1.0 Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard

Engineering Standard
Electrical
Engineering Standard
EP 99 00 00 08 SP
SUBSTATIONS FIRE PROTECTION

AND DETECTION STANDARD
Version 2.0
Issued May 2010
Owner: Chief Engineer Electrical
Approved Wilfred Leung Authorised Wilfred Leung

by: Chief Engineer by: Chief Engineer
Electrical Electrical
Disclaimer
This document was prepared for use on the RailCorp Network only.
RailCorp makes no warranties, express or implied, that compliance with the contents of this document shall be
sufficient to ensure safe systems or work or operation. It is the document user’s sole responsibility to ensure that the
copy of the document it is viewing is the current version of the document as in use by RailCorp.
RailCorp accepts no liability whatsoever in relation to the use of this document by any party, and RailCorp excludes
any liability which arises in any manner by the use of this document.
Copyright
The information in this document is protected by Copyright and no part of this document may be reproduced,
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UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 1 of 32

RailCorp Engineering Standard — Electrical
Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP
Document control
Version Date Summary of change
August 2007 Last Technical Review
2.0 May 2010 Application of TMA 400 format
© RailCorp Page 2 of 32
Issued May 2010 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Version 2.0
Contents
1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................5
2 Scope and Application ...........................................................................................................5
2.1 Scope.........................................................................................................................5
3 References...............................................................................................................................5
3.1 Code of Practice ........................................................................................................5
3.2 International Standards..............................................................................................5
3.3 Australian Standards .................................................................................................5
3.4 Other References ......................................................................................................6
4 Definitions and Abbreviations ...............................................................................................6
5 Fire Risks and Risk Assessment...........................................................................................6
5.1 Particular Fire Risks to Substations...........................................................................6
5.2 The Fire Risk Evaluation Model.................................................................................7
5.3 Fire Risk Rating of substations ..................................................................................7
5.3.1 Process ......................................................................................................8
5.3.2 Risk Results Review...................................................................................8
5.4 Full Fire Audit.............................................................................................................9
6 Fire Protection Measures .......................................................................................................9
6.1 General ......................................................................................................................9
6.2 Personnel Safety .......................................................................................................9
6.3 Passive fire protection measures ..............................................................................9
6.3.1 Application..................................................................................................9
6.3.2 Separation ..................................................................................................9
6.3.3 Fire Sealing of Openings..........................................................................10
6.3.3.1 New Substations .......................................................................10
6.3.4 Fire retardant coverings ...........................................................................11
6.4 Active Fire Suppression Systems............................................................................11
6.4.1 General.....................................................................................................11
6.4.2 Active Fire Suppression Options..............................................................11
6.4.3 Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix .......................................11
6.4.4 Fixed Automatic Aqueous Fire Fighting Systems (Automatic
Fire Sprinkler Systems) ............................................................................14
6.4.4.1 Application ................................................................................14
6.4.4.2 System ......................................................................................14
6.4.4.3 Water Supply for Fire Sprinkler Systems..................................14
6.4.4.4 Water Sprinkler Systems Activation..........................................15
6.4.5 Fire Hydrants Systems .............................................................................15
6.4.5.1 Application ................................................................................15
6.4.5.2 Street Fire Hydrants..................................................................15
6.4.5.3 On Site Fire Hydrant System ....................................................15
6.4.5.4 Water Supply to On Site Fire Hydrant Systems .......................15
6.4.5.5 Hose Reels ...............................................................................15
6.4.6 Gaseous Fire Suppression Systems........................................................16
6.4.6.1 Gaseous Fire Suppression System Activation and
Release.....................................................................................16
6.4.6.2 Safety Precautions for Total Flooding Systems........................16

6.4.6.3 Area Ventilation After Discharge of Carbon Dioxide.................17
6.4.7 Handheld Extinguishers ...........................................................................17
6.4.8 Foam Suppressants .................................................................................17
6.4.8.1 Application ................................................................................17
6.4.8.2 System ......................................................................................18
7 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems......................................................................................18
7.1 Application ...............................................................................................................18
7.1.1 Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems ......................................................18
7.1.1.1 Detectors...................................................................................19
7.1.1.2 Monitoring .................................................................................19
8 Fire Services Systems Maintenance ...................................................................................19
8.1 General ....................................................................................................................19
Appendix A Fire Risk Evaluation Model – Manual and Guidelines .......................................20
Fire Risk Evaluation Model - Manual ......................................................................................20
Process and Inputs .................................................................................................................20
Outputs 21
Numerical Trigger Points.........................................................................................................22
Definition of Risk Levels..........................................................................................................23
Limitations of Fire Risk Evaluation Model ...............................................................................24
Fire Risk Evaluation Model - Guidelines .................................................................................24
1 Introduction
This document describes the minimum mandatory design requirements and practices for
fire protection and detection systems in new substations and assessment of fire risks of
existing substations in RailCorp.
2 Scope and Application
2.1 Scope
This standard covers the fire protection and detection requirements for system and
traction substations and sectioning huts and indoor distribution substations in the
RailCorp electrical network. It shall be used for selection of appropriate fire protection
systems for new substations as well as for upgrading of existing substations.
Selection of fire protection systems shall be based on fire risk assessment using the Fire
Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included in Appendix A. The FREM assesses both the
risks of fire due to the condition and configuration of the substation and the consequential
risk on RailCorp operations should the equipment or facility be lost.
When applying the standard to the designs for new or modified substations, designers
shall check the performance of designs at various stages and determine the fire risk
rating for the proposed substation configuration. Where an unacceptable level of fire risk
is found to exist in the proposed configuration, passive options to design out the risk
should be considered first. Where appropriate active fire protection and detection
systems may be incorporated to improve the fire risk rating of substations. However, it is
not the intention of this standard to mandate suppression wherever the model identifies a
high level of risk. An iterative approach is anticipated where the proposed configuration is
analysed using the FREM at appropriate points in the design process and the design
adjusted until an acceptable level of risk is achieved.
When applying to existing substations, where the resultant risk levels from FREM are
unacceptable the assessor shall investigate the causes of very high and extreme risk
levels and using the FREM explore what measures can be undertaken to lower the risks
to an acceptable level. Failure to bring the risk levels down to an acceptable level would
warrant a full fire safety audit in accordance with AS 4655.
3 References
3.1 Code of Practice

