Best Practices & Preventive Measures for Fire Safety in Oil & Gas Industries

Best Practices & Preventive Measures for Fire Safety in Oil & Gas Industries 

1. Introduction

Effective fire safety in the oil and gas industry relies on a multi-faceted approach encompassing prevention, detection, and response. Best practices include regular risk assessments, comprehensive training, robust fire protection systems, and well-defined emergency response plans. Implementing these measures minimizes fire hazards and ensures the safety of personnel and facilities.

2. Understanding the Fire Hazards in Oil & Gas Industries:

Oil and gas installations exhibit diverse blaze perils that necessitate recognition and comprehension to devise suitable Fire safety tactics. Combustible materials, like fossil fuels and methane, present noteworthy hazards. These materials possess distinct characteristics that render them extremely flammable upon encountering ignition sources like sparks, exposed fires, or elevated temperatures.

Aside from the combustible materials themselves, other possible fire risks in oil and gas plants consist of machinery glitches, electrical malfunctions, high-temperature operations, storage containers, conduits, production systems, and ignition points linked with equipment performance. Comprehending these perils and their plausible aftermaths is pivotal for executing efficient blaze prevention and command tactics.

2.1 Developing a Comprehensive Fire Safety Plan:

An all-encompassing blaze prevention strategy customised to the particular requirements of Oil and gas sectors is imperative for guaranteeing the security of staff and resources. This strategy ought to comprise numerous pivotal components:

a) Risk evaluations: Performing comprehensive risk evaluations aids in recognising possible fire dangers, assessing their gravity, and deciding on suitable preventative actions and contingency plans.

b) Emergency reaction protocols: Precisely established emergency reaction protocols ought to be in place, delineating measures to be taken in the occurrence of a conflagration event. This comprises of correspondence conventions, clearing out strategies, gathering spots, and the obligations and duties of crisis reaction groups.

c) Flame spotting and extinguishing mechanisms: Incorporating dependable flame spotting mechanisms, such as temperature, fume, vapour, and blaze sensors, allows prompt spotting of fires. These mechanisms ought to be amalgamated with efficient fire extinguishing mechanisms, encompassing aqueous sprinkler mechanisms, froth mechanisms, or vaporous suppression mechanisms, relying on the particular prerequisites of the establishment.

d) Personnel education: Sufficient education and consciousness initiatives ought to be granted to all staff, highlighting blaze deterrence, secure departure protocols, correct utilisation of flame suppressants, and the significance of immediate notification of plausible flame risks. Frequent fire drills and workouts are essential to guarantee readiness and acquaint staff with contingency protocols.

e) Strategy assessment and revisions: The blaze prevention blueprint must be frequently assessed and revised to encompass knowledge acquired from occurrences, alterations in statutes, and progressions in flame safety technology.

By executing an all-inclusive blaze security strategy, oil and gas enterprises can efficiently avert conflagrations, diminish the probability of mishaps, and guarantee a prompt and proficient reaction in case of a crisis.

2.2 Implementing Preventive Measures:

Fig. 1, Fire Prevention (To remove one component from Fire Triangle)

Precautionary steps have a noteworthy function in lessening the possibility of fire occurrences. Several crucial precautionary steps in the petroleum and natural gas sectors comprise:

a) Apparatus and apparatus upkeep Frequent scrutiny, upkeep, and examination of apparatus and machinery aid in detecting and resolving possible combustion risks. This comprises inspecting electrical frameworks, guaranteeing adequate airing, and upholding command frameworks to avert machinery breakdowns that may result in conflagrations.

b) Fire safety mechanisms: Setting up and upkeeping fire safety mechanisms, like flame-retardant partitions, fire-blocking entrances, and fire-defying layers, aids in confining blazes and hindering their expansion. These mechanisms ought to adhere to pertinent regulations and norms and be frequently scrutinised and verified.

c) Maintenance of the premises: Appropriate maintenance of the premises, such as the elimination of flammable substances, efficient garbage disposal, and the preservation of open and unobstructed walkways, diminishes the possibility of fire occurrences and enables secure evacuation during emergencies.

d) Hot work authorizations: Enforcing an authorization scheme for hot work operations, such as soldering, shearing, or sanding, guarantees that these operations are carried out securely. This comprises recognising plausible fire risks, executing fire prevention actions, and ensuring sufficient monitoring during high-temperature tasks.

e) Safe management of perilous substances: Rigorous procedures for the safekeeping, manipulation, and elimination of hazardous substances, such as combustible fluids, vapours, and compounds, are vital. This comprises of accurate tagging, appropriate storage receptacles, and conformity to safety data sheets and regulatory prerequisites.

