PAS 95:2011

Contents
Foreword 3 0 Introduction 5 1 2 3 4 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 Scope 6 Terms and definitions 7 Use and limitations 10 System design 11 Planning 11 Provisions 11 System specification 12 Control panel 13 Design oxygen concentration level 13 Indoor air climate 14 Flushing 14 Monitoring 14 Data retention 14 Installation, testing and maintenance 16 Installation 16 Testing 16 Documentation 16 Operation, maintenance and servicing instructions

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Annexes Annex A (informative) Hypoxic fire prevention concept 18 Annex B (normative) Ignition-limiting oxygen threshold testing 20 Annex C (informative) System specification: graphical representations 27 Annex D (informative) Health and safety: working in hypoxic environments 29 Annex E (informative) Servicing 38 Bibliography 39 List of figures Figure A.1 Hypoxic fire prevention system concept 18 Figure B.1 Ignition-limiting oxygen threshold testing set-up 22 Figure C.1 Example of graphical output of key design parameters, including leakage, minimum/maximum oxygen concentration level, time to reach design oxygen concentration level, compressor output and duty cycle 27 Figure C.2 Demonstration of hold time 27 Figure D.1 Protocol for working in a class 1 hypoxic environment 34 Figure D.2 Protocol for working in a class 2 hypoxic environment 34 Figure D.3 Protocol for working in a class 3 hypoxic environment 35 Figure D.4 Protocol for working in a class 4 hypoxic environment 36 List of tables Table B.1 Test sample exceptions 21 Table D.1 Time of useful consciousness at decreasing oxygen partial pressure (unacclimatized persons) 29 Table D.2 Risk classification of hypoxia and actions recommended as precautions Table D.3 Common topics and questions raised 33

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Foreword
This Publicly Available Specification (PAS) was sponsored by the following companies: AcecoTI, Colorado Altitude Training, COWI, FirePASS Europe, Hypoxic Technologies, LPG Fire, Opsys, Prevenex Europe and Wagner Group all members of the Summit Air Institute for Preservation, Health and Safety (SAIPHS). Its development was facilitated by the British Standards Institution (BSI). It came into effect on (date of publication). Acknowledgment is given to the following organizations that were involved in the development of this PAS as members of the Steering Group: COWI FirePASS Europe Gotland University LPG Fire Prevenex Europe Smithsonian Institution The Altitude Centre Wagner Group

This PAS is published by BSI, which retains its ownership and copyright. BSI reserves the right to withdraw or amend this PAS on receipt of authoritative advice that is appropriate to do so. This PAS will be reviewed at intervals not exceeding two years, and any amendments arising from the review will be published as an amended PAS and publicized in Update Standards. This PAS is not to be regarded as British Standard. It will be withdrawn upon publication of its content in, or as, a British Standard. The PAS process enables a specification to be rapidly developed in order to fulfil an immediate need in industry. A PAS must be considered for further development as British Standard, or constitute part of the UK input into the development of a European or International Standard. Information about this document Product certification. Users of this PAS are advised to consider the desirability of third-party certification of product conformity with this PAS. Users seeking assistance in identifying appropriate assessment bodies or schemes may ask BSI to forward their enquiries to the relevant association, or contact SAIPHS at HAVinfo@cowi.com. Use of this document It has been assumed in the preparation of this PAS that the execution of its provisions will be entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced people, for whose use it has been produced. Presentation conventions The provisions of this PAS are presented in roman type. Its requirements are expressed in sentences in which the principal auxiliary verb is "shall". Its recommendations are expressed in sentences in which the principle verb is should.

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Commentary, recommendations, explanation and general informative material is presented in smaller italic type, using the heading NOTE, and does not constitute a normative element. Contractual and legal considerations This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application. Compliance with a PAS does not confer immunity from legal obligations.

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0 Introduction
Hypoxic fire prevention systems provide a means of inhibiting the development of flaming fires and thus preventing fires from causing significant damage. They differ from fire-extinguishing systems in that they provide a continuous level of prevention rather than a discharge of extinguishing agent once a fire has been detected. Normal air is a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen together with small quantities of argon, carbon dioxide and other gases. Oxygen is the critical element that supports both life and combustion. When the oxygen content is intentionally lowered for special applications, the resulting gas is called hypoxic air or low-oxygen air. Hypoxic fire prevention systems are applied in installations where it is possible to control the environment of the protected space, either exclusively for fire prevention or in combination with other indoor climate control (e.g. temperature or humidity). They are used, for example, in archives, vaults, computer facilities, warehousing and cold storage. Hypoxic fire prevention systems used in the protection of artefacts and other materials affected by oxidation (e.g. food, paper, paintings, metals) can reduce oxidative degradation. Hypoxic air systems using similar oxygen levels are used by athletes for physical fitness, training and rehabilitation and in medical research. Fire prevention is a relatively new application for such systems (Annex A details the concept). This PAS specifies provisions for their use in occupiable spaces.

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1 Scope This Publicly Available Specification (PAS) specifies requirements for the design, installation, testing and maintenance of hypoxic fire prevention systems in occupiable spaces. This PAS defines the limits of use of such systems. This PAS is not applicable for fire-extinguishing systems covered by the BS EN 15004 series. This PAS does not specify for full fire risk assessment.

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2 Terms and definitions For the purpose of this PAS, the following terms and definition apply. 2.1 approved acceptable to a relevant authority (see 2.2)
NOTE In determining the acceptability of installations or procedures, equipment or materials, the authority may base acceptance on compliance with the appropriate standards.

