Fire Fighting and Fire Alarm System

 

Working Principles of Fire Fighting and Fire Alarm Systems

The working principles of fire fighting and fire alarm systems are different. Here is a brief explanation of each:

1. Fire Fighting System: A fire fighting system is designed to extinguish or control a fire in its early stages. The system comprises various components such as fire pumps, water storage tanks, pipelines, valves, and fire extinguishers. When a fire is detected, the fire alarm system signals the fire fighting system to activate. The fire pumps start pumping water, which is then distributed through the pipelines and released through the nozzles to extinguish or control the fire. The water is stored in water storage tanks and supplied by gravity or pumps to the fire-fighting system. Fire extinguishers are also used to control small fires, and fire hydrants are installed in the premises to ensure a continuous water supply.

2. Fire Alarm System: A fire alarm system is designed to detect a fire in its early stages and alert the occupants of the building to evacuate safely. The system comprises various components such as smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points, fire alarm control panels, and audio-visual alarms. The smoke and heat detectors are installed throughout the building and are programmed to detect the presence of smoke or heat. When a fire is detected, the detectors send a signal to the fire alarm control panel, which activates the audio-visual alarms. The manual call points are installed at strategic locations in the building and can be used to manually activate the fire alarm system.

In summary, the fire fighting system is designed to extinguish or control a fire, while the fire alarm system is designed to detect a fire and alert the occupants of the building to evacuate safely. Both systems work together to provide an effective fire protection system for the building.

 

Fire Fighting System:

According to CPWD guidelines, every building should have an adequate fire fighting system installed. This includes the provision of fire hydrants, hose reels, fire extinguishers, and automatic fire sprinkler systems. The fire fighting system should be designed and installed as per the National Building Code of India (NBC) and other relevant codes and standards.

The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) of India recommends the following guidelines for fire fighting systems in buildings:

Water Supply: Adequate water supply should be available for fire fighting purposes, and the fire fighting water storage tank should be able to provide water for at least 2 hours of firefighting.

Fire Detection and Alarm system: A reliable fire detection and alarm system should be installed in the building, with smoke detectors and manual call points located at appropriate locations.

Fire Extinguishers: Portable fire extinguishers should be provided in the building at strategic locations.

Portable fire extinguishers are typically filled with water, foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide and are used to extinguish small fires.

Fire Hydrants: Fire hydrants should be installed outside the building, with a clear access path and a dedicated water supply.

These are fixed outlets connected to a dedicated water supply and are used to supply water to the fire fighting system. They typically have a large diameter outlet to allow for higher water flow rates.

 

Sprinkler System: A sprinkler system should be installed in the building, especially in high-rise buildings.

A sprinkler system consists of pipes with sprinkler heads that are installed throughout the building. When a fire is detected, the sprinkler system will automatically activate and release water onto the fire.

Smoke Management System: A smoke management system should be installed in the building to prevent smoke from spreading and to facilitate safe evacuation.

Fire Escape Routes: Adequate fire escape routes should be provided in the building, with proper signage, lighting, and clear access.

Fire Doors: Fire doors should be installed at appropriate locations in the building to prevent the spread of fire.

Fire Pumps: Fire pumps should be provided to ensure that adequate water pressure is maintained in the fire fighting system.

These are used to maintain water pressure in the fire fighting system. They may be electric or diesel-powered and are typically located in a dedicated pump room.

Fire Hose Reels: These are typically used in smaller buildings and are fixed reels of hose that can be easily accessed in case of a fire.

Fire Monitors: These are large, fixed nozzles that can be used to deliver high volumes of water to a specific area.

Fire Trucks: These are specialized vehicles equipped with pumps, hoses, and other fire fighting equipment. They are typically used for larger fires or in areas where access to the building is limited.

Fire Brigade Access: Adequate space should be provided for fire brigade access to the building, with clear markings and directions.

Testing of Fire Fighting Works:

Testing of fire fighting works is an essential part of ensuring the effectiveness and reliability of a fire fighting system. The following are some of the common tests that are conducted:

Hydrostatic Testing: This test involves filling the pipes of the fire fighting system with water and pressurizing them to a level higher than the normal operating pressure to check for leaks and to ensure that the pipes can withstand the required pressure.

• Close all valves in the system and connect the hydrostatic testing pump to the system.
• Fill the system with water and pressurize it to a pressure higher than the normal operating pressure.
• Maintain the pressure for the specified time (usually between 2 and 4 hours).
• Monitor the pressure during the test and check for leaks in the system.

Flow Testing: This test involves measuring the flow of water from the fire hydrants or fire pumps to ensure that they are capable of supplying the required amount of water to the fire fighting system.

• Open the hydrant or pump and measure the flow rate with a specialized flow meter.
• Repeat the test at different times of the day to ensure that the system can maintain the required flow rate under different conditions.

Pressure Testing: This test involves measuring the pressure of the water in the fire fighting system to ensure that it is within the required range.

