Fire Safety Bs3

BUILDING SERVICES - 3
FIRE SAFETY
FIRE SAFETY:
DESIGN & GENERAL GUIDELINES
OF EGRESS DESIGN
FIRE SAFETY:
FIRE DETECTION AND FIRE FIGHTING
INSTALLATION
BY
B.HARIHARAN
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
MEASI ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE
PRINCIPLES OF FIRE BEHAVIOUR
The Fire Triangle
There are three (3) components required for combustion to occur:
Fuel – To vaporize and burn
Oxygen – To combine with fuel vapor
Heat – To raise the temperature of the fuel vapor to its ignition

temperature
There are two important factors to remember in preventing and extinguishing a fire:
 If any of the three components are missing, then a fire cannot start.
 If any of the three components are removed, then the fire will go out.
Exit Routes
Objectives
In this course, we will discuss the following:
Exit routes (means of egress)
Coverage
Design requirements
Operational features
Emergency action plan
Fire prevention plan

Means of Egress § 1910.34(a)–(b)
• Every employer is covered.
• Exits routes are covered.

– Minimum requirements for exit routes to allow
for the safe evacuation of employees during an
emergency.
– Also covers the minimum requirements for

emergency action plans and fire prevention
plans.
Means of Egress § 1910.34
Definitions § 1910.34(c)
• Egress
– Act or an instance of
going from an
enclosed place
– A means or place of
going out; an exit
– Right or permission
to go
• Exit route
– A continuous and
unobstructed path of
exit travel from any
point within a
workplace to a place of
safety (including refuge
areas).
• Exit access
– That portion of a means of egress that leads to an
entrance to an exit.
• Exit
– That portion of an exit
route that is generally
separated from other
areas to provide a
protected way of travel
to the exit discharge.
Means of Egress
• Every employer is covered.
• Exits routes are covered.
– Minimum requirements for

exit routes to allow for the
safe evacuation of
employees during an
emergency.
– Also covers the minimum

requirements for
emergency action plans
and fire prevention plans.
Definitions
Egress
 Act or an instance of going from an
enclosed place
 A means or place of going out;

an exit
 Right or permission to go
Exit route
 A continuous and unobstructed
path of exit travel from any
point within a workplace to a
place of safety (including
refuge areas).
Exit access
 That portion of a means of
egress that leads to an
entrance to an exit.
Exit
 That portion of an exit route that
is generally separated from other
areas to provide a protected way
of travel to the exit discharge.
Exit discharge
 The part of the exit route that leads directly outside or to a street,
walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space with access to the
outside.
Design Basic Requirements
 Exit routes must be:
 Permanent
 Separated by fire resistant materials
 Openings into an exit must be limited
Exit Routes
• The number of exit routes must be adequate.
– Two exit routes
– More than two exit routes
– A single exit route
Exit Discharge
• Each exit discharge must lead directly outside or to a street, walkway, refuge
area, public way, or open space with access to the outside.
• The street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space to which an exit
discharge leads must be large enough to accommodate the building occupants
likely to use the exit route.
Exit Discharge
• Exit stairs that continue

beyond the level… clearly
indicate the direction of
travel…”
Exit Route Design

• Must be:
– Unlocked and unrestricted
– Side-hinged
– Adequate capacity and height
– Must meet height and width requirements
– Outdoor exit route permitted
Unlocked and Unrestricted
 Must be able to open door from inside without keys, tools, or special knowledge.
 Panic bars that lock from the outside are permitted.
 Must be free of device or alarm that could restrict emergency use if device or alarm
fails.
Adequate Capacity
• Must support maximum permitted occupant load for
each floor served.
• Capacity of exit route may not decrease in direction of

exit route travel to exit discharge.
– Note: Information regarding “occupant load” is

located in NFPA 101-2009, Life Safety Code and in
IFC-2009, International Fire Code.
Minimum Height and Width
• Ceiling of exit route must be atleast 7 feet 6 inches

high.
• Exit access must be at least 28 inches wide at all

points.
• Objects that project into exit route must not reduce

width of exit route to less than minimum width
requirements.
Outdoor Exit Route
• Have guardrails to protect unenclosed sides if a fall hazard exists.
• Covered if snow or ice is likely to accumulate along route.
• Reasonably straight and have smooth, solid, substantially level walkways.
• Must not have a dead-end that is longer than 20 feet.
Exit Route Maintenance and Safeguards

• Danger to employees minimized.
• Adequate and appropriate lighting and marking.
• Fire retardant properties maintained.
• Exit routes maintained during construction and repairs.
• Employee alarm system must be operatable.

Danger to Employees Minimized
• Kept free of explosive or highly flammable furnishings or other decorations.
• Arranged so employees will not travel toward a high hazard area.
• Must be free and unobstructed.
• Safeguards designed to protect employees during an emergency must be in

proper working order at all times.
Lighting and Marking
• Adequately lighted.
• Clearly visible and marked by a sign reading “Exit”.
• Free of decorations or signs that obscure visibility of exit.
• If direction of travel to exit is not apparent, signs must be posted along exit access
indicating direction of travel to nearest exit.
Lighting and Marking
• Each doorway or passage along exit access that could be mistaken
for an exit must be marked “Not an Exit” or be identified by a sign
indicating its actual use.
• Must have the word “Exit” in plainly legible letters not less than six
inches high, with the principal strokes of the letters in the word
“Exit” not less than three-fourths of an inch wide.
Fire Retardant Properties
• Fire retardant paints or solutions must be

renewed as often as necessary to maintain their
fire retardant properties.
Fire Exits – Poor position of signage
I.S.3217 Rules
SI 132 / BS5499
Green
‘Running
Person’ sign
Horizontal Movement
• Changes in level on circulation routes should be designed out where possible;
• Ramps, if required, should comply with recommendations of Technical Guidance
Document K and M [or with BS8300] with graspable handrails to each side having a
“diameter” of 38 to 50mm.
• Handrails that are circular in profile are generally most suitable for people with manual
dexterity problems to grip
• Final exits should have level thresholds, even those opening onto external flights.
– Outward Opening – Fire Safety Certificate Vs. GA Regs 2007
• Final exits, onto firm, level ground - No exits on to grass, or raised paths, or steps)
Fire Extinguisher storage
Fire Exits – Poor egress
Fire exits – Poor Egress
Refuge areas
• Consider capacity issues
– numbers of building users,
– need for re-entry to building for ‘buddy’ staff
• Fire resisting structure (30 minutes)
• Direct access to protected stairwell
• Two-way communications system
• Clear signage (including tactile & Braille)
• Clear identification of location (e.g. stairwell A level 3)
• Management Driven
• Advise management on limitations and restrictions

Refuge areas – coding issues
Refuge areas – coding issues
Refuge area – call button inaccessible
Out of reach
for
wheelchair
user
Refuge areas - Communications
Sequence
Numbers
01-32
Translation
Table
Escape Stairs - Part B / Part M
• Closed risers
• Maximum rise of 170mm and a minimum going of 250mm
• maximum rise of any flight does not exceed 1,800mm
• Non-slip nosings, colour contrast to the tread finish, and on first/last step
• Handrails on both sides, continuous around landings, colour contrasting
• No spiral or helical stairs

Escape Stairs
Stairs not
in regular
use
Evacuation Lifts
• Most robust and effective solution to vertical movement for people with mobility
impairments, including wheelchair users
• Allows people to move with independence and dignity
• Eliminates manual handling risks, and need for management controls over visitors
– (see BS 5588 Part 8 / BS9999for spec)
– Protected enclosure of lift well, lobbies, exit route
– Primary electrical supply from sub-main circuit exclusive to the lift
– For more than two storeys, separate independent power supply (generator or
separately fused protected circuit)
– Switch marked ‘Evacuation Lift’ at final exit storey to take control
• Two-way communication system within lift, usable by people with sensory disabilities
Evacuation Lifts
Construction and Repairs
• During new construction, employees must not occupy a workplace until
exit routes are completed and ready for employee use.
• During repairs or alterations, employees must not occupy a workplace

unless exit routes are available and existing fire protections are
maintained, or until alternate fire protection is furnished.
Operable Alarm System