Building Code of Australia.
3.2 International Standards

BS 5306-4 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises. Specification for
CO2
BS 5306-1 Code of practice for fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises
– Part 1: Hose reels and foam inlets
3.3 Australian Standards

The following Australian Standards are either referenced in this document or can provide
further information.
AS 2118.1 Automatic Fire Sprinklers – general requirements

AS 2118.3 Automatic Fire Sprinklers – Deluge
AS 4214 Gaseous Fire Extinguishing systems
AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets — Selection and location
AS 1851 Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment AS 2419 Fire hydrant installations
AS 2441 Installation of fire hose reels;
AS 1603 Automatic fire detection and alarm systems;
AS1670 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems- System Design,
installation and commissioning
AS 4655 Fire safety audits
NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection
3.4 Other References

NFPA 850 Recommended Practice for Fire Protection for Electric Generating Plants and
High Voltage Direct Current Converter Stations 2000 Edition.
BS 5306-0 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises guide for the
selection of installed systems and other fire equipment.
BS 5306-2 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises specification for

sprinkler systems. BS 5306-6 Section 6.1 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises foam systems specification for low expansion foam systems.
BS 5306-6 Section 6.2 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises foam
systems specification for medium and high expansion foam systems.
Energy Supply Association of Australia D(6) 29-1982 Fire Protection of Electricity

Substations; Prepared by Committees 2.3 by Working Group 24 designated as D(6) 29-
1982
4 Definitions and Abbreviations

For the purpose of this specification the definitions specified in the referenced Australian
Standards apply.
5 Fire Risks and Risk Assessment
5.1 Particular Fire Risks to Substations

Substations contain a number of features that represent particular fire risks:
• RailCorp’s substations are generally unattended.

• The equipment in substations operates at relatively high energy levels.
• Some substation equipment contains significant fuel loads. In particular oil cooled
transformers and reactors, and large cable banks contain significant masses of
flammable material.
• Cable ducts and conduits can act as paths for oil following a transformer failure.
• Unsealed ducts can convey burning oil into adjacent buildings.
Substation fires cannot be attributed to one single cause. This standard does not concern
itself with the causes of fire within substations only the required method of detection or
extinguishment.
The final determination on whether suppression is required and or detection is dependant

on the level of risk acceptable across the network.
5.2 The Fire Risk Evaluation Model

Substations contain components and materials that constitute a fire risk.
The Fire Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included within this standard identifies those
configurations, systems and components which contribute to the fire risks within
substations.
FREM assesses both the risk of fire due to the condition and configuration of the
substation and the consequential risk to RailCorp operations should the equipment or
facility be lost.
5.3 Fire Risk Rating of substations

The design for new or modified substations shall be checked for fire risk rating using the
FREM. Where the output risk levels are unacceptable for a particular design
configuration, designers shall investigate the causes for such high risk levels to either
eliminate the risks or to bring down the risk levels to an acceptable level by altering the
proposed configuration and/or including additional fire protection measures.
This standard shall also be used to identify existing substations in the RailCorp electrical
network that have high fire risks. If the FREM indicates an unacceptable risk level the
FREM shall be used to explore possible risk reduction measures.
The FREM included in Appendix A of this standard identifies those configurations,

systems and components that contribute to the fire risks within substations. The FREM
shall be used to rate each individual substation and used to determine what action is
required.
When design data for a new sub station or survey data from an existing substation is
entered in to the FREM a score is determined. On the basis of the score a risk rating is
assigned. These ratings are as follows;
• EXTREME
Where an extreme rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the extreme fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the
design.
For an existing substation rated as extreme, the assessor shall immediately notify
the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems. A full audit of the substation is required.
The risk level must be reduced within 3 months. Subsequent inspection must occur
within 12 months.
• V HIGH
Where a very high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the very high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the
design.
For an existing substation rated as very high, the assessor shall immediately notify
the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems. A full audit of the substation is required.
The risk level must be reduced within 9 months. Subsequent inspection must occur
within 12 months.
• HIGH
Where a high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.
For an existing substation rated as high, the assessor using the FREM shall
investigate possible cost effective measures to reduce risk level and action within
12 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at two-year intervals.
• MODERATE
Where a moderate rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the moderate risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.
For an existing substation rated as moderate, the assessor using the FREM shall
24 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.
• LOW
Where a low rating is returned for a new design, the design shall be considered
acceptable.
Where a low rating is returned for an existing substation, risk level shall be
managed. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.
5.3.1 Process
Not all possible fire protection measures are necessary for every substation. In order to
achieve a cost effective outcome the Fire Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included at
Appendix A. shall be used to guide the selection of a set of measures for each site.
The fire risk rating for each substation shall be determined as follows:
• In the case of existing substations the substation shall be surveyed and data
collection input sheets completed on site;
• In the case of a proposed substations the data collection input sheets shall be
completed on the basis of the design documentation;
• Collected data on the input sheets to be transferred into the Fire Risk Evaluation
Model;
• Review results of the Fire Risk Evaluation Model results sheets to identify those
components contributing the rating assigned;
• Asset management and design teams review results and identify most appropriate
upgrade measures and or need for full fire audit of the substation.
• The FREM Analysis must be carried out recognising the operational and
maintenance equipment configuration that will and do frequently exist at the
Substation.
5.3.2 Risk Results Review

Where a substation rating is equal to or greater than HIGH further action is required.
The RailCorp risk assessor shall interrogate a copy of the spreadsheet based Fire Risk
Evaluation Model and identify those components on the summary sheets with the highest
scores.
The input sheets for these high score areas shall be reviewed for reasons why the score
is high.
• i.e. A particular substation may be scoring particularly highly because the

building is being used to store internal combustion engine operated vegetation
control equipment.
The assessor shall interrogate each high scoring field and evaluate those areas where
improvements can be made and schedule these in order of complexity and cost to
identify those works which can most easily be undertaken.
The assessor shall refer back to the Fire Risk Evaluation Model and having established
the order of complexity/cost for the potential improvements introduce these to the Fire
Risk Evaluation Model spreadsheet until the risk falls to an acceptable level. Where an
acceptable level cannot be reached then the substation shall undergo a full fire audit.
5.4 Full Fire Audit

