fo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke Handbook on Electrical Fires ...rdso.indianrailways.gov.in/works/uploads/File/Handbook on...March 2011 Handbook on Electrical Fires-Causes and Prevention

CAMTECH/E/10-11/El-Fires/1.0

Handbook on Electrical Fires-Causes and Prevention March 2011

1

dsoy dk;Zky;hu mi;ksx gsrq (For Official Use Only)

Hkkjr ljdkjHkkjr ljdkjHkkjr ljdkjHkkjr ljdkj GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

jsy ea=ky;jsy ea=ky;jsy ea=ky;jsy ea=ky; MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

egkjktiqjegkjktiqjegkjktiqjegkjktiqj, Xokfy;j & Xokfy;j & Xokfy;j & Xokfy;j & 474 005474 005474 005474 005 Maharajpur, GWALIOR - 474 005

dSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZ----@@@@10101010&&&&11111111@bZ@bZ@bZ@bZ----,y,y,y,y-----Qk;j@1Qk;j@1Qk;j@1Qk;j@1----0000 CAMTECH/E/10-11/El-Fires/1.0

ekpZ 2011 March 2011

fo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke Handbook on Electrical Fires-

Causes & Prevention

y{; lewg % lkekU; tkx:drk ds fy,y{; lewg % lkekU; tkx:drk ds fy,y{; lewg % lkekU; tkx:drk ds fy,y{; lewg % lkekU; tkx:drk ds fy, Target Group: For General Awareness to All


March 2011 Handbook on Electrical Fires-Causes and Prevention

2

fo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke

Handbook on Electrical Fires-

Causes & Prevention

xq.koRrk uhfrxq.koRrk uhfrxq.koRrk uhfrxq.koRrk uhfr

jsyksa esa ;k=h vkSj eky ;krk;kr dh c<+rh ek¡x dks iwjk djus ds fy, xq.koRrk Áca/k Á.kkyh esa vuqla/kku]

fMtkbuksa vkSj ekudksa esa mRd`"Vrk rFkk lr~r lq/kkjksa ds ek/;e ls lkafof/kd vkSj fu;ked vis{kkvksa dks iwjk djrs gq, lqjf{kr] vk/kqfud vkSj fdQk;rh jsy ÁkS|ksfxdh dk

fodkl djuk AAAA

QUALITY POLICY

“To develop safe, modern and cost

effective Railway Technology complying

with Statutory and Regulatory

requirements, through excellence in

Research, Designs and Standards and

Continual improvements in Quality

Management System to cater to growing

demand of passenger and freight traffic on

the railways”.



3

ÁkDdFkuÁkDdFkuÁkDdFkuÁkDdFku

vfXu dks ;fn le; ij fu;af=r ugha fd;k tk;s rks ;g loZuk’k dj ldrh gSA

Hkkjrh; jsy esa Hkh vfXu yxus ds dkj.k dkQh {kfr gksrh gSA blfy;s ;g vfuok;Z gks tkrk gS fd vkXk dks jksdus ,oa fu;af=r djus ds fy;s lHkh vko’;d dne mBk;s tk;saA ;g rHkh laEHko gS tc gekjs jsy deZpkjh vkXk yxus ds dkj.kksa] vfXu ds Ádkj] vfXu’kked ;a=ksa ,oa inkFkksZa ds çdkj vkSj fofHkUu Ádkj dh vkx cq>kus ds fy, fofHkUu midj.kksa ls voxr gksaA

dSeVsd us mijksDr tkudkjh dks bl gLriqfLrdk esa nsdj bl fn’kk esa ,d

Á;kl fd;k gSA ;g vk’kk djrk gw¡ fd ;g gLriqfLrdk vfXu ds fofHkUu igyqvksa dh tkudkjh

c<+kus esa lgk;d gksxhA

dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j ,l ,l ,l ,l----lhlhlhlh----fla?kyfla?kyfla?kyfla?ky fnukadfnukadfnukadfnukad % % % % 31313131] ] ] ] ekpZekpZekpZekpZ] 201] 201] 201] 2011111 dk;Zdkjh funs’kdk;Zdkjh funs’kdk;Zdkjh funs’kdk;Zdkjh funs’kd d d d



4

FOREWORD

Fires can be devastating if not controlled in time. On Indian Railways also a lot of damages take place due to fires. Therefore, it becomes imperative that all required steps are taken to prevent and control fires. This is possible when Railway men are acquainted with causes of fires, types of fires, types of fire extinguishing equipments and materials and kind of equipments to be used for different kind of fires etc.

CAMTECH has made efforts in this direction by incorporating above information in

this handbook.

It is expected that this handbook will be very useful in disseminating knowledge on various aspects of fires.

CAMTECH, Gwalior S.C. Singhal Date : 31st March 2011 Executive Director



5

Hkwfedk Hkwfedk Hkwfedk Hkwfedk

vf/kdka’k vkx dh ?kVukvksa dks jksdk tk ldrk gS ;fn mfpr lko/kkfu;ka yh tk;sa vkSj laLFkkiukvksa dks vkx yxus dh lEHkkoukvksa dh n`f"V ls fu;fer tk¡p dh tk;sA ;g lqfuf’pr djuk lHkh dk drZO; gS fd muds ifjlj] dk;kZy;] laLFkkiuk;sa vkfn vkx ls vPNh rjg ls lqjf{kr gksa vkSj vfXu 'kked ;a=ksa ls lfTtr gksaA blds lkFk gh gesa ;g lqfuf’pr djuk gksxk fd gekjs deZpkjh vkx dks 'kq#vkrh Lrj ij gh cq>kus esa Áf’kf{kr gksaA

dSeVsd }kjk **fo|qr**fo|qr**fo|qr**fo|qr-vfXu] dkj.k ,oa vfXu] dkj.k ,oa vfXu] dkj.k ,oa vfXu] dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke** jksdFkke** jksdFkke** jksdFkke** ij ;g gLriqfLrdk vkx ,oa

vfXu’kked midj.kksa ds ckjs esa lkekU; tkx:drk iSnk djus ds mn~ns’; ls cukbZ xbZ gSA bl gLriqfLrdk esa vfXu ds oxhZdj.k dh laf{kIr tkudkjh] muds dkj.k] fofHkUu Ádkj ds vfXu’kked] mudh LFkkiuk dh vko’;drkvksa] p;u vkSj ifjpkyu bR;kfn dks fn;k x;k gSA

bl gLriqfLrdk esa fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXu lqj{kk mik;] ;k=h fMCcksa dh ok;fajax

esa vfXu lqj{kk mik; vkSj mlls lEcfU/kr tkudkjh ds lkFk gh D;k djsa vkSj D;k u djsa ds fy, egRoiw.kZ fn’kkfunsZ’k Hkh crk;s x;s gSaA

;g Li"V fd;k tkrk gS fd ;g gLriqfLrdk vkjMh,lvks] jsyos cksMZ ;k {ks=h;

jsyos }kjk fofuZfn"V fdlh Hkh fo/kku dks foLFkkfir ugha djrhA ;g gLriqfLrdk dsoy ekxZn’kZu gsrq gS ,oa ;g ,d oS/kkfud nLrkost+ ugha gSA

eSa] dk;Z{ks= ds mu lHkh deZpkfj;ksa dk vkHkkjh gw¡ ftUgksaus bl gLriqfLrdk dks

cukus esa gekjh lgk;rk dh A rduhdh mUu;urk vkSj lh[kuk ,d lrr~ izfØ;k gSA vr% bl gLriqfLrdk esa

tksM+us@lq/kkjus ds fy;s gesa fy[kus esa Lora= eglwl djsa A bl fn’kk esa ge vkids ;ksxnku dh ljkguk djsaxsA

dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j dSeVsd] Xokfy;j ih;ih;ih;ih;w"k xqIrk w"k xqIrk w"k xqIrk w"k xqIrk fnukad fnukad fnukad fnukad 18181818] ] ] ] ekpZekpZekpZekpZ] 201] 201] 201] 2011111 lalalala---- funs’kd ¼fo|qr½ funs’kd ¼fo|qr½ funs’kd ¼fo|qr½ funs’kd ¼fo|qr½



6

PREFACE

The majority of fires are preventable if the proper precautions are taken and the installations are periodically checked from the point of view of fire risk. It is the duty of everyone to ensure that their premises, offices, installations etc. are well protected against the fire risk and well equipped with fire fighting equipment. At the same time we have to ensure that staff is well trained for fighting the early stage fires.

This handbook on “Electrical fires- causes and preventions” has been prepared by

CAMTECH with the objective to create general awareness about the fire and fire fighting aids. This handbook includes brief description of classification of fires, their causes, different type of fire extinguishers, their installation requirement and selection with their operation etc.

This handbook also includes fire safety measures for electrical wiring, protection

scheme in passenger coaches and other relevant information alongwith important guidelines for what to do and what not to do.

It is clarified that this handbook does not supersede any existing provisions laid

down by RDSO or Railway Board/ Zonal Railways. The handbook is for guidance only and it is not a statutory document.

I am sincerely thankful to all field personnel who helped us in preparing this

handbook.

Technological upgradation and learning is a continuous process. Hence feel free to write us for any addition/ modification in this handbook. We shall highly appreciate your contribution in this direction.

