INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

MODULE -2

FIRE SAFETY

Introduction:
Fire safety is the set of practices intended to reduce the destruction caused by fire. Fire safety
measures include those that are intended to prevent ignition of an uncontrolled fire, and those that
are used to limit the development and effects of a fire after it starts.

Fire safety measures include those that are planned during the construction of a building or implemented
in structures that are already standing, and those that are taught to occupants of the building.

Threats to fire safety are commonly referred to as fire hazards. A fire hazard may include a situation that
increases the likelihood of a fire or may impede escape in the event a fire occurs.

Fire safety is often a component of building safety. Those who inspect buildings for violations of the
Fire Code and go into schools to educate children on Fire Safety topics are fire department members
known as Fire Prevention Officers. The Chief Fire Prevention Officer or Chief of Fire Prevention will
normally train newcomers to the Fire Prevention Division and may also conduct inspections or make
presentations.

Elements of fire safety policy:

Fire safety policies apply at the construction of a building and throughout its operating life. Building
codes are enacted by local, sub-national, or national governments to ensure such features as adequate
fire exits, signage, and construction details such as fire stops and fire rated doors, windows, and walls.
Fire safety is also an objective of electrical codes to prevent overheating of wiring or equipment, and to
protect from ignition by electrical faults.

Fire codes regulate such requirements as the maximum occupancy for buildings such as theatres or
restaurants, for example. Fire codes may require portable fire extinguishers within a building, or may
require permanently installed fire detection and suppression equipment such as a fire sprinkler system
and a fire alarm system.

Local authorities charged with fire safety may conduct regular inspections for such items as usable fire
exits and proper exit signage, functional fire extinguishers of the correct type in accessible places, and
proper storage and handling of flammable materials. Depending on local regulations, a fire inspection
may result in a notice of required action, or closing of a building until it can be put into compliance with

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 1

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

fire code requirements.

Owners and managers of a building may implement additional fire policies. For example, an industrial
site may designate and train particular employees as a fire fighting force. Managers must ensure
buildings comply with evacuation, and that building features such as spray fireproofing remains
undamaged. Fire policies may be in place to dictate training and awareness of occupants and users of the
building to avoid obvious mistakes, such as the propping open of fire doors. Buildings, especially
institutions such as schools, may conduct fire drills at regular intervals throughout the year.

Some common fire hazards are:

● Kitchen fires from unattended cooking, such as frying, boiling, and simmering
● Electrical systems that are overloaded, resulting in hot wiring or connections, or failed
components
● Combustible storage areas with insufficient protection
● Combustibles near equipment that generates heat, flame, or sparks
● Candles and other open flames
● Smoking (Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, lighters, etc.)
● Equipment that generates heat and utilizes combustible materials
● Flammable liquids and aerosols
● Flammable solvents (and rags soaked with solvent) placed in enclosed trash cans
● Fireplace chimneys not properly or regularly cleaned
● Cooking appliances - stoves, ovens
● Heating appliances - fireplaces, wood burning stoves, furnaces, boilers, portable heaters
● Household appliances - clothes dryers, curling irons, hair dryers, refrigerators, freezers
● Chimneys that concentrate creosote
● Electrical wiring in poor condition
● Leaking Batteries
● Personal ignition sources - matches, lighters
● Electronic and electrical equipment
● Exterior cooking equipment – barbecue

Fire code:-
In the United States, the fire code (also fire prevention code or fire safety code) is a model code

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 2

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

adopted by the state or local jurisdiction and enforced by fire prevention officers within municipal fire
departments. It is a set of rules prescribing minimum requirements to prevent fire and explosion hazards
arising from storage, handling, or use of dangerous materials, or from other specific hazardous
conditions. It complements the building code. The fire code is aimed primarily at preventing fires,
ensuring that necessary training and equipment will be on hand, and that the original design basis of the
building, including the basic plan set out by the architect, is not compromised. The fire code also
addresses inspection and maintenance requirements of various fire protection equipment in order to
maintain optimal active fire protection and passive fire protection measures.

A typical fire safety code includes administrative sections about the rule-making and enforcement
process, and substantive sections dealing with fire suppression equipment, particular hazards such as
containers and transportation for combustible materials, and specific rules for hazardous occupancies,
industrial processes, and exhibitions.

Sections may establish the requirements for obtaining permits and specific precautions required to
remain in compliance with a permit. For example, a fireworks exhibition may require an application to
be filed by a licensed pyrotechnician, providing the information necessary for the issuing authority to
determine whether safety requirements can be met. Once a permit is issued, the same authority (or
another delegated authority) may inspect the site and monitor safety during the exhibition, with the
power to halt operations, when unapproved practices are seen or when unforeseen hazards arise.

List of Some Typical Fire and Explosion Issues in A Fire Code

● Fireworks, explosives, mortars and cannons, model rockets (licenses for manufacture, storage,
transportation, sale, use).
● Certification for servicing, placement, and inspecting fire extinguishing equipment.
● General storage and handling of flammable liquids, solids, gases (tanks, personnel training,
markings, equipment).
● Limitations on locations and quantities of flammables (e.g., 10 liters of gasoline inside a
residential dwelling).
● Specific uses and specific flammables (e.g., dry cleaning, gasoline distribution, explosive dusts,
pesticides, space heaters, plastics manufacturing).
● Permits and limitations in various building occupancies (assembly hall, hospital, school,
theater, elderly care, child care) that require a smoke detector, sprinkler system, fire extinguisher, or
other specific equipment or procedures.

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 3

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

● Removal of interior and exterior obstructions to emergency exits or firefighters and removal of
hazardous materials.
● Permits and limitations in special outdoor applications (tents, asphalt kettles, bonfires, etc.).
● Other hazards (flammable decorations, welding, smoking, bulk matches, tire yards).
● Electrical safety codes such as the National Electrical Code (by the National Fire Protection
Association) for the U.S. and some other places in the America.
● Fuel gas code.
● Car fire.