A full fire audit in accordance with AS 4655 shall be undertaken where the Fire Risk
Evaluation Model identifies an Extreme risk or where mitigation of Very High Risk is not
possible.
The Full Fire Audit shall be an independent audit of the substation to identify RailCorp’s
exposure to the risk.
The audit shall include an evaluation of the impact of the loss of the substation including
the level of redundancy available, the availability of spare parts and the timeframe
required to make the substation operative after a fire.
6 Fire Protection Measures
6.1 General
This section identifies fire protection systems appropriate for use in RailCorp system and
traction substations. Systems for the passive prevention of fire propagation, and active
fire suppression are included. Both systems appropriate for retro-fitting to existing
substations and for incorporation in new substations are included.
6.2 Personnel Safety

Suppression systems adopted for use on fires involving electrical equipment shall not
increase the risk of electrocution to personnel involved in fighting the fire. Water based
systems shall only be used within the fire area once all electrical systems have been
isolated and made safe.
6.3 Passive fire protection measures
6.3.1 Application
Passive fire protection measures shall be provided where the risk of fire spread is
identified as too high. The risk is to be assessed with the FREM.
Passive measures shall be adopted in preference to the provision of active systems.
6.3.2 Separation
Physical separation between components within substations can provide a good level of
protection against propagation and spread of fire. The FREM incorporates input fields
associated with the separation of equipment.
Transformers utilising bulk oil shall be physically separated in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 850.
Existing transformers are to incorporate firewalls whilst new installations shall be planned
where practical with adequate separation as outlined within NFPA 850. The table extract
from NFPA 850 below identifies the separation to be provided for oil filled external
transformers.
Transformer Oil Minimum (Line-of-Sight)

Capacity Separation without Firewall
Less than 1893 L *
1893 L to 18,925L 7.6m
Over 18,925 L 15m
Table 1 - Separation of external oil filled transformers
Where separation is not possible a 2 hour fire wall shall be provided in accordance with
the requirements of NFPA 850, the following diagram identifies the firewall dimensions.
The dimension X is the separation distance and shall be taken from the above table.
* NFPA 850 allows separation distances can be reduced or omitted for transformers
with less than 1893L of oil if suppression is provided. Where the content is less
than 1893L and separation is to be omitted then the individual transformer
arrangement should be assessed as part of a full fire safety audit.
6.3.3 Fire Sealing of Openings

All service penetrations including cable ducts and routes shall be fire sealed. Seals shall
be made between the cable and the conduit with proprietary fire stops. The stops shall fit
tightly around the cable and seal effectively to the conduit. The seals shall not be affected
by hydrocarbon products.
Openings into buildings between external transformers and switch rooms shall be closed
off with fire board to give a degree of separation equivalent to the surrounding structure.
6.3.3.1 New Substations

New substations are to be designed to allow easy inspection of seals and bushes where
possible without the need for portable ladders or equipment.
6.3.4 Fire retardant coverings

Where possible fire retardant cables shall be used inside substations.
For existing substations where determined to be necessary by the FREM substation

cables shall be coated with an ablative fire covering equal to the “KBS” coating marketed
by Projex Group Pty.
The coatings shall be applied along the entire length of the cable and fire stopped at walls
and sleeves to stop the spread of fire.
6.4 Active Fire Suppression Systems
6.4.1 General
Active fire suppression systems shall be used within RailCorp substation buildings where
the risk of fire is too great or the consequences of fire are unmanageable.
Active fire suppression systems shall only be included in the design where it has not been
possible to reduce the fire risk to an acceptable level by other means. Where the
deployment of active fire suppression systems is found to be necessary to reduce the fire
risk rating of a substation, an appropriate system shall be selected in accordance with
Section 6.4.3.
6.4.2 Active Fire Suppression Options

Active fire suppression system options appropriate for RailCorp substations include:
• Fixed automatic aqueous fire fighting systems;

• Hydrant systems for fire fighting purposes;
• Extinguishers for first aid fire fighting;
• Gaseous suppression systems.
• Foam inlets
Many locations in urban areas will have local street hydrants present obviating the need
for hydrant systems. Hose reel systems are not to be used for the protection of
substations.
6.4.3 Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix

This standard does not mandate the use of suppression systems for all substations and
associated equipment. The FREM shall be used to identify those substations where the
risk profile must be lowered using active fire protection.
The introduction of fire suppression systems shall be considered only where it has not
been possible to lower the substations risk profile by non active or passive measures to
an acceptable level. Where risks cannot be reduced to an acceptable level the FREM
identifies that a full fire audit is to take place.
The selection matrix identifies those suppression systems suitable for adoption within
RailCorp substations. These systems shall be included in the design only after evaluation
with the FREM or where required following a full fire audit.
Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix
High Velocity
Fire Fighting Automatic
Location Spray/Deluge Hose Reels Gaseous Systems Extinguishers
Hydrants Fire Alarms
Systems
Substation Required for Required to comply No No Yes Yes for alarm and
incorporating external transformers and bulk with BCA clause E 1.3 Provide to meet monitoring of internal
transformer in covered oil equipment when requirements of equipment.
compound with fire risk or To be provided when AS2444
internal switch gear. consequential loss too fire risk or Separate independent
great. consequential loss too system to be provided
great for control of fire
System to be provided suppression systems
additionally as Boosted tank supply to
exposure protection be provided where no
to/from adjacent public towns main is
buildings. available
Boosted tank supply to

be provided where no
towns main is
available
Substation Required for Required to comply No No Yes Yes for alarm and
incorporating external transformers and bulk with BCA clause E 1.3 Provide to meet monitoring of internal
uncovered transformer oil equipment when To be provided when requirements of equipment.
with internal fire risk or fire risk or AS2444
switchgear consequential loss too consequential loss too Separate independent
great. great system to be provided
for control of fire
Boosted tank supply to Boosted tank supply to suppression systems
be provided where no be provided where no
towns main is towns main is
available available
High Velocity
Fire Fighting Automatic
Location Spray/Deluge Hose Reels Gaseous Systems Extinguishers
Hydrants Fire Alarms
Systems
Internal/Below ground No Required to comply No Yes when fire risk or Yes Yes for alarm and
Transformer and with BCA clause E 1.3 consequential loss too Provide to meet monitoring.
switch room Boosted tank supply to great requirements of
be provided where no AS2444 Separate independent
towns main is Novec 1230 only for system to be provided
available below ground for control of fire
applications suppression systems
Ground level single No Required to comply No Yes when fire risk or Yes Yes for alarm and
storey switch room with BCA clause E 1.3 consequential loss too Provide to meet monitoring.
great requirements of
Boosted tank supply to AS2444 Separate independent
be provided where no CO2 or Novec 1230 system to be provided
towns main is allowed above ground. for control of fire
available suppression systems
Ground level two No Required to comply No Yes when fire risk or Yes Yes for alarm and
storey switch room with BCA clause E 1.3 consequential loss too Provide to meet monitoring.
great requirements of
Boosted tank supply to AS2444 Separate independent
be provided where no CO2 or Novec 1230 system to be provided
towns main is allowed above ground for control of fire
available suppression systems
6.4.4 Fixed Automatic Aqueous Fire Fighting Systems (Automatic Fire