• Install and maintain an operable employee alarm system that has a distinctive
signal to warn employees of fire or other emergencies, unless employees can
promptly see or smell a fire or other hazard in time to provide adequate warning
to them.
• Exit discharge
– The part of the exit route that leads directly outside or to a
street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space with
access to the outside.
Design Basic Requirements§ 1910.36(a)(1)–(3)
• Exit routes must be:
– Permanent
– Separated by fire resistant materials
– Openings into an exit must be limited
Exit Routes § 1910.36(b)
• The number of exit routes must be

adequate.
– Two exit routes
– More than two exit routes
– A single exit route

Exit Discharge § 1910.36(c)(1)–(2)
• Each exit discharge must lead directly outside or to a street,

walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space with access
to the outside.
• The street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space

to which an exit discharge leads must be large enough to
accommodate the building occupants likely to use the exit
route.
Exit Discharge § 1910.36(c)(3)

beyond the level…
clearly indicate the
direction of travel…”
Exit Route Design § 1910.36(d)–(h)
• Must be:
– Unlocked and unrestricted
– Side-hinged
– Adequate capacity and
height
– Must meet height and width
requirements
– Outdoor exit route permitted
Unlocked and Unrestricted§ 1910.36(d)
• Must be able to open door from inside without
keys, tools, or special knowledge.
– Panic bars that lock from the outside are permitted.
• Must be free of device or alarm that could

restrict emergency use if device or alarm fails.
• May be locked from inside in mental, penal, or

correctional facilities.
– And only if supervisory personnel are continuously
on duty and their is an emergency plan.
Unlocked and Unrestricted§ 1910.36(d)
Side-Hinged § 1910.36(e)
• Must be used to connect any

room to an exit route.
• Door that connects any room to

an exit route must swing out in
direction of exit travel if room is
designed to be occupied by more
than 50 people or if room is a
high hazard area.
Adequate Capacity § 1910.36(f)
• Must support maximum permitted occupant load for each

floor served.
• Capacity of exit route may not decrease in direction of exit

route travel to exit discharge.
– Note: Information regarding “occupant load” is located in NFPA 101-
2009, Life Safety Code and in IFC-2009, International Fire Code.
Minimum Height and Width§ 1910.36(g)
• Ceiling of exit route must be at least seven feet
six inches high.
• Exit access must be at least

28 inches wide at all points.
• Objects that project into exit

route must not reduce width
of exit route to less than
minimum width requirements.
Outdoor Exit Route § 1910.36(h)
• Have guardrails to protect unenclosed sides if a fall

hazard exists.
• Covered if snow or ice is likely

to accumulate along route.
• Reasonably straight and have smooth, solid,

substantially level walkways.
• Must not have a dead-end that is longer than 20 feet.

Exit Route Maintenance and Safeguards
§ 1910.37(a)–(e)
• Danger to employees minimized.
• Adequate and appropriate lighting and marking.
• Fire retardant properties maintained.
• Exit routes maintained during construction and

repairs.
• Employee alarm system must be operable.

Danger to Employees Minimized § 1910.37(a)
• Kept free of explosive or highly flammable

furnishings or other decorations.
• Arranged so employees will not travel toward a

high hazard area.
• Must be free and unobstructed.
• Safeguards designed to protect employees

during an emergency must be in proper working
order at all times.
Lighting and Marking § 1910.37(b)
• Adequately lighted.
• Clearly visible and marked by a
sign reading “Exit”.
• Free of decorations or signs that obscure
visibility of exit.
• If direction of travel to exit is not apparent, signs
must be posted along exit access indicating
direction of travel to nearest exit.
Lighting and Marking § 1910.37(b)
• Each doorway or passage along exit access that

could be mistaken for an exit must be marked
“Not an Exit” or be identified by a sign
indicating its actual use.
• Must have the word “Exit” in plainly legible

letters not less than six inches high, with the
principal strokes of the letters in the word “Exit”
not less than three-fourths of an inch wide.
Fire Retardant Properties§ 1910.37(c)
• Fire retardant paints or solutions must be
renewed as often as necessary to maintain
their fire retardant properties.
Construction and Repairs§ 1910.37(d)
• During new construction, employees must
not occupy a workplace until exit routes are
completed and ready for employee use.
• During repairs or alterations, employees

must not occupy a workplace unless exit
routes are available and existing fire
protections are maintained, or until alternate
fire protection is furnished.
Operable Alarm System§ 1910.37(e)
• Install and maintain an operable employee
alarm system that has a distinctive signal to
warn employees of fire or other emergencies,
unless employees can promptly see or smell a
fire or other hazard in time to provide adequate
warning to them.
• Employee alarm system must

comply with § 1910.165.
Physical Hazards
• Fire
• Toxic vapors
• Threats
• Storms
• Other safer location

Emergency Action Plan§ 1910.38(a)–(b)
• An employer must have an emergency action plan
whenever an OSHA standard in this part requires one.
• An emergency action plan (EAP)

must be in writing kept at the
workplace and available to
employees when required.
• If an employer has 10 or fewer

employees, may be communicated
verbally.
EAP Elements § 1910.38(c)
• Must have procedures for:

• Reporting a fire or other emergency
• Emergency evacuation
• Employees who operate critical operations
• Account for employee post evacuation
• Employees performing rescue or medical duties
• Name or job title of every employee who may be

contacted about the EAP
§ 1910.38(d)–(e)
Alarm System and Training

• Maintained and distinctive sounds based on an emergency.
• Employer must designate and train employees for a safe and orderly
evacuation.
• Employer must review plan with employees:
– Development and/or initial hiring
– Job change
– Plan change
Fire Prevention Plan § 1910.39(a)–(b)
• An employer must have a fire prevention plan when an

OSHA standard in this part requires one.
• A fire prevention plan must be

in writing, kept at the
workplace, and available to
employees for review.
• If an employer has 10 or
fewer employees, it may be
communicated verbally.
Fire Plan Elements § 1910.39(c)
• Must have procedures for:

– A list of all major fire hazards, proper handling and
storage.
– Accumulation controls for flammable and
combustible waste materials.
– Procedures for regular maintenance.
– Name or job title of employees responsible
maintaining equipment.
– Name or job title of employees responsible
for control of fuel source.
Employee Information § 1910.39(d)
• An employer must inform employees upon
initial assignment to a job of the fire hazards
to which they are exposed.
• An employer must also review with each

employee those parts of the fire prevention
plan necessary for self-protection.
Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, and Fire Prevention
Plans 1910 Subpart E Appendix
• Non-mandatory guideline to assist employers in

complying with the appropriate requirements.
1. Emergency action plan elements
2. Emergency evacuation
3. Emergency action plan training
4. Fire prevention housekeeping
5. Maintenance of equipment
29 CFR 1910.36
Design and Construction
Requirements for Exit Routes
1910.36(a)(1) Basic Requirement
• An exit route must be a permanent part of
the workplace
Eat at
Ma’s No
Place ropes
or rope
ladders
1910.36(a)(2) Exit separated by fire
resistant materials
• Construction materials used to separate an
exit from other parts of the workplace:
– 1 hour resistance 3 stories
– 2 hours resistance 4 stories
1 hour
2 hours
1910.36(a)(3) Openings into an exit
must be limited
• Openings into an exit: limited to those
necessary to allow access to the exit
• Each opening must be protected by an
approved self-closing fire door that remains
closed or automatically closes in an
emergency
1910.36(b) The number of exit routes
must be adequate
• At least 2 routes must be available
– Except for sufficiently small occupancy – see (b)(3)
– As far away from each other as practical in case
one is blocked by fire or smoke
– More than 2 required if all cannot evacuate
through 2 exit routes
• Life Safety Code can help with this
determination
1910.36(c)(1) Exit Discharge
• Must lead directly outside or to a street,
walkway, refuge area, public way, or open
space with access to the outside
Exit Discharge
Offices Storage
Discharge Exit access

Exit
Fabricating shop
• The street, walkway, refuge area, public way,
or open space to which an exit discharge leads
must be large enough to accommodate the
building occupants likely to use the exit route
NOT AN
beyond the level of the exit EXIT
discharge must be interrupted
at that level by doors,
partitions, or other effective
means that clearly indicate
the direction of travel leading
NOT AN
to the exit discharge EXIT
1910.36(d) Exit door must be unlocked
• Must be able to open exit route door
– From the inside at all times
– Without keys, tools, or special knowledge
– Panic bar is permissible
• No device or alarm that could restrict use of
route if device fails
• Mental, penal, correctional facilities:
exception with constant supervision & plan
1910.36(e)(1) A side-hinged exit door
must be used
• A side-hinged door must be used to connect
any room to an exit route
• Must swing out in the direction of exit travel if
– room is designed for > 50 people or
– room is a high hazard area
1910.36(f) The capacity of an exit
route must be adequate
• Must support the maximum permitted
occupant load for each floor served
See factors for

occupant load
and capacity in
NFPA Life
Safety Code -
Chapter 7
1910.36(f) The capacity of an exit
route must be adequate
• Exit route
capacity may
not decrease
toward exit
discharge
1910.36(g) Exit minimum height and
width requirements
• Ceiling at least 7’6”
• Any projection from the ceiling  6’8”
• Exit access  28 inches wide
– Including all objects projecting into route
7-½ ft.
6 ft.- 8 in.
1910.36(h) An outdoor exit route is
permitted.
• Same minimum height and width
• Additional requirements:
– Guardrails on unenclosed sides
– Covered if snow or ice likely to accumulate
• Unless snow removed before hazard
– Reasonably straight
– Smooth, solid, level walkways
– No dead end longer than 20 feet
29 CFR 1910.37
Maintenance, safeguards, and
operational features for exit routes
1910.37(a) The danger to employees
must be minimized
• Exit routes must be kept free of explosive or
highly flammable furnishings or
decorations
• No exit route
may lead toward
high hazard area,
unless shielded
1910.37(a) The danger to employees
must be minimized
• Exit routes free and
unobstructed: No
materials/equipment
may be placed within exit
route
• Exit access must not go
through a room that can
be locked
• Safeguards must be kept
in working order
1910.37(b) Lighting and marking must be
adequate and appropriate
• Exit routes adequately

