Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention Manual

8/6/2019 Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention Manual

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FACILITIES INSTRUCTIONS, STANDARDS,

AND TECHNIQUES

Volume 5-2

Firefighting and Fire Prevention

Internet Version of this Manual Created August 2000

ENGINEERING DIVISIONFACILITIES ENGINEERING BRANCH

DENVER OFFICE

The Appearance of the Internet Version of This Manual May Differ From the Original, but the Contents Do Not

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIORBUREAU OF RECLAMATION

FEBRUARY 1992

Back to Main Index


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CONTENTS

Section Page

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

I. Chemistry of Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1. Mechanics of Combustion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.2. Flashpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.3. Oxygen Required for Combustion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.4. Ignition Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.5. Fire Triangle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

II. Classification of Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.1. Definition and Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

III. Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3.1. Types and Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.2. Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.3. Inspection and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

IV. Application of Firefighting Equipment (Portable and Fixed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.1. Water Extinguishing Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

4.2. Foam Extinguishing Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84.3. Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94.4. Carbon Tetrachloride and Chlorobromomethane and

Inverting-Type Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104.5. Dry-Chemical Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

V. Emergency Action Plan and Cause and Prevention of Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

5.1. Emergency Action Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105.2. Fire Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115.3. Common Causes of Electric Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

VI. Care and Inspection of Firefighting Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

6.1. Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126.2. Inspections of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126.3. Care of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136.4. Checking Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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CONTENTS - Continued

Section Page

VII. Fire Brigades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

7.1. Fire Brigade Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157.2. Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167.3. Physical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167,4. Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167.5. Protective Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167.6. Respiratory Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

VIII. Instructions for Making Generator CO 2 Concentration Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8.1. Purpose of Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8.2. Test Equipment Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178.3. Pretest Inspection and Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198.4. Personnel Required for Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208.5. Test Procedure and Data Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208.8. Test Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Title Page

1 Fire triangle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Coiling firehose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Two persons connecting firehose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 One person connecting firehose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Fire-protection water fog nozzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Check sheet for making generator CO 2 Concentration Test . . . . . . . . . . . . 187 Ranarex recorder chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198 CO 2 concentration test data sheet - Ranarex Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219 CO 2 concentration test data sheet - Manometer Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

10 CO 2 concentration test data sheet - Governor Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2311 CO 2 concentration test data sheet - Generator relief door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

12 Kortes Powerplant - Generator carbon dioxide fire-extinguishingsystem test - Unit No. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

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Purpose

The operation and maintenance personnelaround a powerplant, pumping plant, or otherReclamation establishment are not presumed tobe firefighters, but occasionally their duties maymake it necessary for them to fight fires. Thepurpose of this volume is to supply them withfundamental facts which may prove valuable insuch an emergency and acquaint them will theuse, care, and testing of firefighting equipment.

It is assumed that operation and maintenancepersonnel are familiar with the common safetypractices in connection with fire prevention andgeneral safety around electrical equipment. Thisvolume is designed to help improve work alongthese lines.

The data in this volume are intended to supplement Subpart L, Fire Protection, part 1910 of

Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations,Department of Labor, OSHA (OccupationalSafety and Health Administration), OccupationalSafety and Health Standards, and to provide aquick reference for answers to most firefightingproblems.

I. Chemistry of Fire

1.1. MECHANICS OF COMBUSTION. -From casual observation of a simple woodfire, it seems that the wood itself is burning.Actually, only the vapors given off by it

supply the fuel that feeds the flames.Nearly all combustible materials, whether ina liquid or solid state, give off vapors whenheated. Even paper, which is not ordinarilyregarded as vapor producing, when heatedgives off vapors which can be burned atsome distance from the paper itself. Mostsolids must first be converted into a liquidstate before vaporization takes place paraffin, for example, as in the case of acandle burning. The ignited wick melts theparaffin into a liquid, and the liquid flowsinto the wick and gives off vapor to feed the

flame.1.2. FLASHPOINT. - Almost all oils must beheated until a vapor is given off beforeburning can take place. The temperature atwhich an oil begins to give off vapors thatcan be ignited is known as the flashpoint.Most lubricating oils must be heated to over

149 EC (300 EF) before they will flash. However,more highly volatile liquids such as gasoline,alcohol, naphtha, etc., have flashpoints so lowthey can be ignited readily at room temperature.The fire hazards that these liquids present aredue to the fact that even at low temperaturesthey are constantly giving off highly flammablevapors.

The flashpoint of gasoline is -43 EC (-45 EF),and while the ever-present vapors are not visible to the naked eye, they may be observed bymeans of a shadow image produced by a powerful light. The flashpoint of a liquid, however,should not be confused with the temperaturenecessary to ignite the vapors, for unless asource of heat considerably hotter than theflashpoint of the fuel comes into direct contactwith the vapors, the fuel will merely continue togive off vapors without burning.

1.3. OXYGEN REQUIRED FOR COMBUS-TION. - The second essential factor in theprocess of combustion is oxygen. Without oxygen, even the most flammable vapors will notburn. Under normal conditions, a flame drawsthe amount of oxygen necessary to sustaincombustion from the air. When the oxygencontent of the air falls from normal 21 percent tobelow 15 percent, there is immediate extinguishment of practically all flames.

The part that oxygen plays in supporting combustion is illustrated in a cutting torch. Whenonly the acetylene gas is used, there is nocutting effect on the metal, but when the oxygenvalve is opened the torch readily cuts throughthe metal on which it is being used. Undernormal conditions, the oxygen in the aircombines with the combustible vapor in thedirect proportion to sustain combustion. With theregulated flow of vapor in an open space, theready mixture of the two elements is evidenced.The greater the flow of vapor, the greater themixture with oxygen and the larger the flame.This action is caused by the heat of the flame.The hot-air currents rising from the flame createa draft suction that draws a steady flow ofoxygen into the flame area.

With fuel at its flashpoint and vapors combiningreadily with air, the mixture may be regarded asin a state of readiness. Combustion, however,cannot occur until further heat is applied. Anelectric spark in some cases, or the heat of an

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is too rich and fails to ignite. The sameholds true in gasoline storage. Thedanger is when the gases being pouredfrom one container to another, thus givingthe vapors the change to mix with thecorrect amount of air to form an explosivemoisture. The same circumstances holdtrue with all flammable oils when enough

heat is present to release vapors from theliquid.

Keeping in mind that a flammable liquidis not hazardous as long as It is not hotenough to give off vapors which can mixwith the oxygen in air and burn, twothings can be done: (a) The liquid can becooled down to the point where no vaporsare given off; and (b) the supply ofoxygen can be blanketed out. Someflammable liquids give off vapors attemperatures ordinarily considered cold.

For example, gasoline vaporizes at -43EC (-45 EF) or lower.

2.1.3. Class C: Live electricalequipment.

When equipment is deenergized, extinguishers for class A or B fires could beused safely; however, in fighting anelectrical fire there are two importantthings to be taken into consideration:namely (a) damage to the equipment farbeyond what the fire could do, and (b)danger to the Individuals fighting the fire.To avoid these two possibilities,deenergize the circuit and use only thetypes of extinguishment recommendedfor class C fires.

2.1.4. Class D: Combustible metals suchas magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium, lithium, and zirconium.

III. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

3.1. Types and Usage.- All extinguishers ofa portable type act as a "first-aid" appliancefor extinguishing fires in their incipient stage,and they cannot be expected to be effectiveafter a fire has spread to involve a largeamount of combustible material. The actionof all extinguishers is by cooling the burningsubstance below its ignition temperature and

by excluding the air supply (blanketing out theoxygen), or by a combination of these methods.Also, some types tend to inhibit oxidation bychemical action.

3.1.1. Extinguishers for Class A Fires.-

Multipurpose dry chemicalFoam extinguishersLoaded stream extinguishers

3.1.2. Extinguishers for Class B Fires.-

Multipurpose dry chemicalFoamCarbon dioxide (CO 2)Dry chemicalsLoaded stream extinguishersBromotrifluoromethane - Halon 1301

3.1.3. Extinguishers for Class C Fires. -

Multipurpose dry chemicalBromotrifluoromethane - Halon 1301Carbon dioxide (CO 2)Dry chemicals

3.1.4. Extinguishers for Class D Fires.-Ex-tinguishers or extinguishing agents for classD fires shall be types approved for use onthe specific combustible metal.

3.2. OPERATION. - This volume does not attempt to explain the complete operation of

each individual fire extinguisher, as thedirections for operation will be found on theequipment. All persons who may have to usean extinguisher should carefully read and adhere to the instructions placed on theextinguisher by the manufacturer. Uponinitial assignment and at least annuallythereafter, all employees designated to usefire extinguishers will be provided training inthe use of such equipment. All otheremployees will be educated in the generalprinciples of fire-extinguisher use and thehazards with incipient-stage firefighting atleast annually.

3.3. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE. -

3.3.1. General .- Portable extinguishers shallbe maintained in a fully charged andoperable condition, and kept in their designated placed at all times when they are not

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being used. Each extinguisher shall be equippedwith a tag for registering inspection date.Aluminum tags on which the date can bepunched are preferred for a lasting record.

3.3.2. Inspection. - Inspection is a quick checkthat an extinguisher is available and willoperate. Extinguishers shall be inspected

monthly, and the following items shall bechecked:

(1) The extinguisher shall be in its desig-nated place.

(2) Access to, or visibility of, the extin-guisher shall not be obstructed.

(3) The operation instructions on the ex-tinguisher nameplate shall be legible andface outward.

(4) Any seals or tamper indicators that arebroken or missing shall be replaced.

(5) For water types without gauges, theirfullness shall be determined by "hefting."

(6) Any obvious physical damage, corro-sion, leakage, or clogged nozzles shall benoted.

(7) Pressure-gauge readings when not inthe operable range shall be noted.

The date the inspection was performed and theinitials of the person performing the inspectionshall be recorded. When an inspection revealsthat tampering has occurred, or that theextinguisher is damaged, impaired, leaking,under- or overcharged, or has obviouscorrosion, the extinguisher shall be subjected toapplicable maintenance procedures.

3.3.3. Maintenance. - Maintenance is a"thorough check" of the extinguisher intendedto give maximum assurance that anextinguisher will operate effectively andsafely. It includes a thorough examinationand any necessary repair or replacement.Maintenance shall be performed at regularintervals, not more than 1 year apart or when

specifically indicated by an inspection. Anyextinguishers removed from the premises tobe recharged shall be replaced by spareextinguishers during the period they aregone. Refill all extinguishers as soon as theyare used.

Stored pressure-dry chemical extinguishersthat require a 12-year hydrostatic test will beemptied and subjected to applicable maintenance procedures every 6 years. Drychemical extinguishers having non-refillable,disposable containers are exempt from thisrequirement.

3.3.4. Hydrostatic Tests. - If, at anytime, anextinguisher shows evidence of corrosion ormechanical injury, it should be subjected tohydrostatic pressure tests or replaced. Inaddition, the hydrostatic test intervals for

extinguishers listed below should be followed.(See NFPA No. 10 for test methods.)Extinguishers requiring discharge for hydrostatic testing or refueling should be utilized fordemonstration purposes, giving each employeean opportunity to handle an extinguisher andapply the extinguishing agent to a fire.

Hydrostatictest

Extinguisher type interval(years)

Storage-pressure waterand/or antifreeze. 5

Wetting agent. 5Foam. 5Loaded stream. 5Dry chemical extinguishers with

stainless steel shells, orsoldered-brass shells. 5

Carbon dioxide. 5Dry chemical, stored pressure, with

mild steel shells, brazed-brassshells, or aluminum shells. 12

Dry chemical, cartridge operatedwith mild steel shells. 12

Bromotrifluoromethane Halon 1301. 12

Bromochlorodifluoromethane Halon 1211. 12

Dry power, cartridge operated,with mild steel shells. 12

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IV. Application of Firefighting Equipment(Portable and Fixed)

4.1. Water Extinguishing Systems. - Waterwas man's first means of fighting fire and is stillone of the best all-around weapons. However, itshould be borne in mind that water can bedamaging to insulated conductors and windings,such as in motors and generators, and toswitchboard wiring. The damage to the insulation from soaking may require extensive dryingout or rewiring operations, and the damage fromwater may be as much or more than thedamage caused by the fire itself. For this reason, water should be used on a fire of this typeonly as a last resort. Water may also be undesirable from the standpoint that it is sometimesdifficult to deenergize all circuits with which thewater might come in contact. Since water'seffectiveness depends on the speed with whichit is applied to the fire after the fire is first

discovered, the firefighting force must functionas a well-organized team in laying the hoses inorder to get the water on the fire.

The male end is always run in the direction ofthe fire. This is done because all nozzles andfittings are equipped with female couplings.By having the female end on the outside ofthe coil, the correct end is always at thecorrect place for coupling, and the threads onthe male end are protected against abrasion

or damage. To unroll the hose, the foot Isplaced on the female end, the male end issnapped up sharply and run toward the fire.To roll the hose in a coil, the length is firstlaid straight, then doubled over, placing themale end on the top about 1.2 m (4 ft) fromthe female end. Grasped at the fold, the hoseis rolled tightly as slack is taken up. Careshould be taken to obtain an even, compactroll. Coiled in this manner, the ends are inthe correct position, the male end always onthe inside.

Connecting hose is usually a two-personoperation (fig. 3). One person holds the male

4.1.1. Handling of Fire Hose. - The hosemust be unrolled so that male and femaleends are in the correct position for coupling.All couplings must be made tightly to guardagainst leakage and loss of pressure. Thehose must be spread out or laid so that itwill not kink or tangle when the line isadvanced toward the fire. Unless all thesetasks are performed quickly and efficiently,

valuable time will be lost that may mean thedifference between a fire being quicklyextinguished and a fire getting out ofcontrol. Hose, when coiled as illustrated infigure 2, can be run out without tangling orkinking.

Figure 2. Coiling fire hose.

5

Figure 3. Two men connecting fire hose.

end firmly, the second person engages thethreads of the female swivel. The swivel isgiven a half turn back to align the thread.This prevents the threads from fouling andspeeds up the coupling operation. When theconnection is made by one person, the maleend is held in position with the foot, leavingboth hands free to engage the swive l (fig. 4) .In making all couplings, the person handlingthe female end should make sure the rubbergasket is in place. Without it, the connection

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Figure 4. One man connecting fire hose.

will leak and pressure will be lost.

4.1.2. Fog Nozzles for Electrical Installa-tions.- The form in which water is used isdetermined by the type of fire to be extinguished. Flammable- liquid fires can be extinguished with water only in the form of a finespray or fog. (The terms "fog" and "spray" areused interchangeably.) Fog is also used toprotect the firefighter in approaching a fire. Firesinvolving materials other than liquids require abalanced stream to break up or penetrate theburning material.