Sprinkler Systems)
6.4.4.1 Application
Fixed automatic aqueous fire fighting systems (water spray suppressant systems) where
required shall only be used on external oil transformers and bulk oil equipment.
Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems shall be designed to meet the performance

requirements of NFPA 15 and AS 2118.
Water spray systems shall be used for the fire protection of the following
• Flammable liquids associated with transformers;

• Electrical hazards including outside yard transformers and oil switches;
6.4.4.2 System
Water Spray systems where required shall incorporate automatic deluge valve
assemblies and open spray nozzles with pipe-work arrays to direct water onto the
surfaces of external transformers and bulk oil equipment.
Water spray deluge systems shall be provided to deluge with open sprayers in
accordance with AS 2118.3.
The systems shall be operated automatically from heat actuation devices incorporating
pilot sprinklers and multiple jet controls (MJC).
The water spray shall be arranged in accordance with AS 2118.3 to impact the surfaces
of a transformer and bulk oil equipment or store to provide both cooling to the
components but also form an emulsified water and oil mixture unable to ignite or burn.
The water spray systems shall provide complete water spray impingement on all exposed
exterior surfaces of the equipment in accordance with NFPA 15.
Where there is insufficient space to install water spray nozzles beneath transformers
water shall be introduced from the sides by horizontal nozzles.
Manual release controls for the deluge systems shall be provided at booster valve
stations and the control valve assemblies to allow activation by the brigade.
6.4.4.3 Water Supply for Fire Sprinkler Systems

Water based fire suppression systems shall be served from the local water mains with a
fire brigade booster inlet to allow the brigade to boost the water supply to the system.
Where a substation is remote from water mains water storage tanks and diesel backed
pumps shall be provided to supply the suppression systems. Storage volumes and pump
installations shall be in accordance with AS 2118 and shall have the capacity to maintain
the supply of water to the fire for no less than 1 hour.
Where the town water mains have insufficient water supply pressure or flow but adequate
reserves to continue supply for not less than 1 hour then a water booster pump-set(s)
shall be provided to boost the pressure from the town mains. The pump-set(s) shall be
provided in accordance with AS 2118.
6.4.4.4 Water Sprinkler Systems Activation

Water spray systems shall be activated automatically with fusible links or bulbs, in
accordance with AS 2118.
The water spray suppression system shall be monitored with flow switches to signal
activation to the RailCorp electrical SCADA system.
6.4.5 Fire Hydrants Systems
6.4.5.1 Application
Fire Hydrant Systems shall be used to fight substation fires only after full electrical
isolation.
6.4.5.2 Street Fire Hydrants

Many locations in urban areas will have local street hydrants present obviating the need
for additional hydrant systems.
Street fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with the Building Code of Australia
(BCA) and AS 2419 for:
• Buildings with an area greater than 500m²

• Where a fire brigade is available to fight fires.
Street hydrants shall be within 70m of a substation building or enclosure requiring

protection under the BCA.
6.4.5.3 On Site Fire Hydrant System

On site fire hydrant systems where required shall be provided in accordance with AS
2419.
6.4.5.4 Water Supply to On Site Fire Hydrant Systems

Hydrant system water supplies shall be adequate for meeting the system demands in
accordance with the requirements of AS 2419.
Where the local mains pressure and flow cannot meet these requirements a boosted
water supply shall be provided in accordance with AS2419 incorporating storage tanks
and pumps.
The on site hydrant system shall be served from a diesel driven pump-set dedicated to
the site.
A fire brigade booster inlet shall be provided to allow the brigade to boost pressures on
site when required.
Remote non mains fed hydrant systems shall be provided with tanks and pumps to
maintain water supplies for 4 hours in accordance with AS 2419.
6.4.5.5 Hose Reels

Hose reels shall not be provided within substations.
6.4.6 Gaseous Fire Suppression Systems

Gaseous fire suppression systems shall be in accordance with AS 4214.
The gaseous agents shall be selected from the following;
• Carbon Dioxide (low pressure refrigerated C02 );

• FM200 (Halocarbon) HFC-227ea;
• Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid.
Reduced levels of oxygen within protected spaces following discharge can have adverse
effects on personnel within the rooms and enclosures. Warning signs shall be affixed in
prominent locations detailing the suppressants used and the operational safety
requirements. Audible and visual warning alarms shall operate to warn occupants to
evacuate the protected risk area upon fire detection.
The systems shall incorporate bottled supplies of extinguishant and delivery pipework to
the hazard discharge heads provided within the hazard area in accordance with AS 4214.
Manual lock-off station(s) shall be provided for isolating the systems during maintenance
or other occupied periods.
Carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air and will fall to the bottom of the enclosures it is
discharged into and flood around the different equipment. The injection of CO2 will
displace air from within the enclosure. Adequate venting shall be provided to ensure over
pressurisation of the enclosure does not occur compromising the stability of the
enclosure.
Detection systems provided to activate gaseous fire extinguishing systems shall be in

accordance with the requirements of AS 1670 and the Building Code of Australia.
Detector systems shall comply with AS 1603.
Detection systems provided to operate a fire extinguishing systems shall be linked back
to the RailCorp electrical SCADA system.
6.4.6.1 Gaseous Fire Suppression System Activation and Release

The fire suppressant gas shall be released after a pre-determined time delay to ensure
staff have left the area or to allow for investigation by security staff.
Pre discharge alarms shall be provided within the spaces protected with double knock
detection. Stop gas stations at entry points to the protected area shall be provided to
abort the gas discharge if required.
6.4.6.2 Safety Precautions for Total Flooding Systems

