Fire Detection for Large Spaces

Fire Detection for Large Spaces: Integrating Aspiration Smoke Detection

Modern structures are complex, which makes them difficult to protect against smoke and fire. Features like large atria, vast open areas, or high ceilings can make the use of traditional smoke and fire detection methods impractical, ineffective, and difficult to maintain and operate.

Large, open spaces are prone to high airflow and smoke stratification (caused by the high ceilings and/or dilution of the smoke), making it difficult for smoke to reach spot-type smoke detectors and for conventional detection devices to operate properly. Additionally, significant effort is required just to test and inspect these devices in such spaces, per code requirements.

In general, fire detection in large volume spaces directly relates to the size of potential fires within the space. Building contents such as furniture, large trash containers, or merchandise displays typically burn with enough energy to push smoke to significant heights. However, low energy fires with a small heat-release rate are subject to stratification and can be difficult for ceiling or near-ceiling mounted smoke detection devices to detect.

What is considered a large space?

Large spaces are those with ceiling or roof heights extending tens or even hundreds of feet above the floor. Some examples are:

·        Spaces containing atria, such as hotel lobbies and shopping centers

·        Warehouses and distribution centers

·        Record/archive storage facilities and automated storage and retrieval warehouses

·        Manufacturing plants, such as automobile assembly plants

·        Convention centers, theatres, auditoriums, stadiums, and indoor sports facilities

·        Cathedrals, churches, temples, and mosques

·        Aircraft hangars and other large storage and maintenance areas

·        Transportation terminals, such as airport terminals and train stations

Regarding fire protection, large spaces can be classified into two basic categories:

Category 1: Large volume spaces with fire-load contents, generally of limited height, located on the main floor or other floors open to the large volume. These spaces tend to have moderate to large occupant loads. Examples: atria areas, single-story manufacturing areas, heritage buildings, religious worship buildings, and airport terminals.

Category 2: Large volume spaces with stacks or piles of combustible contents, which may or may not be in storage racks. These contents occupy a significant portion of the volume and height of the space that is most often one story. These spaces tend to have low to moderate occupant loads and a high value of contents. Examples: warehouses, distribution centers, automated storage and retrieval facilities, and library stack rooms.

Detecting Smoke in Category 1: Hotel

Atria, a popular architectural design feature, enhance the perception of light and space within structures but can be dangerous for occupants in a fire. One fire design challenge is compensating for the fluctuation of solar radiation that enters through large expanses of glass, which can often generate thermal gradients within the space and result in a hot gas layer near the ceiling or roof. This can vary from day-to-day, depending on thermal load and operations of HVAC or natural ventilation systems.

The base of the atrium is especially vulnerable. A fire at this location could potentially fill the unenclosed shaft with smoke, allowing fire to spread rapidly and transport heat, smoke, and toxic gases from floor to floor. More importantly, traditional technologies take too long to detect smoke in these large areas because smoke may not be buoyant enough to penetrate the ceiling layer of stratified environments. Aspirating smoke detection systems, however, can be designed to avoid the issues posed for ceiling-mounted spot smoke detectors due to a solar-induced hot layer.

Detecting Smoke in Category 2: Warehouses

Category 2 spaces require additional considerations beyond those previously discussed. Modern warehouses and storage facilities often rely on automatic sprinkler systems for basic fire protection. However, the potential loss of key supply chain facilities, high value storage, and irreplaceable archived storage can warrant the installation of early warning smoke detection for staff intervention before sprinklers are needed.