2.2 authority organization, office or individual responsible for approving equipment, installations or procedures 2.3 competent person designated person, suitably trained and/or qualified by knowledge and practical experience and with the necessary instructions to enable the required function to be carried out 2.4 control panel component that receives and sends signals to other components of the system, including the building management system (optional) and the fire detection alarm system (optional), with control, monitoring and measurement functions, and alarm and annunciation features to maintain the required oxygen concentration level in the protected area 2.5 design oxygen concentration level oxygen concentration in volume percentage used as the design basis for a hypoxic fire prevention system specification, determined by subtracting not less than 1% by volume safety factor from the lowest tested ignition-limiting oxygen threshold of materials likely to be found in, or as part of the fabric of, the protected space 2.6 flushing process during which the hypoxic air system is shut down and the air in the room is replaced with fresh air 2.7 hold time maximum permissible period of time that the oxygen level in a protected space remains at or below the design oxygen concentration level after the input from the hypoxic fire prevention system has been disabled 2.8 hypoxic air air in which the concentration of oxygen has been artificially reduced from normal concentrations for a specific purpose 2.9 hypoxic fire prevention system system designed to use a hypoxic environment to prevent and/or inhibit fire 2.10 hypoxic air generator component of a hypoxic fire prevention system that splits air on a molecular level to generate a mix of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water

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2.11 hypoxic environment environment containing hypoxic air in which humans can operate at a normal level of activity for short or extended durations (as appropriate) without the aid of specialized equipment (such as breathing apparatus) 2.12 hypoxic air venting system hypoxic air system that generates hypoxic air containing 10% or more oxygen by volume 2.13 ignition-limiting oxygen threshold oxygen concentration required for limiting ignition and preventing sustained flaming combustion of materials when tested in accordance with specified standard procedures
NOTE See Annex B for the test method.

2.14 indoor air climate (of the hypoxic fire prevention system) operating climate, taking into account fresh air make-up (normally exclusively via the hypoxic fire prevention system), temperature and humidity 2.15 inward leakage flow of ambient (non-hypoxic air) into the protected space resulting from structural leakage and additional leakage through doors/windows opening, etc.
NOTE 1 hour. Maximum leakage is often expressed as a percentage of the volume of the protected space per

NOTE 2 The test methods described in ISO 16000-8:2007 and the equivalent NT VVS 118:1997 are suitable means of measuring leakage under non-pressurized conditions. Room integrity test methods using pressure differential cannot be applied without a valid calculation to correct for influence of pressure.

2.16 maximum oxygen concentration level oxygen concentration in percentage by volume at or below the design oxygen concentration level 2.17 minimum oxygen concentration level oxygen concentration in percentage by volume below which the oxygen level shall not go 2.18 nitrogen injection system hypoxic fire prevention system that generates air containing more than 90% nitrogen by volume 2.19 occupiable space space intended for human occupancy 2.20 operator natural or legal person exercising actual power over the technical functioning of the equipment and systems (designated in the system logbook) 2.21 oxygen alarm level oxygen concentration level that is at the extreme of the allowable range of oxygen levels specified for fire prevention in the protected space 8
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NOTE This applies to both high and low oxygen alarm levels.

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2.22 oxygen-monitoring system (OMS) automatic electronic device capable of measuring the oxygen concentration level within a hypoxic environment
NOTE The OMS can be equipped with chemical, electrochemical, infrared, ultrasonic or other types of sensors allowing reliable oxygen monitoring.

2.23 protected space enclosed volume containing the hypoxic environment

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3 Use and limitations The design, installation, testing and maintenance to ensure proper system function of hypoxic fire prevention systems shall be performed by competent persons. The hazards against which these systems offer protection, and any limitations on their use, shall be contained in the system supplier's design manual. Unless relevant testing has been carried out to the satisfaction of the authority, in accordance with Annex B, hypoxic fire prevention systems shall not be used in areas where: a) explosive mixtures of gases, particulates and liquids are present; b) reactive metals, cellulose nitrate, gun powder, metal hydrides, hydrazine and other chemicals capable of auto-thermal decomposition are handled or stored; c) sufficient air leakage control cannot be achieved; d) an alternative source of oxygen is present. Consideration shall be made of the effect of altitude on the available oxygen for respiration.
NOTE 1 NOTE 2 A hypoxic environment cannot prevent non-oxidizing smouldering or pyrolysis. Hypoxic fire prevention systems cannot be used in conjunction with smoke control systems.

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4 System design 4.1 Planning The following objectives shall form the basis of the planning process: a) to create a design that is effective in preventing fire; b) to create an environment that does not pose a risk to persons. 4.2 Provisions The design of the hypoxic fire prevention system shall include provision for: coordination and integration with the fire safety strategy for the building and protected space; a) integration with other systems within the building and with the building itself (e.g. fire alarm, building management, ventilation, environmental); b) where the system is integrated into an air-conditioning system utilizing remote air-handling units (AHUs) that serve the protected space, air tightness of the ductwork and the AHUs that may comprise the leakage;
NOTE Where possible, arrangements should be made to utilize the heat generated by the process of compression.

c) modification of the building construction by sealing or other techniques to enable retention of the hypoxic environment so as to meet the maximum inward leakage of external non-hypoxic air as specified by the system designer; d) detection of non-oxidizing smouldering or pyrolyzing processes that can occur in the hypoxic air environment by means of an air-aspirating high-sensitivity smoke detection system taking into account the airflows, possible ignition and restrained combustion scenarios within the protected space;
NOTE An example could be an overheating cable with pyrolysis of the plasticizer coating. A flaming fire will not develop in a correctly designed hypoxic air environment, but detection of this event is desirable to signal and effect remedial action.

e) definition of an inward leakage specification taking into account the access requirements of personnel, the behaviour and function of all ventilation and environment control systems, and any other features or systems that may impact on the retention of the hypoxic environment;
NOTE The user should be aware of the relationship between leakage, design oxygen concentration level and system duty cycle that directly effects fire prevention and the required energy consumption to maintain this.

f)

construction of the protected space in such a way that it presents a barrier to fire spreading from an adjacent (non-protected) space for a time period determined by local regulations or the building fire safety strategy;

g) functions occurring in the protected space. Where stored materials may give off odours or gases that are undesirable, the design shall recommend flushing at recommended intervals and may include suitable gas detection; h) determining the design oxygen concentration level appropriate to the types of material to be found in the protected space. All data relating to the required oxygen concentration level, in conjunction with the duration of time persons will spend in the protected space and the level of activity undertaken while there, should be made available for incorporation into the health and safety policy;

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i) types of combustible materials and their configuration in the protected space, to determine the applicability of using an appropriate ignition-limiting oxygen threshold or the need to conduct testing to establish a design oxygen concentration level;

NOTE Some combustibles contain variable amounts of chemically bonded oxygen, some may contain normal air in pockets (e.g. bubble wrap) and stored combustibles may be plastic wrapped. The combustibles should be assessed by ignition-limiting oxygen threshold and behaviour in defined tests (see 4.4 and Annex B).

j)

the injection method and any circulation methods applied;

k) considerations related to discarding high-oxygen by-product from the hypoxic air generator;
NOTE The high-oxygen by-product is usually vented to the atmosphere but could conceivably be used for other purposes.

l)

consideration of the acoustic impact of air injection inside the protected space and compressor noise from the hypoxic air generator;

m) management of compressor heat and condensate drainage that may be produced by the hypoxic air generator.
NOTE Where a decision is taken to exclude any of the above items, justification should be provided in the design documentation.