Fire Safety Plan:

A fire safety plan is required by all North American national, state and provincial fire codes based on
building use or occupancy types. Generally, the owner of the building is responsible for the preparation
of a fire safety plan. Buildings with elaborate emergency systems may require the assistance of a fire
protection consultant. After the plan has been prepared, it must be submitted to The Chief Fire Official or
authority having jurisdiction for approval. Once approved, the owner is responsible for implementing
the fire safety plan and training all staff in their duties. It is also the owner’s responsibility to ensure that
all visitors and staff are informed of what to do in case of fire. During a fire emergency, a copy of the
approved fire safety plan must be available for the responding fire department's use.

Fire Safety Plan Structure

● Key contact information

● Utility services (Including shut-off valves for water, gas and electric)
● Access issues

● Dangerous stored materials

● Location of people with special needs

● Connections to sprinkler system

● Layout, drawing, and site plan of building

● Maintenance schedules for life safety systems

● Personnel training and fire drill procedure

● Create safe haven (zone)

Use of Fire Safety Plans:

Fire safety plans are a useful tool for fire fighters to have because they allow them to know critical

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 4

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

information about a building that they may have to go into. Using this, fire fighters can locate and avoid
potential dangers such as hazardous material (hazmat) storage areas and flammable chemicals.
In addition to this, fire safety plans can also provide specialized information that, in the case of a
hospital fire, can provide information about the location of things like the nuclear medicine ward. In
addition to this, fire safety plans also greatly improve the safety of fire fighters. According to FEMA, 16
percent of all fire fighter deaths in 2002 occurred due to a structural collapse or because the fire fighter
got lost. Fire safety plans can outline any possible structural hazards, as well as give the fire fighter
knowledge of where he is in the building.

Fire Safety Plans in The Fire Code:

In North America alone, there are around 8 million buildings that legally require a fire safety plan, be it
due to provincial or state law. Not having a fire safety plan for buildings which fit the fire code
occupancy type can result in a fine, and they are required for all buildings, such as commercial,
industrial, assembly, etc.

Advances in Fire Safety Planning:

As previously stated, a copy of the approved fire safety plan shall be available for the responding fire
department. This, however, is not always the case. Up until now, all fire plans were stored in paper form
in the fire department. The problem with this is that sorting and storing these plans is a challenge, and it
is difficult for people to update their fire plans. As a result, only half of the required buildings have fire
plans, and of those, only around 10 percent are up-to-date. This problem has been solved through the
introduction of digital fire plans. These fire plans are stored in a database and can be accessed wirelessly
on site by fire- fighters and are much simpler for building owners to update.

Fire Safety on Construction Sites:- Introduction

Every year there are many fires on construction sites and in buildings undergoing refurbishment; people
are injured or killed, property is destroyed, including irreplaceable heritage buildings and the industry
suffers disruption and unexpected costs from which many never recover. This article demonstrates how
the interested parties in any construction or demolition project can reduce the number of hazards present
on a building site and consequently reduce their fire risk by exercising control over ignition and
combustible risks on their sites.

Fire risk can be defined as the product of the probability of occurrence of a fire to be expected in a
given process or procedure, and the consequence or extent of damage to be expected on the occurrence

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 5

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

of fire. Anyone familiar with risk assessment should also know the difference between a 'hazard' and a
'risk' - a hazard is defined as something with potential for injury and/or damage from fire and the
presence of uncontrolled fire hazards affects the risk, i.e. the likelihood of fire, rather than the
consequences of fire. In its simplest terms the management of fire hazard is found in the basic 'Fire
Triangle' and this applies to the fuel and ignition hazards that can be found on construction sites - and
eliminating one of the sides of the triangle will prevent fire from starting and being sustained. Of course
we can only practically act on the fuel and ignition risks on a building site, therefore reducing the
oxygen is not considered. Controlling the hazards is therefore fundamental to controlling the risk of fire
and the following article will identify the hazards present in construction sites, the control measures
implemented on site and comment on the likelihood of the risks presented by the hazard.

CONSEQUENCES OF FIRE
● Loss of life
● Loss of friends or family
● Injury or disability
● Loss of home, workplace, income, job
● Loss of irreplaceable belongings
● Financial (uninsured losses and premiums
BASIC FIRE PREVENTION
● Be mindful of Fire Safety
● Don’t block fire exits, call points or extinguishers, know your exits
● No smoking policy
● Take care with any hot process, follow manufacturers instructions
● Maintain any machinery
● Observe good security
● Don’t wedge Fire Doors

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 6

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Classes of Fire - A, B, C, D, and K

Fires are classified by the types of fuel they burn.

Class A
Class A Fires consist of ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, trash or
anything else that leaves an ash. Water works best to extinguish a Class A fire.

Class B
Class B Fires are fueled by flammable or combustible liquids, which include oil,
gasoline, and other similar materials. Smothering effects which deplete the
oxygen supply work best to extinguish Class B fires.

Class C
Energized Electrical Fires are known as Class C fires. Always de-energize the
circuit then use a non-conductive extinguishing agent. Such as Carbon dioxide.

Class D
Class D Fires are combustible metal fires. Magnesium and Titanium are the
most common types of metal fires. Once a metal ignites do not use water in an
attempt to extinguish it. Only use a Dry Powder extinguishing agent. Dry
powder agents work by smothering and heat absorption.

Class K
Class K Fires are fires that involve cooking oils, grease or animal fat and can be
extinguished using Purple K, the typical agent found in kitchen or galley
extinguishers.

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 7

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Fire Triangles
The fire triangles or combustion triangles or ″fire diamond″ are simple models for understanding the
necessary ingredients for most fires. In large fires where firefighters are called in, decreasing the amount
of oxygen is not usually an option because there is no effective way to make that happen in an extended area. The
fire triangles or combustion triangles or ″fire diamond″ are simple models for understanding the necessary
ingredients for most fires. The triangle illustrates the three elements a fire needs to ignite: heat, fuel, and an
oxidizing agent (usually oxygen). A fire naturally occurs when the elements are present and combined in the right
mixture, meaning that fire is actually an event rather than a thing. A fire can be prevented or extinguished by
removing any one of the elements in the fire triangle. For example, covering a fire with a blanket removes the
oxygen part of the triangle and can extinguish a fire. In large fires where firefighters are called in, decreasing the
amount of oxygen is not usually an option because there is no effective wayto make that happen in an extended
area .

