Built-in Fire Protection

Built-in Fire Protection OBJECTIVES

After studying this chapter, you should be able to:

• Explain the need for built-in � re protection systems and why they are bene� cial to building occupants and � re � ghters.

• Describe what the main water control valve is and what it does. • Identify the three primary types of main water control valves, and explain

how to determine whether they are in the open or closed position. • Given a diagram, locate and identify the � re department connection (FDC). • Describe the various means by which sprinkler and standpipe systems may

be supplied. • Outline the major components/valves of a sprinkler or standpipe system. • Identify and explain the operation of pressure-reducing valves found on

standpipe systems. • Explain the differences among the four types of sprinkler systems and how

they activate and operate. • Explain the differences between a residential sprinkler system and those

installed in commercial facilities. • Explain the differences and similarities, along with the minimum

requirements, of the three classes of standpipe systems. • Describe the types of special extinguishing agents and the hazards

associated with each. • Explain the need for � re department support of built-in � re protection systems. • Outline the minimum items that should be addressed within a standard

operating guideline for the support of built-in � re protection systems.

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Introduction Built-in, or private, fi re protection systems are and will continue to be an important ally of the fi re ser-vice. They will become ever more prevalent due to owners’ desires to protect their property and the ever-increasing local mandates on their installation. With today’s structures being built of lighter weight

and more combustible materials, built higher, built larger, and then packed with a higher fi re load-ing than ever, control and confi nement of fi res in these structures has become more labor-intensive, time-consuming, and dangerous.

Fire offi cers and fi re fi ghters alike must have a good working knowledge and understanding of fi re

Case Study

On May 22, 2010, a � re � ghter (the victim) died while conducting a search in a residential house � re after vomiting, removing his face piece, and inhaling products of combustion. A captain and the victim entered the 6000-square-foot residential structure with an uncharged 1¾-inch hose line to perform search and rescue opera-tions for an elderly occupant and a dog, while an attack crew began � re suppression

operations in another part of the structure. After locating and extricating the dog, the captain and the victim continued the search in increasingly heavy black smoke. The victim became separated from the captain after he vomited, clogging his nose cup. The victim tried to clear his mask and verbally called out that he was in trouble. The captain called a mayday and immediately began searching for him. Two rapid intervention crews (RICs) also searched for the victim. The victim was found approximately 11 minutes later and approximately 24 feet from where he was last seen. The RIC removed him from the structure to the front yard where paramedics performed medical care. The victim was transported to the local medical center where he was pronounced dead. After the incident, it was determined that the elderly occupant was not at home. Contributing factors include the following:

• Fire � ghter became ill, causing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) emergency and separation from his captain.

• The location of the victim was not immediately known. • Fire growth contributed heavy smoke, zero visibility, and heat conditions.

Key recommendations include the following:

• Develop, implement, and train on a procedure that addresses what to do if the SCBA becomes inoperable due to a clogged nose cup, such as with vomitus.

• Ensure that � re � ghters are trained on primary search and rescue procedures, which include maintaining crew integrity, entering structures with charged hose lines, and following hose lines in low visibility.

• Ensure that � re � ghters are trained and retrained on mayday competencies. • Ensure that staf� ng levels are appropriate to perform critical tasks.

Additionally, state and local governments should adopt and enforce requirements for automatic � re sprinkler protection in new buildings.

1. Describe how your department assigns the RIC on the � re-ground. 2. What type of training is provided in your department for dealing with malfunctions of the SCBA when in a � re?

Information for this case study came in part from “Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation Report F2010-13,” CDC/NIOSH (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/� re/reports/face201013.html).

Case Study

On May 22, 2010, a � re � ghter (the victim) died while conducting a search in a residential house � re after vomiting, removing his face piece, and inhaling products of combustion. A captain and the victim entered the 6000-square-foot residential structure with an uncharged 1¾-inch hose line to perform search and rescue opera-

Case Study

On May 22, 2010, a � re � ghter (the victim) died while conducting a search in a residential house � re after vomiting, removing his face piece, and inhaling products

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protection systems and how to use them to their advantage. This chapter discusses various common types of fi re protection systems and how the fi re department can and should support them.

Sprinkler Systems There are four main types of sprinkler systems:

1. Wet pipe systems 2. Dry pipe systems 3. Deluge systems 4. preaction systems

These systems have many common components, and the fi re fi ghter must be able to recognize these components and understand their operation.