Water fog has two characteristics that render it

more suitable than solid streams to mostfirefighting applications with which electricpower personnel are concerned: (a) Water fog ismore effective on fires of combustible liquidssuch as oil fires, and (b) the spray is essentiallynonconductive to electricity at distances over 5m (15 ft). SINCE BOTH OF THESECHARACTERISTICS ARE NEEDED AROUNDELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, SUC HINSTALLATIONS SHOULD BE EQUIPPEDONLY WITH FOG NOZZLES WHICH CANNOTPRODUCE A SOLID STREAM. There are twosuitable types, the fixed-fog nozzle and the

adjustable nozzle. The latter may produce acone of spray from a 30-degree cone to a nearlyflat curtain, and shut off. (This adjustable nozzleis not to be confused with the all- purpose typewhich, with the handle in one position, willproduce a solid stream.)

While there will seldom be occasion to de

liberately direct a spray on electrical conductors,the liberty and limitations within which this canbe done should be understood by anyone whomay have occasion to fight fires in or nearelectrical apparatus. To withhold use of waterfog until all electrical circuits have beendeenergized might occasion lengthy anddisastrous delay.

4.1.3, Instructions for Fog-Nozzle Use.-Breaking the water stream up into small dropletsso increases the electrical resistance of thestream that dangerous electrical currents cannot

flow if reasonable distances are kept. Generalinstructions and limitations for use of fognozzles are summarized as follows:

Allow air and scale to clear from system beforedirecting near energized conductors. See thatfog, not solid stream, is produced. Allowclearance of over 5 m (15 ft) from energizedconductors for 15 to 230 kV and allow at least 1m (3 ft) on conductors up to 16 kV. All systemsshould be flushed periodically.

This information has been printed on 216- by280-mm (8-1/2- by 11 -in.) cards to be posted atmanual fog nozzle installations near electricalapparatus. T his card, de signated form PO&M-173 (12-81) , figure 5 , is obtainable from theChief, Supply and Services Division, Attn: CodeD-7923, Denver Office.

4.1.4. Class C Fire Precautions.- Oil switches,oil-filled transformers, and other electricalequipment containing oil of a relatively highflashpoint may be heated and ignited byexcessive current or an electric arc. Asmentioned before, when a fire breaks out,deenerglze the circuit and proceed on the oil firewith CO 2, dry chemical, or water (fog nozzle).

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PRECAUTIONS FOR USE ON EQUIPMENT 15 KV* AND ABOVE

1. ALLOW AIR AND SCALE TO CLEAR FROM SYSTEMBEFORE DIRECTING NEAR ENERGIZED CONDUCTORS

2. SEE THAT FOG, NOT SOLID STREAM, IS PRODUCED3. MAINTAIN AT LEAST 5 METER (15 FEET) OF DISTANCE

FROM ENERGIZED CONDUCTORS (UP TO 230 KV)4. HAND-HELD NOZZLES SHALL NOT BE USED ON OR

NEAR ENERGIZED CONDUCTORS OR EQUIPMENT RATEDABOVE 230 KV PHASE-TO-PHASE

MAINTENANCEFLUSH SYSTEM PERIODICALLY

*NOTE: IN NO EVENT SHALL NOZZLE BE HELD CLOSER THAN I METER(3 FEET) FROM AN ENERGIZED CONDUCTOR

Figure 5. Fire-protection water fog nozzles.

There is ordinarily no danger from playinghose streams on Iow-voltage circuits; however, for safety, always use a fog or finespray. Electrical equipment should alwaysbe approached carefully during a fire, dueto the possibility of some electrical

breakdown causing electrical shock. Thegreatest danger lies primarily in accidentalphysical contact with live wires orequipment. However, under certainconditions, enough current can flow througha hose stream to injure the man holding thenozzle. With this in mind, if you must fighta fire on live electrical equipment, be surethat the fog nozzle is operated at itsdesigned pressure to produce a fine spraybefore using it on the live electricalequipment and maintain distance in excessof 5 m (15 ft) from live conductors.

of water with possible high electricalconductivity.

4.1.6. General Use of Fog Nozzles. - Insituations involving liquid fires, Iow-velocityfog should be used, produced by

a fog head at the end of an applicator. Anapplicator is an extension pipe 1.2 to 3.6 m(4 to 12 ft) in length with the end bent at anangle. The applicator head provides agreater spread and finer diffusion of thewater. This increases the rate of cooling,and since the entire area must be cooledbelow the ignition temperature of the fuelbefore the fire can be extinguished, theapplicator should be used wheneverpossible on liquid fires. Another advantageof the applicator is the ease with which itcan be manipulated at the seat of the fire.Applied close to the burning surface, the

4.1.5. Solid-Stream Nozzles Prohibited. -The use of solid-stream nozzles in electricpower installations is prohibited because ofthe hazards involved in applying a stream

finely diffused water particles form a steamblanket that aids in extinguishing. Metalapplicators should not be used inswitchyards and substations because of the

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danger of making contact with energizedcircuits.

High-velocity fog extinguishes fires in flammable liquids by a complete coverage of theburning surface with a fine spray whichcools the surface, dilutes the flammable vapors, or emulsifies the flammable liquid,

while the extinguishing action of low-velocity fog, as previously mentioned,depends on cooling and dilution. Both typesof fog nozzles have their limitations; forexample, burning gasoline flowing over alarge area on the ground could beextinguished by a fog nozzle, but it would bemore difficult than if the same gasoline werein an open tank.

4.2. FOAM EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.-

4.2.1. General. - Firefighting foam is a mass

of gas-filled bubbles which is lighter thanflammable liquids. The foam can float on allflammable liquids and produces an air-ex-cluding, cooling, continuous layer of vapor-sealing, water-bearing material for purposesof halting or preventing combustion. Twomain types of foam are available. These arelow- and high-expansion foam as discussedbelow. The following general rules apply tothe application and use of ordinary airfoams:

(1) Most foams are adversely affected bycontact with vaporizing liquid extinguishing agents and by many dry chemicalagents. These materials should not beused simultaneously with air foams.Gases from decomposing plastic materials have a similar breakdown effect onfoams.

(2) Foam solutions are not recommendedfor use on electrical fires as the foam isconductive.

(3) High-expansion foam can seem tocompletely submerge and apparently extinguish fires, while the fire continues toburn quietly beneath it, This can occurwhen burning vapors beneath the foamsupport the foam blanket on heated air.

(FIST 5-2 2/92) 8

4.2.2. Low-Expansion Foam.- The normalexpansion ratios for Iow-expansion foam rangefrom 4:1 to 12:1. The expansion ratio is thevolume of foam generated, divided by thevolume of solution used. The primary method ofextinguishment with low-expansion foam issmothering, although cooling is a factor. Theminimum foam depth for extinguishing a fire is

about 6 mm (1/4 in) with an average depth of 76mm (3 in) or more.

4.2.3. High-Expansion Foam.- The normalexpansion ratios for high- expansion foam rangefrom 100:1 up to 1000:1. The primary method ofextinguishment is the smothering and coolingeffect of water. High-expansion foam isparticularly suited as a flooding agent for use inconfined spaces, for transporting wet foammasses to inaccessible places, and forvolumetric displacement of vapor, heat, andsmoke.