CAMTECH, Gwalior Peeyoosh Gupta Date: 18th March 2011 Jt.Director Electrical



7

fo"k; lwphfo"k; lwphfo"k; lwphfo"k; lwph v/;k;v/;k;v/;k;v/;k; lalalala---- fooj.kfooj.kfooj.kfooj.k i`"B lai`"B lai`"B lai`"B la----

çkDdFku iii Hkwfedk v fo"k; lwph vii la’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dk izdk’ku xi

1111---- ÁLrkoukÁLrkoukÁLrkoukÁLrkouk 01010101 1-1 vkXk D;k gS 01 1-2 vkXk dk oxhZdj.k 01 1-3 vfXu’kked ysfcyksa dk izdkj 03 1-4 vfXu’kkedksa ds fofHkUu izdkj 04 1-5 vfXu’kkedksa ds ckjs esa lkekU; funsZ’k 05 1-6 vfXu’kkedksa dk fujh{k.k ,oa vuqj{k.k 11 1-7 vkx cq>kus dk rjhdk 12

2222---- fo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdfo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdfo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdfo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkeFkkeFkkeFkke 13131313 2-1 fo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k 13 2-2 ;k=h dkspksa esa vkx yxus ds lkekU; dkj.k 14 2-3 fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXulqj{kk mik; 14 2-4 ;k=h dkspksa dh ikWoj lIykbZ ,oa j{kk O;oLFkk 15 2-5 vfr mPp bekjrksa esa fof’k"V vfXu lqj{kk vko’;drk 17 2-6 vkx fn[kkbZ nsus ij dk;Zokgh 17 2-7 vfXu’kked dks pykuk 18 2-8 pykrs le; lkekU; lko/kkfu;k¡ 18 2-9 vfXu’kked dks Á;ksx djus dk lgh rjhdk 19 2-10 'kh?kz vfXu’kked xkbM 20 2-11 bUÝkjsM FkeksZxzkQh 21 2-12 vkx ds dkj.kksa dh tk¡p & fo|qrh; –f"V ls 22

3333---- D;k djsa ,oa D;k u djsa D;k djsa ,oa D;k u djsa D;k djsa ,oa D;k u djsa D;k djsa ,oa D;k u djsa 23232323 3-1 D;k djsa 23 3-2 D;k u djsa 24



8

CONTENTS

Ch.No. Description Page No.

Foreword iv Preface vi Contents viii Correction Slip xii 1. INTRODUCTION 01

1.1 WHAT IS FIRE 01

1.2 CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES 01

1.3 TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER LABELS 03

1.4 DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 04

1.5 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 05

1.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 11

1.7 METHODS OF EXTINGUISHING FIRE 12 2. CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF ELECTRICAL FIRE 13

2.1 CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRE 13

2.2 COMMON CAUSES OF FIRE IN PASSENGER COACHES 14

2.3 FIRE SAFETY MEASURES OF ELECTRICAL WIRING 14

2.4 POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT & PROTECTION SCHEME FOR PASSENGER COACHES 15

2.5 SPECIAL FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH RISE BUILDINGS 17

2.6 ACTION ON SEEING FIRES 17

2.7 OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 18

2.8 GENERAL OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS 18

2.9 CORRECTLY USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 19

2.10 EXTINGUISHER QUICK GUIDE 20

2.11 INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY 21

2.12 INVESTIGATION OF FIRE – ELECTRICAL POINT OF VIEW 22 3. DO’S AND DON’TS 23

3.1 DO’s 23

3.2 DON’Ts 24



9

v/;k;v/;k;v/;k;v/;k; lalalala---- fooj.kfooj.kfooj.kfooj.k i`"B lai`"B lai`"B lai`"B la----

ifjf’k"V ^vîfjf’k"V ^vîfjf’k"V ^vîfjf’k"V ^v^ 25252525

vfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukaaaa s s s s ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud

ifjf’k"V ^cîfjf’k"V ^cîfjf’k"V ^cîfjf’k"V ^c^ 26262626

ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV

ifjf’k"V ^lîfjf’k"V ^lîfjf’k"V ^lîfjf’k"V ^l^ 29292929

vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj

lanHkZlanHkZlanHkZlanHkZ 30



10

Ch.No. Description Page No.

ANNEXURE ‘A’ 25

INDIAN STANDARDS ON FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, GAS CARTRIDGES, REFILLS AND EXTGUISHING CHEMICALS

ANNEXURE ‘B’ 26

TRIAL REPORT OF WATER MIST BASED FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

ANNEXURE ‘C’ 29

REGISTER OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

REFERENCES 31



11

la’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dk izdk’kula’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dk izdk’kula’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dk izdk’kula’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dk izdk’ku

bl gLriqfLrdk ds fy;s Hkfo"; esa izdkf’kr gksus okyh la’kks/ku ifpZ;ksa dks fuEukuqlkj la[;kafdr fd;k tk;sxkA

dSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZdSeVsd@bZ----@@@@10-11@bZ@bZ@bZ@bZ----,y,y,y,y-----Qk;j@1Qk;j@1Qk;j@1Qk;j@1----0000 lh,l lh,l lh,l lh,l # XX fnukad fnukad fnukad fnukad---------------

tgkWa “XX” lEcfU/kr la’kks/ku iphZ dh dze la[;k gS ¼ 01 ls izkjEHk gksdj vkxs dh vksj½ izdkf’kr la’kks/ku ifpZ;k¡ izdkf’kr la’kks/ku ifpZ;k¡ izdkf’kr la’kks/ku ifpZ;k¡ izdkf’kr la’kks/ku ifpZ;k¡ dzdzdzdz----lalalala---- izdk’ku dh izdk’ku dh izdk’ku dh izdk’ku dh

rkjh[krkjh[krkjh[krkjh[k la’kksf/kr Ik`"B la[;k rFkk en la[;kla’kksf/kr Ik`"B la[;k rFkk en la[;kla’kksf/kr Ik`"B la[;k rFkk en la[;kla’kksf/kr Ik`"B la[;k rFkk en la[;k fVIi.khfVIi.khfVIi.khfVIi.kh



12

ISSUE OF CORRECTION SLIPS

The correction slips to be issued in future for this handbook will be numbered as follows :

CAMTECH/E/10-11/El-Fires/1.0/C.S. # XX date--------- Where “XX” is the serial number of the concerned correction slip (starting from 01 onwards).

CORRECTION SLIPS ISSUED

Sr. No. Date of issue Page no. and Item no. modified

Remarks



1

v/;k; 1v/;k; 1v/;k; 1v/;k; 1 CHAPTER 1

ÁLrkoukÁLrkoukÁLrkoukÁLrkouk INTRODUCTION

1.1 vvvvkkkkXXXXkkkk D;kD;kD;kD;k gS gS gS gS WHAT IS FIRE

Fire is a chemical chain reaction between (a) fuel combustible materials (b) heat,

ignition temperature and (c) air, oxygen. The presence of Oxygen, combustible substances and heat together causes fire which will be accompanied with smoke and heat. The smoke may not be present sometime, but the heat will be present always.

In other words, it may be stated that three things

are essential for fire which can be represented by the three arms of a triangle, viz. Heat, combustible substance and the supporter of combustion or oxygen. A fire can not take place in absence of any one of these three factors.

The fire, as an effect, its control and elimination

can be categorized in three parts:

a. The originating point of the fire.

b. Need of immediate curbing the further propagation of fire by using fire retardant materials and components.

c. Use of fire fighting arrangement, in case the fire has taken place.

Electrical fires may be caused due to short circuit, over heating, over loading, use of non-standard appliances, use of defective appliances, poor maintenance, illegal tapping of electric wires, improper electrical wiring, carelessness and ignorance etc.. It can lead to serious fires and fatal accidents, if proper precautions are not followed.

1.2 vvvvkkkkXXXXkkkk dk oxhZdj.k dk oxhZdj.k dk oxhZdj.k dk oxhZdj.k CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES

Under British Standard EN-2 (Classification of fires), fires have been divided into broad classifications for extinguishing purpose. This will assist in selecting the most effecting fire extinguishing agent to be used, on the most appropriate type of fire and burning material.

CLASS A:

All solid materials, usually organic origin nature (contains compounds of carbon) and generally produce glowing embers – i.e. wood, textiles, curtains, furniture and plastics.

A

Wood/ Furnishings etc.

AIR FUEL (Blanketing) (Starvation)

HEAT(Cooling)



2

CLASS B:

All flammable liquids and solids, which can also be sub-divided into:

• Non-miscible with water (i.e. petrol, oils, solvents, paints & waxes)

• Polar liquid fires (Hydrophilic/Miscible) with water (e.g. alcohol, methanol, acetone, propanol, & ethanol etc.)- sometimes known as Polar Liquids)

Note : Hydrophilic = having an affinity with water

Miscible = capable of being mixed.

CLASS C: Class ‘C’ fires involve Natural Mains Gas, Liquid Petroleum Gases (e.g. LPG – Butane & Propane etc.) and Medical or Industrial gases.

CLASS D:

Class ‘D’ fires involving metals or powdered metals etc. (where water is generally ineffective and/ or dangerous). Specialist Dry Powders are produced for certain class ‘D’ fires (i.e. M28), particularly those involving alkali metals such as Sodium & Potassium. These Dry powders extinguish metal fires by fusing the powder to form a crust, which excludes oxygen from the surface of the molten metal. A specific agent is added to prevent the powder from sinking into the surface of the molten metals.

ELECTRICA L:

Electrical fires are not considered to constitute a fire class on their own, as electricity is a source of ignition that will feed the fire until removed. When the electrical supply has been isolated, the fire can be treated (generally) as ‘Class A’ for extinguishing purposes. However, you should always isolate the supply before fighting the fire; if this is not possible then a non-electrical conducting extinguishing agent is to be used regardless of the power status, on all occasions.

Warning Note:

Some electrical equipment such as capacitors can store dangerous voltages even if their power supply has been isolated. Always use extinguishers containing non-electrical equipment such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2) or dry powder.

B

Flammable liquids and solids

C

D

Fires involving gases

Fires involving metals

Electrical

E



3

CLASS F:

New class specifically dealing with high temperature (≥360°C) cooking oils used in large industrial catering kitchens, restaurants and take away establishments etc. Cooking oil fires, because of their high auto-ignition temperatures, are difficult to extinguish.