According to statistics from the National Fire pro-tection Association (NFpA), about 96 percent of fi res in sprinklered buildings are either extinguished by the sprinklers or held in check until they can be com-pletely extinguished by the fi re department Figure 9- 1 .

All sprinkler systems have some form of main water control valve along with other test and drain valves and

piping. The main control valve is the valve that controls the fl ow of the water from the domestic water supply system and/or on-site fi re pump(s). The main control valve is an indicating valve: At a glance, a fi re fi ghter can tell whether it is open or closed. This valve is manually operated and, along with other valves, should always be chained or locked in the open position. It is typically located just under the sprinkler alarm valve.

There are three common types of main water con-trol valve. The most common is the outside screw and yoke (OS&Y) Figure 9- 2 . This valve has a threaded stem that controls its opening and closing. When the stem is visibly outside of the valve, the valve is open; when the stem is not visible, the valve is closed. Another common type of valve is the post indicator valve (PIV) . It has no visible stem because it is located inside the post Figure 9- 3 . This type of valve has a win-dow through which a moveable target can be viewed that has the words open and shut printed on it. These words indicate the position of the valve. The operating handle for this valve is attached and secured on the side of the post. The third type of main control valve is the wall post indicator valve (WPIV) . This valve is generally the same as the pIV except that it protrudes horizontally from a structure’s wall Figure 9- 4 .

Chapter 9 Built-in Fire Protection 167

Figure 9- 1 When properly designed and maintained, sprinkler systems control 96 percent of the fi res when they are activated.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

Figure 9- 2 An outside screw and yoke valve, which is the most common main water control valve.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

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168 Firefi ghting Strategies and Tactics, Third Edition

Other common components of sprinkler systems include a pressure gauge and valving such as stop-cock valves, globe valves, check or clapper valves, automatic drain valves, and alarm test/inspector test valves Figure 9- 5 . Each of these valves has a different function, ranging from sprinkler system testing to system draining. Stopcock valves are for both system

drainage and alarm silencing; likewise, globe valves are used for system drainage and as test valves. These valves are manually operated, but unlike the main control valve, they are of the non-indicating type. Check or clapper valves ensure that water can fl ow in only one direction. A simple example of these valves can be found on a ground monitor/deluge gun that is fed by two or more lines. Each input connec-tion of the monitor has one of these valves so that if only one line feeds the monitor, the water will not back-pressure the other line(s), or fl ow backward out of it. Automatic drain valves are used to drain the sprinkler system automatically once the pres-sure on the system has been relieved. The alarm test/inspector test valve is used to simulate actuation of the sprinkler system to ensure it is working properly.

The main drain is also a common component of all sprinkler systems. This drain piping and valve combination is used to drain the system to replace heads (activated or otherwise) or to con-duct system repairs. The main drain can also be used to test the system, much like the alarm test/inspector test valve.

Another common component of sprinkler systems is the water fl ow alarm Figure 9- 6 . This alarm indicates water fl ow and is activated either

Figure 9- 3 An example of a post indicator valve.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

Figure 9- 4 An example of a wall post indicator valve. The chain and lock are to ensure the valve cannot be inadvertently closed.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Figure 9- 5 Various other sprinkler system valves and components attached to the sprinkler riser.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

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hydraulically or electronically. In a hydraulic alarm, water movement within the system drives the alarm gong (water gong). This alarm is a local alarm used to alert building personnel or passersby of water fl ow in the building’s system. When the alarm is electronic, water movement presses against a dia-phragm that activates a switch to operate the alarm. This alarm, like the hydraulic alarm, can be a local alarm, or it can be connected to a monitoring com-pany that can notify the fi re department when the alarm is activated.

Every sprinkler system must have a water sup-ply that is reliable, automatic, and of adequate volume and pressure. The fl ows are dependent on the size and height of a structure, as well as any specifi c hazards of an occupancy. Often, a second-ary means of water supply is required. The fl ow must be able to provide a minimal residual water pressure of 15 pounds per square inch (psi) to the highest and farthest sprinkler head. The water supply can be provided from the domestic water supply, gravity tanks, or pressure tanks. These supplies (specifi cally the domestic water supply) may also be supported by an on-site fi re pump or pumps.