4.2.4. Limitations of Foam.- Foams areprimarily used for control and extinguishment offires involving flammable or combustible liquids,and the following criteria must usually be met forthe foam to be effective:

(1) The liquid must be below its boiling pointat the ambient condition of temperature andpressure.

(2) If foam is applied to liquids with a bulktemperature higher than 100 EC (212 EF),

the foam forms an emulsion of steam, air,and fuel. This may produce a fourfoldincrease in volume.

(3) The foam must not be highly soluble inthe liquid to be protected, and the liquidmust not be unduly destructive to the foam.

(4) The liquid must not be water reactive.

(5) The fire must be a horizontal surface fireas falling fuel fires cannot be extinguishedby foam unless the fuel has a relatively highflashpoint and can be cooled toextinguishment by the water in the foam.However, some foams are capable offollowing a flowing fuel fire.


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4.3. CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHINGSYSTEMS.-

4.3.1. Principle. - The use of CO 2 as anextinguishing agent is based on the principle ofusing an inert gas to reduce and displace theoxygen content of the air. Most fires wherethere are no flowing embers to maintain a highdegree of heat for reignition can beextinguished by a reduction of the oxygencontent from the normal 21 percent to 15percent. Since CO 2 is heavier than air, it has theability to penetrate into loose material andconfined spaces where water or foam might not.The rapid expansion of the gas on dischargingproduces a refrigerating effect, as indicated bythe CO 2 snow, which has a temperature ofminus 79 EC (-110 EF). This snow turns into gasand in the process absorbs heat from thesurrounding atmosphere.

4.3.2. Uses. - CO 2 may be used on a largevariety of fires, such as: flammable liquids inpractically any type container, all types ofelectrical machinery and apparatus, and anysituation where water would be damaging to thematerial after the fire is extinguished. CO 2 is notsuitable for use on pyroxylin plastics(photographic film).

4.3.3. Precautions in Using CO 2 .- The characteristics of carbon dioxide are such thatcertain precautionary measures are necessary.So far as safety to life is concerned, CO 2, if not

breathed in excessive amounts, is notdangerous; however, a concentratedatmosphere inhaled for several minutes willproduce suffocation, as illustrated in the following tabulation:

CO 2 concentration Increase in lungactivity

2 percent. 50 percent.3 percent. 100 percent.5 percent. 300 percent.

9 percent. Can be tolerated only afew minutes.

Breathing a higher concentration than 9 percentCO 2 can render a person helpless almostimmediately. As CO 2 design concentrations forfire extinguishing generally exceed 25 percent,it Is potentially dangerous for personnel to be inan area protected by a CO 2 system. Also, therelease of carbon dioxide into an enclosurecauses a blinding storm of small crystals and

builds up CO 2 concentration so rapidly thatescape becomes nearly Impossible. Allemployees entering such areas must obtainclearance on the stationary extinguishingsystem and make it inoperative by mechanicaland/or electrical means. A test release of abank of CO 2 concentrations from atmosphericnormal to above 45 percent in less than 10seconds. It also increased CO 2 concentrationsin turbine pits to 15 percent, and hazardousconcentrations in both locations remained forapproximately 1 hour.

4.3.4. Entering Enclosures After CO 2 Dis-charge.- Concentrations for the proportionslisted in paragraph 4.3.3 are not likely to beencountered when portable CO 2 equipment isbeing used to fight fires in an open area;however, they will be obtained when CO 2 isused to smother a fire in an enclosure such asa generator housing on oil storage or oil purifierroom. It is desired to maintain a minimumconcentration of at least 25 percent for a periodof time to extinguish fires in enclosures of thiskind. Therefore, the following precautionarymeasures for personnel safety are required. Inentering a generator housing after CO

2has

been discharged, proper clearance of thegenerator should be obtained and enough timeshould elapse so that the CO 2 application hasserved its intended purpose in extinguishingthe fire. This period should be determined by aCO 2 concentration test. Two employeesequipped with self-contained breathingapparatus will open generator housing door andvents to permit the CO 2 and smoke to escapeby natural draft and to determine if all fire hasbeen extinguished. Fans can also be used toclear the unit of smoke and CO 2. After this hasbeen accomplished and atmospheric tests forcarbon dioxide and carbon monoxideconcentrations are found to be below safe

9 (FIST 5-2 2/92)


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limits, other personnel may enter the powder is nonconducting and, in somehousing. In the case of the oil storage and types, nonabrasive. However, the powderoil purifier rooms, proper airing out of the remaining after the fire is extinguished isarea should also be obtained before difficult to clean from motor or generatorpersonnel are allowed to enter. windings . These extinguishers are

effective on fires of flammable liquids inCO 2 is stored in a liquid state under very vats and pools, spilled fires on floors, or inhigh pressure; and when discharged, the any situation where the compound stream

rapid expansion produces a refrigerating can be swept across the burning surface.effect to the extent that one may obtain a"burn," or frostbite from coming in contact 4.5.2. Wheeled Units. - Dry-chemical-com-with a metal part through which the gas pound wheeled units are available inhas passed. The CO 2 nozzles in generator capacities of 45 to 159 kg (100 to 350 lb)housings should not direct the gas directly with operating pressure furnished byagainst the windings as the chilling effect nitrogen gas. Extinguishing characteristicsmay damage the insulation. The effective are similar to those of portabledischarge period of the CO 2 extinguishers extinguishers. An effective discharge ofvaries from 1 to 2 minutes, depending dry chemical is obtained for a period ofupon the size and design of the units. approximately 1 minute 45 seconds in

smaller size, and about 3 minutes 304.4. CARBON TETRACHLORIDE, CHLORO- seconds in the 159-kg (350-!b) size.

BROMOMETHANE AND INVERTING-TYPE Effective range of the compound stream isEXTINGUISHERS. - The use of carbon tetra- from 10.7 to 13.7 m (35 to 45 ft).chloride and chlorobromomethane extinguishersis not allowed in any form at Reclamation 4.5.3. Safety Requirements.- Where thereinstallations because of their toxic and corrosive is a possibility that personnel may be ex-effects and possible damage to some electrical posed to a dry-chemical discharge, suitableinsulations. Inverting-type fire extinguishers, safeguards shall be provided to ensuresuch as self-generating soda acid, self- prompt evacuation of such locations, andgenerating foam, or gas-cartridge, water-type, also to provide means for prompt rescue ofportable fire extinguishers which operate by any trapped personnel.inverting the unit to initiate an uncontrolledpressure generating chemical reaction to expel V. Emergency Action Plan and Cause, andthe agent, are prohibited at Reclamation Prevention of Fires

facilities because their shells are subject tometal fatigue and creep at the seams of 5.1. EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN. - Theconstruction which can cause failure of the units most important factors to consider inand may injure the operator. providing adequate employee safety in a

fire situation are the availability of proper4.5. DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHERS.- exit facilities to assure ready access to safe

areas and proper education of employees4.5.1. Principle and Uses.- Dry-chemical as to the actions to be taken in a fireextinguishers expel a finely powdered dry emergency.chemical which, on striking flame, releasesmany times its volume in nontoxic fire- For each workplace, an emergency actionextinguishing gases similar to CO 2. The plan will be established in writing and shallpowder consists principally of bicarbonate cover those actions necessary to ensureof soda which has been chemically employee safety from fire and otherprocessed to make it free-flowing. The emergencies.extinguishers contain a cartridge of CO 2 ornitrogen (depending on size) to expel the The following elements, at a minimum,dry chemical. These extinguishers can be will be included in the plan:used for electrical fires, both in rotatingmachinery and other equipment, since the

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(1) Emergency escape procedures andemergency escape route assignments;

(2) Procedures to be followed byemployees who remain to operatecritical point operations before theyevacuate;

(3) Procedures to account for allemployees after emergency evacuationhas been completed;

(4) Rescue and medical duties for thoseemployees who are to perform them;

(5) The preferred means of reportingfires and other emergencies; and

(6) Names or regular job titles orpersons or departments who can becontacted for further information or

explanation of duties under the plan.An alarm system which complies with OSHA (29CFR 1910.165) will be established for alertingemployees and/or fire-brigade members.

