Automatic fire detection installations systems

In addition, should arson occur, the extent of damage can be minimised if an early warning of a fire can be given. This can be achieved by a sprinkler system, which will restrict the spread of the fire, coupled with an automatic fire detection installation linked to a permanently manned control centre who can call out the fire brigade. 

If the means of escape includes a common corridor or circulation space, then either it should be a protected corridor, or a suitable automatic fire detection and alarm system should be installed throughout the storey. 

The usual protection for large installations is to provide a water-spray system. For small bulk storage, fire hoses or monitors are often adequate. However, for installations over 50 tons of storage (and all major cylinder-filling plants) it is accepted that a fixed water-spray system needs to be provided which is automatically initiated by a system capable of detecting a fire threatening the vessels... 

A display panel should be installed for both electrical and automatic fire alarms which shows the location of the alarm that has been initiated. Weekly tests should be made of the fire alarm so that people become familiar with the sound and so that any faults in the system can be detected and corrected. The fire alarm installation must be inspected and maintained on a regular and routine basis and a record made of all tests and inspections. This record should also include details of any faults, repairs and replacements. Inspections of the system should be carried out quarterly by a competent person. In high fire risk areas, serious consideration should be given to installing an automatic link from the display panel to the local fire brigade. 

Fire Alarm, Smoke Detection and Sprinkler Supervision Initiating Devices The hazardous occupancy must be provided with either a manual or automatic supervised fire detection and alarm system installed and connected to the ECS in accordance with NFPA 72A. (See also UFC 8004.2, UFC 5108, UFC 8003.1 and UFC 8003.3.)... 

Buildings must contain a fire alarm or fire detection system that should automatically activate an alarm in the event of a fire. Install air conditioning, ducts, and any related equipment in accordance with NFPA 90A, Standard for Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems. Ensure people can hear fire alarms over normal operational noise levels. Locate manual fire alarm stations near each exit. Inspect fire extinguishers at least monthly and ensure regular maintenance. Test fire alarm/detection systems once a quarter. Publish and enforce a Smoking Policy. Implement appropriate electrical safety policies and educate aU personnel about fire safety and response plans. 

Other types of fire protection equipment or systems can be broken into four categories (1) portable fire suppression equipment including standpipe and hose systems (2) fixed fire suppression equipment including automatic sprinkler systems and fixed extinguishing systems (3) fire detection systems and (4) employee alarm systems. In addition, certain equipment is often installed in workplaces to control heat sources or to detect fuel leaks. An example is a temperature limit switch. Alarm systems may include, but are not limited to, manual pull box alarms, public address systems, radio, or telephone.)... 

The use of automatically closing valves operated from gas-, fire- or smoke-detection systems is not normally required for gas installations. The reasons for this are ... 

Deluge systems should generally be activated by automatic means. Activation by manual means defeats the objective of installing a deluge system, and fire water monitors should be provided instead as they are more cost effective where manual means is relied upon. Most systems provided at petroleum facilities are typically activated by a heat detection. Usually a fusible plug pneumatic loop detection system or UV/IR detectors are placed around the equipment. This insures activation when operators are not present and only when a real fire situation is present. 

When the decision is made to install an automatic detection system, the fire/gas detection technology should be carefully selected to match the expected hazard and the environment in which it will be installed. The design and installation of a reliable fire/gas detection system in an industrial facility should only be done by experienced personnel. Otherwise, the facility owner may have an inappropriate system and may be plagued by nuisance alarms and high maintenance costs. 

Gas turbines should be installed with automatic fuel shutoff valves. Locate cooling towers far away from process units. Whenever possible, maintain cooling water pressure more than process stream pressure, at the coolers. Install gas detectors at the top of cooling towers, and an automatic shutdown system for cooling tower fans, in case of gas detection. Boiler and other utilities should be located far away from process facilities so that they will not be exposed to fires and explosions originating in the process plants. Install deflagration or detonation arrestors in low-pressure fuel gas systems connected to atmosphere or fired systems. 

Properly designed and installed fixed fire suppression systems enhance fire safety in the workplace. Automatic sprinkler systems throughout the workplace are among the most reliable fire fighting means. The fire sprinkler system detects the fire, sounds an alarm, and puts the water where the fire and heat are located. 

---