4.3 System specification The design specification for the hypoxic fire prevention system shall include: a) the total volume of protected space, together with the number and shape (dimensions) of rooms comprising that protected space; b) the associated design oxygen concentration levels (maximum and minimum) to reflect the fire prevention requirements based on the combustible contents;
NOTE As an example, a hypoxic fire prevention system designed to maintain a protected space at 15.5% oxygen level (ignition-limiting oxygen threshold of 16.5%) could stop hypoxic air generation at 14.5% (minimum oxygen concentration level) and restart the generation at 15.5% (maximum oxygen concentration level).

c) the design leakage, together with the method of assessment;

NOTE 1 An estimate can be made of the total leakage (e.g. in the case where the protected space has yet to be constructed). The built environment can be verified by an approved test method for measuring leakage at non-pressurized condition, as in ISO 16000-8:2007 or the equivalent NT VVS 118:1997. NOTE 2 A method for verifying system design to compensate for leakage must be demonstrated. This is likely to be direct measurement of rate of oxygen reduction versus hypoxic air generator output.

d) the type and arrangement of the oxygen-monitoring system; e) a means of verification for the oxygen-monitoring system, to ensure no loss of fire prevention or risk to personnel safety through failure of one or more oxygen sensors; f) provision of a standby power supply to the oxygen-monitoring system for 24 hours as per BS EN 5839 Part:1 Clause 16;

g) a method to ensure adequate mixing of the environment; h) the types, pressure ratings and sizes of distribution piping; i) j) 12 the performance output of the hypoxic air generator (i.e. flow rate and oxygen concentration level), compressor power consumption and duty cycle; the time to achieve the minimum and maximum oxygen concentration level from start-up;
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PRIVATE CIRCULATION k) the duty cycle (onoff time) of the system; l) the hold time of each protected space under power failure conditions; m) alarms and status outputs, local and remote; n) the types and sizes of control and sensor cables; o) the ventilation/cooling requirements/space for the compressor system; p) the access events and size of access opening;

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NOTE This will require a knowledge of the differential pressure or linear air flow, to enable a volumetric calculation of inward air leakage caused through each access event. This value should be added to the background inward leakage to give a total leakage value.

q) the system data-logging capability and communications protocol for external systems; r) the methods employed to ensure safety of persons occupying the protected space; s) the dimensions and weights of major components; t) techniques to avoid unauthorized adjustment of system configured settings (e.g. oxygen and alarm levels);

u) installation instructions and commissioning procedures for the system; v) operational and servicing requirements (including records required).
NOTE 1 NOTE 2 An example of how the system operation can be documented is given in Figure C.1. An example of hold time is given in Figure C.2.

4.4 Control panel All control panel alarms shall be available to connect to a remote central supervisory centre or manned central station. The panel shall incorporate a standard communications protocol to allow effective interfacing with other fire and building management systems and for the collection and storage of system performance data. The control panel shall include, as a minimum: a) the oxygen concentration level measured by each individual sensor; b) alarm indications at oxygen alarm levels measured on any of the oxygen sensors in the protected area; c) a general fault status; d) an online status with deactivation switch; e) controls for deactivation of the system; f) control of the range of oxygen concentration level acceptable for each room in the protected space and the associated alarms, with appropriate safeguards so that levels cannot be accidentally adjusted;

g) functionality for continued operation in the event of a power failure. 4.5 Design oxygen concentration level The design oxygen concentration level shall be based on the results of the ignition-limiting threshold determined in Annex B.

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The design oxygen concentration level shall be determined by subtracting not less than a 1% by volume safety factor from the lowest tested ignition-limiting oxygen threshold of materials likely to be found in, or as part of the fabric of, the protected space.
NOTE 1 Alternative tests of the materials to be contained in the protected area can be conducted in accordance with international standard methods for measuring ignitability using hypoxic air atmosphere generated by a specific system for a specific application; or if agreed by the authority, a performance-based approach for specific applications may be used. However, in the event of challenge or dispute, the reference test method in Annex B should apply. NOTE 2 A performance-based approach sets the agreed performance levels or acceptable limits for the materials and compartment fire properties and conditions, including heat release rate, smoke emission or smoke obscuration, ignitability, flame spread and flashover. NOTE 3 When setting the design oxygen concentration level, consideration should be given to the balance between ignitability of materials and health considerations of those persons working in the protected area (see Annex D).

4.6 Indoor air climate Consideration shall be given in the system design to the impact on the indoor air climate of the hypoxic air generation method.
NOTE A hypoxic fire prevention system may be installed, subject to design specification being met, as a component of the air-conditioning system.

4.7 Flushing The system shall be designed such that, in circumstances when flushing using non-hypoxic air is necessary, the system can be taken offline.
NOTE 1 Flushing can be done in various ways, including opening doors/windows and using a ventilation system. The duration of flushing will depend on the mechanism and size of the hypoxic environment. NOTE 2 The frequency of flushing (if any) will be dependent on the material stored, and so no timetable can be provided in this specification. NOTE 3 Due to the loss of fire prevention, flushing should be avoided as far as possible. Alternative fire protection methods (e.g. fire watch) should be put in place before the hypoxic air environment is removed.

4.8 Monitoring The system design shall enable performance to be monitored on a continual basis. Performance indicators shall be, as a minimum: a) oxygen concentration level as indicated by every sensor; b) high and low oxygen alarm conditions; c) system fail alarm. These shall be transmittable to monitoring and control points (e.g. the fire alarm panel and the building management system), as required. 4.9 Data retention The system design shall enable the following data to be recorded and stored for a minimum of 12 months: a) oxygen levels (minimum every 10 minutes); b) alarms (event-driven); 14
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A method shall be provided to retrieve information for analysis without compromising existing storage or continuing data storage. Where this storage is not provided by external systems such as the building management system, then the hypoxic fire prevention system shall incorporate storage of this information.