Before implementing the emergency actionplan, each plant will designate and train a sufficient number of persons to assist in the safeand orderly emergency evacuation of employees.

The emergency action plan will be reviewedwith each employee covered by the plan at thefollowing times:

(1) Initially when the plan is developed,

(2) Whenever the employee'sresponsibilities or designated actionsunder the plan change, and

(3) Whenever the plan is changed.

5.2. FIRE PREVENTION. - Many fires start as aresult of poor housekeeping, not only in thehome but in many supposedly fireproof structures. Many building fires can be traced to oilyrags and other materials (subject to spontaneous ignition) discarded or inadvertently droppedonto inaccessible places, such as an oily ragfalling onto heating system pipes. Thetemperature of the pipes starts the process of

vaporization, and heated vapor entrapped in therag accumulates and builds up a highertemperature. In time, the ignition temperature ofthe oil rag is reached and a fire is under way.

A high standard of cleanliness and order isperhaps the most important single element infire prevention. Simple daily tasks such as

regular disposal of wastepaper and other combustible waste are of utmost importance. Wastecans should be metal containers with lids. Also,oily mops, dust rags, etc., should be kept in fire-resistive storage enclosures since they aresubject to spontaneous ignition.

Good housekeeping is as essential outdoors asit is within structures. Rubbish and waste shouldnot be allowed to accumulate where it can serveto aid in the spread of fire. Dry weeds or grassaround buildings present a fire hazard.

Another likely place for a fire to start is in alocker room where men have left oily clothes orclothes smeared with paint. Matches left carelessly laying around, particularly where there aremice or rats, constitute a fire hazard.

Other items to watch for as a possible source offire are hot bearings, exposed light bulbs nearflammable material, sparks flying from grindingwheels, dust and lint collecting oil in blower andventilating systems, and careless disposal ofcigarettes and matches.

Gasoline fires or explosions are often caused bystatic electricity, particularly during loading orfueling operations around service stations or ontank cars and trucks. The electric charge isgenerated by friction of the flowing liquid. Whenthe nozzle is grounded by contact with the tank,the electric charge drains off to the ground; butwhen the nozzle is not in contact and nogrounding exists, static charge is likely to buildup and eventually discharge to ground throughthe shortest path. Since the mouth of the tank isthe nearest metal conductor, a spark hot enoughto ignite a vapor-oxygen mixture will span thegap between the nozzle and the tank.

5.3. COMMON CAUSE OF ELECTRICALFIRES.- The more frequent causes of electricalfires are arcs, sparks, overheating, and over

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loading a circuit. When a current-carrying circuitis interrupted, intentionally or otherwise, an arcis produced such as that formed when a knifeswitch carrying load is opened. Such arcs havetemperatures high enough to ignite anycombustible material that may be in the vicinity,as well as through hot metal from the fusedconductor. The amount of heat generated in a

conductor is in direct proportion to the resistanceof the conductor and to the square of thecurrent. For this reason, conductors used tocarry power to electrical equipment should belarge enough (of low resistance) to carry theload without overheating. Metals such as copperand aluminum are used for this purpose. Inmany instances, electrical fires are caused bytemporary or inadequate wiring jobs which are inviolation of the National Electrical Code, whichlimits the current a conductor shall carry and thetype of insulating covering.

Some of the major causes of electrical firesare:

(1) Use of fuses too large for the circuitthey are protecting, or a circuit breakerwith too high a setting.

(2) Adjustable-type circuit breakerswith a blocked tripping element.

(3) Pennies inserted behind plugfuses.

(4) Nails or bolts substituted in placeof cartridge fuses.

(5) Refillable fuses in which additionalstrips have been placed.

(6) Corrosion of fuses, circuitbreakers, or conductors.

(7) Insulation of conductors deterioratedfrom age or mechanical injury andexposure to heat, moisture, or vapors.

(8) Joints not properly soldered andtaped.

(9) Burned and pitted contacts.

(10) Overheating due to poor contactor overload.

VI. Care and Inspection of FirefightingEquipment

6.1. Training.- Fire protection, regardless ofhow good the equipment may be, is entirelynullified if equipment is not kept in operativecondition at all times. Therefore, theimportance of proper care of equipment androutine inspection to make sure theequipment is kept in perfect working orderfor instant use cannot be overemphasized.

Foremen and other employees should be instructed in the use of all fire equipment sothat they will not only be able to bring itquickly into action in the event of fire, butalso so that they will realize the importanceof its being accessible and unobstructed atall times. Trained employees will not allowfirehose or extinguishers to becomeobstructed by piles of construction materials,

supplies, or permanent equipment, or allowfire doors to become blocked open. Theywillsee that aisles are kept clear so that therewill be less chance of accidents occurring.Foremen and employees who are instructedin the dangers of poor housekeeping anddefective electrical equipment will see to itthat clean conditions are maintained, oilyrags properly disposed of, and defectivewiring, etc., repaired at once.

6.2. INSPECTIONS OF EQUIPMENT. - Periodic inspections should be made by capable

personnel, preferably two or more, whoshould alternate in making the inspections.Portable ex tinguishers s hall be inspected asrequired by section 3.3. Automatic foam orCO 2 systems should be checked to see thatthey are ready for operation in event of fire.

6.2.1. Fire Doors and Shutters. - All firedoors and shutters and their hardware, including fusible links, should be in goodcondition. The action of automatic slidingdoors should be checked by raising thecounterweight by hand. The guides ofrolling steel doors should be checked.Any paint on fusible links should bescraped off. Rolling doors should begiven an occasional operating test bydisconnecting the fusible link. Whenchecking over the fire doors, note if thereare any openings in firewalls not properlyprotected by the fire doors or shutters.

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6.2.2. Floor Drains. - Floor drains are provided in some instances to drain the floors ofwater promptly in event of fire or sprinklerleakage. They should be kept clear at alltimes.

6.3. CARE OF EQUIPMENT.-

6.3.1. Antifreeze Pump-Tank Extinguish-ers.- Antifreeze pump-tank extinguishersshould be frequently inspected, kept full at alltimes, and refilled immediately after use. Inrecharging, it is desirable that all parts bewashed thoroughly with water and the waterdrained through the hose. It is essential todraw all water from the hose to preventfreezing or clogging of the nozzle. It is recommended that after recharging and duringinspections, the pump be operated severaltimes, discharging the liquid back into thetank. Where an antifreeze solution is used,

the specific gravity of the solution should bedetermined periodically with a hydrometer soas to ensure against freezing at the lowesttemperature that may be encountered. Liquidwhich has evaporated or is used must bereplaced. Pump tanks should be kept tightlycovered so as to retard evaporation.