• Use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure at various points in the system.
• Ensure that the pressure is within the range specified by the manufacturer.

Functional Testing: This test involves testing the individual components of the fire fighting system, such as fire alarms, sprinkler heads, fire extinguishers, and fire doors, to ensure that they are working correctly and are ready to use in case of a fire.

• Activate each component of the fire fighting system, such as the fire alarms, sprinkler heads, fire extinguishers, and fire doors.
• Verify that each component is working correctly and effectively.

Drainage Testing: This test involves checking the drainage system of the fire fighting system to ensure that it is working correctly and that there are no blockages or leaks that could affect the effectiveness of the system.

• Flush the drainage system with water to check for any blockages or leaks.
• Ensure that the drainage system is working correctly.

Integration Testing: This test involves testing the coordination and integration of the various components of the fire fighting system, such as the fire alarms, sprinklers, and fire pumps, to ensure that they work together correctly and are effective in controlling a fire.

• Simulate a fire and verify that the system responds correctly and effectively.
• Check the coordination and integration of the various components of the fire fighting system.

It is important to conduct regular testing of the fire fighting system and to keep a record of the test results to ensure that the system is always ready to use in case of a fire.

Fire Alarm System:

A fire alarm system is an essential part of any building's fire safety plan. CPWD guidelines require that a fire alarm system should be installed in all buildings. The system should be designed and installed as per the NBC and other relevant codes and standards. The fire alarm system should have manual call points, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and other necessary components.

The fire alarm system is an essential part of any fire protection system. It is designed to detect a fire in its early stages and alert the occupants of the building, enabling them to evacuate quickly and safely. The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) in India provides guidelines for the design and installation of fire alarm systems in buildings. Here are the key aspects of the fire alarm system as per CPWD:

1. Types of Fire Alarm System:

• Conventional Fire Alarm System
• Addressable Fire Alarm System

2. Components of Fire Alarm System:

• Fire alarm control panel
• Smoke detectors
• Heat detectors
• Manual call points
• Audio-visual alarms
• Fire suppression system

3. Design Considerations:

• The fire alarm system should be designed in compliance with relevant national and international standards.
• The system should be capable of detecting a fire in its early stages and alerting the occupants of the building in a timely manner.
• The system should be reliable, and false alarms should be minimized.
• The system should be designed to be easily maintained and tested.

4. Installation Considerations:

• The installation of the fire alarm system should be carried out by trained and qualified personnel.
• The system should be installed in compliance with relevant national and international standards.
• The system should be tested and commissioned before being put into service.

5. Maintenance Considerations:

• The fire alarm system should be regularly inspected, tested, and maintained by trained and qualified personnel.
• The system should be serviced and repaired promptly in case of any faults or defects.
• A logbook should be maintained to record all inspections, tests, and maintenance activities carried out on the system.

In summary, the fire alarm system is an important component of the overall fire protection system, and it should be designed, installed, and maintained in compliance with relevant national and international standards to ensure its effectiveness in protecting the occupants of the building in case of a fire.

Testing of Fire Alarm System:

Regular testing of the fire alarm system is critical to ensure that it is functioning correctly and will effectively alert occupants in the event of a fire. The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) in India provides guidelines for testing fire alarm systems in buildings. Here are the key aspects of testing the fire alarm system as per CPWD:

1. Daily Inspection:

• The fire alarm control panel should be checked daily to ensure that it is functioning correctly and that there are no faults or errors.
• The visual and audible indicators should be checked to ensure that they are working correctly.

2. Weekly Testing:

• The fire alarm system should be tested weekly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
• A different component of the system should be tested each week, such as the smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points, and audio-visual alarms.
• The test should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and relevant national and international standards.

3. Quarterly Testing:

• The fire alarm system should be tested quarterly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
• The entire system should be tested, including the fire alarm control panel, smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points, and audio-visual alarms.
• The test should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and relevant national and international standards.

4. Annual Maintenance:

• The fire alarm system should be serviced annually by trained and qualified personnel.
• The system should be inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
• The logbook should be updated to record all maintenance activities carried out on the system.

In summary, regular testing and maintenance of the fire alarm system are critical to ensuring its effectiveness in protecting the occupants of the building in case of a fire. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and relevant national and international standards when testing the fire alarm system and to ensure that it is carried out by trained and qualified personnel.

The following are the general steps to perform the tests on a fire alarm system:

1. Notify occupants: Before testing the fire alarm system, occupants of the building should be notified to prevent any confusion or panic.

2. Conduct the test: The testing of the fire alarm system should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and relevant national and international standards. The specific steps will vary depending on the type of system and components being tested.

3. Verify the system response: Once the test is complete, it is essential to verify that the system has responded correctly. For example, if the test involved activating a smoke detector, ensure that the alarm control panel received the signal and that the audio-visual alarms were activated.