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5 Installation, testing and maintenance 5.1 Installation The installation of hypoxic fire prevention systems shall comply with the system design specifications and include: a) an air split unit (e.g. membrane, pressure swing absorption); b) the control panel, wiring and power supply; c) an oxygen-monitoring system; d) pipes and/or ducting for feeding hypoxic air into the protected space and for disposing of the high-oxygen air stream into the atmosphere; e) non-combustible pipes for hyperoxic air; f) pipes from the compressor to the generator module and hypoxic air distribution pipes within the protected space;
A dedicated compressor/dryer system is recommended.

g) a compressor and dryer.

NOTE

h) silencer system(s).
NOTE 1 The following are optional in the installation of hypoxic fire prevention systems: wiring to the fire detection and alarm control panel, to the building management system control panel and to remote displays and indications; a water/oil separator; and pipes for clean water drainage. NOTE 2 Electrical and mechanical equipment used in hypoxic fire prevention systems could be subject to national regulations. NOTE 3 Pipe types may include stainless steel, copper and flame-retardant plastic (as permitted under conditions in sprinklers systems designed to BS EN12845). NOTE 4 There is no equivalent standard yet available for control panels. The closest relevant standards, BS EN54 and BS EN 12094:1, are relevant for fire detection and alarm systems and for fire-extinguishing systems, respectively. However, the control panel construction should at least meet national regulations and the requirements for CE marking.

5.2 Testing The completed system shall be reviewed and tested by a competent person in accordance with the specifications of the system designer and installer, to meet the approval of the authority: a) A full visual inspection of all system components shall be carried out to ensure that the system has been installed in accordance with the design. b) System performance tests shall be conducted and results verified against the system specification. c) All inputs and outputs of the system control panel shall be tested to confirm performance and functionality. 5.3 Documentation Once the installation and testing are complete, documentation shall be provided to the operator and authority by the installer and shall include the following, as a minimum: 16
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a) a completion document confirming the performance parameters of the system, signed by the installer and commissioning engineer; b) operation, maintenance and servicing instructions; c) an installation report; d) drawings showing the hypoxic fire prevention system layout; e) integrity (air leakage) monitoring and testing procedures for the premises; f) commissioning data; g) manufacturer's declaration of conformity; h) guarantee documentation; i) equipment datasheets with manufacturer and installer contact details.
NOTE 1 All modifications should be documented and carried out by a competent person. After any modifications, a new system commissioning data report and an updated declaration of conformity should be issued and documented. NOTE 2 Where required, documentation should be signed for and/or approved by the authority.

5.4 Operation, maintenance and servicing instructions The operation, maintenance and servicing instructions shall be provided by the system installer to the authority and shall include, as a minimum: a) date of installation, details of the installer and commissioning engineer, and drawings and descriptions of the system operation and critical control functions; b) testing and maintenance procedures for all system components; c) manufacturers recommendations for system servicing and testing (see Annex E); d) contact details for warranty and technical support; e) recommendations for alternative fire protection when the system is likely to be shut down or inoperable for periods that extend beyond the hold time of the protected space, including notifying insurance and fire authorities; f) action to be taken in the event of system fail alarm; g) recommendations on keeping a logbook to record all system activity; h) advice on health and safety procedures for persons occupying the protected space (see Annex D).

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Annex A (informative) Hypoxic fire prevention concept Normal air contains 20.9% of oxygen by volume. As altitude increases, the volumetric proportion remains constant but the actual number of oxygen molecules reduces proportionally with decreased atmospheric pressure. As an example, in a commercial aircraft cabin space, the atmospheric pressure is 770mbar, equivalent to 2,200m altitude (at sea level the atmospheric pressure is 1,013mbar).The actual percentage of oxygen at this altitude remains at 20.9% by volume, but its partial pressure is equivalent to a sea-level oxygen concentration level of 15.8% by volume. In a hypoxic fire prevention system at sea level, the balance of the air is essentially made up of nitrogen molecules. Physiologically, the human body cannot tell the difference between higher altitude air and the reduced oxygen air produced by a hypoxic air system.The change in proportion of nitrogen with respect to oxygen stops flame propagation and provides a fire prevention medium. This is why a fire can occur in an airplane but not in a correctly designed hypoxic atmosphere. For every 410 metres above sea level, the available oxygen for respiratory purposes reduces by 1% by volume relative to that available at sea level. Hypoxic atmospheres can be established with either a hypoxic air venting system or a nitrogen injection system. Both systems create an environment with a reduced oxygen level but differ in the oxygen concentration of the airstream introduced into the area by the system. A generic arrangement is shown in Figure A.1. Figure A.1 Hypoxic fire prevention system concept

Both systems are recognized as efficient methods of creating continuous hypoxic air environments for fire prevention. Once established, the oxygen concentration is monitored and supervised constantly. Hypoxic fire prevention systems need a finite time to generate the hypoxic atmosphere. Conversely, should they be deactivated for service or because of critical operation failure, the fire-preventing atmosphere remains in place for a period of time. In larger protected volumes, the period of extended protection may amount to many hours, or a day or more. 18 BSI 2010

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This hold time, or reservoir effect, allows time for repair or for provisional measures to be established so protection can remain uninterrupted. However, taken in isolation, hypoxic air generators are active components that can potentially fail. If this compromises risk protection, then means of addressing this through redundancy should be considered.

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Annex B (normative) Ignition-limiting oxygen threshold testing B.1 Principle Solid materials shall be heated with a flame in a hypoxic fire-preventative environment to assess the ignition-limiting oxygen threshold.
NOTE The test method in VDS 3527:1997 Annex A5.2 may be used as an alternative to this test and for testing liquids. However, in the event of challenge or dispute on solid materials, the test method given here should apply.

