APF Issue 04

60
APF ON-LINE www.apfmag.com An MDM PUBLICATION Issue 4 – December 2002 ASIA PACIFIC FIRE MAGAZINE REPORTING TO THE ASIA PACIFIC FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE SERVICE INDUSTRY High Rise Office Building Fire Protection Fire Asia 2003 Preview Choosing a Nozzle Spreaders Market Guide High Rise Office Building Fire Protection also inside Fire Asia 2003 Preview Choosing a Nozzle Spreaders Market Guide

description

Reporting to the Asia Pacific Fire Protection and Fire Service Industry

Transcript of APF Issue 04

Page 1: APF Issue 04

APF ON-LINE

www.apfmag.com

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 4 – December 2002

ASIA PACIFIC FIRE MAGAZINE

REPORTING TO THE ASIA PACIFIC FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE SERVICE INDUSTRY

High Rise Office

Building Fire

ProtectionFire As ia 2003PreviewChoosing aNozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

High Rise Office

Building Fire

Protectionalso ins ideF ire As ia 2003PreviewChoosing aNozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

OFC IFC IBC OBC 1/11/06 3:38 pm Page ofc1

Page 2: APF Issue 04

Who Protects the Protectors?

Lion Apparel, with over 100 years of experience is the world’spremium and largest manufacturer and supplier of firefighter’s protectiveclothing. Lion combines proven design features with leading edge globaltechnology, also adapting it to the unique climatic and firefightingrequirements of each country.

Lion Apparel – Asia PacificLevel 1/160 Sir Donald Bradman DriveHilton (Adelaide), South Australia, 5033

Tel: +61 8 8354 3766 Fax: +61 8 8354 3788Email: [email protected]

Web: www.lionapparel.comEnquiries: www.lionapparel.com

OFC IFC IBC OBC 1/11/06 3:39 pm Page ifc2

Page 3: APF Issue 04

3 Foreword from NFPA

5-8 Fire-Fighter PPE – The LastLine of Defence

11-13 Protecting FlammableLiquids: Awareness &Adaptation

15-19 Strategy & Equipment for theDetection of UnknownChemical Hazards

21-25 High Rise Office BuildingFire Protection

26 Product Profile – Hale PPVFans

28-29 Fire Asia International 2003Preview

31-32 Spreaders Market Guide

35-38 Deluge Systems – TheInnovative Design Approach

41-43 Choosing a Nozzle

44-45 Rights of Access + Rights toEgress = Lowest RiskEvacuation & Rescue

46-49 The Breathing ApparatusAirline – When Only FreshAir Will Do

50-53 Fire Protection Valves

54-55 Product Update

56 Advertisers’ Index

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

1

Front cover picture: Jin Mao building inShanghai, PR China. Picture courtesy ofRolf Jensen & Associates

PublishersMark Seton & David Staddon

Editorial ContributorsMark Gribble, Jack Woycheese, Dr. Wolfgang J. May, Fang Li, Doug Pickersgill, Mark Saner, John Ng, Tan Kim Guan, Jack F. Bowen

APF is published quarterly by:MDM Publishing Ltd 18a, St James Street, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5BWUnited KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1460 249199Fax: +44 (0) 1460 249292 e-mail: [email protected]: www.apfmag.com

©All rights reserved

Periodical Postage paid at Charnplain NewYork and additional officesPOSTMASTER: Send address changes toIMS of New York, P 0 Box 1518 Champlain NY 12919-1518USAUSPS No. (To be confirmed)

Subscription RatesSterling – £35.00 AUS Dollars – $100.00US Dollars – $55.00 (Prices include Postage and Packing)ISSN – 1476-1386

DISCLAIMER:The views and opinions expressed in ASIA PACIFIC FIREMAGAZINE are not necessarily those of MDM PublishingLtd. The magazine and publishers are in no way responsibleor legally liable for any errors or anomalies made within theeditorial by our authors. All articles are protected bycopyright and written permission must be sought from thepublishers for reprinting or any form of duplication of anyof the magazines content. Any queries should be addressedin writing to the publishers.Reprints of articles are available on request. Prices onapplication to the Publishers.

Page design by Dorchester Typesetting Group LtdPrinted by The Friary Press Ltd

APF ON-LINE

www.apfmag.com

An MDM PUBLICATION

Issue 4 – December 2002

ASIA PACIFIC FIRE MAGAZINE

REPORTING TO THE ASIA PACIFIC FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE SERVICE INDUSTRY

High Rise Office

Building Fire

ProtectionFire As ia 2003

Preview

Choosing a

Nozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

High Rise Office

Building Fire

Protectionalso ins ideF ire As ia 2003

Preview

Choosing a

Nozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

December 2002 Issue 4

Contents

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:02 pm Page 1

Page 4: APF Issue 04

26-28 February 2003

Exhibition & Conference

Hong Kong

Broaden your horizons…

Your key to unlocking one of

the leading growth markets

in the world

Brought to you by the publishers of Fire International.To find out how your company can benefitby exhibiting, contact:

Lesley StevensonTel: +44 (0) 1737 855451Email: [email protected]

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:03 pm Page 2

Page 5: APF Issue 04

WHEN I FIRST started to give thought as to thesubject of this editorial I had decided not to talkabout terrorism and large fires in public placesinvolving loss of life. Unfortunately events of recentweeks make me feel obliged to make somecomments.

Firstly the issue of terrorism has once again beenbrought home to us all by horrific events on bothsides of the world. The bombing of innocent civil-ians in Bali, Indonesia and the hostage crisis inMoscow, Russia again remind us all of the vulnera-bilities we all face as we go about our daily lives. Inmy discussions with colleagues it is clear that theenormity of these events is difficult to comprehend.It is when it becomes personal through the death ofa work colleague or friend that the full impact ofthese tragedies can be felt on a personal level andthen magnified by the large numbers of casualties.

I am surprised by the sentiments of some in theEmergency Services who still feel “this could nothappen here”. I strongly believe it is incumbent onall in the emergency services to start thinking theunthinkable and ask the hard questions. How wellwould we have coped it this had happened here? Itis a sobering exercise to walk through these scen-arios and examined the resources required to dealwith events on this scale. There is a need to thinkthrough all of the agencies who may be involved. Itmay include Police, Fire, Military, Health, Politicians,Media, and Diplomats to name a few. How well dothese agencies/groups interact, do they have plansfor joint operations, have these plans been updatedand practiced. If the answer is “I do not know” nowis the time to act. When you are the one confrontedwith one of these disasters it is too late toplan. Communities are far more interested in Pre-paredness than trying to apportion blame after anincident has been badly handled. Unfortunatelythere are many examples of significant events we

can use as examples from which to learn. You donot have to have had the incident in your backyardto learn the lessons, both what to do and what notto do.

Secondly I need to refer to a large fire in Hanoi,Vietnam, which appears to have killed over 100people. Events such as this are avoidable. We knowthe problems and we know the solutions. As soci-eties developed and urbanized there were firedisasters, which occurred and as a result alteredLegislation. It is interesting to look at the history oflarge loss of life fires and to see the changes to thelaw, which follow. We know what happens inside abuilding when it catches fire. If there are inade-quate or blocked exits, no means of suppressing afire and no training we should not be surprisedwhen people die in large numbers when fires occurin such buildings. Codes such as NFPA 101 (LifeSafety Code) clearly outline the steps required toensure safe egress from buildings in the event offire or other emergencies. It is interesting to seethat the precursor to the NFPA Life Safety Codestarted in 1913. Why are events such as this stilloccurring in 2002?

One of the current management buzzwords isRisk Management. Use of this concept has toextend to include the well being of employees andmembers of the public who may enter a building.How many managers are truly aware of the safetyof the buildings they occupy; particularly but notlimited to those in developing economies. Howmany business travellers or holidaymakers are awareof the safety of the hotel in which they intend stay-ing on their next trip? Until the public and con-sumers demand more it appears little will change.

Jeff GodfredsonNFPA’s Asia-Pacific Operations Director

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

3

FOREWORDby Jeff GodfredsonNFPA’s Asia-Pacific Operations Director

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:03 pm Page 3

Page 6: APF Issue 04

Enquiries: www.lenzing.com

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:04 pm Page 4

Page 7: APF Issue 04

What is the difference betweenan off duty firefighter and amember of the public?Clearly there are elements of training,knowledge, skills, fitness, and PPE (per-sonal protective equipment) etc, whichseparate the two groups. However todiminish any one of these without dueconsideration of all of the elements whichconstitute the difference between civiliansand firefighters, is fraught with danger.

Physiologically, what is thedifference when a firefighter is onduty?For many years I have used theargument that physiologically there isvery little difference. Therefore it has

always bewildered me why somedecision makers, bean counters orbureaucrats while insisting on purchas-ing inappropriate PPE, still expectfirefighters to run into a burningbuilding, while members of the publicrun out.

Just as a single focus on budgetdrives down quality and therefore effi-ciency and effectiveness, so to doesemploying an isolated focus when pur-chasing PPE. Which brings us to thesubject of this paper.

What other factors/issues orequipment do we need toconsider when we purchase anelement of PPE?

Does the decision form part of alarger long-term strategy, which isdesigned to enhance firefighter com-fort, efficiency and therefore perfor-mance and ultimately their safety? Isit directly linked to a comprehensiverisk assessment and task analysis?

Does it give due consideration to cul-ture and history of how firefightershave conducted and delivered theirprofession? Is there a Change Man-agement Process applied to the tran-sition? (ie education, information,training etc prior to the introduction.)Many of you will already be able toanswer these questions from your expe-rience to date. However if we as a

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

5

The Last

Line ofDefence

by Mark GribbleSnr Vice President and

National OH&S Coordinator – United FirefightersUnion of Australia, Queensland Branch

Member of the Emergency Services Advisory Council

25 year career firefighter and Station Officer @Surfers Paradise Fire Station, Gold Coast, Australia

The Last

Line ofDefence

Picture courtesy of Lion Apparel

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:04 pm Page 5

Page 8: APF Issue 04

firefighting industry are to get it rightfor the firefighter of the future, thenwe must first recognise a number ofissues;

● We are all living in a time when allorganisations are trying to “do morewith less”.

● This in turn means we live in timesof change.

● Therefore firefighters need to be“agents of change” so as to enhancetheir safety and general workingconditions.

If firefighters and fire service man-agers alike share this notion, then we clearly need to prioritise our expen-diture of the public purse. Money paidby the public, whom I spoke of earlier who have an expectation thatwe will enter into the hostile environ-ment, from which they are trying toescape.

As I research firefighters fatalitiesand injuries from around the world, it seems that it is often during interior structural firefighting or SARactivities, that urban firefighters areeffected the most. While the figurescoming from the 2001 FirefighterFatalities published by the NFPA, showthat the highest is still from heartattacks (40%), the remaining are alsodisturbing.

● Internal Trauma – 27%● Asphyxiation – 15%● Other – 7%● Burns – 4%● Crushing – 3%● Drowning – 3%

While burns only constitutes 4%, the4 listed above burns, can also be influ-enced by personal protective clothing(PPC) and/or PPE.

Where did these incidents takeplace?

● Fireground – 38%● To or from alarms – 24%● Other on duty – 23%● Training – 12%● Non-fire emergencies – 2%

There is another question thatshould always be considered on theincident ground. “Does the potentialrisk from our actions out weigh thepotential gain?”

Fixed property use:

● Vacant, Special (This includes idlebuildings, under construction ordemolition structures) – 18.1%

● Public Assembly – 12.9%● Stores/offices – 12.9%● Storage – 8.8%● Manufacturing – 6%● Residential – 3.7%● HealthCare/correctional – 2.4%

It also seems that there aresome common issues, such as;

● Communications● Incident command issues

including accountability● Minimum safe crew sizes● Dynamic risk assessment

(risk v gain)

Therefore if these issues appearto be constant over the past fewyears, then PPE is indeed our lastline of defence and we need to havein place, or work towards the “best”PPE, while we are endeavouring toaddress the above listed issues.

What is the best PPE?I suspect it is the PPE, which is thedirect result of a comprehensive consid-eration of all the associated elementsof clothing and equipment. This woulddeliver up a totally integratedapproach, where each piece enhances

and complements the others. Forexample, do communications have anything to do with PPC? The answer isyes. For if any equipment is used inconjunction with the PPC it needs tobe considered when purchasing eitherthe PPC or the equipment. Perhaps thebest example of this can be found inthe association between structural fire-fighting gloves and portable radios.

Once a fire service is confident theyhave found the glove, which offers the best protection, and dexterity andstill firefighters have trouble with littlebuttons, perhaps manufactures and pur-chases need to consider industry specificmodels for use with a gloved hand.

Does the width of the leg onoverpants really matter?

Yes and for a number ofreasons. Airflow is alwaysan issue when selectingturnout gear. However if a fire service hasallowed itself to havemixed strategies on pur-

chasing firefighting boots, then theymay even see firefighters trying to pushgeneral-purpose boots through the legof a pair of overpants, which were orig-inally designed to be used with topboots. Ironically this leads to thepotential for ankle injuries. The verysupport, which firefighters were seeking

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

6

Picture courtesy of Lion Apparel

Picture courtesy of Lion Apparel

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:05 pm Page 6

Page 9: APF Issue 04

When the alarm sounds,

you don’t know what you

may be facing at the fire

scene. Every fire is different.

Your work and your

equipment needs vary as

well. That’s why wearing

PBI Gold is so important. It

protects you better regardless

of conditions. It offers the

highest level of heat and

flame resistance, helps

reduce stress and fatigue,

and provides the utmost in

comfort and durability.

Battle the unexpected with

kits made to take the heat.

Garments of PBI Gold

fabric are available from

leading manufacturers

around the world. Specify

PBI Gold and you’ll be

well suited for the heat

and flames of battle.

Celanese Advanced Materials Inc.

P.O. Box 32414

Charlotte, NC 28232

T 704.554.3378

F 704.554.3101

E-mail: [email protected]

www.pbigold.com

PBI Gold and PBI Gold Plus in logo form areregistered trademarks of Celanese AdvancedMaterials Inc. The Celanese AMI name and logoare registered trademarks of CNA Holdings, Inc.

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:05 pm Page 7

Page 10: APF Issue 04

from a zip/lace pair of GP boots, is lostwhen having to wear them unzippedaround the station, to allow for a quickturnout response. All of which gives noconsideration to station contaminationissues. From this we see it may notmatter which style of firefighting boota department purchases, it just needsto be compatible with the associatedPPE/PPC and enhance the way theyconduct their business.

Additionally good PPE pur-chasing will be the result of acomprehensive risk assessment,task analyses and training/opera-tional strategies analyses.

Those departments who have highlyresourced and aggressive/offensiveattack strategies, may feel they needhigher thermal protection. Howeverthere is a critical balance between ther-mal protection and metabolic heatrelease. For well over a decade therehas been much research, debate andimprovement on this very issue, until

we are seeing combinations of materi-als, which can deliver up a balance ofhigh T.H.L. (Total Heat Loss) of 250 to300 W/m2, while maintaining a Ther-mal Protective Performance (T.P.P.) of35 to 38. (Australia and Europe oftenrefer to H.T.I.)

A comprehensive risk assessment willtake into account fireground tactics,percentage of non fire or other emer-gency calls, the ability to dress downsafely, injury statistics, departmentdemographics, standards of fire cover,and environmental issues.

What part does culture andhistory play in PPE purchasing?While lightweight products from hel-mets to PPC were consistently worn inAustralia over the last few decades,they rarely met any standard, eitherAustralian or overseas.

While lightweight is a desirable fea-ture in PPE/PPC, the transition ofupgrading sometimes meant a slightincrease in weight, which was opposedby some firefighters.

Even changes to a lighter and morevisible colour were opposed by somefirefighters and purchasers, because itwould show the dirt. However this wasa very deliberate change and turnoutgear is now getting cleaned at anappropriate rate. Therefore firefightersare no longer carrying around the car-cinogenic and poisonous products ofcombustion in their turn out gear.

Cultural opposition even occurswhen flash hoods are introduced intodepartments. This was seen in a num-ber of countries when some firefightersthought it was “ok” to protect the restof the torso, but leave the body’s com-puter (brain/head) exposed. Interestinglyfirefighters ears and necks have con-

tributed significantly over the years tothe injury statistics of many a firedepartment.

However due to improved training in fire dynamics, a better understand-ing of their PPC and thermal camerause, firefighters are often choosing toprotect their “once only thermaldetectors” (their ears) rather than usingthem to check the surrounding airtemperature.

It is encouraging to see research anddevelopment within this countryexpanding the boundaries of technol-ogy. The ability to combine manyaspects of telemetry into an “add on”style package may prove to be a quan-tum leap forward.

Telemetry used in firegroundaccountability as an integral extensionof communication, could give some ifnot all of the following features.

● Firefighter’s real time air consumption● Heart rate● Temperature readings, both core

and ambient● Built in DSU with word back warn-

ing/facility● Dead reckoning or tracking● Hands free communications by word

command● Premises information on touch

screens● Name display ● The ability to insert attack teams on

that premises plan● Fully ICS compatible in field elec-

tronic battle boards

Historically most of these individualfeatures have been available in Aus-tralia, but for some, the exchange rateand import tariffs have seen purchasersreluctant to commit.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

8

Picture courtesy of Lion Apparel

Picture courtesy of Lion Apparel

In summary the purchase of “shinybells and whistles” has always cap-tured the interest and imaginationof firefighters worldwide. Howeverif in the future we give due con-sideration to the “whistles” whenwe are purchasing the “bells”(metaphorically speaking) we mayjust achieve a truly integratedapproach. If this philosophy is com-bined with a comprehensive riskassessment, then the firefighters ofthe future will be well equipped totackle the hostile work environ-ments, which they encounter.

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:06 pm Page 8

Page 11: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

9

Enquiries: www.gore-tex.com

GORE-TEX® fabrics are highly sought after by Fire Brigades

worldwide due to the unbeatable level of

protection provided to firefighters’ Personal

Protective Equipment in clothing, boots and gloves. It

offers the incomparably unique combination of

Waterproofness, Breathability and Durability — ensuring that

fire-fighters are kept dry and the dangers of heat stress

are considerably reduced. Total protection can

only be achieved by the combination of waterproofness,

breathability and durability, unique to GORE-TEX fabrics.

Wetsuit

Drysuit

GORE-TEX® moisture barrier productsfor all fire fighters needs

W L Gore & Associates (Pacific) PTE LtdBlock 217 Henderson Road #03-02 Henderson Industrial Park 159555 Singapore

Tel: +65 6275 4673 Fax: +65 6275 5672

For further information on our products, please write [email protected]

www.gore-tex.comGORE-TEX, GORE and designs are registered trade marks of W L Gore & Associates Copyright © 2002 W L Gore & Associates (Pacific) PTE Ltd

Enquiries: www.gallet.fr

Head protection system F1

[A New Generation of Firefighter Helmets]

at

el

GALLET SA • B.P.90 • F-01400 Chatillon Sur Chalaronne • Tel: +33 [474] 55 01 55 • Fax: + 33 [474] 55 24 80 • [email protected] • www.gallet.fr

Head protection has a new name:

RATCHET SYSTEMQuick adjustement and high comfort

LAMP XP

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:06 pm Page 9

Page 12: APF Issue 04

Emergency situations happen daily when people least expect them. Training people to react in the correct manner and ultimately save lives is vital. Realistic training is a key element in giving people the right tools to manage situations that may occur in their environment.

simulators ensure that training is realistic, safe, reliable, economically and environmentally acceptable.