lighted
• Clearly visible and marked
by a sign reading "Exit"
• No decorations or signs
that obscure the visibility
of exit route door
• If the direction of travel to the exit is not

immediately apparent, signs must be posted
indicating the direction of travel to the nearest
exit
• Line-of-sight to an exit sign must clearly be visible
at all times
Way to exit is
not apparent
• Each doorway or
passage that could be
mistaken for an exit
must be marked "Not an
Exit" or similar
designation, or be
identified by a sign
indicating its actual use
(e.g., closet)
• Each exit sign must be

illuminated to a surface
value of at least five foot-
candles (54 lux) by a
reliable light source and be
distinctive in color
• The word "Exit" in plainly
legible letters 6”
• Letters 3/4 inch thick
1910.37(d) Exit routes during construction,
repairs, or alterations
• Employees must
not occupy a
workplace until the
exit routes are
ready in occupied
portion
1910.37(d) Exit routes during construction,
repairs, or alterations
• Employees must not be exposed to hazards
from construction activities that are beyond
the normal permissible conditions, or that
would impede exiting the workplace
1910.37(e) Alarm system
• Alarm system must be installed and
maintained in operable condition
– To warn of fire or other emergencies
– Unless employees can promptly see or smell fire
or hazard in time
– Must comply with 1910.165 (in Subpart L)
Emergency Action Plans
1910.38 Emergency action plans (EAP)
• Emergency action plan: EAP

– In writing
– Kept in the workplace
– Available to employees for
review
• Employer with 10 or fewer
employees may
communicate the plan
orally to employees
1910.38(c) Minimum elements of an
emergency action plan
1. Procedures for reporting a fire or
other emergency
2. Procedures for emergency
evacuation, including type of
evacuation and exit route
assignments
3. Procedures for employees who
remain to operate critical plant
operations before evacuating
1910.38(c) Minimum elements of an
emergency action plan
4. Procedures to account for all employees
after evacuation
5. Procedures to be followed by employees
performing rescue or medical duties
6. Name or job title of every employee who
may be contacted by employees who need
more information about the plan
Alarms, training, review
d. Alarm system must use distinctive signals for
each purpose, comply with 1910.165
e. Designate and train employees to assist in safe,
orderly evacuation of others
f. Review of EAP with each employee:
• When plan developed or employee assigned
• When employee’s responsibilities under the plan
change
• When the plan changes
Scope and Application
• Fire brigades, fire suppression equipment, fire
detection systems, alarm systems
• Applies to all employments except maritime,
construction, and agriculture
Definitions
• Class A fire: Ordinary combustible materials
– Paper
– Wood
– Cloth
– Some rubber and plastic.
• Class B fire:
– Flammable or combustible liquids
– Flammable gases
– Greases
– Some rubber and plastic
Definitions
• Class C fire: Energized electrical equipment
– Employee safety requires nonconductive extinguishing
media
• Class D fire: Combustible metals
– Magnesium
– Titanium
– Zirconium
– Sodium
– Lithium
– Potassium
Definitions
• Dry chemical: small particles of chemicals
supplemented for dryness and flow
– Bicarbonates
– Potassium chloride
– Monoammonium phosphate
• Dry powder: compound used to extinguish or
control Class D fires
Definitions
• Enclosed structure:
– Has a roof or ceiling and at least 2 walls
– May accumulate smoke, toxic gases and heat
• Foam: Bubbles form a blanket over liquid,
sealing combustible vapors
• Gaseous agent: Diffuses uniformly to
extinguish fires
Fire Alarm and Detection Systems
A fire detection system recognizes when a fire is occurring and activates the fire alarm
system.
 Alerts occupants
 May alert the fire department
 May automatically activate fire suppression systems
Fire alarm system components
Three basic components in a fire alarm system:

 Alarm initiation device
 Alarm notification device
 Control panel
Control panel
Serves as the “brain” of the system
Manages and monitors the proper operation of the system
Can indicate the source of an alarm
Also manages primary power supply and provides backup power supply for the
system
Alarm initiation device

Components that activate a fire alarm system
Manual initiation devices require human activation.
Automatic devices function without human intervention.
Alarm Notification Appliances

 Produce an audible signal when fire alarm is activated ,
 Some signals play a recorded announcement ,
 Many new systems incorporate visual notification devices.
Types of Detectors
Smoke Detectors
Designed to sense the presence of smoke
Commonly found in school, hospital, business, and
commercial occupancies with fire alarm systems
Most common are ionization and photoelectric detectors.
Line Heat Detectors

Use wires or a sealed tube to sense heat
Heat Detectors
One type has two wires inside, separated by an insulating material.
Can provide property protection, but
cannot provide reliable life safety Another type measures changes in the electrical resistance of a single wire as it
protection. heats up.
The tube-type line heat detector has a sealed metal tube filled with air or a
Generally used in situations where smoke nonflammable gas.
alarms cannot be used.
Flame Detectors
Often installed in unheated areas.
Specialized devices that detect the electromagnetic light waves produced by a flame
Generally very reliable and less prone to Typically found in places where early detection and rapid reaction to a fire is critical
false alarms than smoke alarms. Complicated and expensive
Gas Detectors
 Calibrated to detect the presence of a specific gas Need regular
calibration ,
 Usually found only in specific commercial or industrial
applications ,
Air Sampling Detectors
Continuously capture air samples and measure the

concentrations of specific gases or products of combustion
Types of Detectors 27
Smoke Detectors
Designed to sense the presence of smoke ,
Commonly found in school, hospital, business, and commercial occupancies with fire
alarm systems,
Most common are ionization and photoelectric detectors.

 Obscuration is a unit of measurement that has become the standard definition of smoke detector sensitivity.
 Obscuration is the effect that smoke has on reducing sensor visibility; higher concentrations of smoke result in higher
obscuration levels.
SS-L Laser Detector provides a revolutionary advance in early warning smoke detection technology.
The unique design of this detector, combined with enhanced algorithms in the Gamewell — control panels, allows smoke detection
sensitivity that is 10 to 50 times higher than present photoelectric technology.
Because of this high sensitivity, the SS-L can provide very early warning of slow smoldering fires.
 Its performance is comparable to present aspiration technology, at a substantially lower installed cost.
28
Heat Detectors
A heat detector is a fire alarm device designed to respond when the convected
thermal energy of a fire increases the temperature of a heat sensitive element.
Fixed Temperature Heat Detectors
Designed to operate at a preset temperature
Usually use a metal alloy that will melt at the preset temperature
Rate-of-Rise Detectors
Will activate if the temperature of the surrounding air rises more than a set amount in a given period of time .
Most rate-of-rise heat detectors are self-restoring.
Generally respond faster to most fires than fixed-temperature heat detectors
Line Heat Detectors
Use wires or a sealed tube to sense heat ,
One type has two wires inside, separated by an insulating material,
Another type measures changes in the electrical resistance of a single wire as it heats up.
The tube-type line heat detector has a sealed metal tube filled with air or a nonflammable gas.
29
Flame Detectors
Specialized devices that detect the electromagnetic light waves produced by
a flame .
The optical flame detector is a detector that uses optical sensors to detect
flames.
 Ultraviolet (UV) detectors work with wavelengths shorter than 300 nm. These detectors detect fires and explosions within 3–4
milliseconds due to the UV radiation emitted at the instant of their ignition.
 Infrared (IR) flame detectors work within the infrared spectral band. Hot gases emit a specific spectral pattern in the infrared
region, which can be sensed with a thermal imaging camera (TIC) a type of thermographic camera.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
 An automatic fire alarm system is designed to detect the unwanted presence of fire
by monitoring environmental changes associated with combustion.
 A fire alarm system is classified as either automatically actuated, manually actuated, or both.
Automatic fire alarm systems are intended to notify the building occupants to evacuate in the event of a fire or other emergency,
report the event to an off-premises location in order to summon emergency services, and to prepare the structure and associated
systems to control the spread of fire and smoke.
30
Voice Alarm System
Voice Alarm is increasingly important in the safe management of buildings in an emergency.
A voice message informs occupants exactly what to do and it is a long established fact that people respond more quickly and are
more likely take the correct action in an emergency compared to when only tone sounders are used.
features
V1 - Automatic announcement
V2 - Automatic and live emergency messages
V3 - Live announcements to select zones
V4 - Manual routing of messages fully engineered system
V5 - Fully engineered systems
Benefits
• Proven Vigilon fire detection technology ,
• All field devices including (DAU) distributed amplifiers units are controlled via the fault resilient fire detection loop ,
• One integrated panel required to control both fire detection and voice alarm ,
• Emergency messages stored at each DAU providing extra security against loss of output in emergency ,
• The highest levels of system integrity maintaining clear, high quality sound,
• Automatic back up operation in event of amplifier or cable failure .