An indication that a fi re pump is present is a test header , which looks like a wall hydrant with multiple 2½-inch outlets that are used for testing the fi re pump. The number of outlets is determined by the required fl ow for the occupancy.

In addition to the on-site water source, one or more fi re department connections (FDCs) will be provided for fi re department use. The fi re department should connect an engine to the FDC to supplement the system, serve as an auxiliary water source, or increase the water pressure or volume of the sprinkler system. Figure 9- 7 depicts a sprinkler system’s FDC.

When the fi re department connects to the FDC, it must make sure to pull its water supply from a different source than the one supplying the sprinkler system so as not to take water away from the acti-vated system. Consequently, the fi re fi ghter must be

Tip

Every sprinkler system must have a water supply that is reliable, automatic, and of adequate volume and pressure.

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Figure 9- 6 Outside water fl ow alarm.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

Figure 9- 7 One example of a fi re department connection.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

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aware of how a building system is supplied. Depend-ing on the location of the structure, however, the water supply to the building might be the only one that can provide both fi refi ghting and fi re protection.

Although it may vary by jurisdiction, generally on sprinkler systems with a single riser , the FDC is connected to the sprinkler side of the system, which means that if the main water control valve were closed, the only way to stop the fl ow of the sprin-kler(s) would be to shut down the lines from the engine supplying the system. On systems with multi-ple risers, the FDC is connected to the supply side of the system; thus, the fl ow can be controlled by shut-ting down the main water control valve. In either case, there are check valves in the piping to ensure that through the FDC the domestic supply cannot be contaminated or back-pressured and no harm could be caused to the gravity and/or pressure tanks.

much like the clapper valves in the ground moni-tor/deluge gun, the FDC has clapper valves that allow the system to be supplied with only one line from an engine. With these clapper valves, water back- fl owing out of the second FDC is prevented and the second line can be added later in the operation.

The FDC for sprinkler systems should be marked accordingly. There must be some type of sign, letters stamped into the connection, or other visual indi-cator that the connection is for the sprinkler system and, if the system is broken into more than one zone, which zone it supplies.

The utilization and support of a sprinkler system should be of utmost importance to the fi re department. Every fi re department should have standard operating guidelines (SOgs) for sprinklered buildings.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems A wet pipe sprinkler system constantly has water throughout the system. The water in the system is kept under pressure so that when a sprinkler head activates, water immediately begins to fl ow from the head, thus activating the water fl ow alarm and beginning control of the fi re.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems A dry pipe sprinkler system has no water in the system piping beyond the check valve. This system replaces the water with air that is under pressure to keep water from entering the system until a sprinkler head is acti-vated. Only a minimal amount of air pressure is needed to hold the check valve closed. Dry pipe systems are typically used in buildings in which the water in the piping could freeze due to insuffi cient heating capabil-ities or exposure of some of the piping to the outside elements. In this system, once a head is activated, the air begins to fl ow out of the open head, which in turn reduces the air pressure holding the water back, thus allowing the water to enter the system and begin fl ow-ing out of the open sprinkler head. As it is plain to see, this system takes longer in delivering water onto the fi re. For this reason, many dry pipe systems (especially large ones) utilize accelerators or exhausters to speed up the process. Although accelerators and exhausters are somewhat complicated devices, they provide for quicker water fl ow to the fi re area.

Preaction Sprinkler Systems A preaction sprinkler system is basically set up the same as a dry pipe system but incorporates separate additional alarm equipment. These systems are

Tactical Tip

When the � re department connects to the FDC, it should ensure that the water supply for � re� ghting operations is taken from a source other than the one supplying the building’s � re protection systems.


Tip

A wet pipe sprinkler system constantly has water throughout the system. In contrast, a dry pipe sprinkler system has no water in the system beyond the check valve.



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typically used in locations where water damage must be prevented. The piping is dry and fi lls only once the separate additional alarm detection equipment is activated. After the detector activates, the system fi lls with water, but a sprinkler head still needs heat to activate it in order to allow water to fl ow in the affected area. What makes this a preaction system is that once water begins to fl ow in the system piping, an alarm is activated and sounds to provide warning prior to the activation of a sprinkler head.