IFTE develops training simulators to suit all needs, from Fire Extinguisher Training Equipment for people in the workplace to sophisticated training grounds around the world. IFTE

www.ifte.com [email protected]

IFTE plc, IFTE House, The Fire Service College, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0RH, United KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1608 812805 Fax: +44 (0) 1608 812801

Enquiries: www.ifte.com

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:06 pm Page 10

Page 13: APF Issue 04

The flammable liquids and petro-chemical industries are aware of thechanging business environment. Let’s

look at adaptations of these industries overthe past 15 years and the changes theyhave weathered:

● Experienced workers have retired and,through this attrition, the averageexperience level has decreased.

● The number of employees — administra-tors, operators, maintenance personnel,and inspectors — has decreased inresponse to reduced market conditionsand resultant lower margins.

At the same time, plants, once located inthe proverbial boondocks, now find thatthey have new neighbors. These neighborsquestion the wisdom of locating refineriesand petrochemical plants adjacent toschools and housing – ignoring the factthat the plants preceded local growth andencroachment.

Add to the mixture the well-documentedresults of such issues as:

● Cyclohexane at the Nypro plant atFlixborough, UK in 1974

● Methyl isocyanate at the Union Carbideplant in Bhopal, India in 1985

● Paint-products pollution from theSherwin-Williams Paint Warehouse Fire,Dayton, Ohio in 1987

● Pesticide-contaminated firewater at theSandoz Chemical Plant Fire, Basel,Switzerland in 1986

and you make a strong case for respondingto change in a positive and effective manner.

REACTIONS TO CHANGEAs a result of reductions in personnel, theapproach to routine operations, mainte-nance, and inspection has changed.

● Process controls are now automated bycomputer to enable fewer people accom-plish the work of formerly great numbersof employees.

● Participation by industry in the codesand standards process has decreased asbudgets and manpower issues forcemore focus on the daily productionrequirements.

● Maintenance databases, reliability data,and probabilistic approaches have reducedlevels of inspection and maintenance.

INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

The concerns about the effects of products ofcombustion or chemical releases on the near-by public, combined with the aforementionedincidents, sent a wake-up call to flammableliquids industry to focus on public safety.

Industry and governments respondedwith mandates for more rigorous methodsto incorporate fire safety elements properlyinto design and operations and to docu-ment these elements preparatory to facili-tate audits for acceptability.

The American Petroleum Industry pre-pared a program, published as API Recom-mended Practice 750, Management of

Process Hazards. This recommended practiceessentially parallels similar programs fromseveral professional organizations: the U.S.Occupational Safety and Health Agency –Process Safety Management of Highly Haz-ardous Chemicals, the American Institute ofChemical Engineers’ Center for ChemicalProcess Safety’s Process Safety Management,and CONCAWE’s Methodologies for HazardAnalysis and Risk Assessment in the Petrole-um Refining and Storage Industry, ReportNo. 10/82, and the NFPA 30 Flammable andCombustible Liquids Code Section 5.12,Management of Fire Hazards.

Each of these programs contains thesame basic principles, recommended forincorporation into plants’ fire safety pro-grams and listed alphabetically below:

● Assurance of the quality and mechanicalintegrity of critical equipment

● Audit of process hazards managementsystems

● Emergency response and control● Investigation of process-related incidents● Management of change● Operating procedures● Pre-start-up safety review● Process safety analysis● Process safety information● Safe work practices● Training

IN THIS ARTICLE…While we cannot address all elements of firesafety design and operations in this article,we will look at changes to some of them,which are currently generating interest: sys-tem safety, training, performance-baseddesign, water mist, emergency response plan-ning (ERP), and Class B firefighting foam.

SYSTEM SAFETYThe proper and continuing application of theelements of Management of Process Hazards(MPH) to any plant’s fire safety program notonly provides essential information about theweaknesses in the plant’s design and opera-tion, but also establishes a firm basis foremployee training and understanding.

This MPH supplements the old, but triedand true mantra that we must focus not onthe worst-case scenarios, but rather on theprevention of such scenarios. We must assurethat knowledgeable, trained, and experiencedpeople design, construct and inspect, main-tain and operate plants and facilities so thatany releases are minor and easy to control.

From a fire protection standpoint, to

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

11

Hydrocarbon Fire. With permission of National Fire Protection Association

Protecting Flammable Liquids:Awareness & Adaptation

In the recent best seller,Who Moved my Cheese?,Spencer Johnson, M.D.,presents a parable toillustrate change, the

reasons behind change,and varied reactions tochange. We draw the

conclusion that awarenessand adaptation are among

the keys to survival.

Protecting Flammable Liquids:Awareness & Adaptation

by Jack Woycheese,FSFPE, P.E.

Hughes Associates, Inc.

The concerns about the effects of productsof combustion or chemical releases on thenearby public sent a wake-up call toflammable liquids industry to focus onpublic safety

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:07 pm Page 11

Page 14: APF Issue 04

keep releases to the minor level, we mustassure that the design allows for:

● Rapid isolation and shut down, withadequately designed drainage and pres-sure relief

● Fire suppression systems to protectagainst fire exposure to flanges andother sources of additional release offlammable materials

Such an approach helps to minimize thespread of fire and to prevent major damageto valuable equipment, structural supports,instrumentation and cable trays, or otheressential elements of the plant.

Recently, we have demonstrated thatapplications of MPH even to relatively smalloperations are valuable to management,operations personnel, and the public. Oneapplication involved a transit system’s newliquefied natural gas (LNG)/compressed nat-ural gas (CNG) storage and bus refuelingfacility. Results provided authorities andoperations personnel with a level of comfortabout the new technology.

TRAININGAccording to MPH, training of employeesmay be based on codes, standards, regula-tions, and operating procedures to assurethat those employees gain a fundamentalunderstanding of the process and the safeoperation, inspection, and maintenance ofthe process.

API RP 750 states that the training mustbe conducted:

● Initially, to assure that persons assignedto operate the facility have the requiredknowledge and skills to carry out theirduties and responsibilities, not only dur-ing normal operations, but also duringstart up and shut down

● Periodically, to assure understanding andadherence to current facility operatingprocedures, and whenever equipment,procedures, or personnel change

Owners must document training as partof the preparation for required audits,which verify that plant owners are adminis-tering the program properly. New web-based programs enable owners to moreeasily and cost-effectively provide and doc-ument the required training, including testsof proficiency.

An additional benefit is that these testresults may help to identify and qualify par-ticipants for higher paying positions andincreased responsibilities.

PERFORMANCE BASED DESIGNSCodes and code authorities are increasinglyaccommodating performance based designs.The new International Building Code, thenew International Fire Code, the developingNFPA 5000 building code, and the NFPA 30Flammable and Combustible Liquids Codehave added wording to facilitate the appli-

cation of performance based designs inthose circumstances under which prescrip-tive designs are not readily applicable.

As society increasingly encroaches on the plot limits of plants, performance based designs have become a means ofrationalizing spacing for new and existingfacilities. Modeling of releases, pool fires,radiant heat levels, flammable vapor cloudtravel, blast effects, and BLEVE (BoilingLiquid Expanding Vapor Explosions) effectsfrom reasonable incident scenarios enablegreater technically based scrutiny of plantexposures.

Modeling has become more comprehen-sive, with impressive graphical displays illus-trating what once required reams ofcomputer paper. We have also becomeincreasingly dependent on computer valida-tion of our conclusions and decisions.Although these models now show results ina much more user-friendly format, the lim-itation of any computer program is, ofcourse, that someone must enter the properdata correctly and into the correct model.

Unfortunately, owing to the manydemands on governmental monies, organi-zations such as the U.S. National Instituteof Science and Technology are struggling tofund such efforts to validate computermodels. We do need this research to buildthe confidence of the public and authoritiesin the calculated analyses of releases.

WATER MIST FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

The flammable liquids industry is nowadapting water mist fire protection systemsto protect flammable hazards. On Alaska’sNorth Slope, water mist systems are replac-ing Halon 1301 in new construction of gascompressor modules, turbine enclosures,NGL pump rooms, and chemical injectionskids. The hazards in these modules includefire in lubricating oil systems for the tur-bines, compressors, and pumps. Fuel mayrelease as atomized sprays, creating sprayfires, or as liquid spills, creating pool fires.

Water sprays from standard sprinklers orbadly managed hose streams cannot extin-guish spray fires. Water sprays could, how-ever, agitate the fuel surface of pool firesand intensify burning, a problem that doesnot arise with properly designed water mist.

The major benefits of water mist arisefrom oxygen displacement by water vapor,and radiation attenuation. In machineryenclosures, however, other mechanismscombine to contribute to fire control:

● Flame cooling● Cooling of vital equipment● Cooling the fuel below its vaporization

temperature● Vapor dilution

In addition to controlling lubricating and fuel oil fires, water mist has potentialbenefits for mitigating the hazards of gasreleases. Pre-emptive application (i.e., inject-ing mist before ignition) of a water mist

system can increase the energy required toignite released gas. Increasing the ignitionenergy is equivalent to increasing the lowerflammable limit of the released gas.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Careful design of water mist systems is essen-tial to assure that the characteristics of thesystem (e.g., droplet size or pressure) do notinadvertently add to the post-release risk.

Some water mist systems cycle the sprayon and off and include a built-in off cycle,lasting as long as three minutes.

● For pre-engineered systems identical tothe FM test basis of the listing, thethree-minute off cycle might beappropriate.

● Where conditions differ from the listingbasis, such as larger volume spaces, thepotential for gas release, or the proximityto heat-sensitive control equipment, thethree-minute off cycle is unacceptable.

We must understand how the water mistsystem will perform in a particular applica-tion. When selecting the minimum durationof discharge for water mist, system design-ers must consider such elements as the timerequired for turbine coast-down, emergencyshut down and response.

In the ever-growing number of FM andUL listings for water mist systems, fieldapplications inevitably vary from the listing.Water mist system designers must judgewhen they can safely extrapolate designcriteria from the listing. For that reason,the vendor, designer, owner, and authorityhaving jurisdiction must discuss the designof water mist for fire protection. Ownersand authorities should require a technicalreview as assurance that extrapolation oftest data is technically acceptable and thatthe system may be reasonably expected toprovide the desired protection.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANSEmergency response planning has evengreater importance today than in yearsprevious.

Encroachment has reduced the safety fac-tor for response. The time allotted to con-duct an emergency shut down has createdeven greater pressure on the operatorresponsible to do so. If s/he errs by notshutting down when appropriate, the publicis endangered. If s/he errs by shutting downwhen inappropriate, s/he creates an eco-nomic burden on the employer and com-pany shareholders. To compensate for thissituation, companies have turned again tobasics, supplemented by modern technology.

To gain a better understanding of thelimits of operations and the incidents thatmay occur, plant workers apply process haz-ard analysis techniques, such as hazard andoperability (HAZOP) studies and failuremode and effects analysis reports. Modelinghelps provide an understanding of thepotential consequences and the time avail-able to respond to a release.

In one community, the petrochemicalindustry funded a sophisticated, integrated,neighborhood warning system to alert plantpersonnel, emergency responders (firedepartment, police department, environ-mental health organizations, governmentagencies, etc.), and nearby citizens.Designed to provide information to all con-cerned about the incident and the properresponse to it, the system involves sirens,telephone call down systems, public radioand television, highway electronic signage,

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

12

As society increasingly encroaches on theplot limits of plants, performance baseddesigns have become a means ofrationalizing spacing for new and existingfacilities.

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:07 pm Page 12

Page 15: APF Issue 04

radios in hospitals and similar public areas, and even car radios. To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response,

some companies set up exercises, based on possible incidents. Thesesimulations are beneficial and include what if drills, tabletop exercises,limited full-scale drills, and full-scale drills involving the communityand mutual aid organizations.

Almost axiomatic in the analysis of response to actual emergen-cies is the primary criticism about difficulties resulting from a lack ofcommunication during an emergency. To improve communications,many companies have established well-developed command centerswhere company management and key personnel gather. Theserooms are equipped with everything needed to assist the IncidentCommanders when responding to an incident. The companies alsoestablish a process to review, test, and update all tools and informa-tion in the room routinely. Some of the materials and equipmentinclude:

● A well thought out, up-to-date, and documented emergencyresponse plan, identifying responsibilities, personnel, andprobable steps during a disaster

● Televisions and radios to monitor public broadcasts● Computer systems and backups● Facility site plans● Models of releases● Process piping and instrument diagrams● Process flow diagrams● Fire water system drawings● Emergency telephones● Mobile phones● Multiple two-way radio networks

Successful implementation of the plan is a function of trainingand drills, which must include all stakeholders who may becomeinvolved in the response.

In the best case, companies integrate response plans into multi-hazard plans and corporate business continuity plans. In some cases,companies also establish and maintain alternate remote controlcenters.

CLASS B FIREFIGHTING FOAMThe 3M Company recently reduced the arsenal of firefightingweapons by deciding to stop manufacturing Class B firefightingfoam, including Light WaterTM aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF)and alcohol type concentrate (ATC). They based their decision onenvironmental concerns about biodegradation products from 3M’sfluorochemical surfactants, produced by the electrochemical fluori-nation manufacturing process.

The biodegradation product (perfluorooctane sulfanate, or PFOS)from 3M’s fluorochemical surfactants does not meet U.S. Environ-mental Protection Agency environmental objectives = relating toPBT: persistence (does not dissipate in the environment), bioaccu-mulation (builds up in living tissue) and toxicity (has a negativeaffect on organisms). As a result of data about issues with PBT andpotential future regulations/restrictions, 3M decided to stop manu-facturing foam.

Other suppliers of foam derive fluorochemical surfactants from adifferent manufacturing process, telomerization. Concerned thattelomer-based products may also be PBTs. The U.S. EPA is, however,currently performing a hazard assessment of telomer-based chemi-cals and their biodegradable products.

Those involved with flammable liquid fire protection should con-tinue to be well informed about the environmental status and anyattempt to limit the availability of foam. Foam is a major tool in thefirefighting arsenal for hydrocarbon fires and potential futurerestrictions could have significant impact on fire protection.

SUMMARYOver the years, changes in the flammable liquids and petrochemicalindustries have affected the approach to fire protection. Reductionsin manpower, budget, and experience levels and the encroachmentof society on hydrocarbon facilities changed protection.

Flammable liquids and petrochemical industries are placinggreater emphasis on a systems approach to fire safety, MPH, trainingtools and emphasis, performance based designs, water mist fireprotection systems, emergency response plans, new concerns aboutfirefighting foam, and environmental considerations in firefighting.

We expect computers to facilitate decision-making during an emer-gency and to minimize the effect of an incident. Electronic tools alsomanage changes to our designs, operational controls, training of per-sonnel, and safe shut down of facilities under emergency conditions.

We have come far in the past few years and must be ready tocontinue our contributions, awareness, and acceptance of changeand improvements in the protection flammable liquids.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

13

Jack Woycheese, P.E., FSFPE, a senior fire protectionengineer with Hughes Associates, Inc., has experience inthe hydrocarbon and petrochemical industries in Alaska,Canada, Dubai, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UnitedStates. He also represents Hughes as vice president ofinternational business development.Mr. Woycheese holds a BSc in Fire Protection Engineeringfrom Illinois Institute of Technology and a Masters in Busi-ness Administration from Northwestern University. He is aformer president of SFPE, chairs the NFPA 30 (Flammableand Combustible Liquids Code) Technical Committee onOperations, and is a principal member of NFPA 30Technical Correlating Committee.Mr. Woycheese is a Registered Professional Engineer inCalifornia, Illinois, and the Republic of Korea.For additional information about Hughes Associates, Inc.,please visit the website at www.haifire.com.

Enquiries: [email protected]

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:08 pm Page 13

Page 16: APF Issue 04

Enquiries: www.raesystems.com.cn

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:08 pm Page 14

Page 17: APF Issue 04

THE STRATEGIC APPROACH

In the general industry we find about5,000 to 6,000 different chemicals,which are in daily use, some in small,some in larger quantities. In the eventof a chemical accident, such as a spill,an explosion, or a fire we should beprepared to determine within 15 to 20minutes which chemicals are present.As there is no single instrument avail-able, which could detect all 5,000

chemicals in one unit (it is impossiblebecause of the different types of chem-ical behaviour) we need to take astrategic approach. Nobody is willing tocarry a large quantity of detectiondevices in the field to be prepared foreverything. Even disregarding bud-getary considerations it would still bean issue of time, and this is the criticallimitation.

There are three essentials to follow:a) the more we know about which

chemicals could be present, the betterwe can be prepared to select the properdetection equipment (and of coursealso the protective equipment), b) if wedon’t know what’s present in the caseof unknown chemicals or warfareagents we need a strategic selection ofdetectors based on the statistical evalu-ation of chemical accidents and whichlimits the quantity of necessary devicesdrastically, and c) further to the instru-ment selection we need regular trainingso that each and every individual firstresponder feels comfortable with hisequipment and knows very well how touse it and how to evaluate the resultsin a limited period of time.

THE TUBES APPROACHDirect reading detector tubes have thebig advantage of allowing for the mea-surement of a large variety of differentchemicals. This method utilizes alength-of-stain type discolouration ofthe reactive chemicals inside the tubesto determine the concentration. Basedon printed scale marks or a full scale inppm the concentration can be evaluateddirectly and no calibration is requiredby the user. Ambient air is drawnthrough an opened tube by means of a

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

15

by Dr. Wolfgang J. May,Business Development Manager, Draeger Safety Asia

Strategy andEquipment for

the Detection ofUnknown Chemical

Hazards for Fireand Emergency

ServicesIN MANY CASES first responders have to deal with unknown chemi-cals, which can be either flammable gases, toxic industrial chemicals(TIC’s) or even chemical warfare agents. In emergency situationsthere is only limited time to determine which chemicals are present,otherwise even more important actions would be neglected. The nec-essary equipment should not be too bulky or complicated in use.Based on practical experience in the field a combination of direct-reading detector tubes and portable electronic instruments haveproven to be the most suitable method to allow for fast and reliabledetection and measurement of both toxic industrial chemicals andchemical warfare agents. User-friendly evaluation charts can guidethe user to properly evaluate the different colour stains in the detec-tor tubes. Comprehensive information in the display of a portableinstrument gives a clear picture about the kind of chemicals beingpresent and their concentrations in conjunction with audible andvisual alarms in case critical levels have been exceeded.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Strategy andEquipment for

the Detection ofUnknown Chemical

Hazards for Fireand Emergency

Services

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:09 pm Page 15

Page 18: APF Issue 04

manually operated bellows pump andno battery is necessary. This means thatthe tubes can be used at any timewithout preparation.