B.2 Test facility B.2.1 The test facility shall consist of a 100m3 space built to BS ISO 14520-1:2006 specifications fitted with a hypoxic air supply system and an air lock in front of the entrance (see B.2.4). The height of the room shall be at least 2m. All penetrations by test set-up equipment, pipes, measurement cables and sensors shall be sealed with non-combustible foam sealants. There shall be no significant draft in the room, and control of the flame torch shall be remote with no access to the space during the test.
NOTE 1 Under these conditions, this test may be performed in situ at much larger volumes as well, to account for large components in storage or special arrangements. NOTE 2 Alternatively, spaces with volumes no less than 10m3 may be used provided the oxygen concentration level, measured as the mean reading of the two lowermost oxygen sensors (see B.5.2), is within a deviation of +/- 0.1% by volume during the test. NOTE 3 The hypoxic air generation system may be a standard equipment set-up at the testing facility, or it may be a proprietary system that the user is assessing under standardized testing conditions.

B.2.2 The test facility shall be fitted with smoke extractor fans. B.2.3 The test facility shall be fitted with opposing observation windows to allow observation of the fire test. B.2.4 The test facility shall be equipped with an adjoining air lock vestibule of equal height and minimum 2.5m width x 1m length to limit air leakage. It shall be equipped with doors and observation windows that are sealed with smoke sealant. B.3 Test sample and specimens The test sample shall be a batch of identical test specimens.
NOTE 1 Items with known properties from acknowledged sources such as those referenced in VdS 3527 Annex A5 (see Table B.1) need not be tested. NOTE 2 The following materials are not suitable as test specimens: explosive mixtures of gases, particulates and liquids; reactive metals, cellulose nitrate, gunpowder, metal hydrides, hydrazine and other chemicals capable of autothermal decomposition.

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Table B.1 Test sample exceptions

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B.4 Apparatus The apparatus shall consist of the following items (see Figure B.1). B.4.1 An oxyacetylene torch, with the ability to provide flaming exposure, regardless of the oxygen concentration level or other room climate conditions. B.4.2 Three oxygen sensors, positioned within the test facility at heights of 0.2m, 1.2m and 2.2m in a vertical line, at least 1m away from the test sample on the opposite side to the torch. B.4.3 A calibrated scale to measure specimen loss of weight. B.4.4 Thermocouples, installed inside the room to measure temperatures. B.4.5 Data-logging equipment, installed to record readings throughout the test. B.4.6 Video-recording equipment. B.4.7 A heavy-gauge steel wire mesh frame, installed inside the room to support vertical samples. B.4.8 A heavy-gauge metal-frame table with wire mesh, installed inside the room to support horizontal samples. B.4.9 A heavy-gauge metal bracket to support the torch and its remote operation.

Figure B.1 Ignition-limiting oxygen threshold testing set-up

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B.5 Test procedure B.5.1 The video-recording equipment (B.4.6) shall be set to record each test for review after completion.
NOTE A review may be necessary for closer inspection after the test to establish whether there is smoking or not.

B.5.2 The specimen shall be placed on the metal-frame table (B.4.8) and fixed in a horizontal position. B.5.3 The oxyacetylene torch (B.4.1) shall be fixed on the bracket (B.4.9) such as to hit a lateral side of the test specimen. The flame nozzle shall be fixed at an angle of 90 degrees towards

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the specimen, with the flame outlet spaced 0.2m away from it and approximately 0.025m inwards from the edge of the specimen. B.5.4 The oxygen concentration levels of the oxygen sensors (B.4.2) shall be recorded using the data-logging equipment (B.4.5). B.5.5 The test facility shall be filled with hypoxic air so that the oxygen concentration level is at the desired value. B.5.6 The unobstructed length of the torch flame shall be set to 0.3m. The test specimen shall be subjected to a flame set at the transition point from orange to blue colour for 180 seconds. B.5.7 It shall be observed whether the test specimen ignites. B.5.8 The loss of weight to the specimen during the test shall be measured using the calibrated scale (B.4.3). Specimen weight before the start of the test and 180 seconds after removing the torch flame (post-exposure time) shall be recorded. The specimen shall be observed for a further 60 seconds to see whether it continues to produce flames independently of the torch, and its weight then recorded again.
NOTE It may be useful to produce a graph to chart weight loss throughout the test.

B.5.9 A new specimen from the same batch shall be fixed in the vertical position on the metal frame (B.4.7). B.5.10 Provision B.5.3 shall be repeated, but with the flame pointing towards a lowermost corner of the vertical specimen. B.5.11 Provisions B.5.4 to B.5.8 shall be repeated. B.5.12 The tests shall be repeated (at least twice more) for each sample, each time with the oxygen concentration level being decreased by 0.5% by volume, or as agreed otherwise, until the ignition-limiting oxygen threshold is established. B.5.13 The air inside the test room shall be exchanged before carrying out the test with horizontal configuration and before carrying out the test with vertical configuration, to keep conditions consistent (room temperature at 20 C and no air pressure differential to the outside). B.5.14 For each type of specimen and configuration, a reference test shall be performed to determine ignition and burning properties in normobaric normoxic conditions.
NOTE Local health and safety and environmental regulations for handling hazardous materials should be consulted.

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PRIVATE CIRCULATION B.6 Test documentation B.6.1 The following shall be recorded prior to the test: a) test specimen configuration; b) spacing of specimens (if multiple specimens are tested); c) torch location, flame colour, angle towards and distance from specimen; d) material: weight (grams); dimensions (metres); type and shape; packaging (if any); type of hypoxic air supply; date of manufacture; manufacturer name;

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e) system:

capacity of hypoxic air flow generator and oxygen concentration level (% by volume); for nitrogen gas injection hypoxic air systems, capacity in terms of nitrogen air flow and nitrogen concentration level (% by volume).

B.6.2 The following shall be recorded during each test: time of exposure (seconds) of the test specimen to the flame; ignition time (seconds) after exposure to the flame; weight loss (grams) during flame exposure and during the post-exposure observation period; oxygen concentration level (% by volume) in the room throughout the test; observation of any smoke generation throughout the test; observation of sustained flaming (duration in seconds) after removal of the flame; temperatures in the room (C).

B.7 Test criteria B.7.1 The measured ignition-limiting oxygen threshold shall be recorded when tests of identical samples tested both horizontally and vertically have passed the following criteria: a) no self-sustained burning or spread of fire observed on the sample beyond the area directly hit by the torch flame during 180 seconds of exposure to the flame; b) no self-sustained burning or spread of fire observed on the sample for a duration of 60 seconds after removal of the burner flame.

