Testing fire-fighting equipment

Eire equipment Fire alarm and fire-fighting equipment must be regularly inspected, maintained and tested Portable extinguishers to have designated locations/be of correct type. Instructions must be provided as to where and how to use them. Practice is necessary... 

Scheffey J.E., Jonas, E.A., Toomey, T.A., Byrd, R., and Williams, F.W. 1990. Analysis of Quick Response Fire Fighting Equipment on Submarines-Phase II, Eull Scale Doctrine and Tactics Tests. NRL Memorandum Report 6632. Naval Research Eabora-tory, Washington, DC. 

Regular testing and maintenance of aU pressure vessels and pipelines, fuel storages and gas pipes, electrical overhead travelling (EOT) cranes, hoists and chain pulley blocks, fire fighting equipments, provision of gas detectors for inflammable, and toxic gases are to be carried out as per instructions issued by statutory authorities and inspection personnel deputed by insurance companies. 

Maintenance and testing of fire-fighting equipment, fire drills and evacuation procedures... 

It is important that equipment is fit for its purpose and is properly maintained and tested. One way in which this can be achieved, is through companies that specialize in the test and maintenance of fire-fighting equipment. 

As is the case with all fire protection systems portable fire fighting equipment must be the subject of active monitoring. Persons responsible for fire safety at work will need to ensure that extinguishers are provided, sited, inspected and tested in line with the manufacturers recommendations this must include an annual test and inspection by a competent person. In addition, extinguishers should be periodically inspected to ensure they are in place, are full and in good condition and have indeed been tested by a competent person within the relevant period. 

Ensuring fire fighting equipment is in position, tested and in good condition... 

Fire fighting equipment including hose reels Weekly Annually Check all extinguishers including hose reels for correct installation and apparent working order. Full check and test by competent service engineer. 

Any fire fighting equipment, fire detector or alarm system must be properly maintained and subject to examination and testing to ensure that it remains effective. Where fire fighting equipment is not designed to come into use automatically, it must also be readily accessible. 

An emergency fire and evacuation procedure must be produced for every contract the procedure will be continuously reviewed and updated as required. Emergency evacuation drills must be devised and practised. Exit routes must be clear of obstructions. Hot work must be strictly controlled, and work areas inspected 30 minutes after completion of the work to check for possible fire hazards. All work areas and site buildings must be inspected on completion of works for potential fire hazards. Quantities of highly flammable liquids and LPG within work areas must be restricted and suitable storage facilities provided. Records must be maintained of routine fire inspections and the maintenance and testing of fire fighting equipment. 

Active fire protection Active fire-protection system Periodic inspection of valves and fire-fighting equipment Periodic testing of fire pumps, sprinkler systems and foam skids... 

All equipment provided to assist escape from the premises, such as fire detection and warning systems and emergency lighting, and all equipment provided to assist with fighting fire, should be regularly checked and maintained by a suitably competent person in accordance with the manufacturer s recommendations. Table 15.2 gives guidance on the frequency of test... 

---