In order to save valuable time it isusual to combine 5 tubes in a samplingmanifold, which can then be used for asimultaneous measurement, thus themeasurement time is reduced by thefactor of 5 and we observe five resultsin the time of one.

There are currently three differentsimultaneous test kits available to mea-sure the following toxic industrialchemicals:

Kit 1:1. Acid Gases (Hydrochloric Acid,

Nitric Acid, etc.)2. Hydrocyanic Acid3. Carbon Monoxide4. Basic Gases (Ammonia, Butylamine,

etc.)5. Nitrous Gases (NO + NO2)

Kit 2:1. Sulphur Dioxide2. Chlorine3. Hydrogen Sulfide4. Carbon Dioxide5. Phosgene

Kit 3:1. Ketones (Acetone, Methyl Ethyl

Ketone, etc.)2. Aromatics (Benzene, Toluene, etc.)3. Alcohols (Methanol, Ethanol, etc.)4. Aliphatic Hydrocarbons (Hexane,

Octane, etc.)5. Chlorinated Hydrocarbons

(Perchloroethylene,Trichloroethylene, etc.)

As we can see with the above men-tioned simultaneous test kits we canmeasure TIC’s which are either used asbulk chemicals (e.g. HCl, VC, etc.),which are released during spills (e.g.Hydrocarbons), or those which areformed as decomposition products dur-ing fires (e.g. HCN from Plexiglas, HCl

from PVC, phosgene from chlorinatedhydrocarbons, etc.). In the event thatthe group of chemicals similar to therepresentative chemicals in kit 3 aredetected it is usual to precalibrate thetubes with the most toxic chemical sothat the measurement is always on thesafe side.

THE PORTABLE INSTRUMENT APPROACHTraditional Portable Gas DetectionInstruments utilize a combination ofsensor technologies (electrochemicalsensors, catalytic sensors, infra red sen-sors) and provide a continuous real-time reading of the gas concentration.They may be equipped with a series ofadvanced features (such as datalog-ging) and are important devices for theFire and Emergency Services. Howeverit must be remembered that the num-ber of gases that can be measured islimited (A typical device can measure 4or 5 gas hazards simultaneously – forexample Oxygen, Explosive Gases,Hydrogen Sulphide, Carbon Monoxide)and furthermore the unit is only of lim-ited use in detection of unknown sub-stances. Regardless these units still makeup an important part of the arsenal ofthe first responder and are particularlyuseful for 1) personal monitoring (todetermine the oxygen level in thebreathing zone 2) determination ofwhether there is a risk of explosion and

3) Confined Space Accidents.With the combination of simultane-

ous test kits plus one electronicportable instrument to measure oxy-gen, combustible gases and certaintoxic gases the responder can be pre-pared to detect 85 % of unknownchemicals in the field.

What about the remaining 15%?Well, there is one particular group ofchemicals being left out so far, whichare chemical warfare agents.

Typically when considering chemicalwarfare agents we talk about the fol-lowing substances:

Nerve Agents: Sarin, Tabun, Soman,VX

Blister Agents: Mustard Gas, Lewisite

Blood Agents: Hydrogen Cyanide,Cyanogen Chloride

Lung Agents: Phosgene, Chlorine

For the fast detection of CWA’s,CDS-kits can be used – similar to thesimultaneous test kits for TIC’s whereeach sampling manifold comprises 5different direct reading detector tubes,and 2 kits can cover all groups ofchemical warfare agents. As a conve-nience for the user the tubes are nor-mally stored in a rugged transportationcase which can then be taken anywherein the field.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

16

Simultaneous Test Kit Detector Tubes

Electronic Portable Gas Monitor

CDS Kit

Traditional Portable Gas DetectionInstruments utilize a combination ofsensor technologies (electrochemicalsensors, catalytic sensors, infra redsensors) and provide a continuous real-time reading of the gas concentration.

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:09 pm Page 16

Page 19: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

17

Enquiries: www.plysuprotectionsystems.com

Enquiries: [email protected]

The Professionalsin Fire Safety

The Warrington Fire Research Group has a wealth of experiencegained from working on projects across the world, includingbuilding, transport, commercial and industrial developments. From a single product to a complete safety programme, we can cover all aspects of fire safety management, including:-

Warrington Fire Research (Hong Kong) Ltd., Office D, 18th Floor, Eton Building,

288 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.

Telephone: Int /+ 852 2851 8976Fax: Int /+ 852 2851 3282

E-mail: [email protected]

Warrington Fire Research (Hong Kong) Limited is part of the Warrington Fire Research Group

Warrington Fire Research (Hong Kong) Limited is launchingCERTIFIRE (Hong Kong) at Fire Asia International 2003.

See us on Stand C19.

Consultancy• Fire Safety Engineering • Risk Assessment • Statutory Compliance

Testing• Fire Resistance and Reaction to Fire Testing to BS, EN or ISO standards• Mechanical and Hardware Testing

CERTIFIRE Product Certification• Third Party Product Conformity Certification for Passive Fire

Protection Products

Enquiries: www.trelleborg.com/protective

Trelleborg Protective Products ABP.O. Box 1520,

SE-271 00 YstadPhone: +46 411 67940

Fax: +46 411 15285www.trelleborg.com/protective

[email protected]

Trelleborg S.E.A. Pte Ltd10 Toh Guan Road #03-06

International TradeparkSingapore 608838

Phone: +65 6 8989 332Fax: +65 6 8989 303

www.trelleborg.com/[email protected]

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:10 pm Page 17

Page 20: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

18

Enquiries: [email protected]

Enquiries: www.e2vtechnologies.com

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:10 pm Page 18

Page 21: APF Issue 04

The case also contains evaluationcharts to determine the concentra-tion of individual warfare agentsconveniently.

The CDS-kits allow for a fast detec-tion of chemical warfare agents usingthe same bellows pump as mentionedfor the simultaneous test kits. Again,no calibration or charging of batteriesis required.

ION MOBILITY SPECTROMETERS FOR DETECTING CHEMICAL WARFAREAGENTSWith all the advantages of direct read-ing detector tubes in mind, there arestill two technical limitations. 1) Wehave to evaluate the colour stain our-selves and 2) There is no automaticalarm function. This has led to consid-erable research and investment todevelop an electronic device to detectchemical warfare agents with thefastest possible response time as well assufficient sensitivity and selectivity.

The latest type of unit available onthe market is the Portable Ion Mobility

Spectrometer. Such a device is hand-held (less than 1 kg) and able to operatefor more than 10 hours in the field. AnIMS will have both audible and visualalarms plus additional features such astrend indications or substance and con-centration specific icons, which appearin the display and give valuable infor-mation about the measured chemicals.

An IMS functions by drawing theambient air into the unit via a built-inpump (airflow of 1 l/min) and passingit through the Ion Mobility Cell. Thepolarity in the multi-channel IMS-sensor changes quickly 10 times everysecond, so that we can determine bothpositive and negative ions at the sametime. The signal generated is amplifiedand displayed on the screen in ‘realtime’. Detection limits for such devicesmay be <0.01 mg/m3 for nerve agentsincluding VX, <0.1 mg/m3 for lewisite,and <0.5 mg/m3 for mustard gases,typical response times are in the orderof 2 seconds for most compounds.Based on the evaluation algorithm dif-ferentiation between different groupsof CWA’s is given, in some cases wecan even differentiate within one groupof agents.

The IMS will normally have a built-indatalogger which stores all measurementresults, times, and substances and afterdownloading to a computer the wholeexposure period can be evaluated.

CONCLUSIONThe combination of direct-readingdetector tubes and portable electronicinstruments allows for fast detection ofunknown chemicals, toxic industrialchemicals as well as chemical warfareagents. This makes it vital equipmentfor first responders. Third party valida-tions have proven sensitivities, responsetimes, and specificities as well as thepracticability in the field with limitedtraining required. Modern IMS devicesrepresent a major step forward to havea real portable monitor to measurechemical warfare agents.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

19

CDS Ion Mobility Spectrometer

The combination of direct-readingdetector tubes and portable electronicinstruments allows for fast detection ofunknown chemicals, toxic industrialchemicals as well as chemical warfareagents.

Dedication to the rescue and safety of people,

this has been the objective of AUTOFLUG

already since the first days of aviation. From the

foundation of the company in 1919 right up to

the present day, AUTOFLUG has remained a

medium-sized family enterprise.

AUTOFLUG supplies humanitarian rescue

services with safety systems such as inflatable

life tents, inflatable decontamination tents and

showers, inflatable rescue stretchers, inflatable

dinghies and manifold accessories for all

AUTOFLUG inflatable equipment.

AUTOFLUG rescue and safety systems incor-

porate the latest experiences, are based on

newest materials and technologies and are

meeting the highest requirements.

AUTOFLUG GmbH

Industriestrasse 10

D-25462 Rellingen/Germany

Phone +49 4101 307-312

Telefax +49 4101 307-316

E-Mail: [email protected]

Website: www.autoflug.com

Enquiries: www.autoflug.com

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:10 pm Page 19

Page 22: APF Issue 04

Hale Products Europe LtdA Unit of IDEX CorporationCharles Street, Warwick,CV34 5LR England

The innovations continue...

World Series PumpModular SystemMulti-pressure pumpnow available with -● Gearbox● Integrated CAFS● Control Panel

with Class 1instrumentation

PPV Fans Positive Pressure VentilationFans -● Robust construction● Easy manoeuvrability● Water turbine or petrol

engine powered

More efficient, more effective firefightingfrom Hale Products Europe

Powerflow GP8/5Compact PumpNew design portable pump -● High performance with low

noise level● Lightweight compact design● Exhaust gas ejector or hand

priming versions

MiniCAFSCompressed air foamsystem for any vehicle -● Improved fire knockdown times● Reduced environmental damage● Reduced water use

IDEX CORPORATIONIDEX CORPORATION

Tel: +44 (0) 1926 623600Fax: +44 (0) 1926 [email protected]

Seeus onStand E13Fire Asia200326-28 FebHK Convention Centre Enquiries: www.haleeurope.com

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:11 pm Page 20

Page 23: APF Issue 04

With the fire and lifesafety concernsthese structures

represent, most modernbuilding codes around theworld have specific prescrip-tive requirements to addressvarious aspects of theirdesign. These prescriptiverequirements address pas-sive fire protection systems(fire resistance ratings of thestructural elements), activefire protection systems (firesprinkler and smoke controlsystems), communication

systems (fire detection andalarm), and egress systems(stairs and refuge areas).The table (page 22) presentsa comparison of repre-sentative prescriptive coderequirements for high riseoffice buildings in differentcountries.

Although these codes aresimilar in many require-ments, significant differ-ences can be found. Onesuch difference is in com-partment size, where theChinese code is very restric-

tive while the US codes have no limita-tion. Reasons for such differencesinclude a country’s economic condi-tion, relative emphasis on active versuspassive fire protection, climate, mainte-nance, and historical usage. China’sreliance on fire and smoke compart-mentation, coupled with natural smokecontrol, can be attributed to the con-siderations of cost effectiveness andreliability. But, such prescriptiveapproaches can often create problemsfor high rise buildings with mixed usedoccupancies, large assembly areas, orunique atrium designs. Relying on

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

21

High Rise Office BuildingFire ProtectionHigh Rise Office BuildingFire Protection

by Fang LiRolf Jensen & Associates

HIGH RISE BUILDINGS have been one of the mostprominent symbols of economic growth for nearly a cen-tury. Yet, in the aftermath of the tragedies of September11, “signature” high rise buildings have become thefocus of much debate. Do we still want to build suchlarge buildings? Can we adequately protect these build-ings and their occupants? Based on the vast number ofproposed high rise projects around the world, especiallyin Asia, it is clear that the desire to build such monumentsis still there. In order for us to protect these buildings andtheir occupants, fire protection engineers will be facingan increasing challenge to demonstrate that the designscan meet the demands of their inherent fire and lifesafety risks.

Although these codes are similar inmany requirements, significantdifferences can be found. One suchdifference is in compartment size,where the Chinese code is veryrestrictive while the US codes have no limitation.

APF p. 1-30 1/11/06 4:11 pm Page 21

Page 24: APF Issue 04

compartmentation can result in divid-ing the building into small cubes thatlimit architectural expression and effec-tive functioning of the building.

The codes today are undergoing amajor evolution to address the abilityof providing flexibility in the designand use of the building together withcost-effective fire and life safety. Rather than only allow for the applica-tion of the restrictive prescriptive coderequirements, codes are beginning toaccept performance-based designapproaches as an equivalency. The use

of performance-based design canachieve a level of fire safety equal orbetter than the prescriptive code whileproviding the local authority havingjurisdiction with an engineered basisfor acceptance of the approach. Perfor-mance-based design provides theopportunity to overcome the differ-ences between codes of various coun-tries, allows designers to createengineered solutions, and results incost effective global fire safety.

The Petronas Towers, located inKuala Lampur, Malaysia, offer a good

example of the benefits of performance-based fire safety design. With heightsof approximately 1,480 feet, the towersare the two tallest buildings in theworld and are the home for theMalaysian government’s gas and oilcompany as well as other multinationalcorporations that lease space. RolfJensen & Associates provided the codeconsulting and the fire alarm andemergency communications systemdesign for this mixed-use project. Aunique egress solution using the eleva-tors and skybridges was developed,where the 750-ton skybridge connect-ing the towers in the middle serves asan emergency egress route between thetowers and the upper and lower floors.The lobbies at each end of the pedes-trian bridge were designed as fire com-partments, each having its ownseparate HVAC systems. In order tolimit fire and smoke spread, the con-necting bridge area was compart-mented by use of fire resistance ratedassemblies with fire stopping systems.(Several tragic fires have occurred inother parts of the world where a similarapproach was followed, but did notinclude a suitable fire stopping system.)A fire alarm and emergency communi-cations system designed in accordancewith the NFPA 72 – “National FireAlarm” standard together with redun-dant command centers was provided.The fire suppression system wasdesigned to comply with the NFPA 13– “Automatic Sprinkler Systems” stan-dard. The combined use of local andinternational codes on a performance-based approach provided the designerwith a more flexible design withoutsacrificing the level of fire safety.

Each country’s codes have their ownapproach, logic, and advantages. Forexample, the Chinese code for high riseoffice buildings over 100 meters inheight. It requires an area of refugeevery 15 floors with the area providinga minimum size of 0.2m2/person. In theChinese code there is no specific guide-line to calculate the occupancy loads,so designers usually use other interna-tional codes and standards as the refer-ence. For a 20 story building having24,000 ft2 per floor with an occupancyload of 100 ftgross area/person, wewould have 240 people per floor. Usingthe code complying stairwell system,

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

22

Hong Kong China UK US IBC NFPA 101Definition of high rise 30m or more Over 24m in – 23m or more Over 23m in

in height height in height heightFire resistance Decided by Decided by Decided by Decided by Not

building building building building addressedconstruction construction construction construction

function assembly function assemblyMaximum fire 28,000m3 1,000m2 No limit No limit No limitcompartment (above size ground

level)7,000m3

(below ground level)

Minimum Number 2 2 2 2 2of exitsMaximum Travel 36m 40m 45m 91m 91mdistanceArea of refuge Maximum Maximum No No Nofloors every 20 every 15 requirement requirement requirement

floors floorsNumber and Maximum Decided by Decided by No Nolocation of fire 60m from floor area, floor area requirement requirementelevators most remote no location

area to fire requirementelevator

Emergency Shut down Shut down Shut down Shut down Notoperation of addressedHVAC system

High Rise Office BuildingFire ProtectionHigh Rise Office BuildingFire Protection

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:45 am Page 22

Page 25: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

23

Enquiries: www.chemetron.com

Enquiries: [email protected]

by

• REFLECTIVE BEAM TECHNOLOGY• SINGLE END CABLING• INTEGRAL ALIGNMENT AID• 3mA CURRENT CONSUMPTION• 5-50 METRE RANGE - FIRERAY 50R• 50 - 100 METRE RANGE - FIRERAY 100R• LISTED WITH ALL MAJOR APPROVAL BODIES• ANALOGUE ADDRESSABLE VERSIONS AVAILABLE

• PROJECTED BEAM TECHNOLOGY• LOW LEVEL ELECTRONICS - EASY MAINTENANCE• SIMPLE ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE• COMPACT UNOBTRUSIVE HEADS• LOW CURRENT CONSUMPTION• 10 - 100 METRE RANGE• LISTED WITH ALL MAJOR APPROVAL BODIES• LOOP POWERED VERSIONS AVAILABLE

e-mail: [email protected] website: www.ffeuk.com

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:45 am Page 23

Page 26: APF Issue 04

timed egress calculations predict that itwill take about 51 minutes to evacuatethe building. If instead of total evacua-tion, one moves people to a refugefloor, this time can be significantly

reduced (in this case to less than 25minutes). In China, the total height of15 floors would be around 50 meterswhich is just within the range of the firetruck rescue capability in China, giving

the options for the fire department torescue the people in the first area ofrefuge to egress by both fire truck lad-der and stairwell. In the US codes, thereis no such requirement for refuge areas.Egress design is achieved by the egresszone, which is typically defined as thefire floor, the level below and the levelabove, which needed to be evacuatedsimultaneously. All the other floors keepthe concept of “defend in place” whichin most situations is believed to be thecorrect approach. Since September 11,however, this concept is being discussedbecause of the implications that humanbehavior may cause the occupants tonow evacuate all floors above the firefloor.

In its efforts to reduce barriers tointernational trade, the World Trade Organization (WTO) encourages theconcept of international codes andstandards. WTO compliant internationalstandards development organizationsinclude ISO, IEC and NFPA. Each of these organizations is includingperformance-based design criteria intheir documents.

In support of these code develop-ment efforts, performance-baseddesign approaches are being closelystudied. There are three major tasksassociated with this study:

● behavior of the building construc-tion during fire exposure

● computer modeling to predict thesmoke spread

● computer modeling to predict auto-matic suppression system actuationand fire control

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)modeling has previously been used inhigh rise buildings for analysis of theeffects of wind on the structure. CFDmodeling is now also being used forthe study of smoke movement in thebuilding. The traditional method topredict the construction behavior bythe small and large scale tests are notcost-effective and, as a result, mucheffort is being place of this modelingapproach. The model gives us thecapability, with real time visualizationoutput produced from the fire models,to design the emergency smoke controlsystem and evaluate the associatedevacuation options. The egress model,

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

24

Jin Mao building in Shanghai, PR China. Picture courtesy of Rolf Jensen & Associates

In its efforts to reduce barriers tointernational trade, the World Trade Organization (WTO) encourages the concept of international codesand standards. WTO compliantinternational standards developmentorganizations include ISO, IEC and NFPA.

