly largerfloating roof tanks, large-capacity monitor trailers

are now also being adopted as primary firefightingsolutions.

Suppressing vapour emissionsFoam is the ideal medium for the suppression ofvapour from flammable liquids, toxic chemicalsand LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). For many years,it has been used with considerable success tocover un-ignited spills to ensure that ignition doesnot occur and provide a vapour barrier to preventre-ignition. The best foams are fluoroprotein-basedfoams or multi-purpose foams, which must alwaysbe used if covering water-soluble fuels. Thesemulti-purpose foams are, if used at medium-expansion rates, particularly effective because theyengulf the spill in a deep layer of stable foambubbles that is not easily affected by wind onexposed sites.

Toxic chemicals – chlorine, ammonia and thelike – are also stored in bulk and are a significanthazard if spilled, even into a containment area.Toxic vapour clouds can spread to represent amajor contamination risk and, depending on theproduct’s reactivity, either conventional firefightingfoams or specialist concentrates can be applied.Here too, medium-expansion foam is the mosteffective solution with a layer of at least 0.5metres being applied within three to four minutes.The American Gas Association, British Gas andGaz de France have conducted extensive trials toevaluate the suitability of high-expansion foam asa vapour suppressant on LNG spills. These havealso shown that high-expansion foam can con-tribute significantly to the control of LNG spill fires.

Of course, the practice should be to containspills, wherever possible, within drainage systemsto prevent their spreading. However, fighting firesin these drainage systems using portable equip-ment may well jeopardise the lives of fire fighters,as the draining systems can be so complex. In suchcases, fixed monitors are often installed thatincorporate supplementary hose lines to extinguishany small remaining pockets of fire. IFP


STORAGE TANK FIRE PROTECTION – PREPARING FOR THE WORSTSTORAGE TANK FIRES

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FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

Afire panel which can be used in different countries and is designed for fire alarm systems of different sizes? In the past, this

would have been very difficult to achieve. Globally, there exists an enormous number of

country-specific standards and regulations forsecurity technology, all of which must be takeninto consideration when planning and designing afire alarm system. Even the European Standard EN 54 has not improved the situation as expected.This is compounded by the numerous additionalnational regulations and cultural norms in everycountry in the field of fire alarms. It is due to thesedifferences that there is such a large number ofdifferent types of fire panels.

Another reason for the large number ofdifferently-sized fire panels is the differing number

of detectors, controllers, sounders etc. dependingon the size of the fire alarm system.

Every fire panel is installed and operateddifferently. This results in high costs for time-consuming training for maintenance and operatingpersonnel. The owner must also cover additionalcosts for storing the various spare parts dependingon the type of fire alarm system he has. If thestatutory regulations change or if the existing firepanel has to be removed due to expansion of thebuilding, the net investment can prove to be veryexpensive.

Solving the problemNeither manufacturers nor Specifiers and End-Userswere happy with the status quo as describedabove. A new method of solving the problem had

By Claus Caspari

Manager, MarketSupport Fire, BoschSecurity Systems

Fire protection:Fire alarm systemsNew Modular Fire Panel 5000 Seriesfrom BoschIn the past, anyone considering purchasing a fire panel was confronted with abewildering array of different panel sizes and types. Bosch has now come to therescue by designing a new, expandable model which can be used for a widevariety of applications thanks to its modular structure - a fire panel which growsas the needs of the user grow.

The types of fire panelscurrently available.Confusing?

to be found. How could a common denominatorbe found for all the different requirements which anew fire panel was expected to meet?

Customer benefit had top priority:● The fire panel has to be easy to expand ● It has to meet country-specific standards and

guidelines● The customer only has to buy the components

that he actually requires● A system which can be operated easily and

intuitively● Low training outlay, or none at all ● No need to store spare parts ● Inexpensive installation and initial set-up● Rigid in installation and operation

The idea behind the designA fire panel based on the building block principle was developed. This consists of individualmodules which can be combined together asnecessary.

The building block contains various types ofhousings, modules, power supply units and carrierunits. These create the internal connection whichis required in order to facilitate communicationand the power supply between the modules. Everymodule is a logical functional unit.

There is a variety of enclosures and modulesthat can be used to create the desired fire alarmcontrol panel. A common internal bus systemautomatically connects the modules and powersupply. Each module has a distinct function in thesystem. Country specific modules are available tocustomize the panel to any market.

Encapsulated modulesIn the past, manufacturers of fire alarm systemsprovided a specific level of basic equipment whichthe customer could expand by purchasing optional

functional components. Expanding thebasic equipment in this way was not aneasy task. For example, the unprotectedand delicate PC boards from whichthese functional components weremade could be easily damaged throughstatic discharge or incorrect handling.

This is resolved in the new designwhere the functional units consist ofcompletely encapsulated modules whichare attached to panel rails. “Click andgo” is the motto. Every module is built into a plastic housing and thismakes it suitable for use on buildingsites. The PC board can no longer be

touched; static discharge can cause no moredamage. The pre-wired panel rails prevent wiringerrors from occurring in the internal power supplyand communication data bus.

InstallationThe installer gathers the modules required for thenew fire panel. He is free to choose any moduleshe likes and to arrange them as he pleases asevery module slot is identical. In line with the“click & go”, the modules are simply placed inposition to create the new fire panel on site in amatter of seconds. Any combination of Modules ispermitted. The Modules can be placed in any railposition.

The easy-to-assemble terminal strips make itvery easy to replace the modules at a later date:the modules are simply removed and then placedin position again. It is no longer necessary todisconnect the leads.

This means that every fire panel is a unique firepanel but can be adapted flexibly to the changingneeds of the End user.