Deluge Sprinkler Systems Like the preaction system, a deluge sprinkler sys-tem is basically the same as a dry pipe system but with separate additional detection equipment. A deluge system is typically used in locations where the occupancy is extra hazardous. In this system, the heads are all open, and once the separate fi re/smoke detection equipment is activated, the water begins to fl ow, discharging from all of the open heads at once. When the water begins to fl ow, an alarm is activated, as is any alarm associated with the separate detection equipment.

Residential Sprinkler Systems Residential sprinkler systems are becoming more and more popular, and in some cases are mandated. These systems comply with NFpA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes . For the most part, these systems are designed in the same manner as the other systems that have been described. There are a few exceptions to this statement. First, residential systems are not required to have an

FDC for the fi re department’s use, although some do. many times if there is an FDC present, it will likely be a single 2½-inch inlet port. When there is an FDC present and the decision is made to connect to and supplement the system, it is imperative that the sys-tem be pumped at whatever the standard domestic pressure is.

Second, the system piping is made of copper or polyvinyl chloride (pVC) rather than steel, which is used in nonresidential installations. Thus, the sys-tem components are not designed to handle high pressures. This is why the system should be pumped only at the standard domestic pressure. Although the fi re department may not have much to do with these systems, as far as fi re department utilization, it is important that fi re fi ghters know that they are out there and becoming ever-more popular. Fire fi ghters should have a basic understanding of how these sys-tems operate.

Standpipe Systems Standpipe systems are another important form of built-in fi re protection. A standpipe system provides connections for the fi re department, and in some cases the occupants of the building, at various loca-tions throughout a building. The connection can be located on each fl oor (or several places on a fl oor), on the roof, and even on the exterior. Standpipe connec-tions are basically an extension of the discharge outlet of a fi re engine. With the exception of the manual dry pipe system, like sprinkler systems, a standpipe system must be able to provide a water supply that is reli able, of adequate volume, and of adequate pres-sure. Standpipe systems are divided into three class-es, each depending on the intended use of the system:

• Class I is for use by fi re departments and those trained in handling heavy fi re streams Figure 9- 8 .

• Class II is for use primarily by building occu-pants Figure 9- 9 .

• Class III is for use by fi re departments and those trained in handling heavy streams, or for use by the building occupant Figure 9- 10 .

Tip

Both preaction and deluge sprinkler systems are similar to dry pipe systems but incorporate separate additional alarm equipment.



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Class CharacteristicsClass IClass I standpipe systems must be capable of pro-viding effective fire streams that would be required of fire departments during the advanced stages of

a fire. A Class I system must have a water supply adequate to flow 500 gallons per minute (gpm) for at least 30 minutes. The supply must provide a minimum residual pressure of 65 psi at the highest/ farthest outlet while flowing the required 500 gpm. In systems that require more than one standpipe ris-er, the system is still required to flow the 500 gpm for at least 30 minutes for the first standpipe in the system, and each additional standpipe must flow a minimum of 250 gpm for at least 30 minutes.

Class IIThis standpipe system is provided for building occu-pants so they may try to control a fire quickly while

172 Firefighting Strategies and Tactics, Third Edition

Figure 9-8 Class I standpipe systems are primarily for use by fire departments or those trained in handling heavy streams.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Figure 9-10 A typical hose cabinet configuration for a Class III standpipe system. Fire fighters should always bring their own hose and not use hose lines that are supplied in the cabinet.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Figure 9-9 Class II standpipe systems are for use primarily by building occupants.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

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it is still in the incipient stage. Class II systems must have a water supply adequate to fl ow 100 gpm for at least 30 minutes. This standpipe class must also be able to provide a minimum residual pressure of 65 psi at the highest/farthest outlet while at the same time fl owing the required 100 gpm.

Class III Because it is designed for use by both the fi re depart-ment and building occupants, the Class III standpipe system must be capable of providing fi re streams that would be required of fi re departments during the advanced stages of fi re, as well as providing building occupants the means of quickly controlling a fi re while it is in its early stages of growth. The Class III system must be capable of fl owing the same required minimums as the Class I system.

In many cases, occupancies are removing the hose from the Class II and Class III systems and simply replacing it with the appropriate standard fi re extinguisher.