Fire Extinguishers:
A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection device used to extinguish or control small fires, often in
emergency situations. It is not intended for use on an out-of-control fire, such as one which has reached
the ceiling, endangers the user (i.e., no escape route, smoke, explosion hazard, etc.), or otherwise
requires the expertise of a fire department. Typically, a fire extinguisher consists of a hand-held
cylindrical pressure vessel containing an agent which can be discharged to extinguish a fire. Fire
extinguishers manufactured with non-cylindrical pressure vessels also exist, but are less common.

Types:

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 8

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

There are two main types of fire extinguishers:

1. Stored-Pressure: - In stored pressure units, the expellant is stored in the same chamber as the
firefighting agent itself. Depending on the agent used, different propellants are used. With dry chemical
extinguishers, nitrogen is typically used; water and foam extinguishers typically use air. Stored pressure
fire extinguishers are the most common type.

Cartridge-Operated:- Cartridge-operated extinguishers contain the expellant gas in a separate cartridge

that is punctured prior to discharge, exposing the propellant to the extinguishing agent. This type is not
as common, used primarily in areas such as industrial facilities, where they receive higher-than-average
use. They have the advantage of simple and prompt recharge, allowing an operator to discharge the
extinguisher, recharge it, and return to the fire in a reasonable amount of time. Unlike stored pressure
types, these extinguishers use compressed carbon dioxide instead of nitrogen, although nitrogen
cartridges are used on low temperature (-60 rated) models. Cartridge operated extinguishers are
available in dry chemical and dry powder types in the U.S. and in water, wetting agent, foam, dry
chemical (classes ABC and B.C.), and dry powder (class D) types in the rest of the world. Whilst there
are 5 main types of fire extinguisher, there are different versions of both the Water and Dry Powder
extinguishers, meaning there are a total of 8 fire extinguisher types to choose from.

The 8 types of fire extinguisher are:

 Water– Water Mist
 Water Spray
 Foam
 Dry Powder – Standard
 Dry Powder – Specialist– Carbon Dioxide (‘CO2’)
 Wet Chemical .There is no one extinguisher type which works on all classes of fire. The different
types of extinguisher tackle different types of fire.

Types of Fire Extinguisher – A Detailed Guide:-

Water Extinguishers
Overview:

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 9

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Use for:
o Paper and cardboard
o Fabrics and textiles
o Wood and coal
Do not use for:
 Fires involving electrical equipment
 Kitchen fires
 Flammable gas and liquids
Water extinguishers are the most common fire extinguisher type for class A fire risk.
Most premises will require either water or foam extinguishers.

Label Colour:
– Bright Red
How water extinguishers work:
The water has a cooling effect on the fuel, causing it to burn much more slowly until the flames are
eventually extinguished.
Types of premises/business who may need water extinguishers:
 Buildings constructed of wood or other organic materials

 Premises where there are organic materials to be found such as:

 Offices

 Schools
 Hospitals
 Residential properties
 Warehouses
In fact most buildings need either water or foam extinguishers.

Where to locate water extinguishers:

– By the exits on a floor where a Class A fire risk has been identified
Water spray extinguishers – what’s the difference?:
Water spray extinguishers are equipped with a spray nozzle, rather than a jet nozzle, meaning a
greater surface area can be covered more quickly and the fire put out morerapidly.

Water mist extinguishers – what’s the difference?:

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 10

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Water mist extinguishers have a different type of nozzle again which releases microscopic water
particles. These particles suffocate’ the fire and also create a wall of mist between the fire and the
person using the extinguisher, reducing the feeling of heat.
Foam Extinguishers

Overview:
Foam extinguishers are most common type of fire extinguisher for Class B fires, but also work on
Class A fires as they are water-based.
Label Colour:
– Cream
Use for: Organic materials such as,
 Paper and cardboard
 Fabrics and textiles
 Wood and coalPlus:
 Flammable liquids, like paint and petrol
Do not use for:
 Kitchen fires
 Fires involving electrical equipment
 Flammable metals
How foam extinguishers work:
As with water extinguishers, foam extinguishers have a cooling effect on the fuel. On burning
liquids, the foaming agent creates a barrier between the flame and the fuel,extinguishing the fire.
Types of premises/business who may need Foam extinguishers:
Buildings constructed of wood or other organic materials, Premises where there are organic
materials to be found such as:
 Offices
 Schools

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 11

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 Hospitals
 Residential properties
 Warehouse
 Buildings where flammable liquids are stored
In fact most buildings need either water or foam extinguishers

Where to locate foam extinguishers:

– By the exits on a floor where a Class A or Class B fire risk has been identified

Dry Powder Extinguishers

Overview:
Standard dry powder extinguishers are also called ‘ABC’ extinguishers because they tackle class A,
B and C fires, however they are not recommended for use in enclosed spaces. This is because the
powder can be easily inhaled, and also the residue is very difficult to clean up after. ABC powder
extinguishers can also be used on some electrical fires. Specialist dry powder extinguishers are used
for flammable metals.
Label Colour:
– Blue
Use for:
– Organic materials such as:
 Paper and cardboard
 Fabrics and textiles

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 12

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 Wood and coalPlus:

 Flammable liquids, like paint and petrolPlus:
 Flammable gases, like liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and acetylenePlus:
 Fires involving electrical equipment up to 1000v
Specialist dry powder extinguishers are only used on flammable metals, such as titanium and
magnesium.
Do not use for:
– Fires involving cooking oil
– Fires involving electrical equipment over 1000v
– or in enclosed spaces, such as offices or residential properties
How dry powder extinguishers work:
Dry powder extinguishers smother fires by forming a barrier between the fuel and the source of
oxygen.
Types of premises/business who may need Dry Powder extinguishers:
 Businesses using flammable gases for chemical processes
 Premises where welding and flame cutting takes place
 Garage forecourts
 Liquid petroleum gas (LPG) dispensing plants
 Premises with large, commercial boiler rooms
Where to locate Dry Powder extinguishers:
– Place dry powder extinguishers near to the source of the fire risk.
Specialist Dry Powder extinguishers – what’s the difference?:
Specialist dry powder extinguishers work in the same way as standard dry powder extinguishers but
are for use with flammable metals only. There are 2 types of specialist dry powder extinguishers –
‘L2’ which only tackles lithium fires, and ‘M28’, for all otherflammable metal fires.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 13

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Overview:
CO2 extinguishers are predominantly used for electrical fire risks and are usually the main fire
extinguisher type provided in computer server rooms. They also put out Class B fires (flammable
liquids, such as paint and petroleum).
Label Colour:
– Black
Use for:
– Flammable liquids, like paint and petrol
– Electrical fires
Do not use for:
– Kitchen fires – especially chip-pan fires
– Combustible materials like paper, wood or textiles
– Flammable metals
How CO2 extinguishers work:
CO2 extinguishers suffocate fires by displacing the oxygen the fire needs to burn.
Types of premises/business who may need CO2 extinguishers:
– Premises with electrical equipment, such as:
 Offices
 Kitchens
 Construction sites
 Server rooms
All work vehicles should also carry a smaller 2kg

Place near to the source of the fire risk and/or near the fire exits.CO2 extinguisher.
Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 14
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Wet Chemical Extinguishers

Overview:
Wet chemical extinguishers are designed for use on Class F fires, involving cooking oils and fats.
They can also be used on Class A fires although it is more usual to have a foamor water extinguisher
for this type of fire risk.
Label Colour:
– Yellow
Use for:
– Cooking oil/fat fires
– Organic materials such as:
o Paper and cardboard
o Fabrics and textiles
o Wood and coal
Do not use for:
– Flammable liquid or gas fires
– Electrical fires
– Flammable metals
How wet chemical extinguishers work:
Wet chemical extinguishers create a layer of foam on the surface of the burning oil or fat, preventing
oxygen from fuelling the fire any further. The spray also has a cooling effect. Types of
premises/business who may need CO2 extinguishers:
– Commercial kitchens
– Canteens
Where to locate CO2 extinguishers:

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 15

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

– Place near to the source of the fire risk.

FIRE HAZARD:
A material, substance, or action that increases the likelihood of an accidental fire occurring. Fire hazards
include all types of live flames, causes of sparks, hot objects, and chemicals that are potential for
ignition, or that can aggravate a fire to become large and uncontrolled. Fire hazards also include all
types of potential threats to fire prevention practices, fire fighting, built-in fire safety systems and
situations that restrict the escape of people from an affected building or area in the event of a fire.
Fire hazards pose threats to life and property. It is, therefore, the prime object of safety systems to
detect, remove or reduce the risk of fire threatened by those potential hazards.
The following fire hazards are common at home, in public places, transports and work places: All types
of flames used for any work
 Electric wires, higher loads, loose connections and old electrical equipment
 All cooking and heat generating appliances
 All works and situations where fire is essential such as welding, cutting, metalcasting etc.
 Improper stowage of tools, equipment and items during and at the end of theday’s work
 Smoking and personal lighters and matches
 Fireworks, pyro techniques, ammunitions and explosives
 Improper and unauthorized stowage of flammable and hazardous materials and chemicals
especially the flammable ones
 Insufficient capacity and numbers of emergency exits and stairs
 Hindrance to sight or reach fire fighting equipment, markings and alarmsystems
 Insufficient numbers and types of fire extinguishers
 Absence of fire detection and alarm system
 Violation of building and fire codes

Fire Hazard Analysis (FHA):

A Fire Hazard Analysis (FHA) is a method of evaluating the fire hazards and hence consequences which
could potentially occur in a facility. Commonly in the process industry the term FHA is used
interchangeably with FRA (Fire Risk Assessment) which also analyses the probability of events
occurring, not just the consequences of the hazard.
A more specialised arena, fire hazard analysis is a theoretical project to ascertain the effects of fire
growth within a building and the probabilities of damage caused by direct burning or radiated heat

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 16

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

leading to secondary fires or fire spread. Importantly once this has been established, the analysis takes
into account fire response actions and sets out effective strategies for mitigation.

IF YOU DISCOVER A FIRE:

 Raise the alarm
 Fight the fire if you are competent and you consider it safe to do so (generally only to facilitate
escape)
 Evacuate as per normal fire procedure
 Inform the Fire Warden or Responsible Person
TIPS ON HOW AND WHEN TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
 Most fires start small. Except for explosions, fires can usually be brought under control if they
are attacked correctly with the right type and size of extinguisher within the first 2 minutes.
 A fire extinguisher should be "listed and labeled" by an independent testing laboratory. The
higher the rating number on an A or B extinguisher, the more fire it can put out. Be careful, high-
rated units are often heavier models. Make sure you can hold and operate the model you are
using.
 Before attempting to fight a small fire, be sure everyone is out of the area. Ensure someone has
called the fire department. If the fire starts to spread or threatens your escape path, get out
immediately.
 The operator must know how to use the extinguisher quickly without taking time to read
directions during an emergency.
Remember that the extinguishersneed care and must be recharged after every use
1. PULL... the pin. Some extinguishers require releasing a lock latch, pressing a puncture lever or
other motion
2. AIM... low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or it's horn or hose) at the base
of the fire
3. SQUEEZE... the handle. This releases the extinguishing agent.
4. SWEEP... from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the fire area in
case fire breaks out again, and repeat use of extinguisher if necessary
Read and follow the directions on your extinguisher. If you have the slightest doubt about whether or not
to fight a fire – DON’T! Get out and close the doorbehind you