Arson and electrical/mechanical systems account for a significant percentage of warehouse fires, but aspirating smoke detection can provide early indications of such events and allow for manual fire suppression or depowering of equipment. STRUCTURE FIRES IN U.S. WAREHOUSES by Richard Campbell, published in June 2013 by the National Fire Protection Association Fire Analysis and Research Division, says that during 2007-2011, an estimated average of 1,270 structure fires in warehouses were reported to U.S. fire departments each year, with associated annual losses of 4 civilian deaths, 23 civilian injuries, and $188 million in direct property damage. According to Campbell:

·        Nearly one-fifth of these fires were set intentionally

·        Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 13% of fires

·        Electrical failure or malfunction was the leading factor contributing to the ignition of warehouse fires, as well as in contributing to direct property damage and to civilian injuries, representing 19% of the total in each category

Integrating Aspiration Smoke Detection

There are five basic design options for integrating an aspirating smoke detection system in warehouse and storage buildings. Selecting a sampling pipe configuration is dependent upon the warehouse application and internal characteristics (such as presence of high-bay racking, mezzanines, and voids) as well as the facility’s operational objectives and smoke detection objectives (performance-related).

1.     Near Ceiling Detection – sampling pipes are located close to the ceiling only

2.     Below Ceiling Detection – sampling pipes above a ceiling use drop down pipes or capillary tubes with sampling holes

3.     High-Low Alternating Detection – sampling pipes are located on the ceiling with alternating sampling holes on the ceiling and drop-down pipes

4.     Multi-Level Detection – this detection method applies to warehouses comprising high bay storage racks and utilizes more than one ASD system for ceiling and intermediate level detection.

5.     In-Rack Detection – the sampling pipes run horizontally or vertically between back-to-back racks at various heights. Drop-down pipes from the ceiling can also be used for in-rack detection.

In addition to these generic warehouse scenarios, additional aspiration protection should be considered in the following situations:

·        Office and control area: for aesthetic reasons, sampling in these areas is usually conducted via capillary tubes fed through the ceiling from the main sampling pipes, which are located in the ceiling void.

·        Ceiling void: it is especially important to protect ceiling voids containing cabling and/or any other equipment, due to an increased risk of fire. The spacing of the ASD sampling holes is again determined using the grid method.

·        Lighting areas: The ASD sampling pipes should not be placed underneath or in close proximity (<3.3 ft (1 m)) to lighting fixtures, heaters, skylights, or other heat-emitting objects.

·        Loading bay: ASD sensitivity should be lowered to account for the truck exhaust fumes regularly present in the loading bay environment.

Installation Scenarios

NFPA 72 provisions on the spacing and location of smoke detectors states that, “The location and spacing of smoke detectors shall be based upon the anticipated smoke flows due to the plume and ceiling jet produced by the anticipated fire, as well as any pre-existing ambient airflows that could exist in the protected compartment.”

Aspirating systems can be mounted wherever it is most convenient – on walls, columns or rack frames – but it’s recommended to mount the units in close proximity. For example, these units can be located in the center of a warehouse with the pipe network extending outward, toward the walls. This configuration minimizes the distance between detectors and reduces wiring costs.

There are many options for warehouse detection, including:

High-low alternating detection: this option is comprised of ceiling sampling holes that alternate with drop down pipes. This method is used to penetrate the hot air layer that may develop at the roof level, which allows for optimal sampling when the air at the roof level is either hot or cold. Consult local codes and standards to determine the correct length of drop down pipes for individual facility configurations [Figure 17].

In-rack detection: This may be used in warehouses with high-bay racking where stratification occurs, and/or localized detection is required. The air sampling pipe can have either a horizontal or vertical in-rack detection configuration [Figure 18]. Ideally, the detector is installed at the end of the rack at an accessible level. As a safeguard against mechanical damage from forklift trucks, sampling pipes should be located between back-to-back racks out of harm’s way.

Non-high-bay racking detection: In this case, ceiling drop-down pipes may also be used for in-rack detection. When installing drop-down pipes, here too, it is important to ensure that they will not be damaged by forklifts or be in close proximity to the stored goods. The drop-down pipes can be fitted to the sheltered side of the racking, fixed to the rack frame [Figure 19]. In-rack drop-down pipes normally have two or three sampling holes drilled in them to provide sampling at different heights within the racking system.