Carbon Dioxide and gaseous suppressants are/can be suffocating gases and the safety
requirements set out in AS 4214 and BS 5306 Pt 4 shall be complied with.
Following safety precautions for total flooding systems are recommended in BS 5306
Pt 4.
Automatic/ System
Door Lock System
Manual Manual Auto Isolated
Occupancy Changeover Status
Changeover Valve (3) Valve (4) Lamps
Switch (1) Unit (5)
Switch (2) (6)
Normally Yes or Yes or
Yes Yes Yes Yes
occupied (4) (3)
Not normally Yes or
Recommended Yes or (3) Optional Yes Optional
occupied (2)
Door lock changeover switch (1) shall include an internal escape override. A contacted keep as
opposed to a contacted lock shall be used.
Manual valve (3) is a monitored manual only valve sited in the supply line from the carbon
dioxide containers.
Automatic valve (4) is monitored normally closed valve sited in the supply line from the carbon
dioxide containers that will open only on receipt of a signal from the detection system or manual
release system.
A means of manual operating the valve shall be provided. A means of isolating the valve shall
be provided.
6.4.6.3 Area Ventilation After Discharge of Carbon Dioxide

A means of mechanically or naturally ventilating areas after discharge of carbon dioxide
shall be provided.
The standard BS 5306 Pt 4 dictates that the means provided for ventilation should not
form part of the normal building ventilation system and should incorporate extraction
arrangements at low level in the protected area. Care should be taken to ensure that the
post-fire atmosphere is not ventilated into other parts of the building.
6.4.7 Handheld Extinguishers

Extinguishers shall be provided for first aid protection within transformer rooms and
substations. Extinguishers are not to be considered anything more than a first line of
defence against coincidental fires during personnel occupation.
Personnel shall not attempt to tackle a fire unless they are competent to do so and are
confident that it can be handled with the first aid protection devices available.
Extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with AS 2444 and maintained in

accordance with AS1851. Extinguishers shall be located at entrances and on escape
routes from the rooms and in all instances no further than 20m from the fire risk.
6.4.8 Foam Suppressants
6.4.8.1 Application
The NSWFB carries Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) on its fire trucks in 20 litre pails
for use on oil and flammable liquid type fires.
The NSWFB fire trucks incorporate foam induction equipment on the pump and AFFF
foam making branches for fire hoses.
Fire fighting foam inlets shall be provided on below ground bulk oil transformers and
equipment rooms where the risk is too high. The level of risk is to be assessed with the
FREM.
Foam inlet systems shall only be introduced into below ground substations following
agreement with the NSWFB.
6.4.8.2 System
Foam inlet systems shall be provided in accordance with BS 5306 Pt 1.
Inlets shall be positioned with their centre line 400 to 600mm above ground level. The
inlet breechings shall be located within a box on the face of the building clearly marked
with the words “Foam Inlet to Transformers” in red letters no less than 25mm high.
The foam inlet pipework shall be heavy grade steel 80mm diameter with a fall to the
transformer chamber.
The pipework route shall be less than 18m in length. Inlet locations shall be agreed with
the NSWFB.
Foam inlet systems shall only be manually operated by the NSWFB.
An audible alarm shall be incorporated to warn personnel of activation prior to discharge.
7 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
7.1 Application
Automatic detection systems shall be provided within substation switchrooms in
accordance with the Building Code of Australia and AS 1670.
Detection systems provided within substation switchrooms shall be air sampling systems
in accordance with AS 1670.
7.1.1 Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems

Air sampling aspirating smoke detection and alarm systems shall be provided within
substation buildings.
RailCorp substations incorporate equipment which when operating can cause ionised
gases to be produced. This can cause sensitive smoke detection systems to go into
alarm erroneously.
The generation of ionised gas is a normal bi-product of the substations operation and
false alarms within detection systems in response to this can lead to complacency.
Air sampling systems shall be provided within the substation buildings to monitor for
smoke. The detection zones close to the equipment likely to cause ionisation shall have
their sensitivity set so as to minimise false alarms.
The system shall be configured so that two separate sensing zones have to alarm before
alarm signals are raised. One sensing zone is to be local to the equipment the other
remote.
The air sampling systems shall have the following alarm levels.
a) Stage 1 - Initial detection. Signal to SCADA system.
b) Stage 2 - Alarm to SCADA System recommending investigation/ evacuation.
c) Stage 3 - Full alarm. Operations centre evaluate alarm.
d) Stage 4 - Intervention by brigade. The detection devices shall be fully monitored

for alarm and/or fault condition to ensure reliable service and to transmit a fire
alarm signal to a monitored emergency control centre.
7.1.1.1 Detectors
Smoke detectors shall be multipoint aspirated smoke detectors (MASD) within air
sampling systems.
7.1.1.2 Monitoring
Fire detection systems at substations shall be linked back to the central control centre on
the RailCorp electrical SCADA system.
8 Fire Services Systems Maintenance
8.1 General
Fire suppression and detection systems require ongoing inspection, testing and
maintenance to ensure their continued functionality.
Technical Maintenance Plans including tasks for inspection, testing and maintenance of
fire systems incorporated into substations shall be developed in accordance with the
RailCorp Maintenance Requirements Analysis Manual (MRAM) and AS 1851
Maintenance of fire protection systems and equipment.
Appendix A Fire Risk Evaluation Model – Manual and Guidelines
Fire Risk Evaluation Model - Manual

The Fire Risk Evaluation Model included in this standard is a risk evaluation tool
designed to rank the different fire risks and systems within substations against each other
to yield a score for the substation. The model assesses both the risk of fire due to the
condition and configuration of the substation and the consequential risk on RailCorp
operations should the equipment or facility be lost. It can be used to evaluate risk rating
of new substation designs and existing RailCorp substations.
The tool evaluates whether risks are high within a substation and gives the user the
opportunity to test why the substation scored badly. It allows the user to adjust the
various input fields to improve the risk rating i.e. a particular substation may score badly
because it has many cable conduits that are not fire stopped, the tool will allow the user
to introduce such protection measures and see the substations rating improve.
The introduction of fire suppression systems within substations will be costly and the Fire
Risk Evaluation Model allows each substation to be methodically tested for other more
cost effective measures before the decision to introduce suppression is made.
The suppression systems adopted for use on fires involving electrical equipment must not
increase the risk of electrocution to personnel involved in fighting the fire. Where water
based systems are used all components within the fire area must be isolated and made
safe prior to activation.
Process and Inputs