MAINTANCE AND INSPECTION

 Detection and Alarm systems should be tested weekly and inspected by a competent person
Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 17
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

periodically
 Fire extinguishers and other fire fighting equipment should be checked at a frequency
determined by risk (but at least monthly) for location, condition and state of charge and serviced
by a competent person annually
 Any Fire fighting device must be replaced, serviced or checked by a competent person after any
use

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER COMPONENTS

Cylinder or container
● Body of the extinguisher
● Holds the extinguishing agent
● Nitrogen, compressed air, or carbon dioxide used to pressurize the cylinder
Handle
● Used to carry an extinguisher and to hold it during use
● Extinguishers weighing more than 3 lb (1.35 kg) must have handles. Usually located below
the trigger mechanism

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 18

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Nozzle or horn
● Expels agent
● Attached directly to valve assembly or at the end of a short hose
● Foam extinguishers have a special aspirating nozzle.
Trigger
● Mechanism that is squeezed or depressed to discharge extinguishing agent
● Usually a lever located above the handle
● Cartridge/cylinder models usually have a two-step operating sequence.
Locking mechanism
● Prevents unintentional discharge
● Simplest form is a stiff pin
● Tamper seal secures the pin
● Discourages people from tinkering with extinguisher
Pressure indicator
● Shows whether a stored-pressure extinguisher has sufficient pressure tooperate

● Most extinguishers use a needle gauge.

● Extinguishers pressurized by a cartridge lack a pressure gauge
MAINTANCE AND INSPECTION
 Check pressure gauge.
 Confirm proper identification.
 Check hose and nozzle for damage or obstructions.
 Check the hydrostatic test date.
 Includes internal inspections and repairs
 Must be performed periodically
 Only qualified personnel can perform maintenance

Know who to call after a fire.

1. Ask when it is safe to enter a house or other building on the property after a fire. Do not enter a
house or other building that has been affected by a fire until you have listened to theprofessionals telling
you that is okay to do so. Other factors to be aware of include:
 Making sure that the fire is extinguished.
 Knowing that fire authorities have checked out the site and done what they need to do to establish
a safety zone.

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 19

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 The severity of the fire.

2. Recognize that if a house or building is too badly damaged, you may not be allowed back inside
at all.
Contact family members that may not have been with you. Let them know what happened, letthem know
that everybody is okay (if so) and let them know the information that is necessary.
After a house fire, don't assume that someone is going to contact your insurance. This is the number one
thing that you need to do. This will not only enable documentation of the event and set in train the
insurance claim but your insurer will be able to talk you through emergency lodging and living
expenses. Remember to retain all receipts to make a claim. The insurance company will also assist with
clean up options.
3. If you are a tenant, contact the owner/landlord and/or their insurance company.
Anyone who you feel that could be helpful to you, not necessarily just an insurance company but it could
be other things involved, such as the contents of your home and you need to contact a particular help
group or business etc. For example, American Red Cross offers services to those who have lost their
home.
4. Understand what happens with a "fire report". A fire report will discuss what structure the house
was in, what area was involved, the time of the incident, the date of the incident and it will have an
incident number if it comes through a fire department. This enables the fire department to know all the
specifics of who was there and what resourceswere there, to assist in gathering a lot more information.
5. Know how to get a copy of a fire report. You may be able to call the fire department for a copy. For
example, in Los Angeles, you can call the Fire Prevention Bureau,the Fire Marshall or the billing agency
of the fire department. If arson is involved, the Arson Unit or equivalent will probably be able to get this
information to you.
6. Secure the property. If you have not already being told to do so, it is important to secure your
property to prevent possible looting. Talk to emergency services on how best to go about this. Most
insurance policies require this.
7. Consider the clean up requirements. If your house has been damaged rather than destroyed, interior
clean up will be required. Keep in mind that damage to the property often goes beyond what the eye can
see. (Removal of a destroyed house should only be done by professionals.) You should spend a little
time assessing whether you think you can perform the clean up or if you'll need professional cleaners.
You will find it useful to discuss this withyour insurance company. Consider such things as:
 The types of damage including soot, ash, charring, smoke, odor, etc.

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 20

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 Damage to a single room - this may be something you can manage yourself
 Extensive damage - leave it alone and call in the professionals
8. Know how to handle smoke and soot damage after a fire. If you do make the decision to clean up
yourself, be aware that soot and smoke damage might be significant and often creates a film on the
walls. There will also be residue from the extinguishers used by the fire crew.
9. If water hoses were used to put out your fire drying your home is very important. It is best to
hire professionals to do fire/ water combination clean up. Water damage can lead to more damage or
even mold if not dried properly. Insurance companies will often have approved restoration contractors
that you can call for board up, structural drying, contents cleaning and structural cleaning and repair.
BBB and Angie's List are also good places to findtrustworthy contractors.
10. Seekcounseling if needed and reassure children. Having your house damaged or destroyed by fire
is extremely traumatic and can have lasting impacts on each family member, depending on his or her
ability to cope. Common feelings are helplessness, disorientation, pining for belongings, deep sadness, a
sense of deprivation, despair and a loss of routine and structure. The depth of feelings and disorientation
will depend on the extent of damage - loss of the entire house can leave everyone feeling as if they have
to rebuild life all over again; partial loss, however, still carried stress and sadness. Reassure each other
and let the emotions happen. Keep a close eye on children and be truthful with them about what has
happened and if you do not know what is going to happen next, at least reassure them that you have one
another, that things can all be replaced and that the only way is up from hereon.

Fuel Hazards

Where combustible materials are used on site the provision of materials should be limited to those
absolutely necessary or when appropriate those specifically designed for high risk sites. There are a
variety of flammable materials with the potential to be stored or used on site that include scaffold boards
and sheeting, temporary covering materials, waste that has been removed from building materials and
bagged waste awaiting disposal.