Multi-level detection: Additionally, this option can be used in high bay storage racking areas with expected high stratification levels and/or mezzanines (catwalks) consisting of solid flooring that will impede/delay the rise of the smoke plume. This design option requires one ceiling aspirating system and multiple intermediate level aspirating systems [Figure 21].

Benefits of Aspirating Smoke Detection

There are many hidden benefits of integrating an aspirating smoke detection system into the fire detection system design for a large volume space. It’s often a challenge to handle diverse placement options in fire and life safety designs, but aspirating smoke detection technology is flexible. It can accommodate a variety of horizontal and vertical sampling point locations and/or capillary tubes – providing effective coverage while minimizing architectural and aesthetic impact. Aspiration smoke detection systems also allow for more specific levels of warnings and alarms to allow building staff to investigate before emergency operations (such as evacuation) are implemented.

Aspirating smoke detection systems can also provide maintenance flexibility and cost savings for large spaces. Inspection and testing is easy, because an air sampling pipe network can be in the upper elevations of large volume spaces while the air sampling detector is installed in a remote accessible location. By comparison, spot-type smoke detectors located on high ceilings would require special procedures for inspection. Furthermore, aspirating technology performance is more consistent and reliable because it is not subject to building movement considerations of optical beam smoke detection devices.

Smoke detection Aspirating systems generally include a sensor of considerably increased level of sensitivity compared with a standard point or line optical beam detectors. Such “high sensitivity” aspirating smoke detection systems, are designated Class A systems in BS EN 54-20 and are often used to protect critical electronic equipment rooms, in which even a very small fire can result in unacceptable damage. Guidance on fire protection of such facilities is given in BS 6266.

Typically, a Class B (enhanced sensitivity) or Class C (normal sensitivity) aspirating smoke detection system is used in such applications, but it is important to seek advice from suppliers with sufficient experience and knowledge of aspirating smoke detection systems and BS EN 54-20.

For aspirating systems, specialist application guidance needs to be sought from the manufacturer.

Guidance for Coincidence Connection of Detectors for Extinguishing Systems

Guidance for Coincidence Connection of Detectors for Triggering Extinguishing Systems

This guide is a collation and explanation of the existing recommendations provided on the use of coincidence connected detectors with a particular focus on their application for triggering extinguishing systems. It defines a scheme for describing the different approaches to coincidence connection and in particular considers potential replacements for ionisation detectors.

Although predominantly aimed at assisting those involved in the automatic release of extinguishing systems, this FIA guide also provides information in situations where coincidence of detectors is needed for the actuation of other fire protection measures.

Review of Standards

There is a common misconception that BS 7273-1 Clause 5.2.3 calls for coincidence detection using two different types of detector, typically ionization and optical smoke detectors to trigger fire suppression systems. This is not correct.

5.2.3 Type of detector used

The selection of detectors should be in accordance with the recommendations given in BS 5839-1 and, where applicable, BS 6266. In some circumstances, fire detection considerations might dictate the need for use of two different principles of detection (e.g. optical smoke detectors and ionization chamber smoke detectors) to ensure the earliest warning of fire. In such circumstances, an even distribution of each type of detector should be provided throughout the protected space.

Where coincidence is used, normally it should be possible to achieve coincidence from two detectors of the same operating principle. In these cases, if, for example, two independent circuits are used to achieve coincidence, there should normally be an approximately equal number of detectors of each principle connected to each of the independent circuits. For example, where four detectors are required to protect the space and these comprise two optical smoke detectors and two ionization chamber smoke detectors; there should be one optical smoke detector and one ionization chamber smoke detector on each circuit.

However, it is not always necessary to use two different principles of fire detection. For example, given the type of fire anticipated and the speed of detection required, it might be acceptable to use detectors of a single type.

BS 7273-1 does not require the use of detectors using two different principles of operation:

·        Clause 5.2.2.1 suggests that co-incidence detection is one method of minimising the possibility of false discharge.