Conventional extinguishers are not effective for cooking oil fires, as they do not cool sufficiently or may even cause flash back, thereby putting the operator at risk. These extinguishers contain a specially formulated wet chemical which, when applied to the burning liquid, cools and emulsifies the oil, extinguishing the flame, sealing the surface and preventing re-ignition.

1.3 vvvvffffXXXXu’kked ysfcyksa dk izdkju’kked ysfcyksa dk izdkju’kked ysfcyksa dk izdkju’kked ysfcyksa dk izdkj TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER LABELS 1.3.1 oxZ oxZ oxZ oxZ ^̂̂̂vvvv^̂̂̂ vvvvffffXXXXu’kked u’kked u’kked u’kked Class A Extinguishers

These are water expelling type extinguishers which can be used

for putting out fires involving solid combustible materials of organic nature, such as wood, paper, rubber, plastic etc. where the cooling effect of water is essential. The numerical rating for this class of fire extinguisher refers to the amount of water the fire extinguisher holds and the amount of fire it will extinguish.

1.3.2 oxZ oxZ oxZ oxZ ^̂̂̂CkCkCkCk^̂̂̂ vvvvffffXXXXu’kked u’kked u’kked u’kked Class B Extinguishers

These are foam, dry powder, vaporizing liquid and carbon

dioxide type extinguishers which can be used for putting out fires involving flammable liquids or liquefiable solids such as grease, gasoline, oil, etc. where a blanketing effect is essential. The numerical rating for this class of fire extinguisher states the approximate number of square feet of a flammable liquid fire that a non-expert person can expect to extinguish.

1.3.3 oxZ oxZ oxZ oxZ ^̂̂̂llll^̂̂̂ vvvvffffXXXXu’kked u’kked u’kked u’kked Class C Extinguishers

These are dry powder, vaporizing liquid and carbon dioxide type extinguishers which can be used for putting out fires involving flammable gases, under pressure including liquefied gases where it is necessary to inhibit the burning gas at fast rate with an inert gas, powder or vaporizing liquid. These are also suitable for use on electrically energized fires. This class of fire extinguishers does not have a numerical rating. The presence of the letter “C” indicates that the extinguishing agent is non-conductive.

F

High Temperature Cooking oils



4

1.3.4 oxZ oxZ oxZ oxZ ^̂̂̂nnnn^̂̂̂ vvvvffffXXXXu’kked u’kked u’kked u’kked Class D Extinguishers

These extinguishers with special dry powder can be used for putting out fires involving flammable metals such as magnesium, aluminium, zinc, sodium, potassium etc. and are often specific for the type of metal in question. There is no picture designator for Class D extinguishers. These extinguishers generally have no rating. Note- Where energised electrical equipment is involved in a fire, non conductivity of the

extinguishing media is of utmost importance and only extinguishers expelling dry powder, carbon dioxide (without metal horn) or vaporizing liquids should be used. Once the electrical equipment is de-energised, extinguishers suitable for the class of fire risk involved can be used safely.

1.4 vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedksa ds fofHkUu izdkj u’kkedksa ds fofHkUu izdkj u’kkedksa ds fofHkUu izdkj u’kkedksa ds fofHkUu izdkj DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

1.4.1 ikuh dkcZu MkbZ vikuh dkcZu MkbZ vikuh dkcZu MkbZ vikuh dkcZu MkbZ vWWWWkDlkbZM izdkj dkkDlkbZM izdkj dkkDlkbZM izdkj dkkDlkbZM izdkj dk v v v vffffXXXXu’kkedu’kkedu’kkedu’kked Water CO2 Type Fire Extinguisher

This extinguisher is suitable for A Class of fire such as wood, paper, furnishings, cloth, textile and stationery etc. It is very easy to operate. These are available in various capacities.

1.4.2 dkcZu MkbZ vWkDlkbZM izdkj dkdkcZu MkbZ vWkDlkbZM izdkj dkdkcZu MkbZ vWkDlkbZM izdkj dkdkcZu MkbZ vWkDlkbZM izdkj dk v v v vffffXXXXu’kkedu’kkedu’kkedu’kked CO2 (Carbon Di-Oxide) type Fire Extinguisher

The quick and efficient flame knock down property of CO2 gas makes it ideal for tackling fire involving flammable liquid for example oils, paints, varnish, solvents and even industrial gases also. Inert CO2 gas rapidly starves the fire of oxygen, extinguishing it within a short time.

1.4.3 eeeesdsuhdy Qkse izdkj dksdsuhdy Qkse izdkj dksdsuhdy Qkse izdkj dksdsuhdy Qkse izdkj dk v v v vffffXXXXu’kkedu’kkedu’kkedu’kked Mechanical Foam (AFFF) Type Fire Extinguisher

This extinguisher is suitable for A Class & B Class of fire such as wood, paper, furnishings, cloth, textile, oil, kerosene, paints, petrol, stationery etc. It is maintenance free & very easy to operate. These are available in various capacities.

1.4.4 ’kq’kq’kq’kq""""dddd jlk;fud ikoMj jlk;fud ikoMj jlk;fud ikoMj jlk;fud ikoMj vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedu’kkedu’kkedu’kked Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) Extinguisher

These extinguishers are suitable for ‘B’ and ‘C’ class fires such as inflammable liquids, gaseous fires like L.P.G. and acetylene, and electrical fires. These are available in various capacities.

1.4.5 Dyhu ,stsaVDyhu ,stsaVDyhu ,stsaVDyhu ,stsaV vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedu’kkedu’kkedu’kked Clean Agent Fire Extinguishers

Clean agent fire extinguisher is also known as HFC Blend A, It is a blend of Hydro Fluoro carbon & organic detoxification essence P 26. It is suitable for A, B, C class and electrical fires. It uses Non-Corrosive, Odourless, colourless and non residual clean agent. These are available in various capacities



5

1.4.6 vvvvkkkkXXXXk cq>kuk cq>kuk cq>kuk cq>kus ds fy;s ckfYV;k¡s ds fy;s ckfYV;k¡s ds fy;s ckfYV;k¡s ds fy;s ckfYV;k¡ Fire Buckets

A fire sand bucket or fire bucket is a steel bucket filled with sand which is used to put out fires. Typically, fire buckets are painted bright red and have the word 'Fire ' stenciled on them in white lettering. They are placed in prominent positions in rooms or corridors.

They are a basic, low-technology method of fighting small fires. The main

advantages of fire buckets are that they are cheap, reliable and easy to use. The fire buckets are usually made round bottom so that they cannot be used for other purposes. Fire buckets are hung on fire bucket stands.

1.5 vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedksau’kkedksau’kkedksau’kkedksa ds ckjs esa lkekU; funsZ’k ds ckjs esa lkekU; funsZ’k ds ckjs esa lkekU; funsZ’k ds ckjs esa lkekU; funsZ’k GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT FIRE

EXTINGUISHERS (As per IS 2190:1992, third revision)

These instructions are for first aid fire fighting appliances and are very valuable if used efficiently in the early stages of the fire.

• The most important feature is their immediate availability so that each extinguisher can be used by one or two persons.

• The occupants should have knowledge to operate them.

• These should be operated by the person having knowledge to operate them.

• It is recommended that extinguishers installed in any one building or single occupancy shall be similar in shape / appearance and should have same method of operation, as far as possible. This will simplify the training of the large number of employee in the effective and efficient use of extinguishers.

• These should be provided both for protecting building structure as well as occupancy hazard contained therein.

• The number and size of fire extinguishers required for any particular premises shall be determined by the appropriate authority taking all consideration.

1.5.1 LLLLFkku dk pquko Fkku dk pquko Fkku dk pquko Fkku dk pquko Selection of Location

• When selecting locations for fire extinguishers, due consideration should be given to the nature of risk to be covered.

• The extinguishers should be placed in conspicuous positions and shall be readily accessible for immediate use in all parts of the occupancy.

• It should always be borne in mind while selecting locations that fire extinguishers are intended only for the use on incipient fires and they will be of little value if the fire is not extinguished or brought under control, in the early stage.

• Generally, fire extinguishers should be placed as near as possible to exits or stair lands without hindering the escape routes. Wherever possible, advantage should be taken of normal routes of escapes by placing these in positions where these shall readily be seen by persons following the natural impulse to get out of danger.



6

• The extinguishers should be available for immediate use at all times. Extinguishers should be sited in such a way that it is not necessary to travel more than 15 meters from the site of the fire to reach the extinguishers. Similar positions on each floor are advisable.

• Extinguishers provided to deal with special risks should be sited near to risk area concerned but not so near as to inaccessible in case of fire. If the special risk is contained in a confined space, it is generally advisable to position the extinguisher outside that space.

• Wall mounted fire extinguishers should be placed on the supporting wall or in wooden, metal or plastic cabinets in such a way that their bottom is 1000 mm above ground level. When installed in the open, fire extinguishers should be placed on masonry platforms or in wooden/ metal/ plastic cabinets in such a way that their bottom is 1000mm above ground level.

• It may be necessary to construct suitable shades or covers to protect the extinguishers in the open from excessive heat and cold as well as from corrosive environment. Where such shades or covers are provided to house the extinguishers in the open, these should be designed so that the removal of the extinguishers is not hampered in emergency.

• While selecting the location for higher capacity/ wheeled/ trolley mounted extinguishers, consideration should be given to the mobility of the extinguishers within the area in which it will be used and, if indoors, the size of the doorways and passages which should allow easy movement of the extinguisher.

• When installed in a building, the extinguisher should not be placed in a position where it is likely to gain heat from the surrounding equipment or process.

• A framed plane showing the location of fire extinguishers, means of access and other useful information should be displayed at suitable places, it should be available near to the entrance to the premises preferably at the security gate or the reception office.