This type of extinguisher should be examined as to condition of operating parts atleast once yearly, and during this examination, a drop of oil should be put on the piston-rod packing. Manufacturers of this type of

extinguisher are now marketing a specialantifreeze charge for these devices.Common salt or chemicals other than thosespecified must not be used in these extinguishers for any purpose; they cause corrosion.

6.3.2. Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers. -Carbon dioxide extinguishers should beweighed at least once every 6 months todetect leakage or accidental release andmust be recharged immediately after use,even though only partially discharged. CO 2cylinders should not be lifted by the neck orcap of the cylinder during weighing or handling procedures as the cylinders are notstructurally designed to be supported by the

neck. If an extinguisher shows a loss of weightof less than 10 percent of the rated capacitystamped on it, it need not be discharged orrefilled; the contents do not deteriorate with age.The extinguisher should be sent to themanufacturer or his authorized agent forrecharging. A close check on the condition ofrubber and composition hoses should be made,

especially where they are exposed to the sun,as in outdoor installations.

6.3.3. Dry-Chemical Extinguishers. - Dry-chemical extinguishers are filled with a compound consisting principally of bicarbonate ofsoda which has been chemically processed tomake i t waterproof, noncorrosive,nonconducting, and free flowing. The extinguisher contains a cartridge of carbon dioxide ornitrogen used to expel the dry compound. Thecarbon dioxide or nitrogen cartridge should beremoved and weighed every 6 months. It should

be replaced if it shows loss of weight. It is notnecessary to removed to make sure it is full andthere is no caking or moisture present.Compound and cartridges other than thosefurnished by the manufacturer should not beused, and recharging instructions should becarefully followed. A quantity of dry compoundand spare cartridges should be kept on hand forimmediate recharging after use. Care should beexercised that the extra compound is notcontaminated by foreign materials.

6.3.4. Wheeled-Type Units. - Large wheeled-type units of carbon dioxide are available, andthe common size for these devices are 23, 24,and 45 kg (50, 75, and 100 lb). The procedurefor recharging and maintaining these devices issimilar to the procedure on the small devices.Care must be taken in considering thesedevices to see that the doorways are wideenough to permit passage of the extinguisherfrom one room or section to another. Inswitchyards and any other type of structure onwhich protection is necessary, there should beconcrete runways for the large-wheeled unitswhere they are equipped with steel wheels.Where the large-wheeled units come equippedwith pneumatic tires, a check should be maintained to see that these tires are properlyinflated. Where it is necessary to store these

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large units outdoors, a small three-sided shedshould be provided to keep the units out of thesun and weather to prevent deterioration of therubber hose and tires.

Dry-compound extinguishers of the 45- to 159kg (100- to 350-1b) size must be inspectedevery 6 months to ensure that the nitrogen

pressure Is available. This is done by pressuregauges forming a part of the extinguisher,similar to those found on an acetylene weldingunit. This extinguisher must be recharged andhose cleaned out by blowing out compoundwhen used or partly used, and the nitrogencylinder replaced by one fully charged when thepressure gauge shows less than 454 kg (1,000lb). Compound furnished by other than themanufacturer should not be used. Therecharging instructions should be carefullyfollowed. A quantity of dry compound and aspare nitrogen cylinder should be kept on hand

for Immediate recharging after use.6.3.5. Hose .- Successful firefighting dependsupon adequate fire streams. The fire-hose is aconnecting link between the water supply andthe fire, and of all firefighting equipment, it isthe most essential. The life of firehose may beas short as 3 years or as long as 15 years.Under average fire conditions and with propercare, hose should be serviceable for a period ofat least 7 years. Hoses requiring replacementshould be replaced with lined hose.

The principal sources of damage to hoses aremechanical Injury, heat, mildew and mold, acid,gasoline, and oil. Tears, snags, and abrasionsfrom dragging hose over ground or roughsurfaces account for much damage to hose.Hose on racks, reels, or on firetrucks should bereloaded from time to time. This is to changethe hose and prevent kinks which may damagethe hose. A satisfactory method of storing hose,not in actual use, is in rolls stored horizontally.All hoses on racks and reels in powerplants orwarehouses should be completely unrolled orunfolded at least annually. All racked hoses willbe reracked using a different folding pattern. Ifdrying facilities are available, they should beused.

6.3.6. Handling Hose at Fires. - The wear andtear on a hose may be reduced to a minimumby proper care and handling. Hose lines shouldnot be dragged unnecessarily over pavements.Needless traffic should not be permitted to passover hose, and it should be protected againstunavailable traffic by the use of hose bridgesand guards. Hose rollers should be used in

hoisting hose onto roofs and into windows. Hosewet at fires and drills should be replaced by dryhose upon return to quarters. Hose couplingsshould not be dropped or dragged as this mayresult in mashed threads, jammed swivels, andother damage. After the hose has been used, allthe dirt should be thoroughly brushed off. If thedirt cannot be removed by brushing, the hoseshould be washed with plain water andscrubbed. When the hose has been exposed tooil, the oil may be removed by washing the hosewith soap and an mild alkali, and then properlyrinsing. The hose should then be hung up or

placed on a rack to dry. A hose-drying rack isrecommended when a hose-drying tower is notavailable. The rack should be of such designthat the hose is supported throughout its lengthand does not hang in loops or any other mannerin which the water can become pocketed. If ahose appears to be in doubtful condition, itshould be tested hydrostatically and replaced ifnecessary. The test pressure should be about350 kPa (50 lb/in 2) in excess of the workingpressure at fires. For powerplant Installationswhere fire-main pressure should normally runbetween 700 and 1,050 kPa (100 and 150lb/in2), 1,200 or 1,400 kPa (175 or 200 lb/in 2) testpressure will be sufficient.

6.3.7. Hose Couplings.- Couplings should bekept in good order; and after hose is used, thethreads should be examined and any injured ordefective couplings should be repaired. Theyshould be so adjusted that they can be easilyscrewed up by hand. Do not use oil or grease onany hose coupling as oil on couplings is likely toresult in damage to the hose, as previouslymentioned. If dirty, they should be spun in a pailof soapy water. The rubber coupling washersshould be renewed as needed. Care should betaken also that the

(FIST 5-2 2/92) 14


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rubber washers do not project into thewaterway, particularly at the nozzle, as thiswill frequently cause a ragged stream.

6.4. CHECKING EQUIPMENT.-

6.4.1. Automatic Sprinkler Systems.- In themajority of Reclamation plants, the oilstorage and oil purifier rooms have beenprovided with an automatic water sprinklersystem. These sprinkler systems are provided with a valved blow-off line. Theseblow-off lines should be opened at monthlyor more frequently intervals in order to keepscale and rust from plugging up the sprinklerheaders.

6.4.2. Transformer Spray Systems.- SomeReclamation powerplants and switchyardshave fog-nozzle-type, water-spray systemsfor transformer bank fire protection. An initial

test should be made on each system with thetransformers deenergized to see that the fogcoverage is adequate. Subsequently, thewaterlines should be flushed out annually toremove rust and scale and ensure properfunctioning of the system. For these tests,the nozzles may be removed or wrapped inburlap to prevent the spray from contactingtransformers if they cannot be deenergizedfor the test. Automatic controls bythermostats or fusible links should be testedannually.