4. Reset the system: After the test is complete, reset the fire alarm system to return it to its normal operating state.

5. Record the test: Record the date, time, and results of the test in a logbook. This information is essential for maintaining a record of the system's performance and compliance with regulatory requirements.

It is important to note that testing of the fire alarm system should be carried out by trained and qualified personnel. They should have a good understanding of the system's operation, testing procedures, and safety precautions. The testing should be done at regular intervals as per the guidelines of the manufacturer and relevant regulatory authorities.

Various Types of Pumps Used:

There are different types of pumps used in fire fighting systems as per the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) guidelines. The type of pump used depends on the specific requirements of the building and the fire protection system. Here are some of the pumps used in fire fighting systems as per CPWD:

1. Electric Motor Driven Centrifugal Pump: This pump is driven by an electric motor and is commonly used for low to medium capacity water flow in fire fighting systems. It is suitable for use in small to medium-sized buildings.

2. Diesel Engine Driven Centrifugal Pump: This pump is driven by a diesel engine and is used for high-capacity water flow in fire fighting systems. It is suitable for use in large buildings, industrial complexes, and high-rise structures.

3. Jockey Pump: The jockey pump is a small capacity pump used to maintain the required pressure in the fire fighting system. It is used in conjunction with the main fire pump to ensure a continuous and steady water supply.

4. Vertical Turbine Pump: This pump is designed to lift water from deep wells or underground storage tanks. It is commonly used in high-rise buildings where water is stored in underground tanks.

5. Horizontal Split Case Pump: This pump is commonly used in high-capacity fire fighting systems where the water supply needs to be maintained for an extended period. It is suitable for use in industrial complexes, airports, and other large buildings.

6. Submersible Pump: This pump is designed to be submerged in water and is commonly used in situations where water needs to be lifted from a low-lying area. It is suitable for use in basements, underground parking areas, and other locations where water can accumulate.

Some of the key IS codes and standards that are relevant to Fire Fighting and Fire Alarm systems as per CPWD specifications are:

1. IS 2189 - Code of practice for selection, installation, and maintenance of first-aid fire extinguishers.
2. IS 6382 - Code of practice for installation and maintenance of fire hose reels.
3. IS 13039 - Code of practice for fire safety of buildings (general): Electrical installations and fire alarm systems.
4. IS 15105 - Code of practice for selection, installation, and maintenance of automatic fire detection and alarm systems.
5. NBC Part 4 - Fire and Life Safety, which covers various aspects of Fire Fighting and Fire Alarm systems, including design, installation, testing, and maintenance.

6. IS 15683: 2006 - "Portable Fire Extinguishers - Performance and Construction - General Requirements" This standard provides general requirements for the performance and construction of portable fire extinguishers, including their classification, marking, and testing.

7. IS 10204: 1989 - "Specification for portable fire extinguishers (Dry powder, cartridge-operated type)" This standard specifies the requirements for dry powder, cartridge-operated portable fire extinguishers, including their performance and construction.

8. IS 940: 2002 - "Specification for Water type Fire Extinguishers (Gas Cartridge Type)" This standard specifies the requirements for gas cartridge-operated water type fire extinguishers, including their performance and construction.

9. IS 13385: 1992 - "Specification for Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers (Gas Cartridge Type)" This standard specifies the requirements for gas cartridge-operated carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, including their performance and construction.

10. IS 15683 Part 2: 2006 - "Portable Fire Extinguishers - Performance and Construction - Foam, Water and Water Mist Types" This standard provides requirements for the performance and construction of portable fire extinguishers of the foam, water, and water mist types, including their classification, marking, and testing.

FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEM
Sl No.	Work to be Execute	Area	Description
1	1st	Typical Floor	Fire Fighting Hangers & Supports
2	2nd	Typical Floor	Fire Fighting Piping
3			Fire Fighting Pipe Riser
4			Fire Fighting Pipe Testing
5			Fire Fighting Accessories Fixing
6		Basement/ Mechanical Floor	Fire Pump Set Installation
7			Fire Pump Set Pipe Connections
8	Final	Typical Floor	Sprinkler Fixing
9			Fire Hose Cabinet Fixing
10			Fire Hose Reel Fixing
11			Fire Extinguisher Fixing
12			Fire Blanket Fixing
13	Testing & Pre-Commissioning		Pressurize Fire Fighting pipes
14			Flushing & Refilling of Fire Fighting Pipes
15	Commissioning & Handover		Commissioning Fire Fighting PRV's
16			Commissioning of FHC's
17			Commissioning of Sprinklers

 

 

LIST OF TESTING AND COMMISSIONING ACTIVITIES FIRE FIGHTING
Sl. No.	Activity Description
1	Pressurize Fire Fighting pipes
2	Flushing & Refilling of Fire Fighting Pipes
3	Commissioning Fire Fighting PRV's
4	Commissioning of FHC's
5	Commissioning of Sprinklers