In using the fire risk evaluation model, RailCorp staff will be required to attend the sites
nominated and provide inputs into the model.
Within the assessment sheets there are categories that are flanked by boxes. Depending
on the equipment found in the substations, the boxes must:
• be marked with the numeral “1”

• where the red box is located next to the main heading, only 1 box in line can be
marked.
• When more than 1 box is checked and is not permitted, conditional formatting has
been introduced and all boxes will turn red to indicate an input error. This is shown
below.
RAILCORP SUBSTATION FIRE RISK SITE INSPECTION SHEET
SUBSTATION Master DATE
ADDRESS INSPECTOR
FUNCTION Traction 1 Distribution 1 System 1
LOCATION Surface Underground
• When loading data into the model, input data into the “Site Sheet” (Sheet 1) first.
Common fields will then be automatically input to other sheets.
Outputs
Once the assessment sheets are completed, the output sheet will have calculated
numbers under the following headings:
SUB STATION Master
RESULTS SHEET
HEALTH
FIRE RESIDUAL
EQUIPMENT / FIRE SOURCE IMPACT &
RATING RATING
SAFETY
High Voltage Switchgear 4.7 4.2 4.7
Rectifier Transformer 6.9 6.8 0.7
Rectifier 0.0 0.0 0.0
System Transformer - 33kV 0.0 0.0 0.0
Reactors 0.0 0.0 0.0
1500 V DC Switchgear 1.0 0.9 0.3
HEALTH
FIRE RESIDUAL
EQUIPMENT / FIRE SOURCE IMPACT &
RATING RATING
SAFETY
Medium Voltage Switchgear - 11kV 8.4 7.6 8.4
Medium Voltage Switchgear - 2kV 0.0 0.0 0.0
Dist / Auxillary Transformer 0.0 0.0 0.0
Cables 0.0 0.0 0.0
Miscellaneous Electrical Items 0.1 0.1 0.1
Battery System 0.0 0.0 0.0
Low Voltage and Control Equipment 0.0 0.0 0.0
Incidental Plant and Equipment 0.0 0.0
Surrounding Environment 1.3 1.2
Diesel Generator Exhaust 0.0 0.0
Vehicle Impact 0.0 0.0
The final numbers that have been calculated under the following headings have been
graded in terms of relative risk as follows:
RESIDUAL HEALTH &

FIRE RATING IMPACT
RATING SAFETY
TOTAL for SUB

40 38 32 132
STATION
RISK LEVEL MODERATE MODERATE MODERATE V-HIGH
DISRUPTION 40 32
MODERATE MODERATE
REDUNDANCY
FACTOR 40 32
MODERATE MODERATE
The following headings are defined as follows:
Fire Rating The raw or total risk rating for the substation ignoring any fire detection and
suppression that may be installed.
Residual Rating The risk rating allowing for the benefit provided by fire detection and
suppression systems.
Impact The risk rating (based on the residual rating) modified for the level of spare parts
or built in redundancy for this substation.
Health and Safety This the level of overall risk posed by the emergency egress facilities
provided in the substation.
Disruption The Impact risk rating modified by the number of lines that would be affected
by the loss of the substation.
Redundancy Factor The Impact risk rating modified by the level of redundancy provided
by substations either side of the station being analysed.
Numerical Trigger Points

The 5 risk levels that could originate under the following headings and are triggered on
achieving the following numbers for the below categories
FIRE RATING RESIDUAL RATING IMPACT
< 10 – Low Risk
< 50 – Moderate Risk
< 100 – High Risk
< 500 – Very High Risk
> 500 – Extreme Risk
The 5 risk levels that originate under the following heading is triggered on achieving the
following numbers:
HEALTH & SAFETY
< 50 – Extreme Risk
< 150 – Very High Risk
< 300 – High Risk
< 600 – Moderate
> 600 – Low Risk
Definition of Risk Levels

FREM assesses both the risk of fire due to the condition and configuration of the
substation and the consequential risk to RailCorp operations should the equipment or
facility be lost. When design data for a new sub station or survey data from an existing
substation is entered in to the FREM, following risk ratings will be assigned by the
program to the substation assessed:
• EXTREME
Where an extreme rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the extreme fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the
design. For an existing substation rated as extreme, the assessor shall
immediately notify the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems.
• V HIGH
Where a very high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the very high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the
design. For an existing substation rated as very high, the assessor shall
immediately notify the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems.
• HIGH
Where a high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.
For an existing substation rated as high, the assessor using the FREM shall
12 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at two-year intervals.
• MODERATE
Where a moderate rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that
caused the moderate risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.
For an existing substation rated as moderate, the assessor using the FREM shall
24 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.
• LOW
Where a low rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that caused
the low risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design. Where a low
rating is returned for an existing substation, risk level shall be managed.
Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.
Limitations of Fire Risk Evaluation Model

This section defines the limitations of the application of the results. In this context,
assumptions are defined to be inputs to the assessment, which may include
simplifications of reality, based on engineering judgement or accepted approaches that
are necessary to enable the issues in question to be rationally addressed.
These inputs are spelt out in order that users of the tool are made aware of them and
there applicability can be reviewed. Limitations are defined as boundaries to the
applicability of the results, including aspects, which have been excluded from
consideration.
Any audits and subsequent outputs do not include:
• Detailed design
• Implementation of the results of the study
• Ongoing inspections
• Certification, commissioning or maintenance of systems.
• Involvement in an appeals process of a peer review process
• Gaining building approval
• The fire risk assessments and the reports do not constitute an audit in accordance
with AS4655 or any other relevant Australian Standard.
• The fire and risk assessments to not constitute a BCA compliance/due diligence
assessment.
• The fire and risk assessment tool does not constitute a fundamental Fire
Engineering Assessment or Quantitative Risk Assessment of absolute risk
• The fire and risk assessments do not constitute an OH&S audit.
• The tool is limited to inspections of substations for collection of specific data to go
into a relative risk tool for specified corporate purposes.
Fire Risk Evaluation Model - Guidelines