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:46 am Page 24

Page 27: APF Issue 04

Pathfinder, which has been developedby the engineers at Rolf Jensen &Associates is a valuable tool in con-ducting, verifying and demonstratingthe egress analysis.

Even though the loss from Septem-ber 11 may bring questions and con-cerns on the future for high risebuildings, there is no question that forsome countries such as China, with thehigh density of population and theeconomic boom, high rise buildings willstill be dominant in major cities. Thecollapse of the WTC bring us to thequestion of high-rise office buildingsprinkler systems and can they helpmaintain structural integrity in such anincident? The critical failure tempera-ture for steel element is about 500-600oC without any fire retardingtreatment, and in most cases for aconventional fire, the sprinkler systemwould have been sufficient to controlthe fire size and allow for occupantegress. For office buildings, its fire loadis generally defined as 2,000 btu/ft.The fuel load presented by the jet fuel in WTC was considerably greaterthan what the sprinklers could havebeen expected to control contributingto the fire growth and its great

impact for the whole building con-struction integrity. Most people agreethat it is impractical to attempt todesign a sprinkler system for a buildingto withstand the impact from a fully-fueled wide body jet. However, with anintegrated performance-based approachto fire safety, performance objectivescan be developed to meet the expo-sures the building may be expected toface.

An integrated fire protection systemfor a building should include the fireresistance rating for the assemblies, thefire stop system in curtain walls andrated assembly penetrations, the firealarm system along with the emergencyvoice system, the fire suppression sys-tem, and egress systems. All fire safetysystems need to be monitored at a firecommand center by qualified person-nel. A properly managed maintenanceprogram and an emergency evacuationtraining plan are also necessary. For agood fire protection system, surviva-bility and reliability should be inherentin the design.

We have always learned from firedisasters, such as the New York CityTriangle Shirtwaist fire early in the 20thcentury which led to the creation oftheir first Bureau of Fire Prevention andthe enforcement of fire safety codes forcompulsory fire drills and the installa-tion of sprinklers in factories. The MGMHotel fire in Las Vegas demonstratedthe importance of sprinkler systemstogether with an integrated fire alarmand emergency communications sys-tems working with the emergencysmoke control systems. The tragicevents of September 11 should beanother reason for all of us to thinkdeeply on how to make our buildingsstronger and our world safer.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

25

Jin Mao building in Shanghai, PR China.Picture courtesy of Rolf Jensen & Associates

Fang Li is a Consultant with Rolf Jensen & Associates in their

Framingham, Massachusetts,USA office. She has a Masters

Degree in Fire ProtectionEngineering from Worcester

Polytechnic Institute (USA) and aBachelors Degree in ChemicalEngineering from Jiao Tong

University (X’ian, China)Enquiries: www.securiton.ch

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:46 am Page 25

Page 28: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

26

The use of Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)fans as a fire fighting tool was first pio-neered in the USA but is now in increasing

use throughout Europe and across the world.The object of a PPV fan is to provide effectiveventilation that will remove heat, smoke andtoxic gases away from fire fighting personnelduring fire suppression operations. In a typicalPPV application the fan is placed about 1.2m to2.4m away from the external doorway (assumingthe doorway is of a standard size, 0.9m wide by2.0m high) of a burning structure. Straight awayair pressure builds inside the structure. A ventila-tion opening, usually a rear door or window,allows the static air inside to escape, and veryquickly the smoke and gasses generated by thefire are replaced by cooler, fresher air.

The main aims of the ventilation processare to –● Reduce or eliminate the products of com-

bustion● Reduce the interior temperature within a

contaminated area● Improve visibility for occupants and fire

fighting personnel● Increase safety for fire fighting personnel● Reduce fire loss

Operational ConsiderationsThe effective use of a PPV fan requires thefollowing procedures to be considered –

Entrance OpeningThe PPV fan must be positioned so the cone ofair it produces just covers the entrance open-ing. If the fan is too close to the opening,gases can escape from the unsealed edges ofthe doorway and immediately be reintroducedinto the pressurised area of the structure.

If the fan is too far from the opening, pres-surised air will strike the area around theentrance, reducing the amount of air beingforced inside the structure. Optimum place-ment is a combination the opening size, the

PPV fan size and the distance between the fanand the entrance opening.

Small PPV fans need to be moved backfrom the entrance while larger models shouldbe placed closer to the entrance. This is due tothe size of the “cone” of air that the fan pro-duces. The effectiveness of the fan can beenhanced by tilting the unit back at an angleof about 25 degrees.

Exhaust OpeningPositive pressure ventilation is at its most effi-cient when the exhaust opening (window, dooretc..) is between 3⁄4 to 13⁄4 the size of the entranceopening. This variance is due to the power andnumber of fans used. A small fan, powered by a2 HP engine is most efficient when utilised withexhaust openings that are 3⁄4 to slightly largerthan the entrance opening. A larger fan with amore powerful 3 to 5 HP engine may require anexhaust opening that is between 1 and 11⁄2 thesize of the entrance opening. Optimum fan effi-ciency is obtained by a combination of trainingand practical experience.

Types of PPV FansPPV fans are available in a range of sizes (fandiameters) and power sources. The mainpower units are water turbine, electric orpetrol engine driven.

When selecting a PPV fan the followingfactors should be addressed –

PerformanceThis is a measure of the amount of air that ismoved by a fan, usually rated in cubic feet perminute (CFM) or cubic metres per hour (CMH).There are two USA-based organisations thathave established PPV fan performance stan-dards – Air Movement and Control association(AMCA) and the National Electric Manufactur-ers Association (NEMA). The AMCA measuresthe volume of air displaced at the propellerand the NEMA measures the volume of air dis-placed downstream from the propeller. Thesetwo methods result in different CFM ratingsfor the same fan, so it is important to ensurethat performance rating methods are consis-tent when comparing fans.

SizeThe main factors to consider when assessingthe appropriate size are CFM/CMH capabilityand dimensions. PPV fan sizes are typicallysupplied in 18, 21, 24, 27 or 30 inch fandiameters. A fan less than 18 inch diameterdoes not offer a good CFM rating due to small

size and limited power unit.An 18 inch fan, such as the Hale

18H5 model (powered by a 5.5HPengine), will provide satisfactoryresults for an area up to 2,000 sqfeet. If a better and more versatileperformance is required then the 21inch fan is becoming increasinglypopular. These are not much biggerthan the 18 inch but offer a perfor-mance close to that of a 24 inchfan.

So the middle range of fans – 21and 24 inch offer –● Good CFM/CMH rating● Large cone of pressurised air forcovering entrance openings● Optimum size for deploying and

storingThe larger 27 and 30 inch fans

offer higher power units andCFM/CMH ratings and are more ver-satile in the size of structures thatcan be engaged.

In addition to size andCFM/CMH ratings consideration must be givento the overall size and weight of the fan andthe available space in the fire appliance tostore it.

Power SourcePower sources can be electric, water turbine orpetrol engine driven. Generally, the best powerperformances can be obtained from the waterturbine and petrol engine models. Electricpowered fans tend to be smaller models withlower CFM/CMH ratings.

Today, more petrol engine driven modelsare available with larger 5 or 10HP engines,such as the Hale 18H5, 21H5 and 24H5 usinga 5.5HP Honda engine and the 27T10 using a10HP Tecumseh engine. These units provide apowerful performance in a compact androbust frame. The water turbine poweredmodels, such as the Hale 21W10 or 30W22models, can also produce a substantial perfor-mance that is equivalent or better than a simi-lar sized petrol engine unit. Most models arefitted with tilting mechanism, lightweightframe and wheels for easy manoeuvrability.For the water turbine powered models a rangeof different hose connections are available tosuit local standards.

One of the main advantages of the petrolengine models is being self-contained andindependent of an external power source. Thewater turbine powered models have the advan-tage of being lighter in weight and simpler torun and maintain. Each type of model will haveparticular advantages in different applications.

HALE PRODUCTS EUROPE manufacturesand supplies both types of PPV fan to fire ser-vices in the UK, Europe and throughout theworld. This range has recently undergone aredesign and represents the best value for thistype of fire fighting tool.

PositivePressureVentilationFans

P R O D U C T P R O F I L E

Further details are available from your local distributor or direct from

HALE PRODUCTSEUROPE LTD

A unit of IDEX CorporationCharles Street

Warwick CV34 5LR+44 (0)1926 623600. [email protected]

Model 18H5 petrol engine driven PPV fan. TheHonda engine produces 6,500 CFM (10,803CHM) at 5.4HP, 3600rpm, from a 18 inchdiameter fan.

Model 27T10 – a 27 inch diameter fan,providing up to 15,805 CFM (26,857CMH)from a 10HP Tecumseh engine

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:47 am Page 26

Page 29: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

27

Enquiries: www.plymovent.com

www.plymovent.com

PlymoVent AB, Föreningsgatan 37, SE-211 52 Malmö, SwedenTel: +46 40 30 31 30, Fax +46 40 30 31 40

Sliding Balancer Track

VEHICLE EXHAUST REMOVAL SYSTEMS

Vertical Stack Rail Straight Rail System

IT’S TIME YOU ELIMINATE

TOXIC DIESEL EXHAUSTHere’s Everything You Need

Enquiries: www.premierhazard.co.uk

New Amplimax 7000 Siren& PA Systems

Incorporating surface mount technologyand MOSFET power amplifiers withimproved audio quality and full 200 Wattoutput option. Improved microphonesensitivity for clear Public Address.Siren and PA systems approved to:EU Directive 95/54/EC EU Directive 97/24/EC (Chapter 8)

New Low Profile LightbarsLo-Max, Midi-Max and Hi-Max with added featurescomplement our already comprehensive range oflighting.

Premier Hazard LtdMoorfield Estate, Leeds LS19 7BN

England

Tel: +44 (0)113 239 1111 Fax: +44 (0)113 239 1131email: [email protected]

Web: www.premierhazard.co.uk A member of Britax International Ltd

Be safe, be seen with quality products from one of the worlds

leading manufacturers

NightscanSits horizontally

on the vehicleroof, when

needed it tilts toits vertical

position andelevates above

the vehicle roof.Full pan and tilt

allows you toprovide a

powerful beam oflight exactly were

it is needed.What’s more,

Nightscan doesall this without

intruding into thevehicle.

See us atFire Asia

2003International

Stand F01

Enquiries: [email protected]

WHEN every SECOND COUNTS...

Whitefield Road, Bredbury, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 2SS England.Tel:0161 430 6618 Fax:0161 430 7928 Email: [email protected]

Chemical Spillages, HazMat Incidents, Terrorist Attacks - a few of the reasons whythere is an ever increasing demand for well designed equipment capable ofefficiently handling emergency decontamination situations. Hughes have developeda wide range of Emergency Response andDecontamination Systems which are botheasy to assemble and quick to operate.Don’t delay, talk to us today, because“every second counts”. www.hughes-sa fe ty-showers .co .uk

APF p. 1-30 11/21/06 9:09 AM Page 27

Page 30: APF Issue 04

Hong Kong has over five million peopleoccupying one of the most denselypopulated areas on earth. The city ischaracterised by its tall, multiple occu-pancy, reinforced concrete buildings.Most of these were built before the mid1970s so do not meet the strict firesafety legislation standards introducedin 1987. Hong Kong has long recog-nised the need for tougher regulations –with new buildings springing up over-crowding has become a central firesafety issue. To ensure all new regula-tions are enforced, a number of groupshave been appointed to provide advice,guidance and support in the construc-tion of new properties. A Building SafetyLoan is also available to provide assis-tance for upgrading fire safety measures.

With its increasing focus on firesafety in buildings, combined with theadvice, support and financial assistanceto make the necessary improvements,Hong Kong is a fertile market for new

fire equipment and services. Exhibitingat Fire Asia International 2003 will pro-vide you with the perfect platform topromote your products and services tothis growing market, where fire safety isparamount and legally enforceable.

The Hong Kong Fire Services Depart-ment has a multi-million dollar budgetat its disposal. From 2001 to 2002 itwas allocated HK$2,051 million, with aseparate, dedicated fund of HK$248million for fire protection alone. With aforward thinking fire services depart-ment and multi-million dollar budgets,can you afford not to promote yourproducts and services to this growingmarket? Expand your horizons and bepart of Fire Asia International 2003.

HONG KONG – GATEWAY TOCHINAHong Kong is the springboard to themassive and relatively unexploredChinese fire market. Over the past

decade, China has witnessed rapiddevelopment in both its economy andinfrastructure – a trend that is set tocontinue with the prospect of Chinahosting the 2008 Olympics. Forty-billiondollars is being spent on a new subwayand light rail system plus 19 sportsvenues in time for this major event.

Fire Asia International 2003 will putyou directly in contact with the keydecision makers in this market, allow-ing you to appreciate fully their currentand future needs. Stay one step aheadof your competitors and make sure youhave the most accurate informationand contacts available to maximiseyour opportunities in Asia.

YOUR GUARANTEE OF ASUCCESSFUL EVENTFrom the publisher of the market lead-ing title FIRE, dmg World Media Ltd.has over 96 years continuous publish-ing experience serving the Fire andEmergency service markets.

Having staged over 35 prestigiousexhibitions around the world, Fire AsiaInternational 2003 enjoys the fullsupport of:

● Hong Kong Fire ServicesDepartment

● Hong Kong Ambulance ServiceInstitute

● Institution of Fire Engineers● National Fire Protection Association● Fire magazine

Fire magazine is the official journal of Fire Asia International 2003. For more information please visitwww.fire-magazine.com

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

28

IN A LITTLE OVER TWO MONTHS, Fire Asia International 2003 willopen its doors to the international firefighting and fire prevention com-munity, offering a collective forum where visitors and delegates canappreciate, learn and discuss the latest developments in Asia with leadingindustry experts. Supported by the latest product and service offeringsfrom many leading international manufacturers and suppliers of fire-fighting and safety equipment, Fire Asia International 2003 effectivelybrings together the knowledge, products and contacts required to fullyunderstand the unlimited potential that exists in one of the leading growthmarkets in the world.

26 – 28 February 2003

Conference & ExhibitionHong Kong

Your key to unlocking one of the leadinggrowth markets in the world

THE EXHIBITION“Tougher building regulations in one of the most densely populated

areas on earth … consider the benefits of promoting your products andservices to this growing market”

Your key to unlocking one of the leadinggrowth markets in the world

26 – 28 February 2003

Conference & ExhibitionHong Kong

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:47 am Page 28

Page 31: APF Issue 04

THE CONFERENCETheme: ‘A Safe City In Motion’Over the past decade, the Asia Regionhas witnessed rapid development inboth its economies and infrastructures.To address these changes, emergencyservice skills and new fire engineeringapproaches have evolved. In order tomake the world safer, it has becomeimperative for professionals in the indus-try and related fields to keep abreast ofthe changes and challenges taking placeall around them. For this reason, wehave chosen the theme ‘A Safe City inMotion’ for Fire Asia International 2003.

The Conference will focus on newtechnology issues ranging over a numberof fields including fire science researchand development, fire safety manage-ment, disaster management, firefighting,rescue, casualty pre-hospital care andcommon hazardous illnesses. The Con-ference welcomes the participation andattendance of managers, developers,manufacturers, engineers, researchers,emergency service personnel and profes-sionals working in related fields.

THE VENUEThe Hong Kong Convention Centre isthe territories’ largest and most impres-sive exhibition and meeting facility.Situated in the heart of the Hong Kongisland, in the Wanchai District, thecomplex offers 46,500m2 of exhibitionspace, two convention halls, 52meeting rooms, two theatres, sevenrestaurants and two on-site hotelsoffering 1,400 rooms.

BE A PART OF FIRE ASIAINTERNATIONALFire Asia International 2003 is an event not to be missed. To obtain fur-ther information on how to exhibit orto obtain your FREE visitor tickets,please contact:

Lesley StevensonGroup Sales ManagerTel: +44 (0) 1737 855 451Fax: +44 (0) 1737 855 418Email: [email protected]

Don DitriMarketing ManagerTel: +44 (0) 1737 855 239Fax: +44 (0) 1737 855 418Email: [email protected] or visitwww.fireinternational-mag.com

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

29

Full details of the conferenceprogramme can be obtained from:Mr. Man-hin LAIChairman of the OrganisingCommittee

Fire Asia International 2003C/o Wa Tai Road,Lai King Fire Station,New Territories,Hong Kong

Tel: +(852) 2745 9332/(852)2743 2399

Fax: +(852) 2370 0403Email: [email protected]

CONFIRMED EXHIBITORSFire Asia International 2003 offers the perfect opportunity for high profilevisitors and delegates from around the world to meet with leading internationalmanufacturers and suppliers. The following are just some of the exhibitors thatwill be present:● Ableslink Company Ltd● Advanced Firefighting

Technology Gmbh● Airshelta● Akron Brass● Amkus● Asian Fire Fighting &

Security Journal● Australasia Fire

Authority Council● Bacou-Dalloz● Bristol Uniforms● Celanese AMI● Chemguard● Delgro Engineering● Dennis Fire● Donghai Firefighting

Equipment Co. Ltd.● E2V Technologies Ltd.

● Environmental Seals● Etech Controls● Fire Magazine● Fire Protection

Association● Fire Service College● Gallford Ltd.● Haztec International● Hale Products Europe● Hilti (Hong Kong) Ltd.● Holmatro Industrial &

Rescue Equipment● IFTE plc● Interspiro Asia Pacific● Jardine Engineering

Corp.● Kidde plc● Lion Apparel● Lorient Pacific

● Notifier Far East● Noveon Asia Pacific● NFPA● Oshkosh Truck

Corporation● Pacific Helmets● Paratech, Inc.● Pinghu Chenren Meter

Co. Ltd.● Premier Hazard● Respirex● SK Fire● Tungshing Corporation● Warrington Fire

Research Centre● WS Darley & Co.● Zhejiang Jindun

Fire Fighting Equipment

We look forward to welcoming you to a world of

opportunities at Fire Asia International 2003

e

APF p. 1-30 2/11/06 7:48 am Page 29

Page 32: APF Issue 04

ARE YOU A FIRE PROFESSIONAL IN THE ASIA PACIFIC?

THEN SUBSCRIBE NOW ONLINE @

www.apfmag.comSubscription rates: Aus$100 – US$55 – £35

MDM Publishing Ltd, 18a St James Street, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5BW UKTel: +44 (0) 1460 249 199 Fax: +44 (0) 1460 249 292 E-mail: [email protected]

ASIA PACIFIC FIRE MAGAZINE

APF Magazine is the only quarterly magazine for the Asia Pacific Fire Marketdedicated to Fire Protection and Fire-Fighting. It is now possible for you toreach the highest quality decision-making professionals throughout the AsiaPacific fire industry, thanks to APF Magazine’s 7,000-copy circulation list.

If Asia Pacific sales are your aim then APF can hit the target!!!

Contact Mark Seton for advertising and editorial enquiries.