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B.7.2 Pure, mixed or encapsulated specimens that are subject to glow, rekindle or smoulder by oxidation shall be tested by the procedure given in B.5. An extended period of observation during the post-exposure time shall then apply, the length of which shall be set by the laboratory. B.7.3 The ignition-limiting oxygen threshold for the system shall be set as the measured ignition-limiting oxygen threshold reduced by a safety factor of 1% oxygen concentration level by volume.

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PRIVATE CIRCULATION Annex C (informative) System specification: graphical representations

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Figure C.1 Example of graphical output of key design parameters, including leakage, minimum/maximum oxygen concentration level, time to reach design oxygen concentration level, compressor output and duty cycle

Y-Axis Oxygen concentration (% by volume) X-Axis Time (hours) Key: Dark red Oxygen concentration in continuous operation without set maximum/minimum oxygen levels Light Red Maximum set oxygen concentration level Green Minimum set oxygen concentration level Blue Oxygen concentration level in normal operation with set maximum/minimum oxygen concentration levels

System data Room volume 770m3 (770,000 litres) Inward leakage of ambient air 1.5% of volume per hour (192.5 litres/hour) 750 litres/minute, equivalent to 5.8% of volume per hour (140% per day). This requires a compressor output of 1,485 litres/minute Inward flow of hypoxic air at 10%

Starting oxygen concentration level 20.9% Minimum set oxygen concentration level 14.5% Maximum set oxygen concentration level Duty cycle of compressor 31% 15.5%

Figure C.2 Demonstration of hold time

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Y-Axis Oxygen concentration level (% by volume) X-Axis Time (hours) Legend: Dark red Oxygen concentration level

System data (volume and leakage data identical to those in Figure C.1) Room volume 770m3 (770,000 litres) Inward leakage of ambient air 1.5% of volume per hour (192.5 litres/hour) 0 litres/minute Inward flow of hypoxic air at 10%

Starting oxygen concentration level 14.5%

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Annex D (informative) Health and safety: working in hypoxic environments D.1 General
NOTE The information contained in this Annex is in full accordance with accepted international guidelines, especially Recommendation No.15, Work in hypoxic conditions, of the Medical Commission of the Union Internationale des Associations dAlpinisme (UIAA MedCom) [1].

For healthy persons, there are two physiological factors that define the risk, if any, posed by hypoxic environments to persons occupying them: a) oxygen partial pressure (the combined effect of air pressure and the proportion of oxygen in it); b) duration of exposure. An additional and important external factor is whether the person is able to leave the protected space at any time or not. It should be relatively simple to leave a hypoxic environment associated with a protected space, compared with leaving an aircraft in flight. To be able to leave, it is necessary that the time to exit must be of shorter duration than the time of useful consciousness, as given in Table D.1. Table D.1 Time of useful consciousness at decreasing oxygen partial pressure (unacclimatized persons) % oxygen in a hypoxic environment at sea level Equivalent altitude Atmospheric pressure at equivalent altitude [mmHg ] 760.0 716.0 673.8 634.0 596.0 560.0 525.8 493.0 462.0 432.6 404.8 378.6 353.6 330.0 307.8 183.0 123.5 [hPa] 1013.2 954.6 898.3 845.3 794.6 746.6 701.0 657.3 616.0 576.8 539.7 504.8 471.4 440.0 410.4 244.0 164.7 Oxygen partial pressure, pO2 Time of useful consciousness

[m] 20.9 19.7 18.5 17.4 16.4 15.4 14.5 13.6 12.7 11.9 11.1 10.4 9.7 9.1 8.5 5.0 3.4 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6500 7000 10500 12900

[mmHg] 158.8 149.6 140.8 132.5 124.6 117.0 109.9 103.0 96.6 90.4 84.6 79.1 73.9 69.0 64.3 38.2 25.8

[hPa] 211.7 199.5 187.7 176.7 166.1 156.0 146.5 137.3 128.8 120.5 112.8 105.5 98.5 92.0 87.7 50.9 34.4

No limitation

>30 minutes

35 minutes Circa 1 minute 15 30 seconds

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The data given are applicable for locations from sea level up to approximately 500m. Above 500m, the effect of altitude on the oxygen availability in a protected space should be taken into account. D.2 Workload For persons exposed to controlled hypoxia in a protected space, workload is not a risk-determining factor, as they will simply exhaust, as when performing physical work in a normoxic environment at loads that are too high for their level of fitness or acclimatization. D.3 Risk profile Although there is a linear decrease of oxygen partial pressure with a decrease of oxygen concentration level, the risk for persons is non-linear for several physiological reasons. In fact, up to the so-called threshold altitude at about 17% oxygen by volume (equivalent to an altitude of 1,500m), the body does not realize that something has changed (detailed discussion in [2]). Further decreases below 17% result in physiological short-term adaptations occurring. Many of them shift the sigmoidal oxygen-binding curve of the red blood cells to the safe side. For healthy persons, the following potential risks have to be taken into account when they are exposed to controlled hypoxia (see also Table D.2). D.3.1 Acute cerebral/mental incapacity As given in Table D.1, this can occur in extreme hypoxia only, below 10.4% oxygen by volume, equivalent to 5,500m altitude). Unconsciousness can occur if these thresholds are exceeded for more than 30 minutes, reducing to a few minutes as oxygen concentration level continues to fall. D.3.2 Acute mountain sickness (AMS) Headache and nausea may occur at approximately 15.4% oxygen by volume, equivalent to 2,500m altitude, if the person is continuously exposed for at least 6 hours. Typically, any problems take 824 hours to materialize. At 11.8% oxygen by volume, equivalent to 4,500m, 50% of persons exposed for more than 46 hours and without previous acclimatization suffer from AMS. Any such symptoms rapidly reverse when the person re-enters a normoxic environment. D.3.3 Other risk considerations D.3.3.1 Pregnancy According to international recommendations (e.g. [3], [4]), pregnant women may be exposed up to 14.5% oxygen by volume, or 3,000m altitude, if there is no or minimal workload.
NOTE This recommendation is on the safe side as in some countries (e.g. USA) physicians for altitude medicine give 4,000m as the limit.

D.3.3.2 Young people Young people do not have any age-specific increased risk when they are exposed to altitude. Therefore the same recommendations as for adults should be used. D.3.3.3 Older people The risk for older people is defined not by hypoxia or duration of exposure but by pre-existing conditions (see below). Without any such conditions (especially of the heart or the lung), they show the same risk as younger adults with the same exposure.