·        Clause 5.2.2.4 clarifies that co-incidence detection requires alarm signals from two independent detectors (whether the same type or not).

The second paragraph of clause 5.2.3 (above) was originally a continuation of paragraph 1 and as a separate paragraph is now confusing. The intent is to clarify that where mixed types are used, it is not normal to require both types (e.g. optical and ionisation) to have indicated an alarm before the extinguishant is released. In other words extinguishant may be triggered from any two independent detectors e.g. two ionisation detectors or two optical detectors or an ionisation and an optical detector.

Clause 5.2.3 only includes as examples the traditional combinations of optical and ionisation detectors. There are many other technologies which may be used, for example flame detection, multi-sensor devices, aspirating smoke detectors (ASD) which can be used to mitigate the risk of inadvertent discharge of extinguishant.

BS 7273-1 refers back to BS 5839-1 and BS 6266 for advice on the selection of fire detectors. Both these standards have been revised since BS 7273-1 was published and provide useful guidance:

·        BS 6266:2011 Clause 8.3

·        BS 5839-1:2013 Clause 21

Options for Coincidence Detection

Co-incidence detection is when at least two independent detectors are used to initiate the release of the extinguishing system. These can be of the same type or of two different types.

The type(s) chosen should be selected dependant on the fire risk and on the objectives of the fire system.

Given that ionisation smoke detection is in obsolescence, the traditional ionisation / optical combinations as exemplified in BS 7273-1 is losing relevance.

Some common possible alternative combinations include:

·        Optical & Optical

Traditional scatter type optical smoke detectors

o Optical smoke detectors must pass a range of fire tests including smouldering and flam-ing types and have proved to be suitable for many applications requiring co-incidence

o Flaming fires will be detected; however response may be slower than ionisation detec-tors

·        Optical & Optical-Heat (or Optical-Heat & Optical-Heat)

o Optical-Heat detectors speed the response of a standard optical smoke detector to a flaming fire by responding to heat

o Some Optical-Heat detectors may respond more slowly to a smouldering fire than a traditional optical detector

·        ASD & ASD (or ASD & other)

o  Very early warning of incipient fires is possible using Class A & B ASD systems which          can prompt early intervention and avoid automatic discharge of the fire suppression system

– whether to a real fire threat or an unwanted event (false alarm)

o    ASD & ASD requires two separate detectors to achieve true co-incidence detection

o    Inputs to the extinguishing system must be carefully selected (e.g. Class C only)

o    See also FIA Aspirating Smoke Detectors CoP

·        Optical & Flame (or Flame & Flame)

o    Fast detection of flaming fires

o     Flame detector requires unobstructed line of sight to area of coverage

o    Used only in special applications where flame is a particular risk

·        Multi-sensor & Multi-sensor (including dual-optical)

o   Many different types available with many different modes of operation therefore careful consideration needs to be made of the configuration of the detectors

o   Often designed to mitigate nuisance alarm risk and enhance fire detection

·        Heat & other

o   The use of heat detectors only is not recommended as heat detector response is very slow in comparison to a smoke detector

References and Applicable Standards

BS 5839-1:2013, Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings - Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises

BS 6266:2011, Fire protection for electronic equipment installations. Code of practice

BS 7273-1:2006, Code of practice for the operation of fire protection measures. Electrical actuation of gaseous total flooding extinguishing systems.

Fire Alarm systems for buildings BS 5839-6:2013

BS 5839-6:2013 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings - Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises

This document is intended as a guide to BS 5839: Pt.6: 2013. It is not a substitute for reading the Code of practice itself. Instead, it's designed to help make the implications and recommendations of BS 5839: Pt.6 more clearly understood, and to offer advice on how to design, install, commission and maintain a system that meets the requirements, with reference to the 2013 amendments.

BS 5839-6 is the key standard for fire detection in domestic premises. It is written to assist the non-specialist in compliance and will help make installations easier to audit. The standard is used by enforcing authorities and contractors, and applies to domestic premises accommodating single families, houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and sheltered housing (housing and common areas). It applies both to new and existing housing.