By executing these precautionary actions, petroleum and natural gas enterprises can considerably diminish the possibility of conflagration occurrences and boost comprehensive security within their establishments.

3. Fire Detection and Suppression Systems:

Flame spotting and extinguishing mechanisms are crucial constituents of fire security in Oil and gas sectors. These mechanisms aid in identifying conflagrations during their initial phases and facilitate prompt reaction and efficient confinement. Important factors to take into account comprise:

a) Flame sensing mechanisms: Incorporating a blend of flame sensing technologies, like thermal sensors, fume sensors, vapour sensors, and blaze sensors, offers extensive protection and premature notification of fire occurrences. These mechanisms ought to be tactically positioned in zones with elevated fire hazards, encompassing operational sections, stockpiling zones, and command centres.

b) Fire quelling techniques: Diverse categories of fire quelling techniques can be utilised depending on the particular requirements of the establishment. Aqueous systems, like water sprinklers, are frequently employed for universal fire safeguarding. Aerated arrangements are efficient for combustible fluid infernos, whereas vaporous stifling arrangements, like carbonic acid gas or pure agents, are appropriate for safeguarding crucial machinery or zones where aqueous-based arrangements are not feasible.

c) Incorporation with alert and management systems: Flame perception and extinguishing systems ought to be incorporated with alert and management systems to guarantee a synchronised reaction. This comprises triggering alerts, powering off machinery, activating flame inhibition mechanisms, and commencing evacuation protocols.

d) Routine upkeep and examination: Flame perception and extinguishing mechanisms ought to experience frequent upkeep, scrutiny, and examination to guarantee their appropriate operation. This encompasses verifying for defective detectors, substituting outdated fire quenching substances, and executing apparatus evaluations in accordance with statutory prerequisites.

Through utilising dependable fire recognition and extinguishing mechanisms and guaranteeing their appropriate upkeep, petroleum and natural gas sectors can promptly identify and manage fire occurrences, lessening their effect on staff and establishments.

4. Emergency Response and Training:

Training staff to react efficiently during urgent circumstances is crucial for reducing the consequences of blaze occurrences. Important factors to take into account comprise:

a) Contingency strategy: Formulating a clearly outlined contingency strategy is imperative. This strategy ought to delineate communication conventions, egress methodologies, congregation spots, exigency cessation methodologies, and the functions and obligations of exigency reaction crews. It ought to additionally contemplate particular circumstances and plausible hazards within the establishment.

b) Instructional courses: Performing routine instructional sessions and exercises is crucial to acquaint staff with contingency protocols, escape pathways, and the utilisation of flame-prevention gear, like fire suppressors. Instruction ought to encompass flame inhibition, recognition of conceivable flame perils, and the significance of timely notification.

c) Urgency reaction squad: Assigning and educating an urgency reaction squad furnished with the essential expertise and comprehension to manage blaze occurrences proficiently is crucial. This group ought to be accountable for organising urgent reaction endeavours, executing dislodgments, and guaranteeing the welfare of staff.

d) Regular practises and workouts: Consistent fire practises and workouts ought to be carried out to evaluate the efficiency of the emergency response scheme, recognise regions for enhancement, and enhance overall readiness. These exercises ought to replicate diverse blaze situations and engage all staff to guarantee a synchronised reaction.

By giving precedence to emergency response readiness and offering routine education, petroleum and natural gas sectors can amplify the security of their employees and decrease the repercussions of blaze occurrences.

5. Continuous Improvement and Industry Collaboration:

Fire safety in Oil and gas enterprises is a persistent procedure that necessitates unceasing enhancement and teamwork. Important aspects to take into account comprise: a) Insights gained and optimal methodologies:

a) Exchanging insights gained from fire occurrences, close calls, and sector-wide optimal methodologies is vital for enhancing fire safety norms. This can be accomplished via online discussion boards, symposiums, and trade organisations.

b) Adhering to regulatory conformity: Keeping abreast with relevant blaze security statutes, principles, and benchmarks is indispensable. Complying with statutory obligations guarantees that the essential flame-resistant precautions are established and reduces the possibility of juridical aftermaths.

c) Collaboration and exploration: Cooperating with business partners, governing agencies, and academic establishments encourages originality and advances the growth of sophisticated fire prevention technologies and methodologies. Disseminating wisdom and expertise may enhance the comprehensive enhancement of blaze security in the petroleum and natural gas sector.

Through persistent efforts towards enhancement, cooperation with fellow professionals in the field, and staying up-to-date with the most recent studies and progressions, oil and gas corporations can boost their fire prevention measures and guarantee the welfare of their employees and resources.