Table in the following pages provides the users of the Fire Risk Evaluation Model
guidelines to the correct interpretation of terms used in the audit sheets that provide input
to the risk evaluation model. Assessors of a particular site or a design shall first
familiarise with these terms and their proper interpretation to obtain a consistent risk
rating of substations when using the model.
RAILCORP SUBSTATION FIRE RISK SITE INSPECTION SHEET - GUIDELINES AND DEFINITIONS
Sheet Main Sub 2nd Comments
Number Category Category Category
1 SITE DETAILS
FUNCTION Traction Traction substations will have a rectifier within it.
Distribution Distribution substations converts high voltage to low
voltage.(415/120V)
System System substations transformers or switches high
voltage only. They have no rectifiers within them.
LOCATION Surface The substation is totally above ground.
Underground The substation is below ground and in some cases
form part of a main train station
Surrounds Surrounded The substation is within a built up area and
predominantly surrounded by residential
development.
Partial The substation is partially surrounded by
development. An example of this would be residential
or commercial adjacent to rail corridor.
Open Area The substation is within a suburban environment but
not surrounded by development.
Rural/Bushland A substation that is within a well timbered area or
open plains with no development surrounding it.
Assessed Risk Bushfire Substation is located in bushfire prone area.
High Risk Information on risks to location from miscellaneous
outside agencies. This does not include risks due to
the equipment itself.
Low Risk Information on risks to location from miscellaneous
outside agencies. This does not include risks due to
the equipment itself.
VEHICLE IMPACT Vehicle Impact Main Road Speed limit >60kph and or heavy traffic.
On Bend/Junction Location of substation located on a bend of a main
road.
No buffer Substation is located bounding roadside.
Quiet Road Speed limit <60kph and low volumes of traffic.
SURROUNDS Vegetation >6m Clear Vegetation such as grass, trees, that are greater than
6m away from a building or nearest piece of
equipment or fuel source. Vegetation does not include
mown grass or small trees or potted plants. If the area
has a dense coverage of grass, trees etc then these
should be mentioned.
<6m Clear Vegetation such as grass, trees, that are less than 6m
away from the building or nearest piece of equipment
or fuel source. Vegetation does not include mown
grass or small trees or potted plants. If the area has a
dense coverage of grass, trees etc then these should
be mentioned.
Residential >6m Clear Residential properties consisting of dwellings, town
houses, or hotels greater than 6m from away from a
building or nearest piece of equipment or fuel source.
<6m Clear Residential properties consisting of dwellings, town
houses, or hotels less than 6m from the building or
nearest piece of equipment or fuel source.
Industrial >6m Clear Industrial premises such as car yards, paints shops,
manufacturing, warehouse.
<6m Clear Industrial premises such as car yards, paints shops,
manufacturing, warehouse.
Combustible Examples may be a tyre storage facility, warehouse
or others with high fuel load.
High Risk Examples may be Paint shops, car repairs where
large quantities of flammable materials (especially
liquid or gases) are kept.
EMERGENCY SERVICES Ease of Finding Visible Visible from the road without signage.
Clear Signs Signage to the substation from the road is in place.
Road Access All Weather Bitumen or sealed road. Access not a problem for any
emergency vehicle.
>One Road Alternative access into the substation. Applicable in
remote locations.
Height/Width Restrictions Would emergency vehicles have to go underneath a
rail bridge for example. Is the road width available for
say a fire appliance (>5.0m)
BUILDING
ONE,TWO,THREE
Construction Brick and Timber Construction of the substation consists of brick walls
and timber roof components such as trusses, timber
framing and the like. Inspection of ceiling space may
be necessary. Structure has combustible load.
Timber Timber construction throughout.
Non-combustible Brick walls, metal and/or tiled roof and no timber in
the roof or internal walls.
Main Level Alt Egress Alternative egress could be provided in addition to the
exit on the main floor.
Into Open Egress to outside of building.
Upper floor area
Ancillary Rooms/areas Flammable Able to contain materials that are flammable including
flammable aerosols, liquids and the like stored in a
room or cabinet.
Office/area Office fuel load would consist of desks, chairs, filing
cabinets and compactors.
COMPOUND 1 & 2 Egress Route The compound is a noted egress route from the
building.
Refuge Could be an area remote from the building within the
compound where someone could take refuge from a
fire within the building, or equipment in the
component.
Gate/Door Gate is provided within the compound fencing.
Locked The gate is locked for security purposes. Keys should
be carried with personnel at all times.
HOUSEKEEPING General Area Excellent All materials are stored in a designated place. Exits
are not obstructed. Compound has grass mowed if
present. No rubbish is present.
Average Some areas of the above criteria are present.
Poor All areas in the above criteria are not evident.
SECURITY Patrol Regular patrol/inspection by internal/external
personnel that would be able to detect an early stage
of fire. Patrols would occur regularly but they must
occur several times a day, every day.
Monitored Doors This refers to the doors into the actual buildings and
does not include gates in perimeter fences.
CCTV This means that it is not monitored but pictures go to
tape. If the signal goes back to a control room that is
constantly monitored this should be indicated by
ticking the monitored box.
FIRE CONTROL Suppression Emulsifiers - High Velocity Jets This system would be only present in outdoor bunded
areas where oil would be present. They would stop
the oil from burning and spreading. They would not be
located inside the building.
Hose reels 36m fire hose reels are located in the substations
Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers suitable to the risk of fire
are provided. Eg CO2, Foam etc.
Hydrants Hydrant points - there may be standpipes within the
building near the exits, outside near the exits or there
may be a tapping outside the compound.
Detection VESDAS Aspirating smoke detection system that will have
plastic pipes with sampling points.
SERVICES High Voltage 132, 66 or 33kV
Medium Voltage 11 or 2kV
Low Voltage 415, 240 or 120V
Tracks Served Number of single tracks.
REDUNDANCY Impact on Service None No impact on train service
Peak Peak services cannot run at peak levels (both trains
and loading) but can run at off peak train frequencies
and loadings.
Off Peak No services can be supported over this section of the
line.
2 HIGH VOLTAGE
SWITCHGEAR
LOCATION Indoor/Outdoor Where equipment of a single type (eg transformers)
are located both indoors and outdoors, and there is
no provision to select something other than indoors or
outdoors, then always select indoors. Where there
are two sections for the same type of plant, and if
there is not two sizes of that plant (piece of
equipment), then it is OK to use one section on the
data capture sheet for the indoor equipment and
another for outdoor equipment.
Nearest Fuel Source Nearest combustible item which could include
building or equipment.
CONSTRUCTION Bunding All Individual Separate bund for each piece of equipment.
All combined One bund serving all pieces of equipment.
Partial Some bunding may be present.
Underground Sump Single Single sump for all pieces of equipment.
Individual Individual sumps for all pieces of equipment.
Partial Some sumps may be present.
CONFIGURATION Isolated Stand alone breakers.
Single S/Board All breakers in one switchboard.
Many S/Boards More than one individual, separated switchboard, with
each switchboard containing more than one breaker.
SPARES Complete Breakers Onsite On site but not connected.
>1 More than one on-site and not connected.
Off site Off site
>1 More than one off site.
RECTIFIER
QUANTITY Installed Installed and connected.
Needed For Load Required to provide maximum traction power.
RECTIFIER
TRANSFORMER
LOCATION
3 SYSTEM TRANSFORMER
(to 33kV) Step down to 33kV From 132 or 66kV
LOCATION Tx Separation This is the distance between like transformers.
1500 Volt DC
SWITCHGEAR
5 HV AND DC POWER
CABLES
MAIN ROOMS, BELOW Cluster -Horizontal Type A,B C, D 3 or more cables laid horizontally half a cable
MAIN ROOM, OUTDOORS diameter apart, containing the following types:
Type A Cables - Pressurised Nitrogen
Type B Cables - Oil impregnated paper insulated with
lead sheathing, flame retardant halogen free R-HF
Type C Cables - Mineral Insulated Non Draining
(MIND), PVC sheathing, PIMIND (Mass Impregnated
Mineral Oil Non Draining)
Type D Cables - XLPE with PVC/HDPE, XLPE with
megalon, modern XLPE insulated cables, modern
PVC/PVC insulated cables, vulcanised Indian rubber,
EPR (Ethylene-propylene rubber), XLPE/HD,
Cluster - Vertical Type A,B C, D As above - but vertical. Cable types refer above
Cableway - Horizontal Type A,B C, D Located on horizontal cableway with proper
separation distances. Cable Types refer above
Cableway - Vertical Type A,B C, D As above - vertical. Cable Types refer above
Chase/Trench Located in trench. Cable Types refer above
PENETRATIONS Penetration from one room to another that are not
properly sealed. Holes in walls are to be taken as a
path for fire and the distance between a piece of
equipment and a fuel source (or similar piece of
equipment) should be measured through the hole.
The hole has to be a reasonable size such that fire
and heat could pass through the hole. Proper sealant
used.
CABLE JOINTS Number of cable joints present.
EXTRA FUEL LOAD Adjacent to Cables Any combustible material near (<1m) to cables.
Oil into Trench Is it possible for oil to drain/leak into trench.
PROTECTION Cable Coating Have cables been separately coated with fire
protection material.
ENERGY DISSAPTING
RESISTORS
QUANTITY Installed These resistors will generally only occur on the blue
mountains line.
AIR BLAST AIR BREAK
SWITCHES
Size Most of the substations will have both 66kV and 11kV
6 BATTERIES AND
SYSTEMS
LOCATION Location Separate Room Completely separate room within building with door.
Common Areas In building but not isolated.
FUEL SOURCE Near Batteries Timber/Solid Timber/combustible material within 2m of battery or
within the separate room.
Liquid/Gas As above but flammable liquids or gases.
INCIDENTAL PLANT &
EQUIPMENT
GENERATOR Exhaust Inside Flue exhausts inside the building.
Outside Flue exhausts outside building.
Fuel Source Any fuel source (<2m) of flue outlet.
MOBILE PLANT Motor Vehicles Motor Vehicles permanently stored on site
NOTES
Refer to Manual for Input
requirements into the
model.