 

The Document Itself

Each clause of the document is split into 2 parts. Firstly, there is the commentary - in italics - this sets out the reasoning behind the recommendations. The recommendations are written in upright (roman) type, so it is quite possible to simply refer to these alone. The intention of the commentary is to make the document easier to use; whether it succeeds in this aim is a matter of personal perception.

BS 5839: Pt.6 - An Introduction

BS 5839: Pt.6 is not intended for householders themselves, but to provide guidance and recommendations for architects and other building professionals, enforcing authorities, contractors and others responsible for implementing fire precautions in buildings. Householders should refer to the government guidelines.

The Code of Practice should not be quoted as if it was a specification and the standard itself warns that particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not misleading. 

It is also pointed out that compliance with a British Standard cannot automatically confer legal immunity. However, for a landlord or installer, compliance with the latest Code is obviously the best line of defence in any claim made against them.

The Scope of BS 5839: Pt. 6

This Code of Practice covers fire alarm systems starting from a simple self-contained battery smoke alarm right through to major systems with central panel(s) in accordance to BS 5839-pt1.

BS 5839: Pt.6 covers the following domestic building types:
Bungalows
Multi-storey houses
Individual flats
Individual maisonettes
Mobile homes
Individual sheltered accommodation as well as their common parts
Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)
Certain NHS housing in the community
Mansions 
Shared houses 
Houses divided into several self-contained single-family dwelling units


Not included are hostels, caravans, boats (other than permanently moored) and communal parts of blocks or flats or maisonettes.

BS 5839: Pt.6 is primarily concerned with saving lives and reducing injuries. However, it does contain within it recommendations for helping to reduce property damage too. Good fire safety practice and adherence to the Code can give the best possible early warning of fire and so reduce the financial impact as well as human suffering.

The Grade System

Relates to system engineering, not level of protection.

BS 5839: Pt.6 grades fire detection systems from Grade F up to Grade A. Generally speaking, the greater the fire risk and the more demanding the application, the more comprehensive the system needs to be.

• Grade F - System of one or more battery powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required)
• Grade E - System of interlinked mains powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required) with NO stand-by supply. The interlink can be hardwired or radio-interlinked.
• Grade D - System incorporating one or more interlinked mains powered smoke alarms (and heat alarms if required), each with an integral stand-by supply. The interlink can be hardwired or radio-interlinked.
• Grade C - System consisting of fire detectors and alarm sounders (which may be smoke alarms) connected to a common power supply, comprising normal mains and stand-by supply, with central control equipment
• Grade B - Fire detection and alarm system comprising fire detectors (other than smoke alarms), fire alarm sounders and control and indicating equipment to either BS EN 54-2 (and power supply to BS EN 54-4), or to Annex C of BS 5839: Pt.6
• Grade A - Fire detection system incorporating control and indicating equipment to BS EN 54-2, and power supply to BS EN 54-4, installed to BS 5839: Pt.1 with some very minor exceptions

As the overwhelming number of residential applications in the UK will fall into the D to F categories, this is the area on which this guide will naturally focus. If you are particularly interested in unusual grades of protection, you are invited to look further at the relevant clauses of the Code.

Of course, installers and specifiers may install a system with greater safety features than laid down in the letter of the Code. For example, rather than a Grade E system landlords might consider it prudent to install a Grade D system instead. This is especially true considering the many restrictions that apply to the use of Grade E systems.

Battery Powered Smoke Alarms - Grade F

BS 5839: Pt.6 acknowledges the advantages of the single, battery powered smoke alarm. They are simple to install and offer protection at very low cost. Battery powered smoke alarms conforming to BS EN 14604:2005 are recommended. Battery powered smoke alarms are typically suitable for owner-occupied buildings (existing buildings) with up to two storeys. Please note: if your property has multiple levels, it is recommended to have interlinked alarms. This is to ensure you receive the earliest possible warning of fire.