6. Benefits of Technology Integration for Fire Safety

The integration of advanced technologies into existing fire safety protocols offers a multitude of benefits for the oil and gas industry.

·        Improved Response Times: Early detection and automated suppression systems enable rapid response to fire incidents, minimizing potential damage and loss.

·        Enhanced Situational Awareness: Surveillance technologies provide real-time visibility into operational areas, facilitating proactive decision-making and resource allocation.

·        Optimized Resource Utilization: Risk assessment technologies enable targeted mitigation efforts, allowing for the efficient allocation of resources to high-risk areas.

·        Reduced Operational Downtime: By preventing and mitigating fire incidents, technology-driven safety measures minimize disruptions to operations, ensuring business continuity.

·        Enhanced Personnel Safety: By mitigating fire risks and providing early warnings, technology-driven safety measures safeguard the well-being of personnel, reducing the likelihood of injuries and fatalities.

7. Conclusion:

Fire safety is of supreme significance in oil and gas sectors owing to the intrinsic blaze perils linked with combustible materials and intricate procedures. Comprehending the blaze perils, formulating all-encompassing fire security schemes, executing preemptive actions, allocating resources for fire recognition and extinguishing mechanisms, and giving precedence to emergency reaction drills are crucial in guaranteeing fire security.

Through embracing optimal methodologies, complying with mandates, and cultivating teamwork within the sector, petroleum and natural gas corporations can diminish the possibility of conflagrations, safeguard staff and resources, and promote a more secure labour milieu. Perpetual enhancement and a forward-thinking attitude towards fire security are indispensable to tackle evolving predicaments and guarantee the enduring safety and durability of the petroleum and natural gas sector.

References

·        Batteiger, V., Murray, R., & Reiber, J. (2018). Fire safety in the oil and gas industry. In Conference Proceedings: NFPA Conference & Expo. National Fire Protection Association.

·        Burrows, J., & Robinson, G. (2019). Enhancing fire safety in the oil and gas industry through risk assessment and management. Process Safety Progress, 38(1), e12072.

·        García-Agreda, A. J., Almeida, L. F., & Steen, M. (2019). Fire safety in the oil and gas industry: A review of regulatory frameworks. Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 122, 68-81.

·        McCall, P. (2018). Fire safety in oil and gas facilities. In Offshore Safety Management (pp. 259-282). Springer.

·        Yang, M., Yang, Z., & Khan, F. (2018). Fire and explosion risk analysis in the offshore oil and gas industry: A review. Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, 53, 131-152.

·        Institution of Safety Engineers (India), Safety Manuals

Basic about Fire sprinkler head

 Basic about Fire sprinkler head

A fire sprinkler or sprinkler head is the component of a fire sprinkler system that discharges water when the effects of a fire have been detected, such as when a predetermined temperature has been exceeded. Fire sprinklers are extensively used worldwide, with over 40 million sprinkler heads fitted each year.

Sprinkler heads feature a glass bulb filled with a glycerin-based liquid. This liquid expands when it comes in contact with air heated to between 135 and 165 degrees. When the liquid expands, it shatters its glass confines and the sprinkler head activates.

Sprinkler heads must be a maximum of 12-15 feet apart, depending on the hazard rating of the space (it ranges from Light Hazard to Extra Hazard 1&2), and at least half that distance from the nearest walls (typically 7.5 feet away).

Orifice (Opening)

The orifice varies in size, but has a major impact on the sprinkler's k-factor which ultimately governs the sprinkler's relationship between flow and pressure. Opening sizes vary fairly dramatically but in general are not a major driver for sprinkler selection.

Threading

The nominal threading sizes range in quarter-inch increments from 1/2-inch to 1-1/4-inch (although some dry pendent shafts do have 1-1/2-inch threads). Thread size of sprinklers can be gathered in the field simply by measuring the diameter of the thread shaft. Sprinklers with a k-factor greater than 5.6 are no longer allowed to have thread sizes of 1/2-inch (NFPA 13 2002-2016 Section 8.3.5).

Plug

The plug retains the water (and pressure) within the sprinkler and pipe network. Breakage of the liquid-filled glass bulb results in the release of the plug, and thereafter the water.

Sealed Liquid-Filled Glass Bulb

Modern commercial sprinklers mostly rely on the colored glass bulb as the thermal sensor in the fire sprinkler, but other types are still frequent as well. Color of the liquid within the bulb indicate the listed activation temperature of the sprinkler (and can be found in NFPA 13 2002-2016 Table 6.2.5.1).