6.4.3. Automatic Generator CO 2 Systems. -A fixed CO 2 fire-protection system isprovided at most Reclamation powerplantsfor extinguishing fires within the generatorhousing and in some other areas within thegenerator housing and in some other areassuch as oil storage rooms. This equipmentmay remain dormant for years without beingcalled upon for an operation, and withoutproper periodic checking may not be in operating condition when needed, resulting in adisastrous fire. It is, therefore, important thatperiodic checking be done to ensure that theequipment is always in operating condition.

Periodic checks as follows should be made:

(1) Weigh all CO 2 cylinders at intervals ofnot more than 6 months and replace cylindersin which the CO 2 content weighsless than 90 percent of the weight markedon the cylinder by the supplier. A record ofthe weights should be kept.

(2) Check the electrical control features at

intervals of not more than 1 month by meansof the test devices where these are provided.This checks the continuity of the electricalcontrol circuits should the detonators andother devices in the circuits.

(3) Open and close the routing valves by handat least once a year and after painting or otherrepair work is done to assure that the valvesare not stuck.

(4) At annual intervals, make an overall CO 2system check by disconnecting the detonators

of all except those CO 2 cylinders that areunder test [see (5) below] and operate theactuating contacts by hand, releasing CO 2into the generator or other protected area.Observe for proper operation and leaks in thesystem and generator housing. CO 2 cylindersbeing removed because of loss of weight maybe used for this purpose. Check forenergization of the detonators by each of theother actuating contacts without dischargingCO 2.

(5) All CO 2 cylinders shall be discharged andthen hydrostatically checked by qualifiedsuppliers every 12 years. Any cylinder thathas been discharged that has not beenhydrostatically tested within 5 years must behydrostatic tested prior to being refilled.

VII. Fire Brigades

7.1. FIRE-BRIGADE DEFINITION.- For pur-poses of this manual, a fire brigade is anorganized group of employees who are knowledgeable, trained, and skilled in at least basicfirefighting operations. Even employees engaged only in incipient-stage firefighting will beconsidered a fire brigade if they are organized inthat manner.

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7.2. ORGANIZATION. - Each plant or facilitythat decides to maintain a fire brigade will prepare a written statement of policy establishingthe existence of a fire brigade; the organizational structure; the type, amount, and frequencyof training to be provided to fire-brigademembers; the expected number of members inthe fire brigade; and the functions that the

brigade is to perform in the workplace.

7.3. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS. - Employeeswho are expected to do interior structural firefighting must be physically capable ofperforming duties which may be assigned tothem during emergencies. No employee withknown heart disease, epilepsy, or emphysemamay participate in fire-brigade emergency activities unless a physician's certificate isprovided stating the employee's fitness to participate in such activities. Fire-brigade memberswill be provided an annual physical examination

as is specified for firefighters, GS-081, inReclamation Supplement to FPM R339.2.

7.4. TRAINING. - All fire-brigade members willbe provided training and education commensurate with those duties and functions that fire-brigade members are expected to perform.Such training and education shall be provided tofire-brigade members before they perform fire-brigade emergency activities. Fire-brigadeleaders and training instructors shall be providedwith training and education which is morecomprehensive than that provided to the general

membership of the fire brigade. It isrecommended that fire-brigade leaders and fire-brigade instructors receive more formalizedtraining and education on a continuing basis byattending classes provided by such trainingsources as universities and university fireextension services. The publications of theInternational Fire Service Training Association(Fire Protection Publications, Oklahoma StateUniversity, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078) arerecommended training manuals.

All fire-brigade members shall be provided withhands-on training at least annually and witheducation sessions or training at least quarterly.

The quality of the training and education program forfire-brigade members shall be similarto those conducted by such fire training schoolsas the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute; IowaFire Service Extension; West Virginia FireService Extension; Georgia Fire Academy, NewYork State Department, Fire Prevention andControl; Louisiana State University Firemen

Training Program; or Washington State's Fire ServiceTraining Commission for Vocational Education.

All fire-brigade members will be informed aboutspecial hazards in the workplace such as the storageof flammable liquids or gases, toxic chemicals, water-reactive substances, and energized electricalequipment to which they may be exposed during fireor other emergencies. Written procedures thatdescribe the actions to be taken in situations involvingthe special hazards will be included in the training andeducation programs.

7.5. PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. - All fire-brigademembers will be provided with protective clothing thatprotects the head, body, and extremities, and consistsof at least the following components: Foot and legprotection, hand protection, body protection, eye,face, and head protection.

All fire-brigade members will wear protectiveclothing meeting the requirements of OSHA (29CFR 1910.156) and summarized below:

(1) Foot and leg protection. Foot and legprotection will be achieved by either of thefollowing methods:

(a) Fully extended boots which provideprotection for the legs; or

(b) Protective shoes or boots worn incombination with protective trousers.

(2) Body protection.- Body protection will becoordinated with foot and leg protection toensure full-body protection for the wearer.This may be achieved by one of the followingmethods:

(a) Wearing of a fire-resistive coat incombination with fully extended boots; or

(FIST 5-2 2/92) 16


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(b) Wearing of a fire-resistive coat incombination with protective trousers.

(3) Hand protection.- Hand protection willconsist of protective gloves or glovesystem which will provide protectionagainst cut, puncture, and heatpenetration. (4) Head, eye, and face

protection.- Head protection shall consistof a protective head device with earflapsand chinstrap. Protective eye and facedevices will be used by fire-brigademembers when performing operationswhere the hazards of flying or fallingmaterials which may cause eye and faceinjuries are present.

7.6. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION DEVICES. -Approved, self-contained breathing apparatuswith full face piece, or with approved helmet orhood configuration, shall be provided to and

worn by fire-brigade members while workinginside buildings or confined spaces where toxicproducts of combustion or an oxygen deficiencymay be present. Such apparatus shall also beworn during emergency situations involvingtoxic substances.

Self-contained breathing apparatus will have aminimum service-life rating of 30 minutes inaccordance with the methods and requirementsof the MSHA (Mine Safety and HealthAdministration) and NIOSH (National Institutefor Occupational Safety and Health); except forESCBA (escape self-contained breathing apparatus) used only for emergency escapepurposes.

Self-contained breathing apparatus will be provided with an indicator which automaticallysounds an audible alarm when the remainingservice life of the apparatus is reduced to withina range of 20 to 25 percent of its rated servicetime.

Self-contained breathing apparatus for use byfire-brigade members performing interior structural firefighting operations will be the pressure-demand or other positive-pressure type.

Employees wearing self-contained breathingapparatus .will not enter alone into an areaimmediately hazardous to life. A team of two or

more members, each wearing self-containedbreathing apparatus may be used to enterhazardous atmospheres.

Employees instructed to use self-containedbreathing apparatus should receive aminimum of 4 hours of training on theequipment with a 2-hour annual refresher

course.

Employees required to operate resuscitationequipment must be given a 4-hour trainingcourse, followed by annual 1-hour refreshertraining sessions.

VIII. Instructions for Making Generator CO 2Concentration Test

8.1. PURPOSE OF TEST. - A CO 2 concentration test should be made on at least one unitof each powerplant or large pumping plant,

which is provided with a CO 2 fire-protectionsystem, about the time the plant is to beplaced in service; or, if not then, as soonthereafter as is practicable and when air-housing modifications dictate additional tests.These instructions are intended to provide thenecessary details on how this test should bemade.