REPORTING TO THE ASIA PACIFIC FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE SERVICE INDUSTRY

APF p. 1-30 17/11/06 11:26 am Page 30

Page 33: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

31

Brand Name AMKUS AMKUSModel AMK-30CX AMK-28Origin USA USAMax. Working Pressure (bar) 724 bar 724 barSpreading Distance (mm) 813 mm 711 mmMax. Spreading Force (kN/t) 75.4 kN/t 237.0 kN/tMin. Spreading Force (kN/t)* 41.9 kN/t 38.5 kN/tPulling Force (kN/t) 63.7 kN/t 67.0 kN/tSqueezing Force (kN/t) 60.2 kN/t 53.6 kN/tWeight ready for use (kg) 21.5 kg 23.6 kgDimensions (mm) 765x305x208 668x305x229Warranty 2 years 2 years*in accordance with prEN13204 and/or NFPA 1936 (25mm from tips, over full spreading distance (kN/t)

AMKUS RESCUE TOOLS

SPREADERSMARKET GUIDE

Amkus, Inc.2700 Wisconsin AvenueDowners GroveIL – 60515-4226, USATel: +1 630 515 1800Fax: +1 630 515 8866E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.amkus.com

Manufacturer HOLMATRO RESCUE EQUIPMENT HOLMATRO RESCUE EQUIPMENT HOLMATRO RESCUE EQUIPMENT HOLMATRO RESCUE EQUIPMENTModel SP 3240+ SP 3260+ SP 3280+ PW 3624+Origin The Netherlands The Netherlands The Netherlands The NetherlandsMax. Working Pressure (bar) 720 bar 720 bar 720 bar 720 barSpreading Distance (mm) 686 mm 833 mm 675 mm **Max. Spreading Force (kN/t) 157/16 196/20 258/26.3 235.4/24Min. Spreading Force (kN/t)* 43/4.4 60/6.1 86.5/8.8 N.A.Pulling Force (kN/t) 83.4/8.5 107/10.9 159/16.2 N.A.Squeezing Force (kN/t) 62.5/6.4 82/8.4 188/19.2 N.A.Weight ready for use (kg) 18.6 kg 24.6 kg 27.6 kg 10.6 kgDimensions (mm) 750 x 296 x 206 mm 863 x 320 x 230 mm 780 x 320 x 230 mm 711 x 230 x 203 mmWarranty 18 months 18 months 18 months 18 months

**The spreading distance is 50mm.The tool however is designed for adifferent spreading application: withan insertion opening of only 6 mm,it is designed to create an initialopening where hardly any space isavailable.

*in accordance with prEN13204 and/or NFPA 1936 (25mm from tips, over full spreading distance (kN/t)

HOLMATRO RESCUE EQUIPMENT

Holmatro Industrial & RescueEquipmentP.O. Box 33, 4940 AA RaamsdonksveerThe NetherlandsTel: +31 162 589 200Fax: +31 162 522 482E-mail: [email protected]: www.holmatro.com

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:01 am Page 31

Page 34: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

32

Brand Name LUKAS LUKASModel LSP 40 EN LSP 60 ENOrigin Germany GermanyMax. Working Pressure (bar) 630 bar 630 barSpreading Distance (mm) 720 mm 800 mmMax. Spreading Force (kN/t) 230 kN 230 kNMin. Spreading Force (kN/t)* 42.7 kN 62.4 kNPulling Force (kN/t) 54.2 kN 70.4 kNSqueezing Force (kN/t) 112.9 kN* 70.4 kN*Weight ready for use (kg) 19.6 kg 25 kgDimensions (mm) 790 x 299 x 180 880 x 378 x 212Warranty 2 years 2 years

*with squeezing attachment *at the tips*in accordance with prEN13204 and/or NFPA 1936 (25mm from tips, over full spreading distance (kN/t)

LUKAS HYDRAULIK GMBH & CO.

Lukas Hydraulik GmbH & Co KGWeinstrasse 3991058 Erlangen, GermanyTel: +49 9131 698 0Fax: +49 9131 698 394E-mail: [email protected]: www.lukas.de

Brand Name ZUMRO ZUMRO ZUMRO ZUMROModel RESQ 40 RESQ 40 32’ RESQ 50 RESQ 80Origin The Netherlands The Netherlands The Netherlands The NetherlandsMax. Working Pressure (bar) 350-630-720 bar 350-630-720 bar 350-630-720 bar 350-630-720 barSpreading Distance (mm) 704 mm 822 mm 804 mm 704 mmMax. Spreading Force (kN/t) 187.3 kN 19.1 ton 187.3 kN 19.1 ton 123.8 kN 12.6 ton 1,019.10 kN 103.9 tonMin. Spreading Force (kN/t)* 39.2 kN 4.0 ton 33.1 kN 3.4 ton 55.9 kN 5.7 ton 98.2 kN 10.0 tonPulling Force (kN/t) 65.9 kN 6.7 ton 83.3 kN 8.5 tonSqueezing Force (kN/t) 59.4 kN 6.1 ton 59.4 kN 6.1 ton 61.0 kN 6.2 ton 111.4 kN 11.4 tonWeight ready for use (kg) 20.5 kg 21.5 kg 25 kg 34.8 kgDimensions (mm) 620x310 220 mm 688x310x220 mm 735x365x250 mm 570x378x244 mmWarranty 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year*in accordance with prEN13204 and/or NFPA 1936 (25mm from tips, over full spreading distance (kN/t)

ZUMRO B.V.

Zumro ResQP.O. Box 2152160 AE Lisse, The NetherlandsTel: +31 252 419 002Fax: +31 252 411 794E-mail: [email protected] Webmail: www.zumro.nl

SPREADERSMARKET GUIDE

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:02 am Page 32

Page 35: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

33

Enquiries: www.lukas.de

LS 301 EN

Why are problems cutting modern cars not apoint of discussion for LUKAS?

Because we have solutions: Tests made withmost modern cars demonstrated that LUKASCENtury Cutters are working with large powerreserves. With LUKAS CENtury Cutters you areexcellently equippped for the challengesof the future.

When performance counts– LUKAS CENtury Cutters!

Do you want to upgrade older LUKASCutters to CENtury performance? Ask yourLUKAS Distributor for our upgrading kits.

LS 330 EN

LUKAS Hydraulik GmbH & Co. KGA Unit of IDEX CorporationWeinstraße 39 · 91058 Erlangen · GermanyTel. +49 (0) 91 31/698-0 · Fax +49 (0) 91 31/69 83 94Internet: http://www.lukas.dee-mail: [email protected]

Enquiries: www.amkus.com

www.amkus.com

Fighting for lives...We’re in it together.

Global Representation

RESCUE SYSTEMS

Ph: 1.630.515.1800Fax: 1.630.515.8866

[email protected]

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:02 am Page 33

Page 36: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

34

Enquiries: www.promat-ap.com

SYSTEMGLAS® insulated all-glass door

PROMAGLAS® insulated glazed screen

PROMACLEAR® non-insulated glazed screen

Promat have developed a wide range of glazing systemsfor fire resistant applications of up to 4 hour ratings,which provide both integrity and insulation when exposed

to fire. Typical examples include glazed screens withoutvertical or horizontal framing and all-glass doors.

Our commitment to the philosophy of providing the optimum infire safety systems is shown by our development of glazingsystems that fulfil the highest safety classifications for impactresistance, and meet the approval criteria of all the relevantstandards applicable to fire resistant glazed constructions.

Promat Asia Pacific Organisations

AUSTRALIA CHINA HONG KONG INDIA MALAYSIA+1 800 30 20 20 GUANGZHOU +852 2836 3692 +91 (11) 2469 1594 +60 (3) 6250 2880

+86 (20) 8136 1167

BEIJING PHILIPPINES SINGAPORE OFFICIAL WEBSITE+86 (10) 6460 4851 +63 (2) 772 3615 +65 6294 9689 www.promat-ap.com

The ProActive FireProtection Systems Provider

Light Up Fire Resistant Insulated / Non-Insulated

Glazed Screens & All-Glass Doors

Enquiries: www.thefireshop.com

APF p. 31-64 11/21/06 9:10 AM Page 34

Page 37: APF Issue 04

Deluge systems are pos-sibly the oldest formof fixed fire protection

system developed. Notwith-standing the term “DELUGE”,is possibly the most misusedword in the fire protectionindustry.

● Clients often ask, “Do werequire a deluge systemunder the substation toprotect the cable racks?”when they are really ask-ing, “Do we require a wetpipe sprinkler system to protect thecable racks?”

● Fire system designers use the term“water deluge system” when they areendeavouring to explain to the ven-dor that they require a water spraydeluge system.

Deluge systems represent a method-ology for the application of variousfire-fighting agents to a conflagrationeg:

● Water (sprinklers, water spray, watermist, wall drenching, etc)

● Foam (low, medium or high expan-sion, sprinklers, sprays, monitors, etc)

● Gas (CO2 , IG-541, FM-200, etc)● Powder (Dry chemical, etc)

NFPA-16 Standard for the Installa-tion of Foam-Water Sprinkler andFoam-Water Spray Systems, Chapter 1,Clause 1.3 Definitions clarifies theterminology and its relativity to itsapplication methodology:

Foam-Water Deluge System. A foam-water sprinkler system employingautomatic sprinklers or nozzles that areattached to a piping system that isconnected to a water supply through a

valve that is opened by theoperation of detection sys-tem, which is installed in thesame area as the dischargedevices. When this valve fullyopens, water flows into thedischarge piping system anddischarge from all dischargedevices attached thereto.

This example of year 2000technology, utilising delugesystem logic, was applied byFSS as part of a major fire

systems upgrade involving the replace-ment of eight existing transformers andassociated water spray deluge systemswith 50% larger rectification capacityunits at one of the worlds largest alu-minium smelters in Australia.

The eight existing transformers arelocated in two groups of four at theend of each Cell Line. Each transformerwas protected by automatic water spraydeluge system activated by wet pipesprinkler head detection. The four del-uge valves were located on a manifoldat the end of each group of bays andconnected to the plant raw/fire waterreticulation system.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

35

HAVING ENGINEERED and overseen the design andinstallation of numerous deluge systems over the past 40years, and a long time exponent of the use of fire fightingfoams as an additive to allow the protection of difficultfire protection hazards, I have taken this opportunity topresent an actual case study. This commentary reflects apractical application utilising the latest technology avail-able to break the shackles of traditional thinking. Thisinnovative approach by my company, Fire & SafetySystems (FSS) provide the customer with a cost effective,fit for purpose, low maintenance system.

by Doug PickersgillPrincipal

Fire & Safety Systems (FSS)High capacity nozzles discharging

DelugeSystems

TThhee IInnnnoovvaattiivvee DDeessiiggnn AApppprrooaacchh

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:03 am Page 35

Page 38: APF Issue 04

The degree of difficulty presented toFSS to resolve involved replacing theexisting fire protection systems on aone-by-one basis with the adjacenttransformers live and operating with noplant down time. This called for thenew systems to be installed in parallelwith the existing systems to ensureprotection to the hazard prior to theremoval of the existing transformersand their replacement with new units.

Constraints presented to FSS, thatwould have an influence on the designproposed, were:

● Compliance with existing local andinternational codes of practice –NFPA 15 or 16 and the utilisation ofexisting water supplies to protect the50% larger transformers.

● Retention of fire protection to theexisting and new transformersthrough out the changeover with areduction of site construction timeby the pre-fabrication of majorworks offsite.

● Provision of a reliable, fast responsefire detection system impervious tosevere electro magnetic interference

(EMI) and radiation to prevent spuri-ous operation.

● Modelling the fire protection systemsin 3D to ensure design accuracy,clash detection, nozzle performanceand detector view scans prior to thecommencement of the works.

Having experienced the design com-plexities resulting from congestion,extensive installation time, high materi-al cost and associated delays encoun-tered during the installation of foursimilar sized transformers some 6 yearsearlier, using standard water spray pro-tection with wet pilot detection, a newinnovative approach was called for todeliver an improved outcome.

A decision was made to utiliseproven off shore techniques that asso-ciates of FSS had acquired from experi-ence in the North Sea, Brazil and Asia.A design philosophy utilising a Foam-Water Spray (Deluge) System was pre-sented to the Principal Contractor andthe Client for ratification. Based on thisinitial design approval to proceed todetailed design was given, producingthe following results.

Challenge 1:Compliance with existing local andinternational codes of practice – NFPA16 and the utilisation of the existingwater supplies to protect the 50%larger transformers.

Transformers required a water designdensity of 10 mm/min/m2 over the totalsurface area of the unit and allappendages. A foam-water spraysystem requires 6.5 mm/min/m2.Additionally a water design density of 6 mm/min/m2 over the adjacent non-absorbing surface area surrounding thetransformer compared to 4.1 mm/min/m2 with the addition of foam. Thedecision to inject a foam liquid into thewater stream would compensate for theenlarged protection surface area of thehazard.

Resolution – The system would be afoam-water spray (deluge) system inaccordance with NFPA 16. The decisionto use a 3% solvent free AFFF foamliquid was supported by the Clientbased on environmental issues. Myconsultancy advocated the no water –no protection principal therefore inconsidering we had primary and sec-ondary water supplies, FSS elected touse a diaphragm tank balanced pres-sure proportioning system for each CellLine manifold. To achieve the minimum10 minutes operating time based onthe individual operation of each systemdue to the blast wall separation, a1,100 L tank with DN150 ratio flowproportioning device in the water sup-ply line upstream of the four delugevalve sets.

Challenge 2: Retention of fire protection to the exist-ing and new transformer through outthe changeover with a reduction ofsite construction time by the manufac-ture of major works offsite.

New blast walls (having been anintegral part of the initial works) toaccommodate the new enlarged trans-formers allowed the majority of issuesto be overcome.

Resolution – The ideal location forthe new reticulation system was thetop of the blast walls which allowedthe existing systems installed immedi-ately adjacent the transformers to stay

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

36

3D model – deluge valve header and reticulation system

Foam-water spray deluge coverage over transformer

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:03 am Page 36

Page 39: APF Issue 04

in place until removed. This providedthe ideal platform for a new single pipeconfiguration each side of the trans-former bay. Applying the “KISS”principal – a DN150 supply from therespective deluge valve to each baywith a DN 100 / 80 nozzle branch lineeach side of the bay with sidewallsprinklers below the control room ineach bay.

The new system utilises special appli-cation DN25 fixed nozzles withadjustable fog patterns capable of pro-viding the coverage required over aprojected distance of 7+ meters at aflow rate of 227 L/min at a minimumoperating pressure of 413 kPa. Due tothe coverage requirements, the finalnozzle configuration would exceed theminimum quantity required and theapplication rate required by approxi-mately 25%.

Having reduced the reticulation sys-tem by some 50%, we modelled thedeluge valve manifolds inclusive of alltrim for fabrication, assembly and fin-ishing. The two pre-fabricated mani-folds were shipped to site and cranedinto position and connected to thewater supply termination points. Thefoam liquid diaphragm tanks were alsoshipped to site complete to provide thehead end deluge control facility.

Challenge 3: Provide a reliable fast response firedetection system impervious to severeelectro magnetic interference (EMI) andradiation to prevent spurious operation.

Providing a Year 2000 fire detectionand alarm system solution would

require upgrading the existing FireIndicator Panel (FIP) to accept fibreoptic communications from newremote control panels at each Cell Linemanifold.

Resolution – The new FIP utilises the existing conventional alarm zonecircuits along with new alarm zone cir-cuits to accept new flame detection,manual release and other inputs fromlow pressure and discharge pressureswitches.

Two multi-spectrum flame detectorstested and proven impervious to RFIwere provided to ensure fast, accuratedetection of a fire situation and auto-matic activation of the Foam-WaterSpray Systems via the new FIP.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

37

Transformer bays and reticulation system

Enquiries: www.macron-safety.com

Around the world essential business continuity is protected by Hygood clean agent fire

protection systems manufactured by Macron Safety Systems (UK) Ltd.

Is your lifeline in place?

Swing an eye over our credentials for the very best solutions inHalon alternatives - Removal, Replacement, Recycling

Swing an eye over our credentials for the very best solutions inHalon alternatives - Removal, Replacement, Recycling

Take the Plunge

Hygood FM-200® SystemsInternationally accepted andapproved for the protection ofpeople, high value assets and vitalbusiness continuity.

For your peace of mind, catch us now on +44 (0)1483 572222 or visit:www.macron-safety.com

Hygood Argon SystemsHygood Argon provides clean, inertgas protection for live electricalequipment and inflammableliquids.

Hygood Carbon DioxideSystemsLong established, economicalgaseous agent for machine roomsand other unmanned areas.

C r i t i c a l A s s e t P r o t e c t i o n ™

Macron Safety Systems (UK) Ltd. Woodlands Road Guildford Surrey GU1 1RN England Fax: +44 (0)1483 302180

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:03 am Page 37

Page 40: APF Issue 04

Emergency Warning Systems integralto the local FIP, were provided for thetransformer control rooms to alert thata problem exists in that immediatearea. Horn speakers and rotating bea-cons in each transformer bay operate

simultaneously throughout the respec-tive Cell Line Bays.

Challenge 4: Model the fire protection systems in3D to ensure design accuracy, clashdetection, nozzle projection anddetector view scans prior to the com-mencement of the works.

Resolution – The integration of ourcompany’s 3D Modeling Program inter-faced with the clients Project PlantDesign System allowed the designer toview the location of the flame detec-

tors and nozzles with the given angleof projection to fully anticipate thefield results prior to the installation ofthe system. In addition clashes withother services were avoided and the pro-ject goal of off-site pre-assembly wasmaximised so that the foam-water spray(deluge) system was able to be installedin a short time span with minimum sitework and dislocation to other services.

Implementation – In concluding thisexample of a major Foam-Water SprayDeluge System, I am pleased to reportthe results of the commissioning testsproved the performance exceeded NFPA16 requirements on the transformer andsurrounds, to providing the client withan effective system, on schedule, withinbudget and fit for purpose.

Whilst presenting this commentaryon Deluge Systems, I cannot overlookthe importance of ongoing and regularmaintenance. I must restate my previ-ous advice that the reliability of anyform of deluge system is reliant on aneffective ongoing testing and main-tenance program.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

38

Doug Pickersgill was born in St George,Queensland, Australia. His entire work-ing life has been spent in the fire protec-tion industry starting as a cadet engineerwith the Wormald Group in Australia.During a career spanning 40 years, hehas lived and worked in Japan, USA,Brazil and England where he wasinvolved at the ‘sharp end’, developinginnovative design philosophies and tech-nical solutions to protect unorthodox andspecial hazards.Continuous involvement with the PowerGenerating, Petroleum, Mining, Marine,Defence, Telecommunication and Trans-port industries has resulted in a uniqueunderstanding of risk management andloss prevention best practice across theseareas.Doug Pickersgill is credited with beingone of only two non-US citizens invited tocontribute to the development ofNFPA2001, the most widely used stan-dard covering the introduction of new‘clean agents’ following the demise ofHalon gases, and NFPA750, a standarddealing with emerging ‘water mist sys-tem’ technologies.Doug Pickersgill is the principal of Fire &Safety Systems (FSS), an Australianconsultancy that attracts clients who are owners of high value and oftenunusual risks needing to be protectedagainst fire, a challenge FSS thrive on.(www.f-ss.com.au)

Foam-water spray deluge coveragebelow oil coolers

Enquiries: [email protected]

When you need a foam or water mist pump to protect yourhigh-value assets, demand world-class fire protection!