Frame & Deflector

The frame can have many finishes, of which some of the more common are listed above. The deflector offers the basic premise of the fire sprinkler - which is to distribute water in a specific pattern to best combat a fire hazard within an enclosure. Deflectors vary depending upon the style of the sprinkler and work to achieve different objectives. A residential pendent, for example, throws water with greater emphasis to the walls and ceiling where hazards are more commonly present in residential occupancies.

Guide to the use of Ladders and Step-ladders in Work at Height

Guide to the use of Ladders and Step-ladders in Work at Height 

Guide to assist in the use of Ladders and Step-ladders in compliance with the Work at Height during Camera, EM Lock, Detector, Strobe, Hooter and cabling etc installation at Site. The Work at Height Regulations apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury. They place responsibilities on employers, and any person who controls the work of others.

If you are an employee or working under someone else’s control you should:

a) Report any safety hazard to them.

b) Use the equipment supplied properly, following any training and instructions.

1.    Employers responsibilities:

As an employer you should do all that is practicable to prevent anyone from falling. The regulations set out a simple structure for managing and selecting equipment for work at height.

Employers must:

• Avoid work at height where they can.

• Use work equipment or other measures to prevent falls where they cannot avoid working at height.

• Use work equipment or other measures to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should one occur.

• Take other additional suitable and sufficient measures to prevent a person falling a distance liable to cause personal injury including any additional training and instruction that may be required.

The regulations require the employer to ensure:

a) All work at height is properly planned and organised

b) All work at height takes account of weather conditions that could endanger health and safety

c) Those involved in work at height are trained and competent

d) A risk assessment is undertaken to ensure safe working

e) Equipment for work at height is appropriately inspected

f) The risks from fragile surfaces are properly controlled

g) The risks from falling objects are properly controlled.

2.    Planning

a) Ensure that no work is done at height if it is safe and reasonably practicable to do it other than at height.

b) Ensure that the work is properly planned, appropriately supervised, and carried out in as safe a way as is reasonably practicable.

c) Plan for emergencies and rescue.

d) Take account of the risk assessment carried out under regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations.

3.    Inspections

‘Inspection’ is defined by the regulations as ‘such visual or more rigorous inspection by a competent person as is appropriate for safety purposes’.

You should ensure (as far as is reasonably practicable to do so) that each individual place at which work is to be done at height is checked on every occasion before that place is used.

You should keep records of the formal periodic inspections until the next inspection has been carried out.

1.    Before starting

All employers should have procedures in place to ensure that ladders are only used where other safer means of access cannot reasonably be used.

Before site works begin:

• Identify all types of work where ladders are used;

Where work has to be done at height:

• Identify if other safer means of access can be used such as

    - tower scaffolds; or

    - powered access such as a cherry picker or a scissor lift.

• Identify the remaining short-duration work for which ladders can still be used.

2.    Carrying ladders and step-ladders

a) When carrying or handling ladders/step-ladders, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), e.g. gloves and safety footwear affording good grip should be considered.

b) Ensure you know how to get the ladder(s) on and off the vehicle safely.

c) Carry ladders/step-ladders in accordance with the correct manual handling procedures and ensure that there are enough people to carry the weight safely.

d) No other equipment should be carried at the same time as ladders/step-ladders.

e) Plan the route to the working area for the easiest/clearest access path. Seek assistance with any access through doorways, sensitive areas or with long / heavy ladders.

f) Carry ladder/step-ladder in a position that enables maximum visibility of the planned route.

g) Never carry ladder/step-ladder in extended/open state.

1.    Set-up of ladders

a) All ladders should be identifiable by a unique serial number and be inspected by a competent trained person at least every six months. Documented records of inspections should be maintained.

b) As well as the formal inspection by a trained competent person, ladders should be given a pre use visual check by the user before being brought into use each time.

c) Where defects are found, either at the formal inspection or pre-use check stage, the equipment in question should be isolated to stop other persons using it and reported to the person responsible for the repairs or replacement.

d) It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that nothing about the way that ladders are erected, or used, affects the safety of the user or any other person.

e) Ladders should be erected on firm level ground at an angle of four units up for every one unit the base is away from the wall. Ladders should only be erected and used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

f) Ensure that the ladder will not reach into an area where there are exposed live electrical conductors, or in an area where other hazards may exist. Safe working distances from overhead power lines can be obtained from the local supply generating authority.

g) The top of the ladder should rest against a solid surface and able to withstand the applied loads.

h) If the ladder is to be used to gain access to a working platform the top of the ladder should extend at least one metre beyond the working platform to ensure a firm hand hold whilst gaining access / egress.

i) Wherever possible, tie a ladder to prevent it from slipping. This can be at the top, the bottom or both. Preferably both stiles should be tied at the top. An eyebolt inserted into the wall of the building can be used to assist tying the ladder at the top. Never tie a ladder by its rungs only. Fixing devices using a rung and a stile may be employed.

j) Methods of securing the bottom of a ladder include, stabilising devices, sand bags, stopper mats, staking and tying, blocks or digging into a firm level base.

k) There should be at least a two rung overlap on extension ladders up to five metres in length and a three rung overlap on ladders over five metres.

l) Extension ladders should be raised and lowered from the base ensuring that the latching hooks are properly engaged.

m) In any area where people are likely to be passing through, ensure that a colleague stands near the foot of the ladder at all times unless guarding is erected. Appropriate men at work signage should be used.