31
Fire telephone System
 This system is a fully monitored/battery backed communicator which enables fire offi cers / building management personnel to
report the status of any emergency within a building quickly and efficiently to the main control centre.
 This ensures that the occupants are evacuated with ease and less panic.
The whole system is simple to operate, and install and will work independently to any other emergency fire system within a
building.
The system comprises of two main components these being the main control panel and the remote fire telephone.
 The control panel is wall mounted within the permanently manned main control room.

There are various types of telephone remote units available, which are wall mounted in areas of risk such as stairways, corridors
and gathering areas.
Operation of these remote units are extremely simple - just lift the handset to contact the main control room.
32
intelligent fire alarm System
 Intelligent fire alarm systems are designed for flexibility through custom
programming specific to each application.
Dedicated outputs are logically controlled by inputs based on the

programming matrix written.
They are capable of supporting multiple Signal Line Circuits (SLC) where each
device on the SLC is assigned a unique identification called an address.
 the number of devices on an SLC can range from one to several hundred
and vary in number of detectors and modules combined.
Each device constantly communicates with the control panel through microprocessor technology to report its status on the SLC.
Within seconds, alarms, supervisory and trouble conditions are alerted to the control panel and a precise location of the event is
displayed
Public Address System

 It is a centralized amplifier based system that’s been designed to provide voice paging and to broadcast alarm tone during
emergencies.
 The system can transmit alarm tone and routine voice messages, from a central location, to all or selected areas of the facility, in
a reliable and safe manner, by the use of loudspeakers.
There are no limitations to number of zones in the system or number of loudspeakers in each zone.
Each loudspeaker is connected to the central equipment for amplification and other control
functions.
33
burglar alarm System
A burglar alarm is a system designed to detect intrusion – unauthorized entry – into
a building or area.
They are also called security alarms, security systems, intrusion detection systems,
perimeter detection systems, and similar terms
Premises control unit (PCU), or panel: The "brain" of the system, it reads sensor inputs, tracks arm/disarm status, and signals
intrusions.
 In modern systems, this is typically one or more computer circuit boards inside a metal enclosure, along with a power supply.
Sensors: Devices which detect intrusions.
Sensors may placed at the perimeter of the protected area, within it, or both.
Sensors can detect intruders by a variety of methods, such as monitoring doors and windows for opening, or by monitoring
unoccupied interiors for motions, sound, vibration, or other disturbances.
Some alarm systems serve a single purpose of burglary protection;
combination systems provide both fire and intrusion protection.
Intrusion alarm systems may also be combined with closed-circuit television surveillance systems to automatically record the
activities of intruders, and may interface to access control systems for electrically locked doors.
Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) conventional panels 34
A Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP), or Fire Alarm Control Unit (FACU), is
the controlling component of a Fire Alarm System.
 The panel receives information from environmental sensors designed

to detect changes associated with fire,
coded panels
monitors their operational integrity and provides for automatic control
of equipment, and transmission of information necessary to prepare the
facility for fire based on a predetermined sequence.
The panel may also supply electrical energy to operate any

Multiplex systems associated sensor, control, transmitter, or relay.
There are four basic types of panels: coded panels, conventional

panels, addressable panels, and multiplex systems.
A Vigilant VM-1 fire alarm control unit (FACU) /

A Siemens MXL fire alarm control panel (top) and autonomous control unit (ACU) with integrated voice
graphic annunciator (bottom) for Potomac Hall, at evacuation and fire fighter telephone system.
James Madison University. Manufactured by Edwards, A UTC F&S Company
Fire Alarm Annunciation Systems
Systems can be broken down into four categories:

non-coded alarm- Control panel has no information indicating where in the building the fire alarm was activated.
Typically sounds a bell or horn Fire department personnel must search the entire building to find which initiation device was activated.
zoned non-coded - Most common type of system, particularly in newer buildings Building divided into multiple zones, often by floor or
by wing Alarm control panel indicates in which zone the activated device is located.
zoned coded - In addition to having all features of a zoned alarm system, also indicates that which zone has been announcement
system. hospital often use this system.
master-coded alarm - Audible notification devices for fire alarms also are used for other purposes.
Most of these systems have been replaced by modern speaker systems that use the temporal-3 pattern fire alarm signal and have public
address capabilities.
Fire Suppression Systems
 Include automatic sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, and specialized extinguishing systems such as dry chemical systems
Understanding how these systems work is important because they can affect fire behavior
Automatic Sprinkler Systems
In most automatic sprinkler systems, the sprinkler heads open one at a time as they are heated to their operating temperature.
One of the major advantages of a sprinkler system is that it can function as both a fire detection system and a fire suppression system.
Automatic Sprinkler System Components Automatic sprinkler heads
Four major components: The working ends of a sprinkler system
Automatic sprinkler heads  Composed of:
Piping  A body, which includes the orifice (opening),
Control valves  A release mechanism that holds a cap in place over the orifice,
A water supply, which may or may not include a fire pump.
 A deflector that directs the water in a spray pattern.
Types of sprinkler heads
Fusible link sprinkler heads

 Use a metal alloy, such as solder that melts
at a specific temperature,
 Alloy links two other pieces of metal that

keep the cap in place.
 When designated operating temperature is
reached, solder melts and the link breaks,
releasing the cap.
Frangible Bulb Sprinkler Heads

 Use a glass bulb filled with glycerin or alcohol to hold the cap in place
As bulb is heated, liquid absorbs the air bubble and expands until it breaks the glass,
releasing the cap.
Chemical-Pellet Sprinkler Heads
 Use a plunger mechanism and a small chemical pellet to hold the cap in place
Pellet will liquefy at a preset temperature.
When pellet melts, liquid compresses the plunger, releasing the cap and allowing water to
flow.
Mounting Position of sprinkler heads
Water Supplies
Water may come from municipal water system, on-site storage tanks,
or static water sources.
Water supply must be able to handle demand of the sprinkler system,

as well as the needs of the fire department.
Preferred water source for a sprinkler system is a municipal water

supply.
Types of Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Fire Pumps
Divided into four categories:
Used when the water comes from a static source Wet sprinkler systems
May also be used to boost the pressure in some sprinkler
Dry sprinkler systems
systems, particularly for tall buildings
Preaction sprinkler systems
Deluge sprinkler systems
Wet Sprinkler Systems Preaction Sprinkler Systems
Most common and the least expensive type of automatic Similar to a dry sprinkler system with one key difference:
sprinkler system,  A secondary device must be activated before water is released into
the sprinkler piping.
Piping always filled with water.
When the system is filled with water, it functions as a wet sprinkler
As sprinkler head activates, water is immediately system.
discharged onto the fire.
Dry Sprinkler Systems
Major drawback: cannot be used in areas where
temperatures drop below freezing Operate much like wet sprinkler systems, except that the pipes are filled
with pressurized air instead of water ,
Will also flow water if a sprinkler head is accidentally
opened or a leak occurs in the piping.
A dry-pipe valve keeps water from entering the pipes until the air
pressure is released.
Deluge Sprinkler Systems
Water flows from all of the sprinkler heads as soon as the system is activated.
Does not have closed heads that open individually at the activation
temperature; all of the heads in a deluge system are always open.
Residential Sprinkler Systems
Relatively new, but many homes

now being built include them ,
Typically use smaller piping and

sprinkler heads with smaller orifices
and less water discharge
Standpipe Systems
Network of pipes and outlets for fire hoses built into a structure to
provide water for firefighting purposes,
Usually used in high-rise buildings, although they are found in many other
structures as well.
Water Flow in Standpipe Systems

Actual flow depends on the water supply, as well as on the condition of
the piping system and fire pumps.
Flow-restriction devices or pressure-reducing valves often installed at

outlets to limit pressure and flow
Specialized Extinguishing Systems
 Wet standpipe systems in modern buildings are connected to a
public water supply with an electric or diesel fire pump to provide Specialized extinguishing systems are often used in areas
additional pressure. where water would not be an acceptable extinguishing
 Most dry standpipe systems do not have a permanent connection agent.
to a water supply, so the FDC must be used to pump water into the
system.
Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
Use the same types of finely powdered agents as dry chemical

fire extinguishers
Agent kept in self-pressurized tanks or in tanks with an external

cartridge of carbon dioxide or nitrogen that provides pressure
when the system is activated.
Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
Used in most new commercial kitchens,