7

1.5.2 vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedksa dks yXkkus u’kkedksa dks yXkkus u’kkedksa dks yXkkus u’kkedksa dks yXkkus dh vuq’kalkdh vuq’kalkdh vuq’kalkdh vuq’kalk Recommendations for Installation of Fire Extinguishers

Occupancies classified according to IS 1641: 1989 are given below together with nature of fire hazard and type of fire risk along with typical examples. The classifications, groupings, etc., given below are only for general guidance for installation of fire extinguishers, and not for other purposes.

LH - Low Hazard OH - Ordinary Hazard

HH - High Hazard SH - Special Hazard

Class of

Occupancy Type of

Occupancy Nature of Occupancy

Class of Fire Risk

Typical Examples

LH Class A Lodging houses, private dwellings, dormitories, apartment houses, flats, hotels, etc.

LH Class C Small kitchens having LPG connection, electrical heaters, etc.

Group A Residential buildings

OH Class A Multistoried buildings, multi-risk buildings, five star hotels, etc.

LH Class A Tutorials, vocational training institutes, evening colleges, commercial institutes.

Group B Educational buildings

OH Class A Schools, colleges, etc.

Group C Institutional buildings

OH Class A Hospitals, sanatoria, homes for aged, orphanage, jails, etc.

Assembly buildings

D-1

HH Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibitions halls, museums, restaurants, places of worship, club rooms, dance halls etc. having seating capacity of over 1000 persons.

D-2 OH Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibitions halls, museums, restaurants, places of worship, club rooms, dance halls etc. having seating capacity less than 100 persons.

D-3 OH Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibitions halls, museums, restaurants, places of worship, club rooms, dance halls etc. but having accommodation for more than 300 persons, but less than 1000 persons, with no permanent seating arrangement.

Group D

D-4

D-5

LH Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibitions halls, museums, restaurants, places of worship, club rooms, dance halls etc. but having accommodation less than 300 and those not covered under D-1 to D-3.



8

Class of Occupancy

Type of Occupancy

Nature of Occupancy

Class of Fire Risk

Typical Examples

Business buildings

E-1

SH Class A Offices, banks, record rooms, archives, libraries, data processing centre, etc.

E-2 OH Class B Laboratories, research establishments, test houses, etc.

Group E

E-3 SH Class A Computer installations.

Group F Mercantile buildings

OH Class A Shops, stores, markets, departmental stores, underground shopping centers, etc.

LH Class A Small industrial units.

OH Class A Corrugated carton manufacturing units, paper cane units, packing case manufacturing units, cotton waste manufacturing units.

HH Class A Large number yards, saw mills, go-downs and warehouses storing combustible materials, cold storages, freight depots, etc.

LH Class B Demonstration chemical plants, small chemical processing plants, pilots plants, etc.

OH Class B Workshops, painting shops, large kitchens, industrial canteens, generator rooms, heat treatment shops, tread rubber manufacturing units, petrol bunks, tubes & flaps units, etc.

HH Class B Petroleum processing units, chemical plants, industrial alcohol plants, effluent treatment plants, etc.

LH Class C

OH Class C

HH Class C Fertilizer plants, petrochemical plants, LPG bottling plants, etc.

Group G Industrial buildings

HH Class D All processes involving use of combustible highly flammable materials, reactive metals & alloys, including their storage.



9

Class of Occupancy

Type of Occupancy

Nature of Occupancy

Class of Fire Risk

Typical Examples

OH Class B Flammable liquid stores, storage in drums and cans in open, paints and varnishes go-down.

HH Class B Tank farms, chemical and petroleum bulk storage depots, large service stations, truck and marine terminals, underground LDO/ Furnace oil storage yards etc.

Group H Storage buildings

OH Class C LPG distribution go-downs/ offices, distribution storage go-downs/ offices of D,N,H, Argon and other industrial gases.

IH Class C Storage and handling of gas cylinders in bulk, gas plant, gas holders, (Horton) spheres, etc.

Group I Hazardous -- -- Buildings used for storage, handling, manufacture and processing of highly combustible explosive materials. (Risks involved in terms of class of fire and intensity of fire has to be assessed on case to case basis and statutory authorities to be consulted, environmental factors and mutual aid facilities to be taken into account before deciding on the fire extinguisher requirements.)

1.5.3 midj.kksa dk midj.kksa dk midj.kksa dk midj.kksa dk vuq’akflr iSekukvuq’akflr iSekukvuq’akflr iSekukvuq’akflr iSekuk Recommended Scale of Equipment to be Installed

oxZoxZoxZoxZ v v v v Class A

LH Occupancy One 9-L water expelling extinguisher for every 600m2 of floor area or part thereof with minimum of two extinguishers per compartment or floor of the building. The extinguishers should be so located as to be available within 25m radius.

OH Occupancy Two 9-L water expelling extinguishers for every 600m2 with minimum of 4 extinguishers per compartment/ floor. The extinguishers should be so located as to be available within 25m radius.

HH Occupancy Provision as per OH occupancy; in addition one 50-L soda acid chemical engine for every 100m2of floor area or part thereof.

Special hazard One 4.5 kg capacity carbon dioxide or one 2.5 kg capacity Halon/1211 extinguisher for every 100m2 of floor area or part thereof with minimum of two extinguishers so located as to be available within 10m radius.



10

oxZoxZoxZoxZ c c c c Class B

LH Occupancy One 9-L foam extinguisher, chemical for every 600m2 of floor area or part thereof with minimum of two extinguishers per compartment or floor. The extinguishers should be so located as to be available within 25m radius.

OH Occupancy Two 9-L foam extinguishers, chemical/ mechanical type, or 5 kg capacity dry powder extinguisher (or one of each type) for every 600m2 area with minimum of four extinguishers per compartment. Extinguishers should be available within 15m radius.

HH Occupancy Provisions as per OH, and in addition one 50-L foam type chemical engine for every 100m2 or part thereof, one 150-L foam chemical engine for every 300m2 of floor area or part thereof.

oxZoxZoxZoxZ l l l l Class C

LH Occupancy One 2kg dry powder or 2.5 kg halon 1211 extinguisher for every 20m2 of floor area or part thereof, extinguisher should be available within a radius of 15m.

OH Occupancy One 10kg dry powder extinguisher or 6.8kg carbon dioxide extinguisher or 2.5kg Halon 1211 extinguisher for 100m2 of floor area or part thereof, with minimum of one extinguishers of the same type for every compartment; extinguisher should be available within a radius of 15m.

HH Occupancy Dry powder extinguisher of 10kg or 6.8kg CO2 extinguishers, or 5kg Halon 1211 extinguishers for every 100m2 of floor area or part thereof, subject to a minimum of two extinguishers of same type per room or compartment. Extinguishers should be available within a radius of 10m.

oxZoxZoxZoxZ n n n n Class D

HH Occupancy One 10kg dry powder extinguisher with special dry powder for metal fires for every 100m2 of floor area or part thereof with minimum of two extinguishers per compartment/ room. Extinguishers should be available within a radius of 10m.

NOTES

1. The recommendations are minimum for a specific area. In case, the area is more than specified, high capacity extinguishers may be used based on these minimum requirements, that is proportionately higher capacity can be used.

2. In case of dry powder/ CO2 / Halon types, equivalent lower capacities may also be used.



11

1.6 vvvvffffXXXXu’kkedksa dk fujh{k.k ,oa vuqj{k.k u’kkedksa dk fujh{k.k ,oa vuqj{k.k u’kkedksa dk fujh{k.k ,oa vuqj{k.k u’kkedksa dk fujh{k.k ,oa vuqj{k.k INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

A well-planned and approved maintenance schedule is essential to ensure that an

extinguisher:

a. Will operate properly between the time intervals stipulated in the maintenance programme for periodical inspection/ maintenance.

b. Will not constitute a potential hazard to persons in its vicinity or to those who operate or recharge the extinguishers.

During inspection/ maintenance of extinguishers the general safety precautions

should be observed.

For more details about Inspection and Maintenance of First-Aid Fire Extinguishers, please refer various IS pertaining to Fire Extinguishers (See Annexure ‘A’)

However maintenance of Dry Powder Type Gas Cartridge Fire Extinguisher is given

below for guidance: 1.6.1 'kq"d ikoMj Ádkj dk xSl dk'kq"d ikoMj Ádkj dk xSl dk'kq"d ikoMj Ádkj dk xSl dk'kq"d ikoMj Ádkj dk xSl dkVVVVªsªsªsª s ZZ ZZt vfXu'kked t vfXu'kked t vfXu'kked t vfXu'kked

Dry Powder Type Gas Cartridge Fire Extinguisher (IS 2171, IS 10658, IS 11833)

All dry powder extinguishers should be inspected and maintained in accordance with the following. The dry powder extinguishers should be opened in a dry room and for a minimum possible time to avoid effect to atmospheric moisture on powder.

a. Dry powder extinguisher, where discharge control is fitted on the nozzle, should be operated before opening the extinguisher to ensure that there is no pressure in the extinguisher.

b. Weigh the extinguisher to check the correct mass of powder filled in it which should be marked on the body of extinguisher and record book when it was first put into service.

c. Open the extinguisher and remove gas cartridge and see that sealing disc is intact. Weigh and compare its mass with full mass of cartridge marked on it. In case, loss of mass is more than 10 percent, it should be replaced by new cartridge.

d. Check the operating mechanism, discharge control for free movement and closing. Examine nozzle, hose, vent holes, piercing mechanism of cap cartridge holder, grease and wipe clean.

e. Remove the inner shell (if any) and clean port holes.

f. Empty the dry powder in a dry container and examine for caking, lumps and foreign matter, in which case replace it with new dry powder charge.

g. Examine the extinguisher body internally for any damage or corrosion and replace corroded or damaged extinguisher.

h. Clean the extinguisher using dry air.

i. Return the original charge to the extinguisher and fit the cartridge and other fittings.