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The race of the person exposed is not a risk-determining factor within the range discussed here (up to 13% oxygen by volume, or 3,800m), but the region of origin may predispose to sickle-cell anaemia, which may cause significant symptoms at class 2 hypoxia (see Table D.2). D.3.3.5 Pre-existing medical conditions People with pre-existing medical conditions may have an increased risk compared with healthy persons under the same conditions. This does not automatically exclude these persons from work in hypoxic environments, but advice should be sought [5]. D.4 Safety procedures Safety procedures should take into account the characteristics of the respective exposure as mentioned above (% oxygen by volume, duration, individual pre-existing conditions). A summary based on the facts mentioned above is given in Table D.2. Table D.2 Risk classification of hypoxia and actions recommended as precautions Hypoxia risk category Oxygen in inspired air Summary of risk Precautions

%O2

Class 1 Class 2

[%] 17 16.9 14.8

Equival ent altitude [m] 01,600 1,600 2,700

pO2 [mmHg] 760 620 620 550

No risk No risk for a full days shift if severe diseases of the lungs or heart and severe anaemia are excluded No risk if diseases are excluded as mentioned for class 2, the workload is limited (see Table D.3) and the duration of exposure does not exceed 4 hours/da y or 2 x 2 hours/day with high workload Risk of AMS or other disorders (e.g. limited coordination of movement) may

Advise employees (see Figure D.1) Exclude severe diseases Advise employees (see Figure D.2)

Class 3

14.7 13.0

2,700 3,800

550 480

Exclude severe diseases Check workload level (see comment below) Advise employees (see Figure D.3)

Class 4

<13.0

>3,800

<480

Special precautions necessary (see Figure D.4)

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occur for non-acclimatized persons The majority of hypoxic fire prevention systems operate in the class 2 category. D.5 Signage for environment Appropriate warning and instructions signs should be installed notifying personnel of the presence of hypoxic fire prevention systems and authorization requirements for accessing the area. The following wording is suggested. a) You are entering a controlled environment with lower than normal oxygen levels. If you do not have the appropriate authorization, please report to xxx. b) If you feel shortness of breath or any other unusual symptoms, you should leave the environment immediately and inform your supervisor. D.6 Health and safety assessment D.6.1 Stage 1: questionnaire for persons likely to enter a hypoxic environment a) Do you have any known heart disease? b) Do you have any known lung or airway disease? c) Do you have anaemia? d) Do you have, or have a family history of, inherited blood disease, low blood count, anaemia or sickle-cell anaemia? e) Did you experience any pains (with the exception of headaches), such as abdominal, chest or joint pains, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath or fatigue during previous stays at high altitude (mountains) or during airplane flights? f) Have you ever had a stroke or a mini stroke (transient ischaemic attack)? g) Have you ever been treated for rhythm problems of the heart? h) Have you had any episodes of dizziness within the last 3 months that have prevented you from pursuing your normal daily activities? i) j) Do you have to pause during your daily activities at work or at home because of shortness of breath? Have you experienced any chest pain within the past 3 months while at rest, or while under physical or mental stress? If female, are you currently pregnant?

k) Have you woken up in the past 3 months because of shortness of breath? l) m) Are there any known medical issues that you think might affect you working in a low-oxygen environment? If so, please specify. n) Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs (for example, water pills) for your blood pressure or heart condition? If the person responds with YES to any of the above statements, they should be referred to a qualified physician to determine whether they should be allowed to enter the hypoxic environment and, if so, under what limitations (if any). 32
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D.6.2 Stage 2: further examination by a qualified physician It is important that this supplementary examination should be performed by a physician who has relevant environmental physiology experience and the technical equipment necessary. They should provide a report to the organization and advise on what controls or limitations should be enforced with the individual relative to hypoxic conditions. D.7 Common topics and questions raised Table D.3 Common topics and questions raised Topic Pregnancy: What if I am pregnant? Comment According to international guidelines, pregnant women should not be exposed to class 3 or 4 hypoxia. They can be exposed to class 2 hypoxia, but for minimal workload only (e.g. inspection, supervision) For classes 1 and 2 the hypoxia does not exceed the hypoxia of an aeroplane cabin. This gives the person an idea how he/she will experience the environment This provides further safety, particularly in relation to nitrogen injection systems

Comparison with air travel: How does the hypoxic environment compare with an aeroplanes cabin? Inflow exposure risk: Avoid direct exposure to the inflow devices. Stay at least 1.0m from the injector orifices Acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms: Some dizziness, headache or nausea may occur if persons are subject to prolonged class 3 or 4 hypoxia. If these symptoms disappear within less than 30 minutes after you have left hypoxia, you may enter again; otherwise, contact a physician. If symptoms reappear after you have returned to hypoxia, specific advice by a physician trained in altitude medicine/hypoxic environments is necessary before you enter hypoxia again Alarm system/emergency exit: If there should be any alarm signal by the hypoxia system, leave the hypoxic area immediately (but do not run in an uncontrolled manner, to avoid additional danger or accidents). Any further procedure should be discussed outside (in normoxia) when the reason for the alarm is known

This provides further safety, since it is well known that AMS-related symptoms do not occur quickly or immediately. Any hypoxia-related symptom that disappears within some minutes in normoxia is not dangerous, and therefore a re-entry to hypoxia is possible

Gives clear advice in case of (possible) emergency

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D.8 Protocols for working in class 14 hypoxic environments [NOTE: PAAR-Q TO BE REPLACED WITH HEALTH ASSESSMENT THROUGHOUT ALL CHARTS] Wattage figures relate to power output measured on an exercise device and are a measure of fitness. Figure D.1 Protocol for working in a class 1 hypoxic environment

Figure D.2 Protocol for working in a class 2 hypoxic environment

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Figure D.3 Protocol for working in a class 3 hypoxic environment

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Figure D.4 Protocol for working in a class 4 hypoxic environment Note: The oxygen levels described here would be highly unusual in an occupied, protected environment and would only be utilized where material in the protected space required these low oxygen levels to impede combustion.