Single story tenanted properties were allowed in the last version (2004) of this standard to be fitted with Grade F alarms. This has now been changed to a grade D requirement. As an aside, landlords have now been found liable in cases where tenants themselves have disabled an alarm. For this reason, it is unlikely that landlords will be able to trust tenants to adequately look after a smoke alarm. The Code highlights the fact that battery powered smoke alarms are also only suitable for owner-occupied properties if the likelihood is, that batteries will be replaced within five days of a low battery signal.

Mains Powered Smoke Alarms without Back-up Battery - Grade E

The Code does not recommend an application for alarms without back-up power source any longer. Grade E systems have serious drawbacks: power cuts or the termination of supply for whatever reason disables them totally. They can also be rendered useless by the tripping of a protective device, or even - in some cases - by the fire itself. Householders may also disable them at the mains all too easily if false alarms are a problem. Safelincs Ltd is therefore only offering mains powered smoke alarms WITH back-up battery.

Mains Powered Smoke Alarms with Back-up Battery - Grade D

The problems outlined above can be overcome by using mains powered alarms that incorporate, within each alarm, a stand-by supply such as a primary or rechargeable battery. The alarms have to be interconnected either through wiring or radio-interlink. The mains power supply can come from a dedicated power supply directly from the fuse box or from the nearest permanently powered light fitting, as long as the smoke alarm heads can be removed without removing the base as well.

Grade D is required for new, owner-occupied buildings of up to three storeys, two storey rented properties and existing, owner-occupied buildings of more than two storeys. Very large storeys (>200m2) might require Grade B alarm system.

A question remains for landlords - can they be sure that their tenants are paying their electricity bills? Given that many tenants may have low incomes (in many local authorities, 70% or more of all tenants are on subsidised incomes), they may well experience periods of disconnection - and yet the landlord could well be liable if the alarm fails to sound because the tenant has not paid his or her bills! Unfair or not, as the law stands, it obviously makes good commercial sense to ensure that a reliable, ideally re-chargeable and sealed-in backup battery is in place.

The minimum back-up duration recommended is 72 hours, and the Code acknowledges that there could well be circumstances where a longer stand-by period is justified e.g. tenants' inability to pay their electricity bill.

Fire Detectors supplied with Power from a common Power Supply Unit - Grade A, B, C

More expensive high specification systems can offer connection of all fire detection devices to a common power supply via low voltage transformers, or interlinked fire and security systems. Again, a minimum 72 hour back-up is recommended by the Code. Due to the complexity of A, B and C Grades, we have omitted the descriptions from this short guide.

Levels of Protection - Categories of System

This relates to the level of protection afforded by the system.

Within the A - F grades defined earlier, the standard identifies three different categories of protection:

• LD1 - A system installed throughout the dwelling, incorporating detectors in all circulation spaces that form part of the escape routes from the dwelling, and in all rooms and areas in which fire might start, other than toilets, bathrooms and shower rooms
• LD2 - A system incorporating detectors in all circulation spaces that form part of the escape routes from the premises, and in all rooms or areas that present a high risk of fire to occupants
• LD3 - A system incorporating detectors in all circulation spaces that form part of the escape routes from the premises

It is noted that an LD3 type system is intended to protect escape routes for those not directly involved in the fire and may not save the life of anyone in the immediate vicinity of the fire.

Only by quoting Grade and Category can a meaningful and effective alarm system be specified, e.g. Grade D, Category LD2.

You can buy the full BS 5839-6:2013 standard online.

History of BS 5839-part 6

When first introduced in 1995, the BS 5839: Pt.6 Code of Practice became the most important set of recommendations ever made on fire safety in the home.

It had an immediate impact on architects, system designers, installers and landlords in the private or public sector, all of whom were required to familiarise themselves with these important recommendations. Landlords in particular needed to abide by these recommendations, as legal liability with regard to 'duty of care' would undoubtedly become a serious issue should a fire occur in an inadequately protected property.