12

j. In case of higher capacity dry powder fire extinguisher as per IS 10658, remove the carbon dioxide cylinder and check the weight marked on the cylinder to ensure that the size conforms to that stipulated in the specification. On weighing, if the loss of mass is more than 10 percent it should be sent for recharging. Also examine the wheel carriage and discharge hose assembly with control nozzle for free flow and test it with dry air.

k. In case of dry powder extinguisher for metal fires as per IS 11833, in addition to item ‘j’ above, examine the applicator pipe and the discharge shower head for freedom from clogging and clean it with dry air. Sample of the dry powder for metal fire may be tested on a small fire of magnesium turning or chips to ensure that the powder is suitable for metallic fire risks.

l. The safety valves and pressure gauges fitted on higher capacity extinguishers should be calibrated once in 3 years and recorded in the register.

1.7 vkx cq>kus dk rjhdk vkx cq>kus dk rjhdk vkx cq>kus dk rjhdk vkx cq>kus dk rjhdk METHODS OF EXTINGUISHING FIRE

The method of extinguishing fire is to cut one, two or all elements of triangle as warranted by the situation. The methods are as given below:

1.7.1 LVkjos’ku fof/k LVkjos’ku fof/k LVkjos’ku fof/k LVkjos’ku fof/k Starvation Method

Segregation of fire and removing un-burnt records, furniture, fuels, and other combustible substances away from the fire. Switching off fuel, power supply etc.

1.7.2 CysadsfVax@<duk fof/k CysadsfVax@<duk fof/k CysadsfVax@<duk fof/k CysadsfVax@<duk fof/k Blanketing/ Smothering Method

It means cutting off supply of Oxygen, access of fresh air into fire, using sand, foam etc., to cover fire.

1.7.3 BaMh djuk BaMh djuk BaMh djuk BaMh djuk Cooling Method

It means reducing the degree of temperature or heat by throwing water.



13

v/;k;v/;k;v/;k;v/;k; 2 2 2 2 CHAPTER 2

fo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdFkkefo|qr ls vkx yxus ds dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF ELECTRICAL FIRE

2.1 fofofofo|qr |qr |qr |qr ls ls ls ls vkx vkx vkx vkx yxus yxus yxus yxus ds dkj.k ds dkj.k ds dkj.k ds dkj.k CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRE

� vksojyksfMax vksojyksfMax vksojyksfMax vksojyksfMax Overloading:

It is the common practice that most of the people connect additional load to the installation, without checking whether existing installation is capable of withstanding the additional load or not. Undersize cables may initially with stand additional load, but gradually due to overheating of cables, the insulation gets deteriorated and fails leading to fire.

� vLFkk;h fo|qr la;kstu vLFkk;h fo|qr la;kstu vLFkk;h fo|qr la;kstu vLFkk;h fo|qr la;kstu Temporary electrical connections

Many times temporary electrical connections are made. These are basically planned on short term basis. The quality of work involved in it is normally of sub-standard nature. Temporary electrical connections give rise to faults such as loose connections, insufficient or naked points, unstable supports, inadequate insulation etc. All these shortcomings give rise to overheating, insulation failure, spark-over and ultimately damage due to fire.

� [kjkc lEi[kjkc lEi[kjkc lEi[kjkc lEiddddZ ,oa <Z ,oa <Z ,oa <Z ,oa <hys la;kstu hys la;kstu hys la;kstu hys la;kstu Bad contacts and loose connections

Contact surfaces contain microscopic air gaps, dirt etc. which result in higher contact resistance, subsequent rise in temperature and continuous dissipation of heat. After continuous use, erosion in switch contacts increases so much, that even a small change in the load causes sparking at contacts. This may result in the rise of the temperature of the surroundings. In electrical circuits loose connections also cause resistive heating. The insulation of cables, wooden material, terminal boards, all constitute combustible materials. Under such circumstances when temperature of the surrounding air is high, a small spark is sufficient to ignite and cause a fire.

In addition to above following are also some common causes for electrical fires:

• Short circuits at joints and terminations due to bare wires loosening out of the terminals or the wires fraying out and touching other terminals.

• Arcing at improper joints, loose connections and terminations resulting in high temperature build-up.

• Earth faults in wires with deteriorated insulation.

• Short circuit due to mechanical damage to insulation.

• Heat from other sources.

• Sub-standard installation processes.



14

2.2 ;k=h dkspksa esa vkx yxus ds lkekU; dkj.k ;k=h dkspksa esa vkx yxus ds lkekU; dkj.k ;k=h dkspksa esa vkx yxus ds lkekU; dkj.k ;k=h dkspksa esa vkx yxus ds lkekU; dkj.k COMMON CAUSES OF FIRE IN PASSENGER COACHES

(i) Carrying stoves, sigris, gas cylinders, kerosene oil, petrol, fire works etc. in passenger compartment.

(ii) Making fire/using fire near paper, wood, petrol or such inflammable articles.

(ii) Lighted match sticks, cigarette ends carelessly thrown.

(iii) Using naked light during authority token delivery, to the driver, shunting of inflammable loads, sealing of inflammable wagons.

(iv) Use of open fire, smoking near gas/petrol tank.

(v) Non-removal of garbage from pantry car/coaches.

Every one should take all possible precautions to keep away from doing the above mistakes so that possibility of breakage out of fire can be minimized.

2.3 fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXulqj{kk mik; fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXulqj{kk mik; fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXulqj{kk mik; fo|qr ok;fjax esa vfXulqj{kk mik;

FIRE SAFETY MEASURES FOR ELECTRICAL WIRING

Following safe practices in respect of electrical wiring would help to reduce fire incidents:

2.3.1 pquko pquko pquko pquko Selection

1. Prefer copper wiring/ cables.

2. Use only ISI marked wiring/ cables and related accessories.

3. Don’t use 1 sq mm. cable at all in the household.

4. Use 10 sq mm. cable for main connection between the electricity supply meter and the main switch on the distribution board in the house/ flat and 6 mm. cable for connection between distribution board and sub-distribution board in each room.

5. Use 4 sq mm. cable for supplies to geysers, heaters and air-conditioners and such heavy loads and 2.5 sq mm. cable for supplies to TV, kitchen appliances, refrigerator, washing machine, dish washer and electric iron.

2.3.2 lalalalaLFkkiu LFkkiu LFkkiu LFkkiu Installation

1. Don’t install electrical power circuits and communication circuits in the same conduit/ casing.

2. Ensure that the wiring for high power consuming devices like air conditioners, geysers, etc. run separately.

3. Seal cable passes and other openings effectively, using suitable fire protection method such as fire stops and fire breaks.

4. Take extra safety precautions such as reliable termination, use of continuous wires without joints.

5. Derate the current rating of the wires to ensure that the temperature remains safely within the prescribed limits when a number of wires are laid together in casing or conduit. Avoid temporary wiring and connections.



15

6. Install a master control switch outside office occupancies to enable switching off power after office hours.

7. Have a spare galvanized steel wire in the conduit for pulling a cable in future for additional circuiting or for replacing a defective cable.

8. Don’t use flexible conduits for general wiring.

2.3.3 j{kkRed vOk;oj{kkRed vOk;oj{kkRed vOk;oj{kkRed vOk;o Protective Accessories

1. Don’t increase the fuse capacity for preventing or eliminating frequent fuse blow-up. Prefer HRC (High Rupturing Capacity) fuses.

2. Use MCBs (M iniature Circuit Breakers) for protecting higher capacity loads like geysers, air-conditioners, etc.

3. Use separate MCB distribution boards for circuit supplying to devices/ appliances which can be switched off with the master switch and for other circuits which are not to be switched off by the master switch.

4. Use RCCBs (Residual Current - Operated circuit Breakers). Don’t depend on fuses, MCBs, etc. for protection against leakage current.

2.3.4 Iyx ,oa lkWdsV Iyx ,oa lkWdsV Iyx ,oa lkWdsV Iyx ,oa lkWdsV Plug and Socket

1. Use 3-pin (or wherever so made by 2-pin) plugs to make connections to the socket.

Never insert loose wires.

2. Provide 3-pin plug for all electrical appliances and ensure that earthing is connected to the pin meant for earthing.

3. Don’t use 3-pin plug with earthing terminal missing or sawed-off.

4. Ensure that plug and socket fit each other smoothly and provide adequate contact for carrying rated full load current.

5. Don’t try to force a 2-pin plug in a 3-pin socket.

6. Avoid connecting multiple appliances or circuits to a single socket. 2.4 ;k=h dkspksa dh ikWoj lIykbZ ,oa j{kk O;oLFkk ;k=h dkspksa dh ikWoj lIykbZ ,oa j{kk O;oLFkk ;k=h dkspksa dh ikWoj lIykbZ ,oa j{kk O;oLFkk ;k=h dkspksa dh ikWoj lIykbZ ,oa j{kk O;oLFkk POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT

& PROTECTION SCHEME FOR PASSENGER COACHES

• 110 V DC two wire insulated system with each wire placed in a separate conduit to prevent any short circuit.

• Adoption of 110 V DC system in place of 24 V DC system has improved the fault discrimination and effectiveness of protection systems.

• In 110 V system, fault current is 10 times more than the load current hence the faults are promptly cleared (24 V system had very narrow discrimination between fault and load current)

• 110 V DC system has reduced the load current to approx. 1/5th as compared to 24 V DC system and so the overheating at various junction points.

• All the circuits are protected by suitable sizes of fuses.

• It does not cause shock to any person due to floating system.



16

• Use of over voltage protection has been introduced to prevent any damage to the equipments.

• Insulation scheme for alternators has been upgraded.

• Cables from alternator to RRU have been changed to copper from aluminium, along with fire retardant Dough moulding compound cleats.

• Use of epoxy moulded terminal board has been introduced for alternators to prevent shorting of terminals.