1.    Use of ladders

a) Only use ladders for short duration work – a maximum of 30 minutes, depending upon the task you are doing.

b) Only use ladders for light work – carry no more than 10kg when climbing or working on a ladder.

c) Whenever possible when working from a ladder, try and maintain three points of contact with it at all times (e.g. both feet and one hand). Wherever practicable, when a particular task requires two hands to be used and is of short duration, the ladder should be secured, and the use of a safety harness or line should be considered.

d) Ladders should never be used near doors unless all reasonable precautions have been taken to protect the user, i.e. barriers, lock the door, a second person or leave the door open.

e) Position the ladder close enough to the task so as to facilitate safe working without the risk of over reaching.

f) When ascending/descending you should face the ladder with the hands in contact with the stiles. Hands should be kept free of tools or equipment when ascending / descending the ladder. If hand tools or power tools are to be used, the use of a tool belt and/or holster should be employed.

g) Where practicable, the use of a hoist line should be considered to raise equipment to the working position.

h) Only one rung at a time should be climbed on each step up or down the ladder.

i) Only one person should use the ladder at any one time.

2.    Set-up of step-ladders

a) All step-ladders should be identifiable by a unique serial number and be examined by a trained competent person at least once every six months. In addition the following checks should be carried out before use.

b) The steps should be checked for excessive damage to treads, sides, hinges and metal or rope stays.

c) All treads should be clean and free from contamination likely to cause slippage such as grease or oil etc.

d) Ensure that there are no splinters or rough edges. These could cause you to pull your hand back and lose balance.

e) If any defect is found that cannot be immediately rectified, remove the stepladder from use.

f) Always use steps of adequate height for the job. Never work higher than three treads from the top of the step-ladder unless the step ladder is designed so that a handrail or handhold is available above this level.

g) Never stand on the top platform or bucket area unless they are platform top steps provided with a suitable handrail above the platform.

h) Steps should always be opened to their full width.

i) Never leave articles on any tread of the steps.

j) Move the steps as necessary to maintain a comfortable and balanced position at all times. Do not over-reach.

k) Steps should never be placed near doors unless all reasonable precautions have been taken to prevent the door being opened and striking the steps. Post notices on the other side of the doorway or lock door.

l) In any area where people are likely to be passing through ensure that a colleague stands near the foot of the steps at all times unless guarding is erected. Appropriate men at work signage should be used.

m) Always ensure that the surface on which the steps are mounted is flat and free from stones and any other debris that would impair a good working foundation.

n) Avoid side-on working, face the task to make sure the step-ladder is more stable.

3.    Use of step-ladders

a) Only use step-ladders for short duration work – a maximum of 30 minutes depending upon the task you are doing.

b) Only use step-ladders for light work – carry no more than 10kg when climbing or working on a step-ladder.

Response Indicator

Response Indicator

The unit is designed to ensure that Alarm Signal can be actually transmitted to all locations. It is directly controlled with the relative detector, transmitting the fire alarm signal to the conspicuous place so that people can find the alarming detector easily. It is suitable for detectors installed in residential department, dangerous area, under false floor or above false ceiling.

According To NFPA 72 - 2019 (National Fire Alarm and Signalling Code)
Chapter 17 Initiating Devices; 17.4 General Requirements.

Tentative Technical specification of Response indicator:

Operating Voltage	2.0VDC ~ 5.0VDC
Operating Current	Standby current : 0mA Action current ≤30mA
Indicator	Red. It turns off when monitoring normally, but constantly illuminates in action.
Operating Temperature	-10°C ~ +55°C
Relative Humidity	≤95%, non-condensing
Material of Enclosure	ABS / MS, White / Red
Dimension (L×W×H)	64.5mm×64.5mm×31.4mm

Below snap for connection diagram with Response Indicator & Detector.

Checklist of Fire Safety System for Healthcare

Checklist of Fire Safety System for Healthcare building

Building Name:

Building address:

Building Floor name:

Local Fire Bridged name & Cont nos:

As per National Building Code (NBC) Hospital Buildings, Nursing Homes, Sanatoriums have been categories under Group-C “Institutional Building”.