In short, BS 5839: Pt.6 became the essential guide to providing adequate fire protection in all dwelling types.

In September 2004, the Code of Practice was extensively revised and updated by the publication of BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 which superseded BS 5839: Pt.6: 1995, which is now withdrawn. The changes therein are important and need to be fully understood and appreciated by all those with responsibility for fire safety in domestic dwellings.

An updated standard came out in 2013 and included for the first time common areas in sheltered housing. Carbon monoxide detectors were also permitted as fire alarm sensors and the requirement for rented accommodations were tightened.

Fireproof Cable

Fireproof Cable

Fire protection and security cables which are suitable for critical safety systems. Fire Protection cables are generally used for maintaining power supplies, lighting circuits, fire alarm and sprinkler systems.

Mineral Insulated Cable (MICC) - Fireproof Cable, Fire Performance Cable

Cable Specification: The features of the cable make them more resistant to fires than plastic insulated cables due to the lack of organic material. It is for this reason that the MICC cables are suitable for using in public areas, high fire risk areas such as power stations and oil refineries. Mineral Insulated Cable (MICC) manufactured to BS6207. The cable features solid plain annealed copper conductors, magnesium oxide insulated and solid copper sheath to BS6207, IEC331 and BS 6387 CWZ. Available in the following options :( a) Light Duty = 500 volts grade, (b) Outer sheath finishes, bare copper, Heavy Duty = 1000 volts grade PVC or LSZH, (c) Outer sheath colours. Orange, Red, White or Black.

Fire Resistant Single Core Cable BS6387 - 1.5mm - 16mm

Cable Specification: The cable features a plain annealed copper conductor and has a low smoke zero halogen insulation with MICA fire resistant tape. BS6387 Cable, Fireproof Single Core cables available in sizes 1.5mm to 16mm manufactured to British Standard BS6387. The cable features plain annealed copper conductor, mica fire resistant tape, low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) insulation. 600/1000 volts grade. Fire resistant to IEC 331 and BS6387, CWZ when tested in steel conduit. Manufactured to meet the following standards - acid gas emission to BS EN 50267, flame retardant to BS EN 60332-1-2 and smoke emission to BS7211.

Enhanced Fire Resistant Mains Cable BS6387/BS7846 - 4mm - 16mm

Cable Specification: Enhanced fire cable is ideal for fire alarms and emergency lighting. It is also suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations.   Enhanced Fireproof Mains Cable available in sizes 4mm to 16mm and manufactured to British Standard BS6387 and BS7846. The cable features plain annealed stranded copper conductor, mica fire resistant tape, XLPE insulated, polyester tape, low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) bedding, fire barrier tape, galvanized steel wire armour, low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) outer sheath. Black. 600/1000 grade volts. Manufactured to meet the following standards - circuit integrity: BS8519-2010 120 minutes/BS8491, acid gas emission to IEC 60754, BS EN 50267, flame propagation to IEC 60332-3, BS EN 50265, BS EN50266 and smoke emission to IEC 61034, BS EN 50268.

Fire Resistant Mains Cable BS6387/BS7846 - 1.5mm to 16mm

Cable Specification: The armoured fire resistant cable is suitable for fixed installations such as power circuits, fire alarm systems and emergency lighting. It can also be used indoors or outdoors, for direct burial or free air.   BS6387/BS7846 Cable Fireproof Mains available in sizes 1.5mm to 16mm and manufactured to British Standard BS6387 and BS7846. The cable features plain annealed stranded copper conductor, mica fire resistant tape, XLPE insulated, low smoke & zero halogen (LSZH) bedding, galvanised steel wire armour, low smoke & zero halogen (LSZH) outer sheath. Black. 600/1000 volts. Fire resistant to IEC 331 & BS7846 F2 / BS6387 & CWZ. Acid gas emission to BS EN 50267 (IEC60754), smoke emission to BS EN 50268 (IEC 61034) and flame propagation to BS EN 50265, BS EN 50266 (IEC 60332-3).