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Annex E (informative) Servicing The servicing instructions provided by the installer should include the following: a) compressors are to be checked weekly by the operator; b) if pressure vessels are used, servicing instructions in accordance with the regulations for the country of operation; c) air locks and other critical points of potential leakage are to be inspected on a quarterly basis. A suitable procedure for verification of the system is as follows: a) daily, verify oxygen levels; b) every 3 months, test and service all electrical detection and alarm systems as recommended in BS EN 5839 Part 1; c) every 3 months, check oxygen sensors and the oxygen-monitoring systems. They should be compared with a separate calibrated device; d) every 6 months, perform the following checks and inspections: externally examine pipework to determine its condition; replace or pressure test and repair as necessary pipework showing corrosion or mechanical damage; check all valves for correct function; review the duty cycle. An increase would indicate more access events than designed for or that the area of leakage has increased from that measured during installation, which would adversely affect system performance; carry out work to reduce the leakage or amend design to cater for additional access events.

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Bibliography [to be styled]

Standards publications For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. ASTM E 779-99, Standard test method for determining air leakage rate by fan pressurization BS EN 13829:2001, Thermal performance of buildings Determination of air permeability of buildings Fan pressurization method BS EN 15004-1:2008, Fixed firefighting systems Gas extinguishing systems Part 1: Design, installation and maintenance ISO 14520-1:2006. Gaseous fire-extinguishing systems Physical properties and system design Part 1: General requirements ISO 16000-8:2007, Indoor air Part 8: Determination of local mean ages of air in buildings for characterizing ventilation conditions ISO/DIS 12136, Reaction to fire tests Measurement of fundamental material properties using a fire propagation apparatus NT VVS 118:1997, Ventilation: local mean age of air homogeneous emission techniques (Nordtest method) VdS 3527, Guidelines for inerting and oxygen reduction systems Planning and installation Annex D references 1. Kupper, T, et al. Consensus Statement of the UIAA Medical Commission Vol.15: Work in Hypoxic Conditions. 2009 [ 2. Kupper, T, [Workload and professional requirements for alpine rescue]. Professoral thesis at Aachen Technical University / Germany, 2006 (english publication in preparation), Dept. of Aerospace Medicine. Aachen Technical University: Aachen 2006,. 3. Jean, D, C Leal, and H Meijer. Consensus Statement of the UIAA Medical Commission Vol.12: Women Going to Altitude. 2008 4. Jean, D, et al., Medical recommendations for women going to altitude. High Alt Med Biol,2005. 6(1): p. 22-31, 2005. 5. Milledge, J and T Kupper. Consensus Statement of the UIAA Medical Commission Vol.13:People with Pre-Existing Conditions Going to the Mountains. 2008 ; Further reading Allianz Risk Consultants. Loss control guideline: Fire protection with low oxygen or Oxy-Reduct principal concepts. Switzerland, Allianz Risk Consultants, April 2004 Angerer P, Nowak D., Working in permanent hypoxia for fire protection-impact on health, Journal of international archives of occupational environment and health., 76, 2, 87-102., February 2003 C A Boman, J Holmberg, H Stymne, Monitoring of Air Infiltration in Museums, Case Study: The National Museum of Fine Arts, Stockholm, Sweden, The 6th Indoor Air Quality Meeting, Padova, November 2004 Chiti, S. Test methods for hypoxic air fire prevention systems and overall environmental impact of applications. Universit a degli studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, faculty of

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Engineering di Modena, Master Thesis, Academic Year 2008/2009. Reprint COWI Fire Research Report 01/2010. CIBSE TM 23, testing buildings for air leakage, CIBSE, UK, 2000 European Guideline - Fire Protection in Information Technology Facilities, CFPA- E Guideline No. 14:2007, CFPA, 2007 FPA Guidance Note - Low oxygen atmospheres and the risk control of associated health hazards, The Fire Protection Association, UK, 2006 Friedman, R, Principles of Fire Chemistry and Physics, NFPA, 3rd Ed., Quincy, MA, USA, National Fire Protection Association, 1998 Fu Q, Townsend NE, Shiller SM, Martini ER, Okazaki K, Shibata S, Truijens MJ, Rodrigues FA, Gore CJ, Stray-Gundersen J, and Levine BD, Intermittent hypobaric hypoxia exposure does not cause sustained alterations in autonomic control of blood pressure in young athletes. American Journal of Physiology Regulator, Integrated, and Comparative Physiology 2007, 292, 5, R1977-R1984. Huggett, C, Habitable atmospheres which do not support combustion, Combustion and Flame,20, 197, 140-142, 1977 Jensen, G. Clearing the Air, Fire Prevention Fire Engineers Journal, March 2007, 51-53 Jensen, G, Holmberg, J G, Gussias, A, Melgard, M, Fjerdingen, O T. Hypoxic Air Venting for Protection of Heritage. Jointly published by Riksantikvaren the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage and Historic Scotland: Technical Conservation, Research and Education Group, in support of COST the European CO-operation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research Action C17 Built Heritage: Fire Loss to Historic Buildings, 2006 Madsen N., Jensen C., Holmberg J.G., Hypoxic air venting fire protection for library collections, World Library and Information Congress: 71th IFLA General Conference and Council, "Libraries - A voyage of discovery", IFLA; Oslo, Norway, August 14th - 18th 2005,. National Research Council of the National Academies of Science, Emergency and Continuous Exposure Levels of Contaminants, Washington DC, USA NRC- NAS, Volume 1, 2007 UNINETT, Research Network in Norway, - Requirements for fire detection and fire protection, UFS No.: 104, Version: Version 2, Approved draft, 02. 07. 2008, Physical infrastructure workgroup, UNINETT, Oslo, Norway, 2008. R E Shave, E Dawson, G Whyte, K George, D Gaze, P Collinson, Effect of prolonged exercise in a hypoxic environment on cardiac function and cardiac troponin, British Journal of Sports Medicine 38, 86-88, 2004 SINTEF,, Fire Protection Solutions for Rooms with Sensisitive Contents, SINTEF, Byggforskerien, 550.363, Byggforsk ,Oslo, April 2009 Online resources http://heritagefire.net/heritage_fire_wg_papers/wg2/wg2_Inert_Air_Libraries_IFLA_ English.pdf http://www.gbshaun.com/altitudeforall//hypoxia_resources_scientists.html http://www.theuiaa.org/medical_advice.html.

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