Use a proprietary liquid extinguishing agent.
Clean Agent Extinguishing Systems
Often installed in areas where computers or sensitive electronic equipment are used, or where valuable documents are stored,
Nonconductive and leave no residue ,
Halogenated agents or carbon dioxide are generally used,
Operate by discharging a gaseous agent into the atmosphere at a concentration that will extinguish a fire
If there is a fire, the clean agent system should be completely discharged before fire fighters arrive.
Should be tied to building’s fire alarm system and indicated as a zone on the control panel
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems
Designed to protect a single room or a series

of rooms ,
Should be connected to the building’s fire

alarm system.
FIRE SAFETY
 Periodically inspecting buildings for violations, issuing
Key elements of a fire safety policy Orders To Comply and, potentially, prosecuting or
closing buildings that are not in compliance, until the
 Building a facility in accordance with the deficiencies are corrected or condemning it in extreme
version of the local building code, cases.
 Maintaining a facility and conducting yourself in  Obtaining and maintaining a complete inventory of
firestops,
accordance with the provisions of the fire code.
This is based on the occupants and operators of  Ensuring that spray fireproofing remains undamaged.
the building being aware of the applicable
regulations and advice.  Maintaining a high level of training and awareness of
occupants and users of the building to avoid obvious
Examples of these include: mistakes, such as the propping open of fire doors.
Conduct fire drills at regular intervals throughout the
Not exceeding the maximum occupancy within any year.
part of the building.
Maintaining proper fire exits and proper exit signage

(e.g., exit signs pointing to them that can function in a Placing and maintaining the correct type of fire
power failure) extinguishers in easily accessible places.
 Compliance with electrical codes to prevent Properly storing and using, hazardous materials that
overheating and ignition from electrical faults or may be needed inside the building for storage or
problems such as poor wire insulation or overloading operational requirements (such as solvents in spray
wiring, conductors, or other fixtures with more booths).
electric current than they are rated for.
Prohibiting flammable materials in certain areas of the
 Maintaining fire alarm systems for detection and
facility.
warning of fire.
FIRE SAFETY Improper use and maintenance of gas stoves
often create fire hazards.
Common fire hazards
Some common fire hazards are:
Electrical systems that are overloaded, resulting in

hot wiring or connections, or failed components,
 Combustible storage areas with insufficient

protection ,
 Combustibles near equipment that generates

heat, flame, or sparks,
Smoking (Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, lighters, etc.)  Heating appliances - wood burning stoves,
furnaces, boilers, portable heaters,
Equipment that generates heat and utilizes
combustible materials Electrical wiring in poor condition,
Flammable liquids , candles, Fireplace chimneys  Personal ignition sources - matches, lighters,
not properly or regularly cleaned Electronic and electrical equipment,
Cooking appliances - stoves, ovens,
Exterior cooking equipment – BBQ,
 Batteries
Campfires
List of some typical fire and explosion issues in a fire code
FIRE SAFETY
Fire code  fireworks, explosives, mortars and cannons, model rockets
(licenses for manufacture, storage, transportation, sale, use)
In America, the Fire code (also Fire certification for servicing, placement, and inspecting fire
prevention code or Fire safety code) is a extinguishing equipment,
model code adopted by the state or local
jurisdiction and enforced by fire prevention general storage and handling of flammable liquids, solids, gases
officers within municipal fire departments. (tanks, personnel training, markings, equipment),
limitations on locations and quantities of flammables (e.g., 10
It is a set of rules prescribing minimum liters of gasoline inside a residential dwelling),
requirements to prevent fire and explosion
hazards arising from storage, handling, or specific uses and specific flammables (e.g., dry cleaning, gasoline
use of dangerous materials, or from other distribution, explosive dusts, pesticides, space heaters, plastics
specific hazardous conditions. It manufacturing),
complements the building code.
permits and limitations in various building occupancies (assembly
The fire code is aimed primarily at hall, hospital, school, theater, elderly care, child care, prs that
preventing fires, ensuring that necessary require a smoke detector, sprinkler system, fire extinguisher, or
training and equipment will be on hand, and other specific equipment or procedures,
that the original design basis of the building,
including the basic plan set out by the removal of interior and exterior obstructions to emergency exits
architect, is not compromised. or firefighters and removal of hazardous materials
permits and limitations in special outdoor applications (tents,
The fire code also addresses inspection and asphalt kettles, bonfires, etc.),
maintenance requirements of various fire other hazards (flammable decorations, welding, smoking, bulk
protection equipment in order to maintain matches, tire yards),
optimal active fire protection and passive
fire protection measures. Electrical safety codes such as the National Electrical Code (by the
National Fire Protection Association) for the U.S. and some other
places in the Americas Fuel gas code.
Automatic fire suppression
Automatic fire suppression systems control and extinguish fires without human intervention. It was
not until Feb. 10, 1863 that the first fire extinguisher patent was issued to Alanson Crane of Virginia.
The first fire sprinkler system was patented by H.W. Pratt in 1872. But the first practical automatic
sprinkler system was invented in 1874 by Henry S. Parmalee of New Haven, CT. He installed the system
in a piano factory he owned.
Automatic system in a computer room

Automatic fire suppression
Types of automatic systems

Automatic Fire Suppression Systems fall into two categories: engineered and pre-engineered systems.
Engineered Fire Suppression Systems are design specific. Engineered systems are usually for larger
installations where the system is designed for the particular application. Examples include marine and
land vehicle applications, computer clean rooms, public and private buildings, industrial paint lines,
dip tanks and electrical switch rooms. Engineered systems use a number of gaseous or solid agents.
Many are specifically formulated. Some, such as 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid, are stored as a
liquid and discharged as a gas.
Pre-Engineered Fire Suppression Systems use pre-designed elements to eliminate the need for
engineering work beyond the original product design. Typical industrial solutions use a simple wet or
dry chemical agent, such as potassium carbonate or monoammonium phosphate (MAP), to protect
spaces such as paint rooms and booths, storage areas and commercial kitchens. In Europe, a small
number of residential designs have also emerged. These units often employ water mist with or without
a surfactant additive, and target retrofit applications where the risk of fire or fire injury is high but
where a conventional fire sprinkler system would be unacceptably expensive.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION A glass bulb type sprinkler head will spray water into the
room if sufficient heat reaches the bulb and causes it to
FIRE SPRINKLER shatter. Sprinkler heads operate individually. Note the red
A fire sprinkler system is an active fire protection liquid in the glass bulb.
measure, consisting of a water supply system,
providing adequate pressure and flowrate to a water
distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers
are connected. Although historically only used in
factories and large commercial buildings, home and
small building systems are now available at a cost-
effective price.
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER

The automatic fire sprinkler system that we install and
maintain are an active fire protection measure that
consists of a water supply, provides enough pressure
and flow rate to a water distribution piping system, onto
which fire sprinklers are connected. We attempt fire
sprinkler with high quality standards and design.
Our fire sprinklers are widely used for active fire

protection measures. Our fire sprinklers are automatic and
operate at a preset temperature, utilizing a fusible link, a
portion of which melts, or a frangible glass bulb containing
liquid which breaks, allowing the plug in the orifice to be
pushed out by the water pressure in the fire sprinkler
piping that results in water flow from the orifice
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION
SMOKE DETECTOR
A smoke detector is a device that detects smoke, typically as
an indicator of fire. Commercial, industrial, and mass
residential devices issue a signal to a fire alarm system,
while household detectors, known as smoke alarms,
generally issue a local audible and/or visual alarm from the
detector itself.
Obscuration is a unit of measurement that has become the

standard definition of smoke detector sensitivity.
Obscuration is the effect that smoke has on reducing sensor Smoke detectors are typically housed in a disk-shaped
visibility; higher concentrations of smoke result in higher plastic enclosure about 150 millimetres (6 in) in diameter
obscuration levels. and 25 millimetres (1 in) thick, but the shape can vary by
manufacturer or product line. Most smoke detectors
work either by optical detection (photoelectric) or by
physical process (ionization), while others use both
detection methods to increase sensitivity to smoke.
Sensitive alarms can be used to detect, and thus deter,
smoking in areas where it is banned such as toilets and
schools.
Smoke detectors in large commercial, industrial, and