Inspect Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Inspect Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Low maintained fire extinguishers are more hazardous than no fire extinguisher at all. It will just take a second to mishap if you use expired fire extinguisher. Manufacturers of fire extinguishers in Mumbai always recommend their customers to have routine inspection in correct manner.

How To Inspect A Fire Extinguisher?

The initial step of inspecting fire extinguisher is visual inspection. Make sure the pressure gauge is placed at the green zone. The expert will normally clean it up using a cloth to determine if any dent, rust or other damage present on the body of the equipment. Once they complete the visual insoection, they will remove the hose and blow through it to ensure there are no barriers. They will also check the handle, valve head assembly, and pull pin.

Other expert will look at the equipment to ensure the instruction-guide plate is still legible. This plate is helpful for users. It includes such information-

§  Images and letters of the classes of fires it can extinguish

§  Rating number to show extinguishing capabilities

§  Details about the amount of dry chemical should be inside the extinguisher

§  Right temperature to operate fire extinguisher

Internal Inspection – Six Year Tear Down

Under internal inspection or six year tear down, extinguisher will be broken down by experts. They empty the powder and clean all the parts and if any defected part is found, they replace it and put the parts back together.

Weight check is the last step to get working fire extinguisher. The inspection of fire extinguisher gets completed by weighing the fully charged equipment. The label will show the quantity of dry chemical requires for addition in the extinguisher. User can also see the info and set the pressure of the extinguisher accordingly.

Checking the gross weight of the equipment, one has to consider entire unit- hose, tamper seal, valve head pin, and dry chemical. Users should install properly inspected fire extinguishers to ensure safety and protection. 

Fire extinguishers manufacturers are sharing preventive measures with workers at workplaces that will protect them and guide them how to deal with fire incident if happen.

1.     Make best practices for housekeeping. Cluttering often works as a fuel to fire and hence, clearing the room and making it clutter free will help in avoiding fire mishap.

2.     Put oily rags inside the covered metal bin. You must dispose of the waste on regular basis.

3.     Maintain machinery to avoid friction sparks and overheating as it may trigger short circuit.

4.     If any electrical hazards happen, report them to security immediately. Don't try to rectify the errors your own if you have not acquired any professional experience.

5.     If you have flammable substances and chemicals at workplace, it is better to use and store them safely.

6.     Maintain free access to all of the electrical switchboards so that you can shut down the power immediately in an emergency.

7.     Take preventive measures and follow safety rules while working in potentially explosive environment.

8.     Never leave combustible garbage outside at risk of fire.

9.     Do not smoke while you are working in chemical factory or powder factory.

10.  Make sure you have all emergency telephone numbers at a reachable place, so that you can access them when you need to.

11.  Last but not the least, learn and train your co-workers how to use fire extinguishers.

How Optical Smoke Alarms Work

How Optical Smoke Alarms Work

An optical smoke alarm (also called photo-electric smoke alarm) works using the light scatter principle. The alarm contains a pulsed Infra red LED which pulses a beam of light into the sensor chamber every 10 seconds to check for smoke particles.

When a fire breaks out smoke will enter the optical chamber through the opening vents. Smoke alarms from quality manufacturers have the chamber protected with insect screens to stop bugs entering and causing false alarms.

As the smoke enters the optical chamber, its particles cause the Infra red light to be scattered onto the photodiode light receptor.

Once the scattered light hits the photodiode light receptor a signal is sent to the integrated circuit which causes the alarm to sound alerting the occupants to the fire.

Achievements by FSAI in the past

Achievements by FSAI in the past (2013-14):
Total No. of States - 11
Total No. of Schools - 102
Total No. of Students - 91,975

Honeywell had already donated funds worth Rs.9 lakhs. Request Corporate Members and Companies to donate generously for this noble cause.