The Institutional Buildings are having some high risk areas with special problems relates life risk of both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients. It is therefore necessary to understand the types of hazards associated with the Institutional Buildings vis-à-vis life safety concept.

Life Safety from fire in Hospitals relies on a “Defined – in- Place” principle. Horizontal exits or smoke barriers are required to sub-divide each storey of a Hospital to provide an area of refuge on each floor.

In case of emergency the objectives should be “Keep the fire away from the Patient rather than more the patient away from the fire”

A. Procedure for Calling the Fire Brigade:

a) When calling the Fire Brigade give clear information.

1. Name & Address of the premises where fire has actually broke out.

2. Nearest land mark & name of the access road.

3. Character to the Building and type of occupancy.

4. Nearest water body is available.

5. Telephone No. of the caller & of the particular premises if known.

B. Procedure to be followed for Raising the Alarm:

All occupants/ employees should be aware of how to raise the alarm.

1. Once detector actuated, the on duty staffs will act according to pre-determined plan.

2. The source of alarm must be monitored regularly.

3. Whole premises should be warned through the P.A. system in such a manner that should not generate any panic amongst the occupants.

4. The system should be incorporated to disseminate the information to other emergency support services.

C. Pre-determined area should be identified for refuge or assemble of the occupants (Patient).

D. The assembly or refuge area should have the facility of medical support for patient if needed.

E. The assembly or refuge area must have the access of the emergency vehicles like ambulance or fire service vehicles.

F. Roll call should be taken to ensure that all occupants/ patients are evacuated from the danger zone and the missing person should be notified to the Fire Service and Police Authority.

G. Procedure for Fighting the Fire:

1. In the early stages of a fire it may be possible to successfully contain it or extinguish it with first aid fire fighting equipment.

2. To accomplish this, staff members should be instructed in the use of hand held extinguishers and hose reels.

3. Certain members of staff may be designated as a fire fighting team as part of the emergency procedures & their function would be to assess and "if safe to do so" tackle the fire with the available equipment until the Fire Brigade arrive.

H. Procedure for Assisting the Fire Brigade:

a) When the Fire Brigade arrives they need proper assistance and information as much as possible in order to take the best course of action. The type of information required includes:

1. Exact location of the fire;

2. Type of materials involved in fire;

3. Details of missing persons;

4. Location of nearest fire hydrants;

5. Location of all access doors to the building.

6. Location of any special risks adjoining to the fire location;

7. Keys for access into any locked areas.

RECOMMENDATION OF

MINIMUM ESSENTIAL FIRE SAFETY MEASURES IN INSTITUTIONAL

BUILDINGS

Preventive Measures

1. Good housekeeping in all area, specially stores, kitchen, electrical installation, transformer house and waste disposals etc. should be maintained.

2. No Smoking Zone (while applicable in office, store, depot etc) shall be enforced rigidly.

3. All electrical installations shall be periodically checked & tested by competent electrical

engineers, while all loose electrical wiring if any shall be replaced immediately.

4. Appropriate M.C.B. shall be installed where necessary in the electrical installation as per

Indian Electrical Rules.

5. All old electrical wiring especially in the zone of insignificant and abundant area shall

replace with the new ones.

6. The basement if any should not be used as store room / material dumping / in patient ward or any other purpose which will cause Fire / Smoke.

7. Lift shaft and stair lobby / landing shall be free from any obstacles / obstruction.

8. Use of LPG gas cylinders not more than 320 kg come into a gas bank, to be installed with separate place with barrier and precaution as per IS : 6044.

9. Trained staff in dealing with the fire fighting extinguisher / appliance / Evacuation procedure shall be engaged. Fire fighting drill and evacuation drill should be held on regular basis.

10. Building should come into a modular by making corridors horizontal & vertical exits from the origin of the fire place to a safe area easily and also by incorporating Fire & Smoke Check Door in the lobby approaching to stairways and lift.

11. One senior personal preferably from administration may co-ordinate & look into.

12. On site Emergency / Evacuation plan shall have to be prepared and update at regular

interval.

13. Fire Notice, Fire order, Exit sign, Floor Nos. shall be displayed at conspicuous places as per requirements of NBC Part IV 2016.

14. Arrangement should be made for proper checking, testing and maintenance of all fire

protection and detection system to keep them in properly working condition at all the time.

15. Electrical Safety Audit should be carried out at regular interval as per Indian Electrical Rules.

Protective Measures

1. Water Reservoir exclusively for fire fighting shall be made available as prescribed in National Building Code (NBC) Part IV 2016.