• Fire retardant PPCP containers are being introduced for battery.

• Supply scheme has multi level protection system in the event of short circuit & more than two earth faults.

• Fuse distribution boards and rotary switch boards are made of fire retardant fiber glass (FRPSMC).

• Cables in the superstructure are laid in insulated PVC conduits.

• Cables in the under frame are laid in metallic conduits.

• Cables with fire retardant insulating material are used.

• Sparkless BLDC fans with inbuilt overload protection have been developed and provided.

• Electronic regulators with improved voltage and current regulation and inbuilt over voltage protections have been developed and provided.

• The sizes of cables have been standardized.

• The type and sizes of fuses for various circuits have been standardized.

• Code of practice for prevention of fire had been issued for railways for implementation.

• Checking of earth fault on positive and negative circuits are being done after every Trip.

15 A

35 A

POWER SUPPLY SCHEME GENERAL PASSENGER COACHES

32 A

6 A

6 A

6 A

6 A

6 A

6 A

15 A

15 A

32 A



17

2.5 vfr mPp bekjrksa evfr mPp bekjrksa evfr mPp bekjrksa evfr mPp bekjrksa esasa sasa fof’k"V vfXu lqj{kk vko’;drk fof’k"V vfXu lqj{kk vko’;drk fof’k"V vfXu lqj{kk vko’;drk fof’k"V vfXu lqj{kk vko’;drk SPECIAL FIRE SAFETY REQUIRMENTS FOR HIGH-RISE BUILD INGS

1. Employ special insulating material such as FRLS (Fire Retardant Low Smoke) for wiring/ cabling meant for fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, computer installations and such equipment whose uninterrupted performance in fire situations is essential.

2. Provide separate circuits for fire fighting pumps, lifts, stair-cases and corridor lighting and blowers for pressurizing system, directly from the main switchgear panel. Use separate conduits for such circuits.

3. Label clearly the master switches controlling essential services.

4. Lay electrical distribution cables/ wiring in a separate duct. Seal the duct at every floor with non-combustible materials having the same fire resistance as that of the duct.

5. Don’t lay water mains, telephone lines, inter-com lines, gas pipes and any other services line in the duct meant for electrical cables.

6. Use separate metal conduits for medium and low voltage wiring meant for lighting or other services, above false ceiling.

7. Use brass or copper for bonding and earthing. Use non-rusting bolts in damp situations.

8. Provide suitable circuit breakers at the appropriate points.

9. Check integrity of insulation at regular intervals.

10. Conduct insulation resistance test at least once in a year and when ay addition or alteration is carried out in the installation.

Ensure that all electrical wiring and repair jobs including additions, alterations, repairs to the existing installations are carried out by licensed contractors as per the Indian Electricity Rules, 1956.

2.6 vkx fn[kkbZ nsus ij dk;Zovkx fn[kkbZ nsus ij dk;Zovkx fn[kkbZ nsus ij dk;Zovkx fn[kkbZ nsus ij dk;Zokgh kgh kgh kgh ACTION ON SEEING FIRE

1. ‘Cry fire’ thus giving an alarm to all. Panic should not be created as it is more dangerous than fire.

2. If electricity is involved, switch off the electric supply.

3. Inform concerned officials on phone and call fire services if necessary.

4. Use available fire fighting equipment to extinguish fire.

5. User should have knowledge of operating extinguishers. Water type extinguishers should not be used unless electric supply is cut off.

6. Doors and windows should be closed and nearby combustible material like cloth, papers etc. should be evicted safely without panic.

7. Use staircases instead of lifts to go away from fire locations.

8. Boards indicating emergency exits should be displayed at appropriated places with proper illumination in a building or out side area where public gather for function etc.

9. Emergency exits should be within 30 meters from any place.

10. When fire service personnel arrive, the job should be left to them without causing hindrance.



18

2.7 vfXu’kked dks pykuk vfXu’kked dks pykuk vfXu’kked dks pykuk vfXu’kked dks pykuk OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

2.7.1 lksMk vEy lksMk vEy lksMk vEy lksMk vEy Soda Acid (9L)

The extinguishers should be taken within 7m of fire. After taking out the safety cup, the extinguisher should be held and plunger struck against a hard surface. Now the acid bottle will get broken and acid on mixing with solution will evolve carbon dioxide gas. The gas pressure will expel water when cylinder kept inverted. The expelled water should be directed to the base of the fire. Upright type, as having discharge tube inside from nozzle mouth to bottom, should not be used in inverted position.

2.7.2 Qkse Ádkj dk Qkse Ádkj dk Qkse Ádkj dk Qkse Ádkj dk Foam type (9L) The knob should be pulled up, turned clockwise and pin seated on the groove. The

will keep the port of inner container open and when the cylinder kept inverter the two solutions mix together forming foam. The evolved CO2 gas will expel the foam. The foam has to be directed on to the fire without force to cover as a blanket covering the fire. This prevents entry of Oxygen thereby extinguishing fire. For effectively formation of foam the cylinder may be alternatively kept shaking upright and inverted quickly 2 to 3 times.

2.7.3 'kq"d jlk;fud ikoMj 'kq"d jlk;fud ikoMj 'kq"d jlk;fud ikoMj 'kq"d jlk;fud ikoMj Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) Remove the safety clip and strike the plunger, the pin in the plunger will puncture

the seal of the CO2 cartridge and gas coming with pressure will stir the powder and expel the powder. The powder coming out thro’ the hose should be directed on to the fire as to cover the fire as a blanket and extinguish the fire.

2.7.4 dkcZu MkbZ vkWDlkbM flys.Mj dkcZu MkbZ vkWDlkbM flys.Mj dkcZu MkbZ vkWDlkbM flys.Mj dkcZu MkbZ vkWDlkbM flys.Mj Carbon dioxide Cylinder The extinguisher should be taken very close to the fire. After opening the cylinder

valve, the gas coming thro’s the hose and come may be directed on to the fire. The gas coming out thro’ the come will expand and cover the fire as a shroud and extinguish the fire.

2.8 pykrs le; lkekU;pykrs le; lkekU;pykrs le; lkekU;pykrs le; lkekU; lko/kkfu;k¡ lko/kkfu;k¡ lko/kkfu;k¡ lko/kkfu;k¡ GENERAL OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS

1. The lids of all extinguishers should be checked for tightness. If two or more threads are exposed out that cylinder should not be used. The high pressure developed in the cylinder could be with-stood only if the lid is completely on to the body. Otherwise the lid would come out as a blast and cause serous injury to the operator.

2. All extinguishers should be used in the direction of wind.

3. Nozzle or hose the contents will not come out while using. Then there is any block in the cylinder. Unscrewed very slowly. When the holes come up, the pressurized gases will come out through these holes. Only after the gas completely goes out the lid can be fully opened. On no account we should think that there is no pressure inside the cylinder, if contents do not out during usage.

Whenever newly filled, the gas cartridge and CO2 cylinder should be checked for its correct weight.



19

2.9 vfXu’kked dks Á;ksx djus dk lgh rjhdk vfXu’kked dks Á;ksx djus dk lgh rjhdk vfXu’kked dks Á;ksx djus dk lgh rjhdk vfXu’kked dks Á;ksx djus dk lgh rjhdk

CORRECTLY USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

There are four important steps you must know to correctly use a fire extinguisher. The PASS method can help you to easily remember those steps.



20

2.10 'kh?kz vfXu’kked 'kh?kz vfXu’kked 'kh?kz vfXu’kked 'kh?kz vfXu’kked xkbM xkbM xkbM xkbM EXTINGUISHER QUICK GUIDE

Do Not Use

Do Not Use

Do Not Use

Do Not Use

Do Not Use Note : Multi-purpose foams may be used

Note : Specialist Foams required for industrial alcohol.

Secondary Primary

Primary

Note : Specialist DP required for

Solvents & Esters.

Note : Specialist Dry powders may

be required

SPECIALIST HOT COOKING OIL FIRES ONLY

Specifically for dealing with high temperature (360°C+) cooking oils used in large industrial size catering kitchens, restaurants and takeaway establishments with deep fat frying facilities.

General Note : May be used in conjunction with other extinguishing

agents/ or fire extinguishing techniques.

Old Colour

BS 5408

New Colour

BS EN3

Class A

Paper or Wood etc.

Class B

Flammable Liquids

Class C

Flammable Gas Fires

Class D

Metal Fires Electrical fires



21

2.11 bUÝbUÝbUÝbUÝkjsM FkeksZxzkQh kjsM FkeksZxzkQh kjsM FkeksZxzkQh kjsM FkeksZxzkQh INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY

Power supply systems contain many sub-systems: switchgear, transformers, panels, receptacles, motor controls and lighting. Common to all of these components are connections, insulation and over current protection. Failures of these fundamental mechanisms are at the root of many electrical fires and are the target of many electrical maintenance procedures. Infrared Thermography may be one of the batter tool for avoiding failures and fire cases on account of electricity.



22

2.12 vkx vkx vkx vkx ds dkj.kksds dkj.kksds dkj.kksds dkj.kksa dh tk¡p & fo|qrh; a dh tk¡p & fo|qrh; a dh tk¡p & fo|qrh; a dh tk¡p & fo|qrh; ––––f"Vf"Vf"Vf"V ls ls ls ls INVESTIGATION OF FIRE – ELECTRICAL POINT OF VIEW

1. Open a file or folder to maintain the details of investigation.

2. collect the details of each failure for study/ investigation such as

• Make of the equipment/ component failed first.

• Date, time, place of failure.

• Date of installation, previous maintenance schedule & repairs.

• Name of operator.

• Try to identify cause and effect.

• Keep note about the observation, with photographs.

• Make list of probable causes.

• Examine similar component in other equipment in service.

• Study the following documents carefully.

- Operating & maintenance manuals.

- Manufacturing drawings.