Initial set-up“Plug and Play” is the magic word here. Just likein a PC, the modules which have been insertedand the components which are attached to themare automatically recognized by the central controlunit. This means there is no need to perform atime-consuming, expensive test of the entiresystem. The system can be programmed using aWindows based software program with a Windowsinterface. The program offers online assistance tothe customers in various languges. With the Thebuilt-in diagnostic tool any fault can be analyzedin detail on the fire panel itself. It is possible toexpand the fire alarm system at a later date with-out putting the existing system out of operation,

because modules can be attached orremoved while the “hot-pluggable” firepanel is still in operation.

The most important component is the LSNmodule. A single two-wire line ensures boththe power supply as well as communicationbetween the connected devices. In case ofcable breakage, the faulty loop section isisolated automatically, prompting the loopstructure to be turned into a two-stubconfiguration.

The LSN 300 module offers a currentconsumption of up to 300mA which in-creases the number of connectable elementson the loop strongly.

With the LSN A module it is possible topower the loop with 1500 mA. With a


The new design: a firepanel based on thebuilding set principle

FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

The new, robustmodules in comparisonwith the PC boards usedin the past

maximum loop length of 3000m thismodule offers high flexibility for systemdesign.

Operation A user-friendly interface allows a quickand effective navigation through thesoftware in case of faults or alarms. The5.7 inch touch screen can be easily oper-ated by using the finger or the attachedpen. A clearly laid out program interfaceand easy-to-follow menu navigation makefor easy operation.

All major functions such as diagnosisoptions and complete call-up of allincoming messages and events are builtinto the system. The software also allowsthe user to sort the connected elements intodifferent groups in a number of different ways. Inthis way, the user can assign functions quickly andeasily to entire element groups without having to call up each element individually. With morethan 10 languages in one panel, the same devicecan be used in various countries without timeconsuming SW download.

From small to big There are scarcely any limits on how far the systemcan be expanded. Fire panels can be generatedfrom a field bus line with up to 254 elements to a maximum of 32 field bus lines with 4096elements.

Panel networkingYou can connect remote keypads and network thecontrol panels of the 5000 Series by means of theflexible and secure CAN bus technology, a technol-ogy that has been proven million fold in the carindustry. The network operates on a peer-to-peerbasis with its structures ensuring reliable function-ality even if errors should occur. The CAN inter-faces for networking are already integrated in thepanel controller. Different loop topologies ensurethat the system is extremely flexible, meaning thatyou can adapt it perfectly to meet your require-ments. You can set up zones within the networkto facilitate well-regulated administration.

Integration in Building ManagementSystemsThe 5000 Series is connected to the BuildingManagement System (BIS) by means of anEthernet interface and the OPC protocol. It isalready integrated in the Panel Controller, noadditional interface module is required. The controlpanel is an integral component of the BIS, whereyou have extensive options for controlling the firesystem. The Modular Fire Panel can be connectedto super-ordinate control panels by means of theUGM module, thus providing integration into theenvironment of large-scale alarm systems.

Remote controlThe new remote control unit FMR-5000 is con-nected to the control panel by means of the CANbus, and allows complete controlling of the con-trol panel or the panel network. The user interfaceand operation correspond to the control panel, soyou can use it easily without the need for addi-tional training. Not only does FMR-5000 offer ahigh level of functionality and a handsome design,

it can either be mounted flush with the wall, oronto the wall itself.

Benefits and cost savingsAs the fire panel can be customized to suit thecustomer’s needs, the customer only pays for what he actually requires – unlike other productswhere he has to pay for more capability thanneeded.

The modules and the operating unit with touchscreen are used as common components – bothsmall and large fire alarm systems. Training ishardly needed thanks to the intuitive user interfaceand the fact that the same operation is valid for allsystem sizes from installations with one loop up tohuge networking systems.

The new parts from the building set also act as spare parts for all fire panels, so it is no longer necessary to keep a separate supply ofspare parts.

In conclusionThe module Concept allows fire alarm systems tobe used for a wide range of applications, regard-less of their size or structure. The new fire paneldesign reduces the number of different panels andpanel components, by using the same compo-nents for all panel sizes. The modular conceptprinciple lowers procurement, storage, trainingand expansion costs for all involved parties, whilealso reducing the time required for installation,maintenance and training. With at the same timeincreasing the flexibility in system design andinstallation. The modular concept allows the userto continuously growing his fire system togetherwith his business. IFP


The intelligent fire panelwhich grows to suit yourneeds

FIRE PROTECTION: FIRE ALARM SYSTEMSFIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

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Santana Integrator is a highly sophisticatedand flexible, yet easy to use, PC-based Alarmand Event Management system for total integration of building protection systems.

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Contact Phil Witts: 07971 404168

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FM-200 ®, and The Science of Protection™ are trademarks or registered trademarks

of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

Introducing DuPont™ FM-200®

It’s one of the world’s most widely specified waterless

fire suppressants—now from the world’s most trusted

name in clean agent fire extinguishants.

The difference between a minor inconvenience and a

business-destroying catastrophic fire can be measured

in seconds. That’s why we’re proud to offer FM-200®

waterless fire protection as part of the complete line

of DuPont clean agent fire suppression solutions.

DuPont™ FM-200® fire suppressant can reach extinguishing

levels in 10 seconds or less—stopping ordinary combustible,

electrical and flammable liquid fires before they cause

significant damage.

If it doesn’t say DuPont™ FM-200®, it’s not.

1.800.473.7790

cleanagents.dupont.com

DuPont Fire Extinguishants. The Science of Protection.™

Visit us at NFPA World Safety Conference & Exposition, DuPont Booths 613 & 1153.