The purpose of the CO 2 concentration test isto determine the adequacy of the CO 2system, and at what time intervals delayed-action cylinders should be discharged to

maintain at least the minimum 34 percentCO 2 concentration required. The system willbe considered adequate if the minimum 34percent CO 2 concentration can be held for 30minutes, or until the unit comes to rest,whichever is the longer. The rate of unitdeclaration and the generator-housingpressure should also be observed.

8.2. TEST EQUIPMENT REQUIRED.- Theapparatus required for making the test is asfollows:

(1) Ranarex CO 2 recorder.

(2) Four stopwatches or watcheswith second hands.

(3) Graph paper, computation paper,carbon paper, curves, and pencils.

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(4) Four clipboards.

(5) Generator-housing connections consisting ofpipe or hose as required to connect between the9.5-mm (3/8-in) sampling connections and outergenerator housing (see A, fig. 6).

If sampling connections are not provided on the

generator, they should be installed as shown insection B-B of figure 7. This is a typicalinstallation, and all dimensions given cannormally be adhered to except the distancefrom the center of the unit. The test samplingconnections should be located approximatelyover the stator-winding end turns.

(6) U-tube manometer made of 9.5-mm-(3/8-in-)or larger inside-diameter clear Saran plastictubing or glass.

The manometer should be mounted on a boardwith a suitable scale in the center. The U-tubelegs should be at least 1 meter (3 ft) long andfilled to 0.5 meter (18 in) with water (see B, fig.

6).

(7) Ranarex recorder and manometer connections consisting of hoses and fittings asrequired to provide supply and return linesbetween the Ranarex recorder samplingconnections and the generator samplingconnections (see C, fig. 6).

Figure 6. Checksheet for making generator CO 2 concentration test.

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Figure 7. Ranarex recorder chart.

8.3. PRETEST INSPECTION ANDPREPARATION.-

(1) Install necessary pipe and hose connec-

tions to generator housing as required fortest.

(2) Inspect pipe fittings and valves forgenerator CO 2 system.

(3) Check CO 2 electrical control connections.

(4) Mount Ranarex recorder on a woodframe if desired and connect to 120-voltcircuit. Check the operation of the Ranarexrecorder and make a check of the zero point.

The zero-point test should be made with thehumidifiers filled, instrument warmed up, andthe instrument operating in air with allexternal hose connections attached to theinstrument, but with the opposite end of thehoses in atmospheric air. If the zero-pointadjustment is required, follow the procedurein the Ranarex instruction book. After the

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zero-point test has been made, connectgenerator end of Ranarex recorderhoses to generator and see that theopen end of the fresh-air hose Is farenough away from the generator so thatescaping C0 2 will not enter It. Checkoperation of Ranarex chart recordingmechanism. If the disk of the recording

mechanism is geared to make onerevolution per hour and the charts furnished are marked for a 24-hour periodper revolution, a time correction willhave to be marked on the charts asshown on the sample chart , figure 7 .

(5) Locate the U-tube and connect togenerator housing.

(6) Inspect generator housing fortightness and proper operation ofdampers if any are used. Close all

access openings.(7) Check floor drains within generatorhousing for adequate seal.

(8) Check generator relief doors for freeswing and proper adjustment. Doorsshould be set to open when the housingpressure reaches 1.4 kPa (0.2 lb/in2).

(9) Assign and instruct personnelregarding the test and how to fill out thedata sheets for their station (see figs. 8,9, 10, and 11).

8.4. PERSONNEL REQUIRED FORTEST.-

PersonnelDuty station required

Ranarex recorder 2U-tube manometer 2Governor tachometer 1Relief door observer 1Person to discharge delayed

cylinders on prearrangedsignal 1

Control room operator on dutyand two extra persons 3

8.5. TEST PROCEDURE AND DATA RE-QUIRED.-

(1) Take initial readings at all stationsand be sure that Ranarex recorder iswarmed up.

(2) With the test generator under full loadat normal speed, trip the differential relayand take readings from the Ranarexrecorder at 5-second Intervals untilmaximum concentration is reached andtake readings at 1-minute intervals fromzero test time until end of test. Dischargedelayed cylinders as required to maintain

25 percent C0 2 concentration. (SeeRanarex station sample data sheet, fig.8.)

(3) Obtain the static reading on thehousing pressure manometer. Thisreading should be taken with both legs ofthe manometer open to atmosphericpressure. Then, take the initial reading ofthe manometer with one leg connectedto the generator air housing with thegenerator running. This will be called theinitial reading. The water-column height

on the legs under this condition will nolonger be the same as the staticreadingbecause of the pressure in thegenerator housing caused by therotation. Record this initial reading.Throughout the actual test after the C0 2has been discharged, read bothmanometer legs every 3 seconds untilthe end of the test. In a few secondsafter the discharge of the C0 2, themanometer reading will be at amaximum. Read this peak and time ofpeak. (See manometer station sampledata sheet, fig. 9).

(4) Read the revolutions per minute bythe governor tachometer. Record themaximum unit overspeed (peak r/min)and time, in seconds, that it occurredafter zero test time. Read and record unitspeed at 15-second intervals until theunit comes to rest. Also, note time andr/min at all brake applications. (Seegovernor station sample data sheet, fig.10.)

(5) Note the time of opening and closingof generator housing pressure reliefdoors. (See generator relief door sampledata sheet, fig. 11 .)

8.6. Test Results .- From the data obtained, plotcurves as shown on the typical curve exampleenclosed (fig. 12).

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Date

Powerplant Unit No.

Time at start of test Recorded by

Read by

Time of delayed cylinder discharges

Time sec CO 2 % Time sec CO 2 % Time sec CO 2 %

0 45 30

5 50 35

10 55 40

15 60 45

20 5 50

25 10 55

30 15 60

35 20 Etc.-Might take

40 25 5 min to reach

maximum

Time sec

0123456789

101112

Etc. to endof test

CO 2 %

Sample of Data Sheet

(The purpose of this sample datasheet is to show what readings arerequired at this station and is notcomplete as to length of time test willactually last.)

Figure 8. CO 2 concentration test data sheet - Ranarex station.

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Date

Powerplant Unit No.


Read by

Manometer static reading (inches H 2O) Right leg Left leg

Manometer initial reading (inches H2O) Right leg Left leg

Manometer peak reading (inches H 2O) Right leg Left leg

Time of peak reading _________________

Remarks

Time sec Right leg Left leg

0

30

60

Sample of Data Sheet

(The purpose of this sample data sheet is toshow what readings are required at this station

30

60

and is not complete as to length of time testwill actually last.)

30

60

30

60

Etc. to end

of test

Figure 9. CO 2 concentration test data sheet - manometer station.

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Date

Powerplant

Time at start of test

Normal rpm of unit

Peak rpm during test

1st brake application rpm

2nd brake application rpm

3rd brake application rpm

etc.

Remarks

Unit No.

Recorded by

Time of peak rpm

Time of 1 st application

Time of 2 nd application

Time of 3 rd application

Time sec Rpm Sample of Data Sheet

0

15

30

60

Etc. to unit

(The purpose of this sample data sheet isto show what readings are required at this

station and is not complete as to length oftime test will actually last.)

stops

Figure 10. CO 2 concentration test data sheet - governor station.

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Date

Powerplant Unit No.


On initial discharge

Time relief door opens Time relief door closes

On delayed discharges

Time relief door opens Time relief door closes

Remarks

Figure 11. CO 2 concentration test data sheet - generator relief door.

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Documents

Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention Manual