- Failure reports & photographs, if any of previous incidence.

• Keep an open mind until all the data are collected.

• Discuss the failure with other field personnel.

• Interrogate the person who first detected the fire to localize the starting point.

• Check the condition of MCB & fuse boards, whether these are operated or not.

• Check and locate the point of wiring portion where molten or congealed shows sign of arcing.

• The observation shall be made as early as possible after the fire has been extinguished.



23

v/;k; 3v/;k; 3v/;k; 3v/;k; 3 CHAPTER 3

D;kD;kD;kD;k djsa ,oa D;k u djsa djsa ,oa D;k u djsa djsa ,oa D;k u djsa djsa ,oa D;k u djsa DO’s AND DON’Ts

3.1 D;k djsa D;k djsa D;k djsa D;k djsa DO’S

� Use ISI marked or Quality Control certified electrical material and appliances.

� Use Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) to avoid accidents from earth leakage current.

� Use good quality fuses, miniature circuit breakers and earth leakage circuit breakers of correct ratings.

� Use one socket for one appliance.

� Switch off the electric supply of fire affected areas.

� Use dry chemical powder type extinguishers on electric fires.

� Fuses and switches should be mounted on metallic cubicles for greater safety against fire.

� Replace broken plugs and switches immediately.

� Keep the electrical wires away from hot and wet surfaces.

� Switch off appliances after use and remove plugs from the socket.

� Switch off the Main switch when leaving the premises, home for a long duration.

� Use electrical wires, cables and materials of proper capacity and insulation.

� The relevant Code of practice for prevention of fire should be followed.

� Ensure easy access to put off the supply.

� Use switches which clearly indicate “ON” & “OFF”.

� Crimping should be done with the proper size/ type of cable lug & terminal or ferrule with the use of proper crimping tool.

� Keep the electrical switch room neat, clean and ventilated.

� Use insulated wire for neutral and independent wire for earthing.

� Check sockets/plugs/wirings thoroughly if any over heating marks are seen.



24

3.2 D;k u djsa D;k u djsa D;k u djsa D;k u djsa DON’Ts

� Don’t use substandard fixtures, appliances.

� Never have temporary or naked joints on wiring.

� Don’t lay wires under carpets, mats or doorways. They get crushed, resulting in short circuiting.

� Don’t allow appliances cords to swing.

� Don’t place bare wire ends in a socket, use a three pin plug top.

� Do not remove plugs by pulling the wires.

� Do not smoke in electrical zone.

� Do not connect fuse in the neutral circuits.

� Do not replace fuse unless fault is detected.

� Do not plug in lamp or appliance with the switch ON.

� Do not overload any electrical circuit.

� Do not use water to extinguish electric fires.

� Do not construct any house or structure below the overhead electric lines and maintain the specified horizontal distance from the lines.

� Do not use wires and cables with joints.

� Do not dry clothes like tea towels etc. over the electrical heater, cooking pan etc.

� Do not leave ovens in “ON” condition after use.

� Do not sit too close to the heater to keep warm. You could easily set light to your clothes or your chair, particularly if you fall asleep.



25

Ifjf’k"V Îfjf’k"V Îfjf’k"V Îfjf’k"V ^vvvv* * * * Annexure ‘A’

vfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªsvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªsvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªsvfXu’kkedksa] xSl dkVZªst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;ukst] fjfQYl ,oa vfXu’kked jlk;uksaa aa ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud ij Hkkjrh; ekud INDIAN STANDARDS ON FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, GAS CARTRID GES, REFILLS AND EXTGUISHING CHEMICALS

IS No.-Year Title

933:1989 Portable chemical foam fire extinguisher (fourth revision)

934:1989 Portable fire extinguisher, water type (soda acid) (fourth revision)

940: 1989 Portable fire extinguisher, water type (gas cartridge) (third revision)

1641:1988 Code of practice for fire safety of building (general) : General principles of fire grading and classification (first revision)

2171: 1985 Portable fire extinguisher, dry powder (cartridge type) (third revision)

2546: 1974 Galvanized mild steel fire buckets (first revision)

2878:1986 Fire extinguisher, carbon dioxide type (portable and trolley mounted) (second revision)

4308 : 1982 Dry powder for firefighting (first revision)

4861 : 1984 Dry powder for fighting fires in burning metals (first revision)

4862 (Pt-I) : 1986 Portable fire extinguishers for aircraft: part I Halon 1211 type (first revision)

4947 : 1985 Gas cartridges for use in fire extinguishers

5490 (Pt- I) : 1977 Refills for Portable fire extinguishers and chemical fire engines: Part I for soda acid portable fire extinguishers. (first revision)

5490 (Part-2) : 1977

Refills for Portable fire extinguishers and chemical fire engines: Part 2 for foam type portable fire extinguishers. (first revision)

5490 (Part-3) : 1979

Refills for Portable fire extinguishers and chemical fire engines: Part 3 for soda acid chemical fire engines, 50 litre capacity . (first revision)

5490 (Part-4) : 1979

Refills for Portable fire extinguishers and chemical fire engines: Part 4 for foam chemical fire engines. (first revision)

5506 : 1979 50-L capacity chemical fire engines, soda acid types (first revision)

5507 : 1979 50-L capacity chemical fire engines, foam type (first revision)

6234 : 1986 Portable fire extinguishers, water type (stored pressure) (first revision)

7673 : 1975 Glossary of terms for firefighting equipment.

8149 : 1976 Functional requirements for twin CO2 fire extinguishers (trolley mounted)

10204 : 1982 Portable fire extinguishers, mechanical foam type.

10474 : 1983 150-litre capacity chemical fire engine, foam type.

10658: 1983 Higher capacity dry powder fire extinguishers (trolley mounted)

11070 : 1984 Bromo-chloro-diflouro-methane (Halon-1211) for firefighting.

11108:1984 Portable fire extinguisher, (Halon-1211) type

11833:1986 Dry powder fire extinguisher for metal fires.



26

Ifjf’k"V ^c* Ifjf’k"V ^c* Ifjf’k"V ^c* Ifjf’k"V ^c* Annexure ‘B’

ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV ikuh vk/kkfjr vfXu’kkedksa dh Vªk;y fjiksZV TRIAL REPORT OF WATER MIST BASED FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

A trial report on water mist based fire extinguishers was issued by TI Directorate/ RDSO/ Lucknow vide repot no.T I/REPORT /00078 (03/2009) March 2009, which is reproduced below for guidance:

1.0 lkekU; lkekU; lkekU; lkekU; General

Water mist type of fire extinguishers have been developed as a substitute to halon type fire extinguishers as they are non-toxic, has no ozone depletion potential, does not contribute to global warming, and has no concern about its atmospheric life. It creates no risk to the occupants or damage to surrounding equipment. Water mist is electrically non-conductive, and is very well suited to stop fires in their very early stages of development. The unique misting nozzle not only provides the safety from electrical shock but also greatly enhances the cooling and soaking characteristics of the agent.

The equipment creates narrow distribution ultra fine water mist, foam or CAFS (Compressed Air Foam) using specialty nozzles. The droplets create an enlarged surface area (almost 50 times) as compared to conventional water tender. This results in rapid cooling due to extensive heat absorption and the resultant steam generated expands almost 1600 times in volume thus inerting the atmosphere around the fire. The combined effect of cooling and blanketing, results in rapid extinguishing.

2.0 midj.kksa dk fooj.k midj.kksa dk fooj.k midj.kksa dk fooj.k midj.kksa dk fooj.k Description of Equipment

Following Equipment were used for trial purpose

2.1 fuekZrk fuekZrk fuekZrk fuekZrk Manufacturer

M/s. Aska Equipments Ltd. Aska House, "Gargashraya" , 193, Deepali, Deepali Chowk, Outer Ring Road, Pitampura, New Delhi - 110 034 (India)

2.2 fuEufyf[kr fof’k"VrkvfuEufyf[kr fof’k"VrkvfuEufyf[kr fof’k"VrkvfuEufyf[kr fof’k"Vrkvksa okys vfXu’kkedksa okys vfXu’kkedksa okys vfXu’kkedksa okys vfXu’kked Fire Extinguishers having following specification

Type Portable Trolley Mounted Capacity of the system (+0 -5%) 10L 50L Weight of fully charged system 26 kg 108 kg Operating pressure including the gun 34 bar 34 bar

Diameter (±10%) 200 mm 420 mm Height (±10%) 640 mm 720mm Capacity of air cylinder (bar) 2L/3L x 300 6L x 300 Flow rate (±10%) 26L / minute 35 L/minute Minimum functional time with continuous jet (±10%) 23 sec 80 sec Lancing Distance 14-16 meter 15-16 meter EN3 Rating using water & AFFF

• A CLASS A21 • B CLASS 8233 • Live Electrical Fire 1000 volts



27

2.3 vU; midj.k vU; midj.k vU; midj.k vU; midj.k Other Equipment • Breathing apparatus • Fire Jackets • Helmets • Gloves

3.0 Vªk;y dk fooj.k Vªk;y dk fooj.k Vªk;y dk fooj.k Vªk;y dk fooj.k Details of Trials

Officials present:

Shri R.N.Lal Sr. EDSE ” R.K. Mehta Sr. EDTI ” A.K.Gupta ED/PS&EMU ” B. Gupta ED/Admin ” S. Swaroop EDSE ” Rajesh Mohan Dir/Tl ” Sumit Bhatnagar Dir/Tl ” Prafful Chandra Dir/PS&EMU ” K. K. Rawat DD/Carriage ” K. K. Matoo Firm's rep ” H. A. Garg Firm's rep

Site: Liquid based Fire Testing Dte/RDSO Live Electrical Fire Testing Dte/RDSO Coach Fire Coach 2 tier GS at RDSO

Date: 20th March 2009

3.1 rjy vk/kkfjr vkx rjy vk/kkfjr vkx rjy vk/kkfjr vkx rjy vk/kkfjr vkx Liquid Based Fire: To test the liquid fire, a pit of 3 meters diameter was prepared having 1/3rd of water, 140 litres of diesel and 25 litres of petrol. The fire was ignited and extinguished using the portable apparatus in 20-25 seconds

3.2 pkyw fctyh dh vkx pkyw fctyh dh vkx pkyw fctyh dh vkx pkyw fctyh dh vkx Live electrical Fire: Electrical fire was created using solid fire

having 230 volts naked live wire passing through it, the fire was extinguished using portable fire extinguishers.