residential buildings are usually powered by a central fire
alarm system, which is powered by the building power
with a battery backup. However, in many single family
detached and smaller multiple family housings, a smoke
alarm is often powered only by a single disposable
battery.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION Photoelectric detectors detect the presence of visible
particles (larger than 3 microns) in the air. Inside the
TYPES OF SMOKE DETECTOR detector, there is a light emitting diode (LED) that directs a
narrow beam of infrared light across the detection
Ionization detectors detect the presence of invisible
chamber. When smoke or particles enter the chamber, the
particles (less than .01 micron in size) in the air. Inside
infrared light beam is scattered. A photodiode or
the detector, there is a small ionization chamber that
photodetector, usually placed 90 degrees to the beam, will
contains an extremely small quantity of radioactive
sense the scattered infrared light and when a preset
isotope called Americium-241. The Americium-241 will
amount of light is detected, the alarm will
decay or emit alpha particles at a fairly constant rate. The
sound. Photoelectric detectors are not as sensitive and are
alpha particles, which travel at an extremely high rate of
designed to detect cool or slow-moving (smoldering) fires
speed, ionize or knock off an electron (negative charge)
that produce a lot of smoke.
from the atoms in the air (oxygen and nitrogen molecules)
passing through the ionization chamber.
An aspirating smoke detector (ASD), consists of a central
detection unit which draws air through a network of pipes
Ionization detectors are very sensitive and are designed to detect smoke. The sampling chamber is based on a
to detect hot and fast-moving fires that produce little nephelometer that is capable of detecting the presence of
smoke. The disadvantage to these sensitive detectors is smoke particles suspended in air by detecting the light
possible false alarms from cooking vapors or excessive scattered by them in the chamber.
dust.
SS-L Laser Detector provides a revolutionary advance in

early warning smoke detection technology. The unique
design of this detector, combined with enhanced algorithms
in the Gamewell — control panels, allows smoke detection
sensitivity that is 10 to 50 times higher than present
photoelectric technology.
Because of this high sensitivity, the SS-L can provide very
early warning of slow smoldering fires. Its performance is
comparable to present aspiration
technology, at a substantially lower installed cost.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION A fire alarm notification appliance
with a strobe light
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
An automatic fire alarm system is
FL-Guard fire alarm system designed to detect the unwanted
presence of fire by monitoring
environmental changes associated with
combustion. In general, a fire alarm
system is classified as either automatically
actuated, manually actuated, or both.
Automatic fire alarm systems are intended
to notify the building occupants to
evacuate in the event of a fire or other
emergency, report the event to an off-
premises location in order to summon
emergency services, and to prepare the
structure and associated systems to Intelligent system
Voice Alarm System
control the spread of fire and smoke.
Fire telephone System Ravel fire Alarm panels

ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION A Siemens MXL fire alarm control panel (top) and graphic
annunciator (bottom) for Potomac Hall, at James Madison
University.
FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL
A Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP), or Fire Alarm Control

Unit (FACU), is the controlling component of a Fire Alarm
System. The panel receives information from environmental
sensors designed to detect changes associated with fire,
monitors their operational integrity and provides for
automatic control of equipment, and transmission of
information necessary to prepare the facility for fire based
on a predetermined sequence.
The panel may also supply electrical energy to operate any

associated sensor, control, transmitter, or relay. There are
four basic types of panels: coded panels, conventional
panels, addressable panels, and multiplex systems.
A Vigilant VM-1 fire alarm control unit (FACU) /

autonomous control unit (ACU) with integrated voice
evacuation and fire fighter telephone system.
Manufactured by Edwards, A UTC F&S Company
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION A Simplex 4002 conventional FACP
FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL

A conventional Fire Alarm Control Panel employs one or
more circuits, connected to sensors (initiating devices)
wired in parallel.
These sensors are devised to dramatically decrease the

circuit resistance when the environmental influence on
any sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. In a
conventional fire alarm system, the information density is
limited to the number of such circuits used.
A Simplex 4247 fire alarm control panel
Coded panels were the earliest type of central fire

alarm control, and were made during the 1800s to
the 1970s. A coded panel is similar in many ways to a
modern conventional panel (described below),
except each zone was connected to its own code
wheel ( i.e. An alarm in zone 1 would sound code 1-
2-4 [through the bells or horns in the building], while
zone 2 would sound 1-2-5), which, depending on the
way the panel was set up, would either do sets of
four rounds of code until the initiating pull station
was reset (similar to a coded pull station) or run
continuously until the panel itself was reset.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION
HYDRANT SYSTEMS
A fire hydrant system is an active fire
protection measure, and a source of water
provided in most urban, suburban and rural
areas with municipal water service to enable
firefighters to tap into the municipal water
supply to assist in extinguishing a fire.
Buildings near a hydrant may qualify for an
insurance discount since firefighters should
be able to more rapidly extinguish a fire on
the insured property.
Hydrant fire protection system is designed to

fight fire of huge proportions, in all classes
of risks. It is designed to be in operation
even if a part of the affected structure
collapses. Our hydrant system consists of
yard hydrant piping systems, internal
hydrant piping, hose reel drums, hose
cabinets, internal and external hydrant
valves and set of pumps.
fire hydrant system and hydrant fire

protection system which can easily detect
fire in the initial stage and can be
controlled automatically by dialing to the
fire brigade authority.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION A stored-pressure fire extinguisher
made by Amerex
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
A fire extinguisher, flame extinguisher, or simply an extinguisher, is an active fire protection
device used to extinguish or control small fires, often in emergency situations. It is not
intended for use on an out-of-control fire, such as one which has reached the ceiling ,
endangers the user (i.e., no escape route, smoke, explosion hazard, etc.), or otherwise
requires the expertise of a fire department . Typically, a fire extinguisher consists of a hand-
held cylindrical pressure vessel containing an agent which can be discharged to extinguish a
fire.
There are two main types of fire extinguishers: stored

A fire extinguisher located in a pressure and cartridge-operated.
middle school
In stored pressure units, the expellant is stored in the same chamber as the firefighting
agent itself. Depending on the agent used, different propellants are used. With dry
chemical extinguishers, nitrogen is typically used; water and foam extinguishers typically
use air. Stored pressure fire extinguishers are the most common type. Cartridge-operated
extinguishers contain the expellant gas in a separate cartridge that is punctured prior to
discharge, exposing the propellant to the extinguishing agent. This type is not as common,
used primarily in areas such as industrial facilities, where they receive higher-than-
average use. They have the advantage of simple and prompt recharge, allowing an
operator to discharge the extinguisher, recharge it, and return to the fire in a reasonable
amount of time. Unlike stored pressure types, these extinguishers use compressed carbon
dioxide instead of nitrogen, although nitrogen cartridges are used on low temperature (-
60 rated) models. Cartridge operated extinguishers are available in dry chemical and dry
powder types in the US and in water, wetting agent, foam, dry chemical (classes ABC and
BC), and dry powder (class D) types in the rest of the world.
ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION FIRE EXTINGUISHERS A glass "grenade" style
extinguisher, to be thrown into
a fire.
The UK recognizes six fire classes:
A fire extinguisher stored inside a A chemical foam extinguisher

Class A fires involve organic solids such as
cabinet mounted to a wall with contents.
paper and wood.
Class B fires involve flammable or

combustible liquids. Petrol, grease and oil
fires are included in this class.
Class C fires involve flammable gases,

Class D fires involve combustible metals.
Class E fires involving electrical appliances (no

longer used as when the power supply is
turned off an electrical fire can fall into any
category)
Class F fires involve cooking fat and oil.
FIRE SAFETY IN ELECTRICAL ISSUES
 Electrical hazards are the cause of numerous workplace fires each year. Faulty electrical
equipment or misuse of equipment produces heat and sparks that serve as ignition sources in the
presence of flammable and combustible materials
Examples of common ignition hazards: Extension cords

 overloading circuits
 use of unapproved electrical devices Extension cords are only approved for
 damaged or worn wiring temporary use. They may only be used for a
period of three days or less. Instead of using
extension cords contact FP&M to install
Multi-plug strips permanent wiring.
Should only be used for office When using extension cords check for defaults
equipment such as computers, printers, such as frays, brittleness, or broken wires.
and fax machines.
Never place extension cords in high traffic
Other common items such as areas where they can be damaged by being
microwaves, refrigerators, and copy stepped on or run over by equipment.
machines must be plugged directly into
wall outlets. This is a requirement of the
State Fire Marshal.
Multi-plug strips should have a fuse or

circuit breaker and be UL approved.
FIRE SAFETY IN ELECTRICAL ISSUES
Avoid the following improper and hazardous

practices:
Space Heaters are not allowed in campus
Never use three prong adapters that allow a
buildings
three pronged plug to plug into a two prong
outlet.
 Never daisy chain or piggy back multi-plug
Never use any item with a damaged or frayed strips and electrical cords (plugging strips and
electrical cord. cords into each other).
Piggy-backed multi-plug
strips
FIRE SAFETY IN ELECTRICAL ISSUES Electrical Wiring
Most electrical fires result from problems with
general information pertaining to electrical fire "fixed wiring", such as faulty electrical outlets and
old wiring. Many are caused by cords and plugs, such
safety warnngs and precautions. as extension and appliance cords. In urban areas,
faulty wiring accounts for 33% of residential
electrical fires. Misuse of electric cords, overloading
circuits, poor maintenance of cords, and running
cords under rags or in high traffic areas often lead to
electrical fires that could have been avoided.
HOME APPLIANCES
Next to heating your home, appliances consume the most
electricity and sometimes cause electrical fires. Those
most often involved are electric stoves and ovens, dryers,
central heating units, televisions, radios and record
Safety Precautions players. Always follow the manufacturer's safety
Routinely check your electrical appliances and your precautions when using an appliance.
home wiring,
Replace all old, worn out, or damaged appliance Many people overlook seemingly-harmless warning signs
cords, such as overheating, an unusual smell, short circuits,
sparks and sputters. If any of these occur, the appliance
Use electrical extension cords wisely should be immediately turned off and unplugged.
Contact the manufacturer in order to determine what
Keep clothes, curtains and other potentially steps to take next. However, if the appliance functions
combustible items away from all heaters, well, you may have encountered an electrical wiring
problem and should contact a certified electrician to
Never overload extension cords or wall sockets check the wiring in your home.
DIRECT DIGITAL CONTROL ( DDC) SYSTEM
 DIRECT DIGITAL CONTROL (DDC) is the automated control of a

condition or process by a digital device (computer),
 DDC is a control system that uses a computer or many

computers linked together & a network that control the
infrastructure of a building.
 specially designed for building systems such as HVAC, security.