● Combustible building components - the control of combustible materials is fundamental to site

safety and materials should not exceed the quantities required for a day's work; storage of combustible
items should be limited and a gap of 6-10m should be left between any fuel packages. Care should be
taken not to leave any readily ignitable substances near to fuel packages - for example a stack of wood is
difficult to ignite with a small pilot flame but if it is still in flammable packaging or adjacent to a pile of
waste the energy required to ignite the wood stack may become available. Fires in multi-storey timber

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 21

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

frame buildings during construction have an obvious high fire loading and this has led to some serious
fires and rapid collapse of the unprotected frame. Timber frames will burn faster and more completely
when the panels are not protected by the usual internal fire resistant plasterboard and external cladding.
Many studies and reports have been written for timber frame sites; following this guidance will give
basic protection but specific guidance is available from the Structural Timber Association among others.

● Fire retardant scaffold and temporary covering materials - even those combustible materials
tested and marked as complying with fire retardant standards should be stored on site in limited amounts
and any necessary preparation such as cutting to size should be carried out in a remote location.
Materials that must be marked as fire retardant:

1. Timber scaffold boards should be marked as 'Firesafe' boards indicating they are treated to comply
with BS EN13501-1:2002 - Euroclass B or C. The boards are combustible but have been treated to
provide some protection; care should be taken with cut or damaged boards as these may not exhibit
similar characteristics where dust and crumbs in particular may burn more freely.

2. Temporary coverings should be tested to LPS 1215 and this standard describes performance
requirements with regard to flammability that should not add to the fire risk on site. Protective
coverings for floors, walls etc. should be tested to LPS 1207 which describes performance
requirements with regard to ignitibility, smoke emission, toxic gas emission and oxygen index.

● Flammable gases and liquids - fuel may be required for hot cutting and plant and this may be in
the form of flammable gases such as LPG or liquid fuel for generators. Management of fuel is the
responsibility of the site manager and should include the whole process from procuring the correct fuel,
its use and the potentially hazardous operations such as refueling.

● Waste materials - waste should be minimized wherever possible and disposed of as soon as
possible. Packaging and waste materials from the work processes should be disposed of regularly and
part of the management function should be to check areas for effective disposal in accordance with a
Waste Management Plan for the site. Plastic waste containers should not be permitted and wherever
possible metal containers should be used. If oils and grease are used and cleaning rags are stored together
there is a possibility of spontaneous ignition with some contaminants; any cleaning rags should be
disposed of immediately when used for cleaning oily deposits.

Control Measures:-

The principal contractor must draw up a construction phase plan and this should include the fire safety
and emergency procedures for the site; see Appendix 3 of L153 for further details of the plan. The plan

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 22

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

must include suitable and sufficient arrangements for dealing with any foreseeable emergency including:

 Sufficient number of suitable emergency routes and exits that must be kept clear and free from
obstruction and, where necessary, provided with emergency lighting so that it may be used at any
time

 Exit routes must be indicated by suitable signs

 Where necessary suitable and sufficient fire-fighting equipment and fire detection and alarm systems
must be installed

 Workers must be instructed in the correct use of fire-fighting equipment

Where building sites are close to neighboring properties issues can arise with blocked exits from the
existing building; particularly in urban situations where access is restricted. Sites where there is a high
combustible loading such as timber framed buildings, radiated heat and fire spread need to be
considered. Exit routes need to be clear and uncomplicated; routes should be appropriately signed and
lit. Where stairways are required these may be temporary stairs or part of the ongoing construction in
which case they will need to be fire separated as soon as possible from the remainder of the site and lead
directly to open air.

Temporary stairs can be fabricated from scaffolding or by using a proprietary system; they should be
separated from the building using the external wall and any openings less than 1.8m horizontally away
from or 9m below the stair should be protected with 30 minutes fire resistance.

Horizontal and vertical fire compartment may be required to stop a fire from spreading during the
construction phase, particularly for high rise buildings, to protect the means of escape.
Fire Detection and Alarms:-
On the very smallest sites a shout of 'fire' may be adequate, on small sites a proprietary standalone unit
may be adequate but as sites grow larger the requirement grows to a full fire detection and
interconnected alarm system. The basic requirement is for call points and sounders, usually called site
alarms; on bigger and higher risk sites where a fire may grow undetected and threaten life it may be
necessary to install fire detectors linked to the alarm system. Systems may be wired in or wireless and
may need to be modified as the site grows

Hot Work Permits

Appropriate precautions must be taken when using hot work in the vicinity of flammable materials.

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 23

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Where possible any combustible items should be removed before the hot works commence and if this is
not practicable then combustible items should be wetted. 'Hot Work Permits' should be used for all hot
working processes on site and this ensures that personnel working in the restricted areas are aware of the
hazards involved and the nature and extent of the work to be done. Formal checks are undertaken to
confirm a safe system of work is in place before work commences and provide a record of activities.
The safe system of work includes a cooling down or 'fire watch' period at the cessation of hot working
activities and arrangements must be made to monitor any hot work areas during breaks.

Firefighting Equipment

Extinguishers should be provided appropriate to the risk:

 Water, dry water mist or foam for wood, paper, card etc. (Class A)

 Foam, dry water mist or dry powder (not to be used inside unless necessary) for flammable
liquids. (Class B)

 CO2, dielectrically tested foams (up to 1000V) and dry water mist (up to 1000V) for
electrical risks.

Extinguishers may be required for specific risks particularly when processes such as hot cutting are
taking place but otherwise should be provided according to BS5306 part 8 2012 guidance. Multipurpose
extinguishers are available and the ratings of each extinguisher should be examined.

Fire extinguishers for class A materials recommends a minimum quantity of extinguishers with an A
rating should be calculated as follows:

 For any storey with a floor area less than or equal to 400m2, there should be at least two
extinguishers with a class A rating; having a combined minimum total fire rating of 26A.

 For any storey with a floor area exceeding 400m2, there should be at least two extinguishers with
a class A rating; having a combined minimum total fire rating of 0.065 x floor area of the storey
(in square metres).