2. Replenishment of the reservoir may be incorporated with deep tube well with auto facility.

3. Fire Hydrant Ring main with Yard Hydrant & Wet Riser system with landing valve shall be installed as per NBC Part IV & IS: 3844.

4. Hose Box containing two nos. 15 M long Hose & 1 No. Branch Pipe with Nozzle to be

installed near each Yard Hydrant & Landing Valve.

5. First-Aid Hose Reel 40 M long to be provided near each landing valve tapped off from the Wet Riser.

6. Sprinkler system to be provided for all the floors & other places / areas as applicable as per NBC Code.

7. Fire fighting extinguisher should be provided within the building as per IS: 2190 and person having work station in that area should be trained to use the same if required initially in case of emergency.

8. The main Fire Pump and one stand by pump of capacity minimum 2280 LPM and head of the pump will be such that 3.5 Kg/cm2 pressure is available at the furthest/highest landing valve, to be installed. Auto start facility should be incorporated in fire pump. Accordingly, Jockey Pump of Capacity 180 LPM shall also be installed.

9. The Stand by pump of equal capacity must be available on alternate sources of

supply, preferably diesel operating pump.

10. Fire Detection & Alarm System for the entire Building shall be provided as per IS: 2185

11. Public Address System with Two way communication System

12. Emergency power supply shall be provided to the following equipment and system.

A. Illumination of means of escape route.

B. Fire Alarm Panel & P.A. Console.

C. Fire Pumps

D. Fire Lift

E. Bore Well

Fire Command Structure:-

1. Chief Executive Officer or Head of the Organization will act as the commanding officer during emergency.

2. The commanding Officer has the primary responsibility to recognize hazards and prepare the fire order and fire operation plan & get them promulgated.

3. To supervise the regular training to the hospital staff (non-medical & medical) of the hospitals and keep them informed about the fire emergency evacuation plan.

4. Medical Superintendent will act as a occupant/patient evacuation supervisor and formulate the emergency evacuation plan and impart training to all the staffs (medical & non-medical) regarding the emergency evacuation procedure.

5. Floor managers/Matrons/floor supervisor will assist the evacuation supervisor in evacuation process.

6. The Chief Engineer/ Maintenance Engineer will act as a head of the fire fighting team and his responsibility to maintain all the fixed fire fighting installation system and constitute the fire fighting team. He should also impart the training about the operation and maintenance of fire fighting installation and conduct training at regular intervals.

ACTION BY SECURITY / DESIGNATED FIRE FIGHTING STAFF

A) INFORM THE FIRE BRIGADE THROUGH ANY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING PHONE NUMBERS:

                                    XXX XXXX XXXX

                                    YYY YYYY YYYY

B) ALERT THE OCCUPANTS BY USING PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM & GIVE THEM PROPER GUIDANCE FOR SAFE EVACUATION FROM THE BUILDING.

C) OPERATE THE GROUNDING SWITCH TO BRING FIRE ELEVATOR TO GROUND FLOOR LEVEL.

D) EVACUATE THE OCCUPANTS BY USING FIRE EXITS AND EMERGENCY EXITS ONLY AND ASSEMBLE THEM IN A SAFE PLACE.

E) SWITCH OFF THE POWER SUPPLY OF THE BUILDING EXCEPTING EMERGENCY LIGHT / FIRE LIFT / FIRE ALARM PANEL, PA & TALKBACK PANELS.

F) FIGHT THE FIRE USING NEAREST SUITABLE EXTINGUISHER OR WATER FROM NEAREST HOSE REEL / HYDRANT POINT DEPENDING ON THE SIZE OF FIRE.

G) GUIDE THE FIRE FORCE, ON THEIR ARRIVAL TO THE SEAT OF FIRE.

H) INCASE OF CAUSALITIES, CALL AMBULANCE OR MOBILE TRAUMA CARE UNIT.

I) ENSURE THAT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE PHYSICALLY CONSTRAINED, UNCONSCIOUS, DISABLE AND WOMAN ARE EVACUATED.