CCTV, fire safety. They monitors inputs such as temperature, card
readers, open doors, sound alarms etc.
DIRECT DIGITAL CONTROLLER 66
DDC controllers are networked together they can share information through a data bus. The control system may speak
'proprietary' or 'open protocol' language to communicate on the data bus. Examples of open protocol language are BACnet
(Building Automation Control Network), LON (Echelon), Modbus.
INTEGRATED BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (IBMS) IN FIRE SAFETY.
Fire sprinkler system

 A fire sprinkler system is an active fire protection measure, consisting of a water supply system, providing adequate pressure and flow
rate to a water distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers are connected.
 A fire sprinkler is the part of a fire sprinkler system that discharges water when the effects of a fire have been detected, such as
when a predetermined temperature has been exceeded.
 A glass bulb type sprinkler head will spray water into the room if sufficient heat reaches the bulb and causes it to shatter. Sprinkler
heads operate individually. Note the red liquid in the glass bulb.
The automatic fire sprinkler system that we install and maintain are an active fire protection measure that consists of a water supply,
provides enough pressure and flow rate to a water distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers are connected.
 fire sprinklers are widely used for active fire protection measures.
 fire sprinklers are automatic and operate at a preset temperature, utilizing a fusible link, a portion of which melts, or a frangible
glass bulb containing liquid which breaks, allowing the plug in the orifice to be pushed out by the water pressure in the fire sprinkler
piping that results in water flow from the orifice
24
Wet Pipe System. A sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system containing water and
connected to a water supply so that water discharges immediately from sprinklers opened by heat from a fire.
25
Dry Pipe System. A sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system containing air or nitrogen
under pressure, the release of which (as from the opening of a sprinkler) permits the water pressure to open a valve known as a
dry pipe valve. The water then flows into the piping system and out the opened sprinklers .
26
Automatic fire suppression systems
Automatic fire suppression systems control and extinguish fires without human intervention.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Suppression System is an engineered system available in

three application configurations: total flooding (for unoccupied areas), local application or hand-
hose line.
System includes detectors, a control unit, agent storage cylinders, piping and discharge nozzles.
 Gaseous carbon dioxide rapidly suppresses fire by a combination of cooling and oxygen
displacement.
Discharge duration and agent flow rates are customized for the individual application.
Electrically safe.
Non-corrosive.
Long term commercial availability.
Economical compared to other gas based fire suppression systems.
An inexpensive and easy-to-access agent when refill is necessary.
Wide ranges of proven safe, hazard protection.
Novec 1230 Clean Agent Suppression Systems

Engineered Fire Suppression System,
The system includes detectors, a control unit, agent storage cylinders, piping
and discharge nozzles.
The system is computer calculated to provide system discharge within 10

seconds.
NATIONAL BUILDING CODE (PART 4) – FIRE PROTECTION
As a major development, BIS has published NBC (Part 4) Fire Protection which includes comprehensive
recommendation of minimum standards of fire protection. It specifies the demarcation of fire zones, restrictions on
construction of buildings in each fire zone, classification of buildings based on occupancy, types of building
construction according to fire resistance of the structural and non-structural components and other restrictions and
requirements necessary to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the building can be
evacuated. The Code recognizes that safety of life is more than a matter of means of exits and accordingly deals with
various matters which are considered essential to the safety of life.
Additional Fire Protection Requirements for High Rise Buildings – 15 Metre in height or above
In addition to the general provisions given in this part, the Authority may insist on suitable protection measures
should be provided in a building 15 m in height or above.
CONSTRUCTION
All materials of constructions in load bearing elements, stairways and corridors and facades shall be non-
combustible.
LIFTS
Walls of lift enclosures shall have a fire rating of 2 h; lifts shafts shall have a vent at the top of area not less than 0.2
sq.m.
FIRE LIFTS
To enable fire services personnel to reach the upper floors with the minimum delay, one fire lift per 1200 sq.m of
floor area shall be provided and shall be available for the exclusive use of the firemen in an emergency.
BASEMENTS
Each basement shall be separately ventilated. Vents with cross-sectional area (aggregate) not less than 2.5 percent
of the floor area spread evenly round the perimeter of the basement shall be provided in the form of grills, or
breakable stall board lights or pavement lights or by way of shafts. Mechanical extractors shall be designed to permit
30 air changes per hour in case of fire or distress call. However, for normal operation, air changes schedule shall be
as given in IS 1642. All floors shall be compartmented with area not exceeding 750sq.m by a separation wall with 2 h
fire rating, for floors with sprinklers the area may be increased by 50 percent.
SERVICE DUCTS/SHAFTS
Service ducts and shafts shall be enclosed by walls of 2 h and doors of 1 h, fire rating. All such ducts/shafts shall be properly sealed and
fire stopped at all floor levels.
REFUGE AREA
Provisions contained in IS 1644 shall apply for all buildings except multi-family dwellings, refuge area of not less than 15sq.m shall be
provided on the external walls.
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
The electric distribution cables/wiring shall be laid in a separate duct. The duct shall be sealed at every floor with non-combustible
materials having the same fire resistance as that of the duct. Low and medium voltage wiring running in shaft and in false ceiling shall run
in separate conduits;
GAS SUPPLY
Provisions for gas pipe installations, given in codes to be followed.
ILLUMINATION OF MEANS OF EXIT

Staircase and corridor lights shall conform to the requirements of IS 1644. A stand-by generator shall be installed to supply power to
staircase and corridor lighting circuits, fire lifts, the stand-by fire pump, pressurization fans and blowers, smoke extraction and damper
systems in case of failure of normal electric supply.
TRANSFORMERS
It shall conform to the requirements of IS 1646.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ducting shall be constructed of substantial gauge metal in accordance with good practice IS 9583.
PROVISION OF FIRST-AID FIRE FIGHTING APPLIANCES

The first-aid fire fighting equipment shall be provided on all floors, including basements, lift rooms, etc, in accordance with relevant Indian
Standards in consultation with the Authority.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
All buildings with heights of 15 m or above shall be equipped with manually operated electrical fire alarm (MOEFA) system and automatic fire
alarm system in accordance with IS 2189.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS

The lightning protection for buildings shall be provided as given in Part 8 Building services, Section 2 Electrical installations of NBC.
FIRE CONTROL ROOM

For all buildings 15 m in height or above and apartment buildings with a height of 30 m and above, there shall be a control room on the
entrance floor of the building with communication system (suitable public address system) to aid floors and facilities for receiving the
message from different floors.
COMPARTMENTATION
The building shall be suitably compartmentalized so that fire/smoke remain confined to the area where fire incident has occurred and does
not spread to the remaining part of the building.
MATERIALS FOR INTERIOR DECORATION/FURNISHING

The use of materials which are combustible in nature and may spread toxic fume/gases should not be used for interior decoration/furnishing
etc.
In the formulation of Indian standards, the approach adopted is as follows:
1)Fire Prevention —Covering aspects of fire prevention pertaining to planning, design and construction of buildings on passive fire protection
measures, also describing the various types of building materials and their fire rating.
2)Life Safety —Covering life safety provisions in the event of fire and similar emergencies, also addressing construction and occupancy
features that are necessary to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic.
3)Fire Protection — covering the significant appurtenances and their related components and guidelines for selecting the correct type of
equipment and installation meant for fire protection of the building, depending upon the classification and type of the building.
FIRE PREVENTION
IS 1641 `Code of Practice for Fire Safet y of Buildings (General):General Principles of Fire Grading and Classification’
A series of Indian Standards covering fire safety of buildings in general principles of fire grading details of construction, exit
requirements and exposure hazards have been formulated. This Indian Standard covers general principles of fire grading and
classification, which has been adopted in v arious Indian standards in respect to fire safety aspects.For determination of fire loads and
fire load density for arriving at the classification of occupancy hazard, guidance including the calorific values of some common
materials and a broad classification of industrial and non-industrial occupancies into low, moderate and high hazard classes is given.
IS 1642 ‘Fire Safety of Buildings (General): Details of Construction - Code of Practice’