Edwards, the world’s leading supplier of special-hazard gear pumps, delivers the quality you

need to protect your oil refinery, telecommuni-cations network, airport hangar or other

critical property. Built to perform in themost demanding environments, our

systems are the only ones inthe world that are UL-listed

and FM-approved. So when you’re looking for

the best, demand Edwards!

Tel: 503 659-4198 Fax: 503 659-4696 [email protected] www.edwardsmfg.com

Edwards UL/FM Pump Packages!

E D W A R D SE D W A R D SA D I V I S I O N O F H Y P R O

®

®FM

APPROVEDLISTED

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:08 am Page 38

Page 41: APF Issue 04

IFP is the world’s only dedicated international magazine that covers the wholePassive and Active Fire Protection Industry. It is entirely authored by the world’sleading fire protection/prevention professionals. It’s their vast knowledge andexpertise that ensures every issue is packed full with in-depth technical features,as well as the most recent developments in testing, codes and standards.

If export is your aim, then IFP can hit the target!!!

Contact David Staddon for advertising and editorial enquiries.

ARE YOU A FIRE PROTECTION PROFESSIONAL?

THEN SUBSCRIBE NOW ONLINE @

www.ifpmag.comSubscription rates: UK – £25 Europe – �45

Overseas – US$55

MDM Publishing Ltd, 18a St James Street, South Petherton, Somerset TA13 5BW UKTel: +44 (0) 1460 249 199 Fax: +44 (0) 1460 249 292 E-mail: [email protected]

APF p. 31-64 17/11/06 11:26 am Page 39

Page 42: APF Issue 04

If yyou hhaven’t sseen iit, yyou ddon’t kknow wwhat yyou’re mmissing!

Schedule a Demonstration Today!!!

Straight Stream

Combination Reach and Protection

Fog Protection and Ventilation

Patent Pending

© Copyright 2002 by Premier Farnell Corporation. All rights reserved. No portion of this can be reproduced without the express written consent of Premier Farnell Corporation. (8/02)

The SaberJet Nozzle from Akron Brass offers the penetration of a solid bore tip and the fog protectionof a fog nozzle. The SaberJet ends the straight stream vs. fog debate by eliminating the need to carrytwo types of nozzles.— From straight stream to fog on the fly - No shutdown— Straight stream & fog at the same time or separate— 7 tip options - 19mm thru 25mm — 1", 1 1/2" or 2 1/2" inlets— Everything you need in one nozzle - No separate tips to attach— Versatile - High Rise, CAFS, Interior, Exterior, Foam— No need to shutdown the nozzle to activate an emergency low-pressure switch

SEE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSINGSOLID BORE vs. FOG, WE HAVE THE ANSWER!!SEE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSINGSOLID BORE vs. FOG, WE HAVE THE ANSWER!!

Call your local Authorized Akron Distributor or your Akron Sales Development ManagerIn U.S./International • PH: +1.330.264.5678 • FAX: +1.330.264.2944 • www.akronbrass.com

ALL SABERJETS

COMPLIANT*Test results available

upon request.

An ISO 9001 Registered Company

Enquiries: www.akronbrass.com

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:09 am Page 40

Page 43: APF Issue 04

What Nozzles DoNozzles are designed to help put out firesby getting the right amount of water, inthe right form, in the right place.

Nozzles have three main functions:

CONTROL FLOWThe size of the orifice in the outlet ofthe nozzle controls the flow.

PROVIDE REACHThe nozzle creates a restriction at theend of the waterway, which changeswater pressure to velocity. Velocity pro-vides the reach, which is necessary toget the water to where it is needed.

CREATE SHAPEDifferent situations require differentmethods of applying water or foam.Some situations require the reach andpenetration of a straight stream, whileothers require the heat adsorptioncapability or radiant heat protection ofa wide-angle fog spray.

Nozzle OptionsThere are five basic nozzle types: 1. Solid bore2. Single gallonage (sometimes called

variable pressure/variable flow)3. Adjustable gallonage

4. Automatic or constant pressure5. Multi-Purpose Nozzle (combination

solid bore and fog)

Of the five, the latter four make up agroup of nozzles commonly calledcombination nozzles because theyproduce both a straight and a fogstream.

SOLID BORE NOZZLEThe solid or smooth bore nozzle is themost basic of the four nozzle types,both in design and function. Its purposeis to produce a solid stream, which pro-vides maximum reach and penetration.

SINGLE (FIXED, OR VARIABLE PRESSURE/VARIABLE FLOW) GALLONAGE NOZZLEThe single gallonage nozzle, the sim-plest form of the combination or fognozzle, provides flow at a predeter-mined rate that cannot be altered sig-nificantly while in use. However, whenthe nozzle pressure is varied the flowvaries. Some of today’s single gallonagenozzles can provide quality patternseven at reduced nozzle pressures.

ADJUSTABLE GALLONAGE NOZZLEToday’s adjustable gallonage nozzlesallow the nozzle operator to manually

select a desired gallonage withoutshutting down. Like the single gallon-age nozzle, some of today’s adjustablegallonage nozzles can provide qualitypatterns even at reduced nozzlepressures.

AUTOMATIC (CONSTANT PRESSURE) NOZZLEAn automatic nozzle is designed tomaintain a relatively constant pressureover a wide range of flows. This isaccomplished by a mechanism in thenozzle that automatically adjusts to anincrease or decrease in flow to maintainpressure, and thus reach, fairly consis-tent. However, these nozzles can giveyou consistent reach while sacrificingflow.

MULTI-PURPOSE NOZZLE A combination solid bore and fognozzle, provides maximum reach andpenetration, while still enabling thebenefits of a fog stream at the sametime or independently. This versatilenozzle has the ability for large flows atreduced pressures, and is well suited for multiple applications: interior,exterior, and high rise attacks, CAFSsystems, foam applications, direct andindirect attacks, cooling, protection,and ventilation.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

41

Choosinga Nozzle

The nozzle is an important part of the fire-fighting system. The selection of the nozzle to be used by the department should depend upon the tactics andperformance required. You should decide what you want your nozzle to do beforemaking your decision.

Choosinga Nozzle

by Mark Saner

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:09 am Page 41

Page 44: APF Issue 04

SELECTING A NOZZLEWhen selecting a nozzle it is importantto choose the type that is best suited foryour applications. The following guide-lines will help you determine which typeand size of nozzle is best for you.

1 What flow range is required?A nozzle cannot create flow. The avail-able water, pump capacity, hose lays,etc., determine what a nozzle canachieve. The system needs to be ana-lyzed to determine what flow range canbe achieved.

Determine the maximum flow ratethat can be achieved with normalengine pressures and hose lays.

Determine the minimum flow thatwill be required.

Consider whether the nozzle willalways be used on the same hose orwhether it will be used in other appli-cations, which might require differentflows.

2 How much flow can be controlledby the available manpower?

Reaction force is determined by the GPMflow, nozzle pressure and pattern. Firstdetermine the maximum flow that canbe controlled by the available manpower.

3 Are different patterns required?Decide whether a solid bore nozzle orfog/straight stream nozzle is required.Quality fog nozzles produce almost asgood a straight stream as a solid borenozzle but do require a higher inletpressure. The reach of a quality fognozzle at 100psi is about the same asthat of a solid bore nozzle at 80psi or amulti-purpose nozzle at 50psi.

If the lower pressure performance ofa solid bore nozzle combined with thepatterns of a fog/straight stream nozzlewould accommodate your needs best,consider a multi-purpose or break apartfog nozzle with the compact solid boretip.

Fog nozzles are designed to providea dispersed stream to protect personnel.Teeth are provided to break up thewater into smaller droplets for betterheat absorption and steam effect. Spin-ning teeth provide excellent break-upof water for heat absorption and steamconversion, due to the elimination offingering, which is especially importantin LPG type fires.

4 Who should control the flow – thenozzle operator or the pump operator?Determine whether it is necessary to

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

42

Picture courtesy of Akron Brass Company, Inc.

Enquiries: www.halotron-inc.com

Distributed By:

Amerex Corporation Badger Fire ProtectionTrussville, Alabama, USA Charlottesville, Virginia, USA205-655-3271 • Fax 205-655-3279 800-446-3857 • Fax 434-973-1589Web Site: http://www.amerex-fire.com Web Site: http://www.badgerfire.com

Buckeye Fire Equipment Co. Kidde SafetyKings Mountain, North Carolina, USA Mebane, North Carolina, USA704-739-7415 • Fax 704-739-7418 800-654-9677 • Fax 800-547-2111Web Site: http://www.buckeyef.com Web Site: http://www.kidde.com

65 lb. (29.5 kg) and 150 lb. (68 kg)UL Listed Wheeled Units

are also available

American Pacific Corporation, Halotron DivisionLAS VEGAS, NEVADA /CEDAR CITY, UTAH, USA

702-735-2200 • FAX 702-735-4876WEB: halotron-inc.com • E-MAIL: [email protected]

• U.S. FAAApproved for AirportFire Fighting (Cert Alert 95-03).

• Installed in 200-500 Lb. Systems at more than 43 U.S. International Airports.

• Complete Line of High Performance UL Listed A, B, C ratedportables from four U.S. Manufacturers.

• Available in High Performance UL Listed Wheeled Units 65Lbs. (29.5 kg) - 150 Lbs. (68 kg).

• Available from Distributors outside the U.S. including:Matafuegos Donny (Argentina); PT Chubb Lips (Indonesia);Palmer Asia (Philippines); Lingjack (Singapore) and KoreanPacific Corporation (Korea).

BUCKEYE150 lb. HALOTRON I™

BUCKEYE65 lb. HALOTRON I™

HALOTRON™ I

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:10 am Page 42

Page 45: APF Issue 04

change the flow rate while operating. Ifso, decide whether the nozzle operatoror the pump operator should control theflow rate. If the nozzle operator shouldcontrol the flow rate, an adjustable gal-lonage nozzle could be the best choice.If the pump operator is to control theflow rate, a single gallonage (fixed, orvariable pressure/variable flow), an auto-matic nozzle or a multipurpose nozzlewould probably be the best.

5 How durable should the nozzle be?Nozzles are designed to withstandreasonably tough service, but somenozzles will withstand more abuse than others. If durability is crucial andmaintenance and repair opportunitiesare limited, a less complex nozzledesign might be the best choicebecause the simplest nozzles are usuallythe toughest.

6 What is the level of training?Departments provide various amountsof training for the pump operator andthe nozzle operator. The nozzle shouldcomplement the training.

Solid bore nozzles require the leastamount of training for the pump oper-ator and the nozzle operator. Theengine pressure depends mainly on thelength and size of hose.

Single gallonage or variable pres-sure/variable flow nozzles requiresomewhat more training than the solidbore nozzle.

Adjustable gallonage fog nozzlesrequire additional training of the pumpoperator and the nozzle operatorbecause different engine pressures willbe required for each of the flow set-tings with different lengths and sizes ofhose.

Automatic/constant pressure fognozzles also require additional trainingof the pump operator and the nozzleoperator. The pump operator must betrained to accurately control the enginepressure and flow with differentlengths and sizes of hoses and differentoperating conditions.

Multi-Purpose nozzles require addi-tional training for the nozzle operator,because they must be trained to usethe multiple shutoffs on these nozzles.

After analyzing a departments needsand considering the strengths andpurposes of each nozzle, decisionmakers will be better prepared tochoose how to spend their limitedresources on the right combination ofnozzles.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

43

Picture courtesy of Akron Brass Company, Inc.

Enquiries: www.escapeconsult.com

The Ingström Escape ChuteWe are one of the world’s leading

producers of Escape Chutes.Our production range covers all types

of buildings and constructions.Please contact our Asia Pacific Sales

office for further information.

ESCAPE CONSULT MOBILTEX(S) PTE LTDBlock 105

Boon Keng Road #06-03Singapore 339776

Telephone:(65) 6295 1389

Facsimile:(65) 6295 1379

E-mail:[email protected]

Website:http://www.escapeconsult.com

http://www.algonet.se/~ingstrom/

AB MOBILTEX OY

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:10 am Page 43

Page 46: APF Issue 04

by John Ng

Historically, Building Regulations inmost countries have focused onthe provision of equal access rather

than equal egress as most tall buildingsare designed for ‘defend in place’ strate-gy. Hence, most high-rise buildings arenot designed to ensure that everyone inthe building has equal opportunity toevacuate quickly when the use of lifts isconsidered unsafe for use in extremeemergencies.

BASIC ETHICAL PROBLEMIn considering growing ageing popula-tion worldwide, it is important to realizethat in the context of high rise evacua-tion, it is estimated about 30% of thetotal building population who may havedifficulty or no ability to walk downstairs unassisted during emergency evac-uation. Protecting this group of occu-pants while they remain in place waitingfor rescues can be a viable option forhigh-rise buildings. However, this exposesthe true risk to this group of people as towhat the effects will look like in theevent of a major fire evacuation or othercritical happening include tornadoes,earthquake, terrorist threats, and even

extended power outages that may requirepartial or total building evacuations. Cur-rent building designs may not be ‘unsafe’in terms of evacuation of people withdisabilities, but more could be done toprovide alternative means of egress toensure they get to ground level quicklyand safely in the event that the emergen-cies get out of control.

HIGH-RISE EVACUATIONSIn general, high-rise buildings presentmany very unique and difficult challengesduring emergency evacuation, rescue, andfire suppression. The evacuation processmay take many hours to get people outof a tall building during a fire, especiallyif the normal means of egress, such aslifts, are not working and/or several stair-wells are impassable because of smoke,heat or flames.

The initial reports of the events ofSeptember 11th last year have shown asuccessful evacuation of so many of thebuilding occupants who have the abilityto walk down the stairs before the

building collapsed. Yet, thefatality figures were highand it leave us all with somesoul searching in respect totrying to visualize what itmust have been like forthose trying to escape buthave no ability of walkingdown stairs unassisted.

Fire authorities recognizethe difficulties of evacuat-ing people from high-risebuildings, especially elderlyand disabled people inextreme emergency situa-tions. The building man-agers and emergencyservices today will face newchallenges to do more toensure safer and quickerescape of all building occu-pants and rescuers in amajor emergency. Many firedepartments deem that abuilding’s fire safety man-ager should be responsiblefor the safe evacuation ofall people, which is notdependent on the firebrigade. Some fire depart-ments have even approvethe use of fire lifts for evac-uation of people withmobility impairments, whileothers deem this methodtoo risky.

Whilst life safety is of paramountimportance so is the ability to empty the total building population in theshortest possible time if extreme emer-gency arises. An international standardshould be adopted by fire and buildingauthorities to provide a clear definition ofbuilding management responsibilities aswell as the provision of egress means to allow the safety manager to ensure the safe evacuation of all mobility-impaired people in the event of totalevacuation.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESSNo ones like to contemplate the possibil-ity of a high-rise evacuation. After theSeptember 11 incidents in the U.S.A andall the recent terrorist threats, the ownersof private and public tall buildings world-wide are more aware of the significantimportance on the emergency prepared-ness for mass evacuation. They are look-ing into ways and means in improvingthe ability to empty the total buildingpopulation in the shortest possible time

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

44

Picture courtesy of AB Mobiltex Oy

Picture courtesy of AB Mobiltex Oy

Rights of Access + Rights In Evacuation & Rescue

With the Disability DiscriminationAct and Health & Safety legislationnow in place, building owners andemployers must provide adequatemeans of escape for all occupantsof buildings. In the event of anemergency evacuation – it canhappen any time, every buildingoccupant, visitors and employeeshave a right to egress, which is theresponsibility of building man-agers and employers.

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:10 am Page 44

Page 47: APF Issue 04

in the event of worst conceivable scenariofor their buildings.

Just as we accept the daily use of liftsto gain access to every floor in high-risebuildings, so too there are ways that mustbe taken to ensure that all building occu-pants can also get down and out in theabsence of lifts during emergency evacu-ation. A safer strategy would be to get asmany people evacuated out of a blazinghigh rise in a predetermined evacuationplan than having to depend on firefight-ers to perform height rescue operations isthe only acceptable way in guaranteeinglife safety prevention.

Although current fire regulations donot require buildings to provide escapechutes for escape or rescue purposes,building owners in many countries haveinstalled escape chute system to meettheir evacuation requirement as part ofemergency preparedness. The combineduse of escape chute and stairways formass evacuation would take much lessertimes to complete.

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONSince 1982, evacuation via escape chuteshas been an alternative means of escapeto staircase in multi-storey structure; pro-vide the answer to make means of egressavailable to all people. The escape chuteworks on the principle of gravity, usingthe stress and friction method. It needsno power supply, has no stairs, usabilityfor all people, regardless of body size,shape and weight, and allows even dis-abled or injured on stretcher and uncon-scious people to be safely and effectivelybrought to ground level in the event of afire in a multi-storey structure. It is esti-mated that over a million people havetested the escape chute evacuation fromtwo stories and higher.

There are several types of escapechutes, reusable preparedness solution to help evacuate occupants in buildingand rescue purposes in the quickesttimeframe possible, while maintainingsafety:

Multiple-entry: The multiple escapechute system is installed inside a pro-tected vertical shaft enclosure in a newbuilding or retrofitted in an existingbuilding. The installation is constructedin accordance to international fire codethat provides protection from fire effectsfor evacuees so that it can be used safelyfor emergency egress. The chute is per-manently available at each level insidethe fire protected shaft, one segment ofchute per floor, from the highest floor tothe ground floor on the same vertical linewith no length and height constraints.Evacuation takes place inside the build-ing and occupants can gain access to thechute at each floor where several levelscan be simultaneously evacuated.

Single-entry: The one-entry escapechute is installed in old or existing build-ing whereby there is no possibility ofincorporating the multi-entry chute. It isdesigned for installation at window, bal-cony and rooftop of multi-floor buildingsfrom two storeys upward to maximum of200m in height; best serves the occu-pants of that particular floor. This exteri-or chute is constructed of three layers,and this three-way protection protectsthe evacuees once inside the chute fromfire, heat, and smoke during evacuation.

In countries where no fire regulationsare enforced, there will be situationswhere the minimum number of exits in abuilding or floor(s) may not be enough tocater for the occupants due to a changeof occupancy classification or anincreased in occupant load over the time.In many situations, escape chutes areacceptable by fire authorities as a practi-cal alternative exit in buildings where it isnot possible to provide additional exits orincrease the size of existing exits for massrapid evacuation.

ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF ESCAPE METHODCurrent fire regulations do not requirebuildings to provide facility for equalegress, however building owners in manycountries have adopted a new solution inmaking their buildings egressible foreveryone during evacuation. It offersworry-free solution and reduces the riskof injury to the disadvantaged who havedifficulty or have no ability to use stairsin getting out of the building.

This emergency egress design is aunique and integral part of the enhancedstaircase development. It exceeds the cur-rent vertical exit provision and furtherenhanced the safety of evacuation in tallbuildings. This egress design requires the

ability of incorporating the facility ofmultiple escape chute system at the coreof the stairwell inside the enhanced stair-case enclosure. The use of escape chuteand exit stairs can evacuate buildingpopulations faster. It simultaneouslygrants occupants their right to evacuatewhile giving priority to fighters.

Given this means of egress is designedin accordance to international fire codeto prevent entry of fire and smoke intothe enhanced stair enclosure with themultiple-entry escape chute system, thisenclosure becomes a safe zone for refugeafter a fire starts. When fire occurs,mobility impaired people and the disabledwill have to make their way, assist orunassisted, and take temporary refugeinside this stair enclosure while waitingfor rescue. They can either choose to usethe chute inside the stair enclosure toslide down to the ground or to beassisted by helpers down the stairs. Suchemergency exit system for persons whouse wheelchairs or are otherwise unableto use stairs would not only save the livesof people with disabilities but also of res-cue workers who would not have to putthemselves at risk to rescue disabledpeople in tall buildings.

CONCLUSIONThe development of code and standardswill make it possible for future buildingsto become conducive for access andegress to everyone. The need to adopt auniversal approach to equal egress designwould give the mobility-impaired peoplethe same ability that able-bodied peoplehave for vertical exits, making high riseevacuation quicker and relatively safer.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

45

Picture courtesy of AB Mobiltex Oy

Picture courtesy of AB Mobiltex Oy

s of Egress = Lowest Risk

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:11 am Page 45

Page 48: APF Issue 04

When conducting firefightingand rescue operations, fire-fighters would often need to

work in environments in which smokeand toxic or noxious fumes may bepresent. The burning of plastic materi-als can give off poisonous gases, whilstleaking chemicals in hazardous materialincidents can release poisonous fumes.Thick dust clouds can also result fromcollapsed structures, such as the chok-ing conditions experienced by respon-ders during the September 11thterrorist attacks on the World TradeCentre in New York City. These can allprovide an untenable environment forfirefighters and rescuers.

The continued development of thebreathing apparatus (BA) has thereforebeen crucial for rescuers, firefightersand hazmat responders alike. It hasallowed them to operate in the mosthostile of conditions and, more impor-tantly, reach casualties and save lives.The development of the BA Airline hasmade further inroads into the use ofthe BA set by prolonging its usage.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

46

Decontamination in progress (part of a training session at the Civil Defence Academy, SCDF)

by Lta Tan Kim Guan Senior Instructor

Fire Fighting Specialists Branch,Specialists Training Wing, Civil Defence Academy,

Singapore Civil Defence Force

The Breathing Apparatus Airline

When Only Fresh Air Will Do

The continued development of thebreathing apparatus (BA) hastherefore been crucial for rescuers,firefighters and hazmat respondersalike. It has allowed them tooperate in the most hostile ofconditions and, more importantly,reach casualties and save lives.

The Breathing Apparatus Airline

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:11 am Page 46

Page 49: APF Issue 04

THE AIRLINE ADVANTAGE

In its standard form, conforming to BS4667 Part 3, the BA Airline essentiallycomprises a facemask, a demand valveand a length of hose. This hose isconnected to compressed air cylinderswhich provide the air supply. Thecylinders are located outside the riskarea. Either one or two users may beconnected to the BA Airline.

The BA Airline provides several hoursof respiratory protection to its users ascontinuous air supply can be main-tained through the airlines linked to acascade of cylinders and to the opencircuit facemask and regulator. Thesmaller air cylinders of a BA set have alimited capacity and would hencerequire frequent replacement.

This extended supply of oxygen inturn allows rescuers and firefightersmore working time, enhancing both

their operational effectiveness and con-fidence. One limitation of a BA Airline,however, is that it does not facilitatethe users to make multiple turns, or topenetrate into confined spaces withobstacles that require significantmaneuvering.

BA Airline users also don self-contained breathing apparatus duringoperations. The latter serves as a backup should the Airline user encounterdifficulties such as entangled, kinked orruptured hoses.

STYRENE SPILL INCIDENT: THE BA AIRLINE IN USE

On 24th October 2001, SCDF HazmatResponders from the Tuas Fire Stationattended to a chemical incident involv-ing leakage of Styrene from a 600m3

(430 Metric Ton) storage tank. Styreneis a chemical known for its flamma-

bility and explosive characteristics, witha flash point of 32 degree celsius.

When the Hazmat Responders arrivedat about 1430 hrs, Styrene was seensplashing rapidly out of one of thedelivery valves. Exposed styrene vapourcan ignite explosively should it comeinto contact with an ignition source.

Under the sweltering heat of theafternoon sun, the initial task was toinitiate isolation and cooling opera-tions. The leaking chemical had to beisolated and prevented from excessheat source or naked flames. Foam and

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

47

BA airline equipment

Styrene leakage

The BA Airline provides severalhours of respiratory protection toits users as continuous air supplycan be maintained through theairlines linked to a cascade ofcylinders and to the open circuitfacemask and regulator.

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:11 am Page 47

Page 50: APF Issue 04

water were used for these operations.The tank from which the chemical wasleaking from was gradually cooleddown which prevented the leakingStyrene vapour from reaching its flashpoint.

In addition, the Hazmat respondershad to mitigate the leakage as soon aspossible. Donning chemical suits for res-piratory and body protection, theyeffectively plugged the leaking valve andtransferred the remaining Styrene fromthe tank to an International StandardOrganisation (ISO) tanker. The entireoperation took more than an hour.

Throughout the operation, the BAAirline proved essential. It provided theresponders more time and flexibility to

carry out the elaborate and careful mit-igation and subsequent decontamina-tion procedures. The combination ofcumbersome chemical suits and theextended duration of this operationdemanded greater strength and stami-na from responders – something whichthe extended capabilities of the BAAirline easily supported.

The use of the normal BA equipmentwith their limited air supply would havegreatly handicapped the operations,requiring the users to replace theircylinders every 30 to 45 minutes. (Acylinder with 9 litres of air contentswould normally last for about 35 min-utes.) This would have required theusers to leave the hot zone in the midst

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

48

Safety Considerations● The Airline user should also

be equipped with a DistressSignal Unit, a torch andcommunication equipmentso that he may remain intouch with the BA ControlOfficer (BACO).

● The Airline hose shall notexceed 90 metres, or apressure reduction in thehose may take place. Whenthis happens, the wearermay begin to consume andexhaust the air from hisstandby BA cylinder.

● Not more than two Airlinewearers should beconnected to any singleairline. This is to ensure thatthere is adequate,continuous uninterrupted airsupply. A third Airlinewearer would seriouslyreduce the air contents andcompromise their safety.

● A BACO shall monitor theentry and exit of Airlinewearers, taking note of theirentry/exit time. He shallalso standby an emergencyteam to initiate emergencysearch procedures shouldan Airline team fail to returnon time or radiocommunication is lost.

● The air cylinders should alsobe closely monitored fortheir contents to ensure thatthere is sufficient air supply.Provision should also bemade available to rapidlyreplace depleted cylinders.

(Additional precautionarymeasures are documented inthe Manual of Firemanshipunder “Breathing apparatusand resuscitation”.)

Throughout the operation, the BA Airline proved essential. Itprovided the responders more timeand flexibility to carry out theelaborate and careful mitigation and subsequent decontaminationprocedures.

The use of the normal BA equipmentwith their limited air supply wouldhave greatly handicapped theoperations, requiring the users toreplace their cylinders every 30 to 45minutes.

The Breathing Apparatus Airline

The Breathing Apparatus Airline

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:12 am Page 48

Page 51: APF Issue 04

of their operations, undergo decontam-ination process, remove their chemicalsuits and replace their depleted BAcylinders. Alternatively, It would haverequired deployment of more hazmatrespondents to take over those whoneeded to leave the scene to replacetheir depleting cylinders. In all, the sit-uation would have been unnecessarilyprolonged with excess dependence onmanpower and equipment.

FURTHER USES OF THE AIRLINE

The BA Airline offers widespread usefor the SCDF. Aside from Hazmatoperations, the SCDF has improvised

its usage for the operation of com-monly used pneumatic equipment suchas the Airgun, Leak-sealing Lance,Pneumatic Cutter and Air Lifting Bag.This has been achieved by connectingthem to the BA Airline which suppliesthe compressed air at the operationground.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

49

Hazmat Responders conveying acasualty during a simulated Hazmatincident

The BA Airline offers widespread use for the SCDF. Aside from Hazmat operations,the SCDF has improvised its usage for theoperation of commonly used pneumaticequipment such as the Airgun, Leak-sealing Lance, Pneumatic Cutter and Air Lifting Bag.

Enquiries: [email protected]

The SOLOvision is a fully operationalthermal imaging camera with VirtualReality Viewing Optics. The light weightand unique ergonomic design enables“hands free” operation.

The image is picked up through acentrally mounted camera. Even in thethickest smoke and with the face visorentirely covered, the image seen by thewearer remains undiminished in quality.

Thermal image is displayed to the wearerthrough augmented viewing lenses.

Suitable for use with all known breathingapparatus sets. Thermal Image displayed

through VR Viewing optics.

GET IN, GET ON, GET OUT WITH...

HANDS FREE OR HAND HELD

THERMAL IMAGING SENSOR

WEIGHS LESSTHAN 1.5 lbs

•UNIQUE FACEMASK SEAL

ERGONOMICS•

RAYTHEONMICRO

BOLOMETERSENSOR

For full details or to arrange a demonstration contact Fire Safety Equipment Ltd.Tel: 0115 981 4433 Fax: 0115 981 6605 email: [email protected]

Manufactured by GB Solo LtdTel: 01609 881855

Anglo & Foreign International (Malaysia)Tel: +60-3-42621712 Fax: +60-3-42621714 email: [email protected]

For full details or to arrange a demonstration contact

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:12 am Page 49

Page 52: APF Issue 04

The design included anelectric motor-driven firepump, capable of flow-

ing 1000 gallons per minute(gpm) at a discharge pressureof 130 pounds per square inch(psi). The municipal water sys-tem supplied a static pressureof 55 psi and a flow of 1000gpm with a residual pressureof 43 psi at the pump suction flange.This provides a combined pressure of173 psi at the discharge side of the firepump when the pump flows 1000 gpm.Because this particular pump provides120% of the rated pressure with nowater flowing — sometimes called the“shutoff” or “churn” condition — thepressure rises to 210 psi. Thus with littlewater flowing, such as when a singlesprinkler head operates in the earlystages of a fire, the piping must endurerelatively high pressure.

Rather than using piping and equip-ment rated for the higher pressures, asrequired by NFPA 20 – 1999, Standard

for the Installation of Stationary Pumpsfor Fire Protection, the contractorchose to rely on a fire pump reliefvalve. He set the relief valve to operateat 175 psi. The contractor reasonedthat this arrangement would allow himto use standard piping and equipmentrated for 175 psi. Obviously, this wouldreduce the installation cost of the fireprotection systems.

Sadly, using a fire pump relief valveto maintain the system pressure at orbelow 175 psi does not comply withthe requirements of the Standard.NFPA 20-1999, Section 2-2.4 states,“The net pump shutoff (churn) pressure

plus the maximum static suc-tion pressure, adjusted forelevation, shall not exceedthe pressure for which thesystem components arerated”. The supporting infor-mation in Appendix A, Sec-tion A-2-2.4 specificallyidentifies the use of a reliefvalve to reduce the overall

pump operating pressure as a “poordesign practice.”

Unfortunately, no one discovered thisdesign flaw until the day before thescheduled opening of the building. Infact, the discovery occurred just as thecontractor had begun to prepare forthe acceptance testing of the pump.Based on this information, the AuthorityHaving Jurisdiction declined to acceptthe system. This prevented the buildingfrom opening on time.

The contractor and the design engi-neer now had to face the problem ofcorrecting the design flaw. They hadlimited options available. They could

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

50

Fire Pumps and VFire Pumps and Vby Mark Hopkins, P.E. and

Lawrence J. Wenzel, P.E.,C.F.P.S., C.B.C.P.

A SITUATION OCCURRED in a 10-story high-risebuilding in Florida. The water demand for thebuilding’s sprinkler system required the contractorto install a fire pump. However, the design of thecombined standpipe and sprinkler system pipingcould not withstand the pressure increase providedby the fire pump.

The manufacturer often mounts the fire pump nameplate directly on the pump casing

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:12 am Page 50

Page 53: APF Issue 04

replace the system piping for thestandpipe and sprinkler systems on thelower levels of the building. Or, theycould add one or more pressure reduc-ing valves.

FIRE PUMPSA common misconception exists that firepumps can add “capacity” to volume-deficient water supplies. Fire pumps donot create water. Thus, if an insufficientquantity of water exists to supply thepump, the pump will do no good. Firepumps simply add energy to increase thepressure for a given volume of water.

Contractors install fire pumps wherea water supply has a pressure deficien-cy for fire protection or manual firefighting needs. This condition mayoccur where the water supply mustcome from a low-pressure static watersource, such as a low-pressure publicwater system. In the past, fire pumpssupplied by a connection to a public orprivate water distribution system or to

a gravity tankhave often beenreferred to as“booster pumps.”While still inuse, NFPA 20 –1999, no longeruses this term.Other typical low-pressure suctionsources include ponds, reservoirs, cis-terns, wells, low elevation ground stor-age tanks or, in some rare cases,swimming pools.

To accommodate application needs,a contractor may use a variety of pumptypes for fire protection. Today, mostcontractors use centrifugal fire pumps,including horizontal split case, verticalline shaft turbine, vertical in-line, and end suction pumps. In certain specificapplications, a contractor may use pos-itive displacement fire pumps. Thesespecific applications include certainfoam systems and water mist systems.

The new chapter 5 of NFPA 20 – 1999provides specific requirements.

All fire pump installations consist ofthree basic components: the driver, thepump and the controller.

The driver converts energy suppliedfrom an electrical motor, fuel-firedengine or steam turbine into mechani-cal force used to rotate the pump shaft.The driver connects to the pump shaftthrough a flexible coupling.

The centrifugal pump – the mostcommonly used type of pump in fireprotection – converts the rotationalenergy provided by the driver intokinetic energy using a “disc” known asan impeller. Positive displacementpumps create pressure by compressingthe water in a chamber and thenreleasing it into the system.

The controller serves as the “brain”of the installation. It works as a true“management tool”, starting andsometimes, stopping the pump. It alsoacts as a remote signalling point whensupervisory initiating device circuitsfrom the facility fire alarm system con-nect to supervisory signalling contactsin the controller. In essence, the con-troller keeps an eye on the fire protec-tion system water supply, through itsability to monitor system pressure. Ifthe pressure drops, the fire pump con-troller starts the fire pump, boostingthe pressure.

FIRE PUMP CAPACITIESFire pumps range in flow capacity from25 gpm to 5000 gpm and net pressuredelivery of 40 psi or greater, as

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

51

This photo shows a typical fire pump installation. This installation includes an electricallydriven pump. Notice that a person standing near the fire pump controller can clearly seethe pump and its driver. This meets a specific requirement of NFPA 20-1999, Section 7-2.1

ValvesValvesThe open casing of this horizontal splitcase pump clearly shows the impeller.The shaft from the driver connects to thepump shaft. The impeller mounts on thisshaft

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:13 am Page 51

Page 54: APF Issue 04

identified in NFPA 20 – 1999, Section2-3. They must meet specific flow andpressure delivery points, as part of theirUnderwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) list-ing. The rated capacity of the pumpdetermines these delivery points. Thenameplate of the pump alwayscontains this information.

NFPA 20 – 1999 specifies pressurelimits at no-flow conditions between101% and 140% of the rated name-plate pressure. At 65% of the ratedpressure, the pump must deliver 150%of the rated flow. NFPA 20-1999 statesthese requirements in section 3.2, andin the appendix to this section.

SIZING FIRE PUMPSA designer should consider several fac-tors when sizing a fire pump for agiven design application. The designerdoes not have to size the fire pump tomeet the exact system demand. NFPA20 – 1999, section A-2-3 states thatfire pumps must be able to operate atany capacity between churn to 150%.However, a designer should select a firepump for a given application withinthe range of 90 to 140% of ratedpump capacity. This allows for some

flexibility in the event that the suctionsupply changes.

As in the example at the start of thisarticle, a common mistake occurs whena designer does not properly specify thepressure ratings for pipe and fittingsbased on the sizing of the fire pump.The maximum net pressure increase pro-vided by a fire pump occurs while thepump operates at a no-flow condition.

To determine if the system pressurewill exceed the pressure ratings of thepipe and fittings, the designer mustadd the available static water supplypressure to the pump’s no flow pressure.Then, the designer must compare thistotal pressure to the rated allowablepressure listed for the piping, valvesand other components.

RELIEF VALVESA fire pump system relief valve serves asa safety device. It should only need toopen when an “over-speed” conditionof the fire pump driver can result inpressure exceeding the maximum work-ing pressure for the piping and equip-ment installed. An electric motor can’tover-speed; thus, a designer need notspecify a system relief valve for an elec-

tric motor driven fire pump installation. The designer must use a little math

to determine if he or she must specify asystem relief valve for a diesel enginedriven fire pump installation. NFPA 20-1999, Section 2-13.1 gives the formula.The designer must compare the maxi-mum working pressure for the pipingto the sum obtained by adding thestatic pressure to 121% of the net no-flow (churn or shut-off) pressure.

Keep in mind that, as in the exampleoutlined at the beginning of thisarticle, the installation of a relief valveshould not serve as a design option toreduce project installation costs.

The designer must also considersome other operating conditions. Whenthe fire pump operates at a no-flowcondition, the fire pump itself can heatup. The fire pump impeller generatesheat as it turns. The heat builds up ifno cool water flows through the pumpcasing. This elevated temperature in thepump casing can cause damage. Thus,water must constantly pass through thepump. The designer must provide amethod to keep the pump cool.

The designer can do this by supply-ing the water for the diesel enginecooling system from the discharge sideof the pump. As the water flows fromthe pump discharge, through a heatexchanger connected to the closedcirculation engine cooling system, itwill also dissipate any heat that maybuild up inside the casing of the pump.

However, electric motor driven pumps,and engine driven pumps that use a radi-ator for cooling do not offer this benefit.Thus, the designer will have to specify acirculation relief valve, also known as acase or casing relief valve, to keep thepump casing cool under no flow condi-tions. A circulation relief valve consists ofa small diameter relief valve designed toprovide a small flow through the pumpto waste. The contractor usually attachesthis circulation relief valve to the pumpcasing. However, the contractor may alsoinstall this valve anywhere on the dis-charge side of the pump.