Weekly Fire Checklist:

Escape routes			Notes / action needed
1	Are escape routes clear?	Yes/No
2	Is there any combustible waste or storage in corridors, lobbies, stairways and chute rooms?	Yes/No
3	Are there any signs of damage to fire-resisting walls, doors and glazing between units and the common parts?	Yes/No
4	Are external routes clear and safe? And if needed well lit?	Yes/No
5	Have any vents required for smoke control been tampered with, forced open and damaged (e.g. by residents seeking to air stuffy atmospheres or to remove the smell from illicit smoking) or blocked up to prevent draughts?	Yes/No
6	Are fire exit signs or fire action notices missing or defaced?	Yes/No
7	Where required are there spare batteries for emergency escape lights & torches.	Yes/No
8	Have emergency lights been inspected – tell-tale lights illuminated	Yes/No
9	Where fitted is emergency lighting and sign lighting working correctly?	Yes/No
Fire doors
1	Can all fire exits be opened immediately and easily?	Yes/No
2	Are fire doors clear of obstructions?	Yes/No
3	Are fire door smoke seals in good condition (not painted over / damaged)?	Yes/No
4	Do all self-closing fire doors work correctly?	Yes/No
5	Do fire doors fit closely with a maximum of 5mm gaps?	Yes/No
6	Do all emergency fastening devices to fire exits (e.g. push bars) work correctly?	Yes/No
7	Are front doors and other entrance and exit doors closing properly?	Yes/No
8	All enclosed staircases shall have access through self closing doors of at least two hour fire resistance – these shall be swing doors opening in the direction of escape. The door shall be fitted with check action door closers.	Yes/No
Fire Detection & Alarm System
1	Is the indicator panel showing ‘normal’?	Yes/No
2	Where provided, are fire detectors, MCP, CM, MM still in place and/or damaged, covered over or interfered with in anyway?	Yes/No
3	Where provided, are fire detectors, MCP, CM, MM indication LED are blinking?	Yes/No
4	Where provided, are 70% fire detectors, MCP, Strobe, Battery are tested?	Yes/No
5	Where applicable has the fire alarm been tested on a weekly basis?	Yes/No
6	Is an ongoing periodical maintenance contract in place?	Yes/No
7	Automatic fire dampers shall be provided at the inlet of the fresh air and return air duct of each compartment on every floor.	Yes/No
8	Fire alarm system should be intercommunicate with BMS	Yes/No
9	Fire alarm system should be intercommunicate with Access Control	Yes/No
10	PA System speaker must be placed so that the information is clearly audible in all areas	Yes/No
Firefighting equipment
1	Are all fire extinguishers in place?	Yes/No
2	Are fire extinguishers discharged or damaged?	Yes/No
3	Are fire extinguishers clearly visible and accessible?	Yes/No
4	Gross weight of Cylinder when inspected in Kgs?	Yes/No
5	Are fire extinguishers Safety Pin damaged?	Yes/No
6	Are vehicles blocking fire hydrants or access to them?	Yes/No
7	Are all Sprinklers shall cover the entire area?	Yes/No
8	Are all Sprinklers line is energized?	Yes/No
9	Are last Sprinklers properly tested?	Yes/No
10	Distance between two hydrants or extinguisher stations must not be more than 30 m, and very clearly marked	Yes/No
11	A Diesel fire pump should be required and provide diesel exhaust pipe from the diesel engine and terminate to atmosphere in a location acceptable to the local Authority / Architect.	Yes/No
12	An additional static water storage tank to be provided at roof / terrace level with capacity specified by the local fire authority with arrangements of replenishment by main or alternate source of supply, which can be used in the eventuality of failure of other system under gravity flow.	Yes/No
13	All valves must be open, accessible and unobstructed	Yes/No
14	All the fire pumps to have direct access from the ground level.	Yes/No
15	What is the capacity of Under Ground / Terrace Static Storage Tank? (in ltr)	Yes/No
16	Whether the fire pump room is separated by fire walls all around and provided with fire doors.	Yes/No
17	Whether an undertaking from LPG piping installation agency and client stating that proposed gas bank , supply lines and other fitting associated with it is as per NBC of India -2016, Part-IV	Yes/No
18	Whether an affidavit / Confirmation is produced by the Applicant and Licensed contractor stating that all the proposed lightning protection installations for building is as per NBC of India -2016; Part-IV?	Yes/No
19	Whether an affidavit / Confirmation is produced by the applicant and HVAC Consultant be stating that all the proposed Air Conditioning, Smoke Management, Ventilation and Staircase Pressurisation Systems for the building is as per NBC of India -2016; Part-IV?	Yes/No
20	Whether an affidavit / Confirmation from the Applicant and the Electrical Consultant produced along with plan stating that all the proposed Electrical Installations and power supply for the proposed building is as per NBC of India -2016 Part 1V and necessary emergency power distribution system for fire and life safety systems also proposed in the building as per NBC 2016 Part IV 3.4.6.2 ?	Yes/No

All Fire Stations / Cabinets, for installing or keeping First Aid Fire Protection Equipment such as fire hose reel, hydrant valve, fire hose, branch pipe, etc should be provided in strategic locations of all floors, @ one station for every 1000M2 of plinth area.