 Extinguishers should be provided for other risks as appropriate.

More complex sites may require wet or dry risers to be fitted; some may need sprinkler systems.

Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting to illuminate the escape routes and for illuminating specific tasks will be required

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 24

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

on all but the simplest sites where borrowed or spill-lighting may be adequate.

Safety in living rooms:-

Open fires
 Ensure you have an effective spark guard at open fires and ensure it is correctly in place
especially before you go to bed and when children are about.
 Clean chimneys at least twice a year. On average 30% of all fires each year are chimneyfires.
 Remember not to leave newspapers, clothes or combustible materials too close to a fire or
heater.
 Smoking
 If you allow smoking in the house, provide large, stable ashtrays. A burning cigarette end can
smoulder for hours before igniting.
 Ensure matches and lighters are out of children's reach.
 Do not smoke if you are feeling sleepy or have taken alcohol. Electrical leads
 Check all electrical leads and plugs for deterioration, burning or fraying.
 Ensure there are no overloaded sockets.
 Switch off and unplug all appliances when not in use (this applies everywhere in thehouse).
 Portable heaters
 All gas and electric portable heaters require special attention and handling. Familiarize yourself
with any special instructions for their use.
o Keep all flammable materials at a safe distance from portable heaters
Safety in bedrooms
 Smoking in bed should be prohibited - it is one of the most dangerous fire hazards
 Check electric blankets regularly for wear and damage, and ensure they are used according to
the manufacturer's instructions
 Switch off and unplug all appliances before going to bed
 Ensure that all doors that safeguard your means of escape are closed before you retire for the
night
 Candles should be put in a proper holder that won't fall over. They need to be put on a heat-
resistant surface. Candles should not be left unattended in a room
 Evacuation plan
 Plan 2 escape routes to get out of the house

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 25

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 Always ensure that keys for doors and windows are readily available
 Keep escape routes clear
 Practice the plan
 Close all doors behind you as you leave
 Crawl low in smoke as the air is cleaner at ground level
 Do not re-enter the house for any reason
 Phone the fire brigade as soon as possible
 If you are trapped in a room close the door and seal the bottom of the door with a towel or
blanket
 Go to the window, open it and attract attention
 At first floor level, as a last resort you can hang from the window cill and drop to theground
 Always lower children first, never expect them to follow you
Home checklist
 Is there a smoke detector at each level of home?
 Are matches, lighters etc. out of children's reach?
 Is petrol stored in approved safety container and locked away?
 Are electrical appliances kept in good repair and used properly?
 Do you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and do you know how to use it?
 Do you store combustible material near cookers or heaters?
 Do you have a fireguard?
 Is your chimney regularly cleaned?
 Is the lint collector on your clothes dryer regularly cleaned?
 Is the kitchen vent cleaned regularly?
 By taking note of these simple measures and incorporating them into your daily routine you are
safeguarding both you and your home from the dangers of fire.
 Remember if you have children teach and encourage them to practice fire safety in the home.
Carbon monoxide
Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless, colourless gas created when
fuels (such as wood, coal, natural gas, propane, and oil) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and
cooking equipment that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide. Each year a number of people die
from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning in the home.

SAFETY SIGN BOARD: OSHA Signs and Safety Signs warn of workplace hazards and instruct employees
Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 26
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753
on the proper precautions to take to avoid injuries. Choose from Seton's extensive line of OSHA Signs, including
Danger Signs, Caution Signs, Warning Signs, Notice Signs and many more. OSHA Signs and Safety Signs are
available in sizes from large to small and in a variety of materials.
Custom OSHA and Safety Signs are also available.

FIRE ALARM AND FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEMS

Fire Alarm Systems are used to protect life and property. It protects by:

1. Detecting a fire at an early stage

2. Alerting and evacuating occupants

3. Notifying the relevant personnel

4. Activating auxiliary functions e.g. smoke controls, lift homing etc

5. Identifying and guiding fire fighters

Components forming the System- 9 Items

1. Smoke / Heat Detectors (Fire Detectors)

2. Alarm Panels (Control and Indicating Equipment)

3. Alarm Bells (Fire Alarm Devices)

4. Manual Call Points

5. DECAM Panel (Fire Services Signalling Transmitter)

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 27

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

6. DECAM Station (Alarm Monitoring Station)

7. Extinguishing Panels (Control for automatic fire protection equipment)

8. Gas/Sprinkler (Automatic fire protection equipment)

9. Charger/Battery (Power Supply Equipment)

Heat and flame detectors have three basic operating principles:

 Fusion- Melting of a metal rather like a normal electrical fuse which operates a switch thus
closing an electrical alarm circuit.

 Expansion- A bimetallic strip is used which expands when heated and makes contact with an
open electrical circuit, thus closing it and sounding an alarm.

 Flame (heat) and smoke detectors- An infra-red beam is transmitted across the protected area.
The smoke and heat interfere with the transmission of the beam; this is detected by the receiving
unit and the alarm is initiated.

SMOKE DETECTORS

 Ionization detectors- work on the principle that ions are absorbed by smoke particles. Some of
the ions are absorbed by the smoke and the ion flow across the detection chamber is reduced; this
change is detected and the alarm operates.

 Light scatter detectors- contain a photoelectric cell fitted in a chamber at right angles to a light
source. Smoke entering the chamber scatters the light and the resulting disturbance triggers an
alarm.

 Obscuration detectors-work on the opposite basis to the light scattering principle in that when
the light which normally impinges on the photoelectric cell is obscured by smoke, the alarm is
triggered.

Smoke Detectors
 Working smoke detectors reduce the chances of death in a fire by half.
 Nearly 900 lives could be saved annually if every home had working smoke detectors.
 Even just one smoke detector reduces the chances of death by almost half.
 Nearly half of all fire survivors remember hearing their smoke alarm.
Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 28
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

 Deaths due to fire have decreased by half since the invention of the smoke detector
 Most deaths due to fire occur at night when people are sleeping.