1.0 Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard

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1.0 Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard

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Engineering Standard

SUBSTATIONS FIRE PROTECTION

Issued May 2010

Owner: Chief Engineer Electrical

Approved Wilfred Leung Authorised Wilfred Leung

UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Page 1 of 32

6.4.6.2 Safety Precautions for Total Flooding Systems........................16

2 Scope and Application

3.1 Code of Practice

3.2 International Standards

3.3 Australian Standards

AS 2118.1 Automatic Fire Sprinklers – general requirements

3.4 Other References

BS 5306-2 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises specification for

Energy Supply Association of Australia D(6) 29-1982 Fire Protection of Electricity

4 Definitions and Abbreviations

5 Fire Risks and Risk Assessment

5.1 Particular Fire Risks to Substations

• RailCorp’s substations are generally unattended.

The final determination on whether suppression is required and or detection is dependant

5.2 The Fire Risk Evaluation Model

5.3 Fire Risk Rating of substations

The FREM included in Appendix A of this standard identifies those configurations,

5.3.2 Risk Results Review

• i.e. A particular substation may be scoring particularly highly because the

5.4 Full Fire Audit

6 Fire Protection Measures

6.2 Personnel Safety

6.3 Passive fire protection measures

Passive measures shall be adopted in preference to the provision of active systems.

Transformer Oil Minimum (Line-of-Sight)

6.3.3 Fire Sealing of Openings

6.3.3.1 New Substations

6.3.4 Fire retardant coverings

For existing substations where determined to be necessary by the FREM substation

6.4 Active Fire Suppression Systems

6.4.2 Active Fire Suppression Options

• Fixed automatic aqueous fire fighting systems;

6.4.3 Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix

Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix

Boosted tank supply to

6.4.4 Fixed Automatic Aqueous Fire Fighting Systems (Automatic Fire

Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems shall be designed to meet the performance

• Flammable liquids associated with transformers;

6.4.4.3 Water Supply for Fire Sprinkler Systems

6.4.4.4 Water Sprinkler Systems Activation

6.4.5 Fire Hydrants Systems

6.4.5.2 Street Fire Hydrants

• Buildings with an area greater than 500m²

Street hydrants shall be within 70m of a substation building or enclosure requiring

6.4.5.3 On Site Fire Hydrant System

6.4.5.4 Water Supply to On Site Fire Hydrant Systems

6.4.5.5 Hose Reels

6.4.6 Gaseous Fire Suppression Systems

The gaseous agents shall be selected from the following;

• Carbon Dioxide (low pressure refrigerated C02 );

Detection systems provided to activate gaseous fire extinguishing systems shall be in

Detector systems shall comply with AS 1603.

6.4.6.1 Gaseous Fire Suppression System Activation and Release

6.4.6.2 Safety Precautions for Total Flooding Systems

6.4.6.3 Area Ventilation After Discharge of Carbon Dioxide

6.4.7 Handheld Extinguishers

Extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with AS 2444 and maintained in