3.3 dksp esa vkxdksp esa vkxdksp esa vkxdksp esa vkx Coach fire: Fire was created in two cabins of general Second Class coach, using diesel and petrol sprayed on berths and windows. The fire was extinguished using portable fire extinguishers and trolley mounted extinguishers.

4.0 voyksduvoyksduvoyksduvoyksdu Observations

4.1 [kqys LFkku dh vkx[kqys LFkku dh vkx[kqys LFkku dh vkx[kqys LFkku dh vkx Open space fire: In case of fire in open spaces like liquid and electrical fire the equipment was found to be suitable for the purpose. The time taken was approx 20-25 second. However, it needs lots of open space for the operator to move around the fire so as to direct the foam at the base of fire from all possible angles. It was also observed that the fire could not be extinguished completely if the operator does not move and operate from one location, thus it is considered ineffective for confined spaces.

4.2 dksp esa vkxdksp esa vkxdksp esa vkxdksp esa vkx Coach fire: The fire was controlled using both portable and trolley mounted equipment and the portable type is inadequate for the types of fire encountered in Railway application. Also there was heavy emission of toxic fumes and use of breathing apparatus was found to be necessary.



28

The operator was fully protected against fire by use of firefighting suite, Air breather apparatus, helmets & gloves due to emission of very heavy smoke & toxic gases which were observed within no time of start of fire. Further, 10 litres capacity equipment handling is difficult due to its high weight.

4.3 vU; vko’;drk;sa vU; vko’;drk;sa vU; vko’;drk;sa vU; vko’;drk;sa Other requirements: It is observed that fire extinguishing training is

required to combat large fire especially in confined spaces. The breathing apparatus & fire proof clothing is required.

5.0 vuq’kalk,sa vuq’kalk,sa vuq’kalk,sa vuq’kalk,sa Recommendations

Based on above observations, the application of this equipment can be classified in two areas:

A. [kqys LFkku [kqys LFkku [kqys LFkku [kqys LFkku Open spaces: These include substations, workshops and other office

installations where there is adequate distance to combat the fire, portable equipment as well as trolley mounted equipment can be provided. Since the staff is generally nominated, they can be adequately trained to handle this equipment. Only precaution is required to be taken is that these equipment are not suitable for electrical fire exceeding 1000 volts, they can be used in substation application for dead equipment only.

B. lhfer LFkku lhfer LFkku lhfer LFkku lhfer LFkku Confined spaces: These include on board requirement in pantry car,

power car & tower wagons. Since the portable equipment is inadequate for the purpose, it is recommended to provide 50 lts apparatus duly affixed to a locker having adequate hose length to cater for power cars and pantry only along with fire fighting suite and breathing apparatus due to safety considerations & other limitations brought out above. The equipment is having high pressure cylinders at 300 bars hence not recommended passenger compartments/locomotives.

6.0 fu"d"kZ fu"d"kZ fu"d"kZ fu"d"kZ Conclusion

A fire is made up of three principal constituents: flammable material(s), heat and oxygen. The use of water mist eliminates two of the three factors i.e. heat and oxygen. The result is that the fire is extinguished much faster compared to standard sprinklers/jets. The equipment is tested on 35kV and declared safe for live electrical fires up to 1000 v. Railway application can be summarized as under

Workshops/TSS/Offices 10 & 50 liters (as required) Power car/ Pantry/ Tower Wagon 50 liters (one each) with accessories

(Air breather, suite, helmet & gloves)



29

Ifjf’k"V *Ifjf’k"V *Ifjf’k"V *Ifjf’k"V *llll* * * * Annexure ‘C’

vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj vfXu’kked jftLVj REGISTER OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Record of fire extinguishers installed in premises, its inspection, maintenance and operational history shall be maintained as per the format below: S. No.

Type Capacity Year of manu-facturing

Make Location Monthly inspection dates

Annual inspection dates

Pressure tested on

Date of discharge

Refilled on

Due for refitting

Remarks

NOTES:

1. In remark column fill details of date of operation as per annual maintenance date, date of rejection and disposal with details of observations and date of caliberation of safety valves and pressure gauges in case of high capacity extinguishers.

2. Each extingisher should be allotted one full page and the particulars of a permanent nature like Sl no. , Type, Capacity, Year of manufacture, Make and Location can be transfferred to the top portion of the register.



30

lanHkZlanHkZlanHkZlanHkZ

1- Hkkjrh; ekud C;wjks] ubZ fnYyh }kjk tkjh vkbZ,l% 2190&1992 ¼FkMZ fjohtu½ “lysD’ku] bULVkWys’ku ,oa esUVsusUl vkWQ QLVZ ,M Qk;j ,DLVhaXoh’kj&dksM vkWQ çsfDVl” A

2- Jh ,-,-gVaxM+h }kjk fyf[kr rFkk VkVk eSd&xzkW fgy ,tqds’ku çkbosV fyfeVsM] ubZ

fnYyh }kjk çdkf’kr fdrkc “bysDVªhdy Qk;j ,aM Qsfy;j” A 3- egkfuns’kd ukxfjd lqj{kk ¼vfXu foHkkx½] x`g ea=ky;] vkj- ds- iqje ubZ fnYyh }kjk

tkjh i=d “bysDVªhdy Qk;j çhdkW’ku”A 4- baVjusV ls MkmuyksM fd;k x;k ;wlh,y Qk;j VsDuhdy uksV la 024] Qk;j vkWfQlj

LVsV~l ,aM QSflfyfVt xkWoj LVªhVA 5- Vh vkbZ Mk;jsDVªV] vkjMh,lvks@y[kuÅ }kjk tkjh okVj feLV csLM Qk;j

,DLVhaXoh’kj fo"k; ij tkjh Vªk;y fjiksVZ la- VhvkbZ@fjiksVZ@00078 ¼03-2009½ ekpZ 2009A

6- fofHkUu jsyksa@çf’k{k.k dsUnzksa@bR;kfn }kjk laxzfgr lkexzhA 7- bjdSeVsd Xokfy;j esa fnukad 11 Qjojh 2011 dks vk;ksftr lsehukj esa izfrfuf/k;ksa }kjk

fn;s x;s lq>koA



31

REFERENCES

1. IS 2190 : 1992 (Third Revision) Titled “Selection, Installation and Maintenance of First-Aid Fire Extinguishers – Code of Practice” Issued by Bureau of Indian Standards, New Delhi.

2. Book on “Electrical Fires and Failures” written by Shri A.A. Hattangadi and published by Tata McGraw-Hill Education Private Limited, New Delhi.

3. Leaflet on “Electrical Fire Precaution” issued by Directorate General, Civil Defence (Fire Section), Ministry of Home Affairs, R.K. Puram, New Delhi.

4. UCL Fire Technical Note no.024 issued by Fire Officer, States and Facilities, Gower Street, London downloaded from internet.

5. “Trial Report on Water Mist Based Fire Extinguishers” issued by TI Directorate/ RDSO/ Lucknow vide repot no.T I/REPORT /00078 (03/2009) March 2009.

6. Literature collected from various Railways/ Electric Training Centres/ STCs etc..

7. Comments and suggestions received during seminar held on 11.02.2011 at CAMTECH, Gwalior.

**********



32

;fn vki bl lanHkZ esa dksbZ fopkj vkSj fo’ks"k lq>ko nsuk pkgrs gksa rks dÌk;k gesa bl irs ij fy[ksaA lEidZ lw= % funs’kd ( fo|qr ) Ik=kpkj dk irk % Hkkjrh; jsy mPp vuqj{k.k izkS|ksfxdh dsUnz] egkjktiqj] Xokfy;j e- iz- fiudksM 474 005 Qksu % 0751&2470803 0751&2470740 QSDl % 0751&2470841

bZ&esy : [email protected]

vuqj{k.k izkS|ksfxdh vkSj dk;Ziz.kkyh dk mUu;u djuk rFkk mRikndrk vkSj jsyos dh ifjlEifRr ,oa tu’kfDr ds fu"iknu esa lq/kkj djuk ftlls vUrfoZ"k;ksa esa fo’oluh;rk] miyC/krk] mi;ksfxrk

vkSj n{krk izkIr dh tk ldsA

gekjk mn~ns’;gekjk mn~ns’;gekjk mn~ns’;gekjk mn~ns’;



33

To upgrade maintenance technologies and methodologies and achieve improvement in productivity, performance of all Railway assets and manpower which inter-alia would cover reliability, availability, utilisation and efficiency.

OUR OBJECTIVE

If you have any suggestion and any specific Comment please write to us.

Contact person : Jt. Director (Elect.) Postal Address : Indian Railways

Centre for Advanced Maintenance Technology, Maharajpur, Gwalior. Pin code – 474 005

Phone : 0751 – 2470740

0751 – 2470803 Fax : 0751 – 2470841 Email : [email protected]



34

INDIAN RAILWAYS

Centre for Advanced Maintenance TECHnology, Maharajpur, Gwalior, M.P. 474 005

Documents

fo/kqr vfXu&dkj.k ,oa jksdFkke Handbook on Electrical Fires ...rdso.indianrailways.gov.in/works/uploads/File/Handbook on...March 2011 Handbook on Electrical Fires-Causes and Prevention