Smoke Detector Maintenance

 The most common cause of smoke detector failure is missing or disconnected batteries.
 Nuisance alarms are the most common reason for deliberately disconnecting batteries
 Missing, disconnected, or dead batteries account for 73% of smoke detector failures
 There are more homes with no working smoke detectors than there are homes without any
smoke detectors at all. There are millions of homes in each category.
 Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your home.
 Change your batteries twice a year.
 Clean your detectors also.
 Replace the entire unit every ten years.
 Disconnecting your batteries, for any reason, is dangerous and illegal.
Fire Protection of Buildings
There are four categories of fire protection systems for buildings
 Portable extinguishers
 Fixed foam, carbon dioxide, and dry powder extinguishers
 Fixed riser and hose-reel systems
 Sprinkler systems

Portable extinguishers
 Water or spray foam fire extinguisher- suitable for class A fires involving solid materials -
paper, wood, fabrics and so on.
 Foam and dry powder extinguishers- suitable for class B fires involving flammable liquids
such as petrol, oils, fats; should be used.
 Dry powder extinguisher-suitable for class C fires which are fuelled by flammable gases such
as natural gas, butane and electrical equipment fires
 Special powder extinguisher- suitable for class D metal fires involving metals such as
aluminum and magnesium. They work by simply smothering the fire with powdered copper
Non-conducting agents such as powder and carbon dioxide extinguishers; suitable for class
E fires in which live electrical equipment is involved
 Halotron 1 extinguishers- like carbon dioxide units, are for use on class B and C fires. Halotron

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 29

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

1 is an ozone-friendly replacement for Halon 1211. It discharges as a liquid, has high visibility
during discharge, does not cause thermal or static shock, leaves no residue, and is non-
conducting. These properties make it ideal for computer rooms, clean rooms,
telecommunications equipment, and electronics.
 FE-36 (Hydrofluorocarbon-236fa) extinguishers- The FE-36 agent is less toxic than both
Halon 1211 and Halotron 9. In addition, it has zero ozone-depleting potential.
 Water mist extinguishers- are ideal for Class A fires where a potential Class C hazard exists.
Unlike an ordinary water extinguisher, the misting nozzle provides safety from electric shock
and reduces scattering of burning materials. This is one of the best choices for protection of
hospital environments, books, documents, and clean room facilities. In non-magnetic versions,
water mist extinguishers are the preferred choice for MRI or NMR facilities or for deployment
on mine sweepers.

FIXED FIRE EXTINGUISHER

 Fixed Foam Extinguishers: Buildings containing flammable liquids normally have a piping
system installed in the protected areas in the building with an inlet in the street through which
foam is pumped. The opening is protected by a strong glass panel and is marked ‘FOAM
INLET’. The fire brigade will smash the glass to feed the inlet.

 Fixed Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers: This system consists of a piping network with nozzles
attached and located in the protected areas. The system is connected to a fixed supply of CO2.
This system does not cause any side effect as it leaves no residue after its application.
 Dry Powder Systems: Dry powdered extinguishing chemical agents under pressure of dry air or
nitrogen are discharged over the burning materials. Normally, this system is suitable for
application on liquid and electrical equipment fires.

Standpipe/Riser and Hose-Reel System

A rising main consists essentially of a pipe (of 50 mm minimum diameter) installed vertically in a
building with a fire service and has inlet at the lower end and outlets at each floor inside the building.

There are two types of risers:

Wet Risers- Wet risers are kept permanently charged with water which is then immediately available
for use on any floor with an outlet. Buildings above 60 meters in height should be provided with wet
risers. Wet risers in building should not be used for any other purpose.
The water supply system to the riser should be capable of providing a pressure of 410 kPa at the highest
Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 30
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

outlet. Lower outlets should be protected against excessive pressure whereby pressures should limited to
520 kPa maximum at any outlet.
Wet riser system is always the preferred system unless freezing conditions may occur.
In this case the dry riser system is to be used.
Dry risers- Dry risers are similar to wet risers but are kept empty of water. When required, they will be
charged by fire service pumps at ground level. Dry risers should only be installed where prompt attention
can be relied upon or where buildings are not fire sensitive such as all-concrete buildings. Appropriate
occupants training will be required when such systems are installed.

The most common material used for standpipes is steel.

Internal hose reels may be fitted inside buildings and should be sufficiently light andeasily manipulated
to be used by employees for a first aid fire protection.
Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Wet pipe sprinkler systems

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 31

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

A wet-pipe sprinkler system is an automatic sprinkler system in which the supply valves are open and
the system is charged with water under supply pressure at all times. For this reason, they are the quickest
at getting water on the fire and are the simplest to maintain. Wet pipe systems are installed where indoor
temperatures can he maintained at or above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Below that temperature, there is the
danger of freezing pipes. If the outside temperature is below freezing and the interior temperature is less
than forty degrees Fahrenheit, the steel sprinkler piping, which rapidly conducts heat and rapidly loses
it, will drop below freezing. The frozen area may be isolated and near an opening or uninsulated portion
of the building. It may be a small area, but it could be enough to put the whole system out of service.

Dry-pipe system: In this system no water is introduced into the piping network until a fire occurs. The
dry-pipe systems are used where conditions are such that freezing may occur due to weather or other
conditions such as cold stores where the temperature is artificially maintained close to, or below
freezing. In dry type systems the pipes are kept charged, at all times, with air or nitrogen under pressure.
Activationof a sprinkler head by heat released from a nearby fire results in a pressure loss which in turn
activates a dry pipe valve which opens allowing water to enter the piping network and sprayed through
opened sprinkler heads. The disadvantage of this system is that accidental damage to a sprinkler head or
gas leakage may falsely indicate the existence of fire and activate the system causing property damage.
To avoid these unfavorable characteristics of dry-pipe system a pre-action valve is used resulting in
what is termed the "pre-action system".

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 32

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY 18ME753

Dept., of Mech., Engg, SVIT, B’Luru-64 Page 33