CONTROL VALVESLastly, the designer will specify the useof control and check valves to isolatefire pumps and other water supplies

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

52

The flexible coupling serves as a very important component for any fire pumpinstallation. It allows the power from the driver to transfer to the pump. If thiscomponent fails, then the pump cannot supply water. The installer must carefully alignthe flexible coupling. Whoever maintains the pump must make certain the alignmentremains proper

Fire Pumps and ValvesFire Pumps and Valves

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:13 am Page 52

Page 55: APF Issue 04

from one another and to allow forservice and maintenance of installationcomponents. Valves used in fire protec-tion systems must bear a UL or FMlisting mark for fire protection service.

The designer may specify eitherindicating butterfly or gate valves. Thedesigner should specify valves to isolatethe pump from the supply and dis-charge, and to allow maintenance per-sonnel to completely remove the pumpfrom the fire protection piping system.Appropriately located valves will also

allow for pump testing without remov-ing the pump from service.

NFPA 20-1999 disallows the use of abutterfly valve in one specific instance.The designer may only specify the useof an indicating gate valve in the suc-tion line within fifty feet of the pump.Butterfly valves can create turbulence.This turbulence in the suction supplycould adversely affect the performanceof the fire pump. However, the Standardpermits the use of listed butterfly valvesas control valves in all other locations.

The designer will specify the installa-tion of check valves on the dischargeside of fire pumps and jockey pumps.These check valves will isolate the watersupplies. They will also allow the jockeypump to maintain higher pressure in thefire protection system. This higher pres-sure in the system, coupled with higherstarting pressures for the fire pump, willeffectively eliminate water hammer. Bymaintaining higher pressure on the sys-tem, the fire pump can automaticallystart at higher pressure. This will providehigher operating pressure for automaticsprinklers and hose lines earlier in a fire.

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

53

Mark Hopkins, P.E., serves as alicensed professional fire protectionengineer with the New Englandoffice of Hughes Associates, Inc.,located in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Lawrence J. Wenzel, P.E., C.F.P.S.,C.B.C.P. serves as a licensed pro-fessional fire protection engineer,certified fire protection specialist,and certified business continuityprofessional with the Connecticutoffice of Hughes Associates, Inc.,located in Oakdale, Connecticut.

This circulation relief valve mounts on top of the fire pump casing. It should have adischarge pipe from the outlet to a safe location

OCV Control ValvesFlowing Strong Since 19527400 East 42nd Place • Tulsa, Oklahoma 74145-4744 • USAPhone: 1-888-628-8258 • 918-627-1942 • Fax: 918-622-8916e-mail: [email protected] • Internet: www.controlvalves.com

Fire pumprelief valve

Pneumatic &electric activateddeluge valves

Pressurereducingvalve

Sure Fire Valves ForReliable Fire Protection

When life and property are on the line, there’s no better choice than OCVControl Valves for your fire protection system. Meeting all standards, OCV’swide selection of diaphragm-actuated valves offer advantages in many ways:

• Fully automatic operation using pilot controls and line pressure

• OCV-designed pilots for accurate control of valve operation/set-points

• Guided stem assembly/accurate throttling and positive closure

• Epoxy-coated ductile and steel valves for fresh or seawater service

• Easy on-line service/adjustments

• Drip-tight closure/renewable seal for extended valve service life

• No packing glands to service

• Globe or angle pattern/ductile iron, cast steel, bronze and stainless steel

Plus, count on the performance of OCV for support, engineering consultationand valves configured to your specific requirements today and years to come.

©2000 OCV Control Valves

Enquiries: [email protected]

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:13 am Page 53

Page 56: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

54

AMERICAN PACIFIC ANNOUNCES LANDMARK FAAAPPROVALAmerican Pacific Corporation has announced the landmark FederalAviation Administration (“FAA”) approval of a Halotron I cleanagent portable fire extinguisher to replace severe ozone depletinghalon 1211 on civilian commercial aircraft. The Halotron Iextinguisher, manufactured by Amerex Corporation of Trussville,Alabama, has a net weight of 5.5 lbs and was the first to success-fully complete all required FAA and Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.(“UL”) tests. Each extinguisher has the following label:

“FAA Approved. Meets the Minimum Performance Standards forHandheld Extinguishers as defined in Report DOT/FAA/AR-01/37.”

The standard for approval was the culmination of a nine-yearprocess started in October 1993, at the FAA Technical Center atAtlantic City, NJ.

This new Amerex Halotron I extinguisher provides an environmen-tally acceptable substitution for Halon 1211 that is extremely low inozone depletion effect as well as global warming effect. It providesan environmentally balanced alternative that is needed for the airlineindustry. Halotron I is the most widely used halon 1211 replacementand is carried by four of the five major US fire extinguisher manufac-turers, including Amerex, Badger, Buckeye, and Kidde.

The availability of this new Amerex Halotron I extinguisher givesairlines the dual advantage of transitioning to an environmentallyacceptable product as well as a product that can be used for fulltraining programs, once again.

NEW FIRE HELMET COMMUNICATIONS KIT FROMNEW ZEALAND MANUFACTURER

New Zealand com-pany, Audio ResponseLtd has announcedthe release of itsCOM-SYS-FIRE (CSF-1) communications kitfor fire fightinghelmets.

Fitting many popu-lar models of firehelmet, the CSF-1 isquickly and easily

attached to the ratchet assembly at the back of the helmet.Using a high quality bone conduction microphone which rests

against the back of the user’s head, it provides clear communica-tions with or without breathing apparatus or inside a fully encap-sulated hazmat suit.

The patented microphone uses a distinctly different technologyfrom previous generations of bone conduction pickup with a sig-nificant improvement in intelligibility of speech. Due to its uniquedesign, it provides quality communications in ambient noise levelsup to 120dB.

It connects to most popular models of portable radio via a dedi-cated interface unit.

CERTIFIRE (HONG KONG)CERTIFIRE (Hong Kong) Ltd is an independent third party product certification body incorporated in Hong Kong and is part of Warrington Fire Research Group Ltd. It provides third party

certification of all passive fire protection products.The Hong Kong Government, via HKAS, has recently launched

an initiative to encourage manufacturers of construction materialsgenerally, including passive fire protection products, to demon-strate compliance with the regulations through product certifica-tion. Product certification via CERTIFIRE (Hong Kong) is the basisby which manufacturers can provide on-going evidence of fire per-formance for their products and satisfy the requirements of thisinitiative.

CERTIFIRE (Hong Kong) will meet the requirements of ISO/IECGuide 65 and satisfy the requirements of HKAS for accreditation.The scheme will be run in a similar way to CERTIFIRE (UK) andCERTIFIRE (Australia) in that it will be governed by a ManagementCommittee which will seek representatives from organizations with an interest in the certification of fire protection products,such as Government Departments, Architects, Engineers andmanufacturers.

AUSTRALIAN FIRE BRIGADE DEVELOPS FAST-RESPONSE EMERGENCY VEHICLES

Australian manufactur-ing engineers CharlesMarshall Pty. Ltd. joinedforces with New SouthWales Fire BrigadesEngineering Unit todevelop ergonomicallyeffective systems with ahigh level of operatorsafety for emergencyresponse vehicles.

The need for totalreliability of roll-outshelving, steps anddraws was a criticaldesign priority. Using theextensive range of“Fitzroy” slides, engi-neers at Charles Marshallworked with the NSWFire Brigades engineer-ing design team to adaptand test a multitude ofslide-out fittings.

“Fitzroy” ball bearing slides were considered because of theirreputation for strength and reliability in arduous field circum-stances. Slide-out weights from 100kg up to 250kg had to becatered for with reach, in many cases up to 1200mm.

The prime design criteria for emergency personnel was fast andeasy accessibility of their extensive array of tools, breathing appa-ratus and power equipment. Three HazMat Response Vehicles werepurpose-built from the chassis up for fast response to hazardousmaterials spills.

As the “Hazmat” project progressed it became apparent thatsome lateral design thinking was needed to provide secure shelflocking mechanisms. The Hazmat vehicles feature a unique com-mand centre equipped with the latest state-of-the art Hazmat sys-tems, fax and phone and computerized scientific testingequipment to identify chemicals and gases at spill sites both onland and water.

“Fitzroy” tracks were also successfully fitted on heavy duty bat-tery racks, refrigerators, breathing apparatus and heavy compressedair cylinders, plus an extensive variety of chemicals detectionequipment, fans, spill confining systems and the like.

Mr. Hue Pham, Manager of the Unit was extremely proud of the

Product Update ● Product Update ● Product Update

For more information, please contact:American Pacific Corporation

Tel: +1 702 735 2200Website: www.halotron-inc.com

For more information, please contact:CERTIFIRE (Hong Kong)

Tel: +852 2851 8976 Website: www.wfrc.co.uk

For more information, please contact:Audio Response Ltd.Tel: +61 9 8277 667

Website: www.audio-response.com

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:14 am Page 54

Page 57: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

55

development results and agreed that due to the ease of access toawkward and heavy gear, operator injuries and personnel down-time has been considerably reduced while simultaneously, set-upand into-action times have been dramatically improved in bothRescue and Hazardous Materials situations.

RADICALLY NEW FIRE SUPPRESSIONTECHNOLOGY WILL MEAN RETHINKINGPROCEDURESFireAde 2000 is first product to take on entire fire tetrahedronA new fire suppression technology is now available in from FireService Plus, a member company of the Safety Showers group. Thisnew technology is so radically different from anything that hasgone before that it will lead to the rethinking of many time hal-lowed procedures used by Airport fire teams. Based on a uniquesystem of hydrocarbon denaturing and management it has been20 years in developing and testing in the USA.

Because of this the product, known as FireAde 2000, is not justanother fire fighting medium. Unlike water, traditional foams,powders, gels and gases used in fire fighting, its properties aresuch that it can effectively attack the entire fire tetrahedron. Thismeans, at a stroke, reducing heat, eliminating oxygen, removingfuel and interrupting the free radical chain reaction, which keepsfires going.

At the same time where flammable liquids are involved, FireAde2000 acts as an emulsifier. That is to say product, water and flam-mable liquid mix and encapsulate hydrocarbon molecules, thuspreventing ignition or re-ignition. It’s this feature that makes theproduct an excellent medium for cutting a non-reignitible firepath through burning fuel to rescue casualties or property. It alsomakes it ideal for dealing with Hazmat incidents, where FireAde2000’s use seriously reduces the risk associated with hydrocarbonspills.

Also because FireAde 2000 makes water six times wetter it actsas a dramatically effective cooling medium, enabling previouslyhot debris, including metal, to be cleared away by hand almostimmediately after a fire has been extinguished.

In addition to its frontline qualities, FireAde 2000 also addresseslogistical and environmental concerns. Easy to store and transportit has unlimited shelf life, even after it has been mixed with water.It is also non-hazardous, non-toxic, non-corrosive and biodegrad-able. It is effective for use on fire categories A, B and D and Euro-pean categories C, D and F.

PLYMOVENT EXHAUST REMOVAL SYSTEMIMPROVES THE LIFE OF THE FIRE FIGHTERS ATTIN SHU WAI FIRE STATION IN HONG KONG.PlymoVent the world leader in Exhaust Removal Systems has incooperation with its representative in Hong Kong, Anway Engi-neering, been awarded the order to improve the air quality in theTin Shu Wai fire station.

It is a well-known fact that diesel exhaust in fire stationsaround the world, due to its hazardous content of dangerouschemicals and particles, can course severe health problems for thefire fighters when inhaled.

Authorities, fire chiefs and fire fighters organizations around theworld give clear recommendations to install 100% source capturesystems to remove the hazardous from the stations.

PlymoVent has more than two decades of experience in solvingthese problems around the world and has now been awarded itsfirst installation in Hong Kong.

When the fire vehicles exit the station or return back after acall, the system is connected to the tail pipe by a special nozzleGrabber which give a 100% sealed connection and the dieselfumes are extracted away from the fire station thus protecting thehealth of the fire fighters plus reducing the cost of maintenancefor cleaning or repainting the premises.

FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM FROM SECURITON AGSince 1948 SECURITON has beendedicated to the electronicdetection of fire. SECURITONdevelops and manufactures alarge range of different firedetection systems to fulfill broadcustomers’ need from tunnels,commercial buildings, industries,telecommunications, utility sta-tions or others.

Road and Subway TunnelFire DetectionTransafe ADW 511 Linear HeatDetector with copper sensor tubeis an effective solution for tunnel

and industry environment. It combines rate of rise and maximumheat detection technology for earliest fire detection. It’s durablecopper sensor tube offers minimal maintenance and maximumreliability. The decentralized design with every 100m per systemoffers best system redundancy when monitoring any size of area.The system holds the approval from VdS and is listed by UL.

Equipment Monitoring by ASDASD Smoke Aspiration Detector from SECURITON is an effective,yet flexible solution for customers who demand early fire detec-tion. Whether in room monitoring or in object monitoring, theASD Smoke Aspiration Detector from SECURITON one ASD unitcan run up to 100m of pipe and up to 20 suction holes. High sen-sitive detectors enable earliest fire detection. The system holds theapproval from VdS.

Unique features of ASD1. Double detectors per system, ensure accurate detection result

and best safety redundancy. This feature is useful especiallywhen the ASD system is linked to automatic release extinguish-ing system.

2. A smoke level indicator indicates the smoke concentration andfreely programmable outputs are available for triggering pre-alarm signals accordingly. These pre-alarm outputs, can be usedto activate data backup process to prevent loss of valuableinformation on servers, or can activate other pre-alarmsequences.

3. Up to 6 remote detectors can be added to one smoke suctionsystem.

4. Installation of up to 6 detectors inside pipe network enablesindividual recognition of zones or objects. The remote detectorscan be mounted directly on the equipment to ensure the short-est smoke traveling distance, and give individual identificationfor each equipment.

Product Update ● Product Update ● Product Update

For more information, please contact:Charles Marshall Pty. Ltd.

Tel: +61 3 9429 9044E-mail: [email protected]

For further information, please contact:Fire Service Plus LimitedTel: +44 (0) 151 643 8888

Website: www.fireserviceplus.com

For more information, please contact:PlymoVent

Tel: +46 40 30 31 30E-mail: [email protected]

For more information, please contact:Securiton AG

Tel: +60 3 7725 1699Website: www.securiton.ch

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:14 am Page 55

Page 58: APF Issue 04

ASIA PACIFIC FIREwww.apfmag.com

56

Akron Brass Company, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

American Pacific Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Amkus, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Autoflug GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Celanese AMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Chemetron Fire Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Dafo Fomtec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Draeger South East Asia PTE Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

E2V Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Edwards Manufacturing Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Escape Consult . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Fire Asia 2003 International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Fire Fighting Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

GB Solo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Great Lakes Chemical Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .OBC

Hale Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Hughes Safety Showers Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

IFTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Lenzing AG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Lion Apparel Asia Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC

Macron Safety Systems (UK) Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

MSA Gallet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

NFPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IBC

OCV Control Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Plymovent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Plysu Protection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Premier Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Promat International (Asia Pacific) Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Rae Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Securiton AG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

The Fire Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Trelleborg Protective Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

W.L. Gore & Associates (Pacific) PTE Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Warrington Fire Research Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

ASIA PACIFIC FIREMAGAZINE

GET YOUR SUBSCRIPTION NOW!!!

APF IS PUBLISHED 4 TIMES A YEAR – MARCH, JUNE, SEPTEMBER

AND DECEMBER

Name: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Company/Organisation: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Address: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Telephone: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Fax: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

E-mail: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Start Subscription from Issue: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Subscription Rates: Sterling £35.00 AUS Dollars – $100.00US Dollars – $55.00

Back Issues: US $8.00 or £5.00 each inclusive of P&P(subject to availability)

METHODS OF PAYMENT:

Website Subscription: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Cheque: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Visa/Mastercard No: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Expiry Date: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MDM Publishing Ltd.18a, St. James Street, South Petherton, Somerset, TA13 5BW, UK

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

SUBSCRIPTIONS

APF ON-LINE

www.apfmag.com

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 4 – December 2002

ASIA PACIFIC FIRE MAGAZINE

REPORTING TO THE ASIA PACIFIC FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE SERVICE INDUSTRY

High Rise Office

Building Fire

ProtectionFire As ia 2003PreviewChoosing aNozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

High Rise Office

Building Fire

Protectionalso ins ideF ire As ia 2003PreviewChoosing aNozz leSpreadersMarket Gu ide

✂ ✂

www.apfmag.com

MDM Publishing Ltd.

APF p. 31-64 2/11/06 8:14 am Page 56

Page 59: APF Issue 04

It’s fast, easy, and convenient to order any

of the National Fire Codes® online! With

our PDF service, you can download vital

requirements right away. Simply log onto

www.nfpacatalog.org to select the

document(s) you need and

explore the full range of NFPA

products and services! Order

or join NFPA by credit card

over our secure server 24

hours a day.

National FireCodes® OnlineSubscriptionServiceThis revolutionary service allows

subscribers to reference the most timely NFPA

codes and standards, in addition to a wealth

of useful information including Reports on

Proposals and Reports on Comments, informing

you of proposed changes to the codes and

standards that directly affect

your work.

Other continuously updated

features include Formal

Interpretations and tentative

Interim Amendments. Online

access to the NFPA Directory

and NFPA News.

Subscribe Now! Your access

number is e-mailed within

minutes of registering!

www.nfpacatalog.org

Within minutesof registering,you can accessthe very latestNFPA codes andstandards.

www.nfpacatalog.org

Need It Now?Every NFPA code and standard is now available

in PDF format!

For information on your local distributor contact us at [email protected]

NFPA International • 1 Batterymarch Park • Quincy, MA 02269 • USATel +1-617-770-3000 • Fax +1-617-984-7777

Enquiry card no. 34Enquiries: [email protected]

OFC IFC IBC OBC 1/11/06 3:40 pm Page ibc3

Page 60: APF Issue 04

Your intention was to protect your high-value assets from fire

with a clean agent. But many clean agent fire suppressants

are odorless, colorless gases. So how do you know for sure

that you are being properly protected and not misled by

an impostor?

Only Great Lakes’ FM-200® fire extinguishant is supported

by years of testing and use in applications like yours. It is

manufactured under the most rigorous quality and purity

standards in the world to ensure a safe, reliable product.

The FM-200® extinguishing agent has also received product

listings and approvals from the leading independent testing

laboratories worldwide—your assurance of product quality,

consistency and reliability.

Demand the protection that only the world’s most trusted clean

agent can provide! Do not compromise your security. Ask for the

FM-200® extinguishing agent for your fire suppression system.

Areyoubuyingcleanfireprotection?Orareyoubuyingtrouble?

www.FM-200.comFM-200 is a registered trademark.FM-200 use is covered by U.S. patent 5,124,053.

©2002 Great Lakes Chemical Corporation

The World’s Most Trusted Choice In Clean Agent Fire Suppression.Enquiries: www.FM-200.com

OFC IFC IBC OBC 1/11/06 3:40 pm Page obc4