The provisions given in this standard are those which are necessary at the time of construction of building new or addition or
alterations for adopting fire safety measures. The provisions are applicable for all types of buildings including high rise buildings (above
15 m in height).The essential requirements for fire safety in so far as materials and details of construction are concerned, are that the
flame smoke and hot gases shall not spread so rapidly as to give the occupants insufficient time to escape. In the event of a fire, the
construction shall not further tend to spread the fire.
IS 1643 ‘Fire Safety of Buildings (General): Exposure Hazard - Code of Practice’

A series of Indian Standards covering the fire safety of buildings in general, principles of fire grading, details of construction, exit requiremen
and exposure hazard have been formulated. This Indian Standard, covering the last aspect, includes the values in respect of floor area rati
and open space to provide adequate safety against exposure hazard.
LIFE SAFETY
IS 1644 ‘Fire Safety of Buildings (General) : Exit Requirements and Personal Hazard - Code of Practice’
This standard covers requirements regarding fire safety of buildings with respect toexit requirements and personal hazard. The exit
requirements and personal hazard dealt with in this standard is considered as at least of equal importance to all other aspects; in fact in
most cases, it is paramount because of the density of population associated with particular occupancy; an example is that of a cinema or
similar densely occupied building when constructed with a godown of similar occupancy. Requirements for stair case, horizontal exit,
compartmation as per degree of hazard are given.
IS 2189 ‘Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Automatic Fire Detection and Alarm System – Code of Practice’
The purpose of a fire detection and alarm system is to detect fire at the earliest practicable moment and to give an alarm so that
appropriate action can be taken (for example, evacuation of occupants, summoning the fire fighting organization, triggering of
extinguishing processes, etc). An alarm system may be activated by automatic detection devices or by manual operation of manual call
points. This standard covers the planning, design, selection, installation and maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems.
FIRE PROTECTION
IS 15683:2006 `Portable Fire Extinguishers – Performance and Construction –Specification’
BIS has published IS 15683:2006 which is based on ISO 7165 :1999 ‘Fire Fighting– Portable Fire Extinguishers – Performance and
Construction’ wherein the performance requirements of various types of extinguishers have been covered. IS 15683 lays down
requirements for performance, reliability and safety of portable extinguishers. It is performance based standard. The construction
requirements only related to safety are given and there is no manufacturing detail like dimensions of extinguishers. It covers
performance requirements for test fires based on rating suitability for various classes of fires which are not given in the existing .Indian
standards. This determines actual performance of extinguisher on the basis of extinguishment of different size of fires. Such
requirements are given in all international standards like NFPA, UL, EN etc.
IS 2190 Selection, Installation and Maintenance of First-Aid Fire Extinguishers – Code of Practice’
Portable fire extinguishers are first-aid fire fighting equipment. Nevertheless, they are very valuable in the early stages of a fire when
used promptly and effectively. Provision of unsuitable types, incorrect operation, or improper maintenance of the extinguishers have,
at times, led to failure in tackling the fire effectively in the early stages, thus involving greater loss of life and property. This standard
has, therefore been formulated for giving guidance regarding proper selection, installation and maintenance of portable first first-aid
fire extinguishers so that such extinguishers will function at all time as intended throughout their useful life.
IS 949 ‘Functional Requirements for Emergency (Rescue) Tender’
The tender covered in this standard is designed both for use for fires and special service work, such as:
a) large fires in cities or large towns, difficult or special fires requiring the use of breathing apparatus, special equipment or illumination;
b) major electrical fires, for example, in power stations and transformers;
c) house collapse, lift, road transport, railway and machine accidents, etc, for which special equipment is required and is not available
locally; and
d) major leakages of toxic or dangerous gases or gaseous liquids.
e) ship fires
This standard lays down the requirements regarding material, design and construction, workmanship and finish, accessories and
equipment of emergency (rescue) tender.
IS 950 ‘Functional Requirements for Water Tender, Type B for Fire Brigade use’
Water tender, Type B are used in towns or parts of town and industries where the fire risk is such that high rate of discharge of water is
necessary for fire fighting and a high degree of maneuverability is also desired of the fire appliance at the same time. Details pertaining
to body work, storage, pipe lines and valves have been covered in the standard.
Provisions of water/foam monitor, telescopic light mast and alternator unit have been also included.
IS 15105 ‘Design and Installation of Fixed Automatic Sprinkler Fire Extinguishing Systems - Code of Practice’
A sprinkler system consists of a water supply (or supplies) and one or more sprinkler installations; each installation consists of a set of
installation control valves and a pipe array fitted with sprinkler heads.
A sprinkler has two functions to perform. It must detect a fire, and must then provide an adequate distribution of water to control or
extinguish it. Each func tion is performed separately and one is independent of the other except insofar as early detection makes
extinction easier because the fire has not grown large.
The classic use of the sprinkler is in the hot gas layer which forms beneath the ceiling of anenclosure in which a fire is developing.
ENVINROMENTAL PROTECTION
HALON PHASE OUT
India has ratified Montreal Protocol Treaty in 1992 and obligated to phase out use of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) including
Halons, being environmental concern.
Halons have found extensive usage as an agent in fire extinguishers/systems and being phased out internationally. In view of the
phasing out of halons as per Montreal Protocol, BIS has also published various standards on halon alternatives.
A project was undertaken by BIS for the formulation of new standards on halon alternatives and revision /
updation of existing standards where halons have been referred. After extensive studies and detailed deliberations in the technical
committee meetings, our Fire Fighting and Fire Safety Sectional Committees have formulated 14 standards and updated existing
standards.
- ABC powder extinguisher (stored pressure)

- CO2 light weight squeeze grip valve type extinguisher
- Hepta fluoro propane (HFC-227)
- HCFC blend – A
- HCFC 125
- CI3
- Inert Gases : Nitrogen – IG 100 (N2)
Inergen – IG 541 (N2, Ar, CO2)
Argonite – IG 55 (Ar, N2)
Argotec – Argon IG 01
- Water Mist System
- CO2 Incabinet subfloor and total flooding systems

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BUILDING SERVICES - 3

There are three (3) components required for combustion to occur:

Fuel – To vaporize and burn

Oxygen – To combine with fuel vapor

Heat – To raise the temperature of the fuel vapor to its ignition

Exit routes (means of egress)

Emergency action plan

Fire prevention plan

• Every employer is covered.

• Exits routes are covered.

– Also covers the minimum requirements for

• Exits routes are covered.

– Minimum requirements for

– Also covers the minimum

 A means or place of going out;

• Exit stairs that continue

Exit Route Design

 Panic bars that lock from the outside are permitted.

• Capacity of exit route may not decrease in direction of

– Note: Information regarding “occupant load” is

Minimum Height and Width

• Ceiling of exit route must be atleast 7 feet 6 inches

• Exit access must be at least 28 inches wide at all

• Objects that project into exit route must not reduce

• Covered if snow or ice is likely to accumulate along route.

• Reasonably straight and have smooth, solid, substantially level walkways.

• Must not have a dead-end that is longer than 20 feet.

Exit Route Maintenance and Safeguards

• Adequate and appropriate lighting and marking.

• Fire retardant properties maintained.

• Exit routes maintained during construction and repairs.

• Employee alarm system must be operatable.

• Arranged so employees will not travel toward a high hazard area.

• Must be free and unobstructed.

• Safeguards designed to protect employees during an emergency must be in

Lighting and Marking

• Clearly visible and marked by a sign reading “Exit”.

• Free of decorations or signs that obscure visibility of exit.

Fire Retardant Properties

• Fire retardant paints or solutions must be

– numbers of building users,

– need for re-entry to building for ‘buddy’ staff

• Fire resisting structure (30 minutes)

• Direct access to protected stairwell

• Two-way communications system

• Clear signage (including tactile & Braille)

• Clear identification of location (e.g. stairwell A level 3)

• Advise management on limitations and restrictions

• Maximum rise of 170mm and a minimum going of 250mm

• maximum rise of any flight does not exceed 1,800mm

• Handrails on both sides, continuous around landings, colour contrasting

• No spiral or helical stairs

• Allows people to move with independence and dignity

– (see BS 5588 Part 8 / BS9999for spec)

– Protected enclosure of lift well, lobbies, exit route

– Primary electrical supply from sub-main circuit exclusive to the lift

– Switch marked ‘Evacuation Lift’ at final exit storey to take control

• During repairs or alterations, employees must not occupy a workplace

Operable Alarm System

• The number of exit routes must be

– More than two exit routes

– A single exit route

• Each exit discharge must lead directly outside or to a street,