General Characteristics All fi re fi ghters must be aware of the possible pres-ence of pressure-reducing devices on standpipe systems. Specifi cally in Class III systems, which are designed for occupant and fi re department use, pressure-reducing devices can be found. These devices come in a range of types. Some resemble a washer and reduce the outlet fl ow diameter so occupants may be able to control the line; some are manual control valves that can be used to increase or decrease the pressure. Figure 9- 11 shows an ex-ample of a pressure-reducing device that works at the valve stem. This manual valve may also have a pin or a collar that restricts the operation of the valve, as shown, and these restrictors must be re-moved for fi re department use. Or, if possible, the fi re department can locate another connection. Any system that has fl ow pressures of 150 psi or more should be tagged or marked to indicate the higher pressures.

Standpipe systems can be either wet or dry sys-tems and are broken down into four types, as follows:

• A wet standpipe system that has water through-out the system at all times. When an outlet is opened, water immediately begins to fl ow.

• A dry standpipe system that is under no air pressure, much like a deluge-type sprinkler system. It must be activated by manual oper-ation of a valve at the beginning of the system or by a remote control located at each stand-pipe outlet.

• A dry standpipe system that is fi lled with air under pressure, much like a dry sprin-kler system. When a standpipe connection is opened, air is allowed to escape the system while water enters.

• A dry standpipe system that has no water supply. Water must be supplied by the fi re department.

The installation, maintenance, and minimum requirements of standpipe systems are covered within NFpA 14. This standard mandates that stand-pipe systems be limited to a maximum height of 275 feet. When a structure is higher than the 275-foot limit, an additional zone or zones must be installed;


Figure 9- 11 An example of a valve restrictor pin. The pin can simply be bent out of the way for fi re department use.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

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however, no two zones are allowed to exceed a height of 550 feet Figure 9- 12 .

Again, as with sprinkler systems, the fi re depart-ment must be very interested in how standpipe sys-tems are supplied with water. Each building, along with the specifi c hazards of the building, must be stud-ied to develop the best means of supplying the system with water. The supply may come from the domestic water system or on-site water tanks; either, or both, of these sources may require support from some type

Tip

The installation, maintenance, and minimum requirements of standpipe systems are covered in NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems . Keep in mind, however, that different jurisdictions may have different requirements above and beyond this standard. Fire personnel should know the code requirements for the area in which they are working.


of fi re pump. Class I and Class III standpipe systems also have an FDC so the fi re department can support and/or supply the system. The systems that have more than one zone due to building height or size have an FDC designated for each zone. As with sprinkler sys-tem FDCs, the standpipe FDC may be wall-mounted or located in an easily accessible location for fi re appa-ratus Figure 9- 13 . The FDCs must be of the female type (although many municipalities have mandated the connection be of the 5-inch Storz type), and the FDC must be designated as a standpipe FDC by the use of stamped letters on the connection itself or by some type of metal plate or disc that says the word standpipe .

Bear in mind that there are many structures or facilities that may have a combined sprinkler and standpipe system that is fed and supported by a sin-gle FDC, which is where preplanning again shows its importance Figure 9- 14 .

In addition to the indication that the FDC is for standpipe use, it must also indicate which zone it supplies if the system has more than one zone. Some jurisdictions mandate that the FDC be color coded for fi re department identifi cation. Table 9- 1 provides an example of color-coded FDCs. The standard man-dates that there be no way of shutting off the supply between the FDC and where it enters the system.


Figure 9- 12 Standpipe systems are limited to a height of 275 feet. Multistory buildings such as this one have additional zones. The fi re department must connect to the proper FDC for the zone to be used.Courtesy of Michael Gala.

Figure 9- 13 Fire department connections should be clearly marked standpipe or sprinkler .Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

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These systems typically activate and exhaust their respective agent prior to the arrival of the fi re department.

The carbon dioxide and halogenated agent types of extinguishing systems are typically found in com-puter rooms, spray booths, areas of intricate electrical equipment, or areas of fl ammable liquid storage, to name a few locations. These extinguishing agents are useful in areas where it is important to control and/or extinguish fi res without causing water damage to the facility’s components or products and where leaving a harmful residue on potentially expensive equipment that was not affected by the fi re could be more harmful than the fi re itself. many of the more advanced types of these systems have become quite elaborate in that they have detectors within the room or area to detect human presence and give some type of alert signal to notify occupants to exit just prior to the system acti-vating. This alert helps prevent any injuries to building occupants. Depending on the size of the system, the agent may be stored outside the building Figure 9- 15 .

A carbon dioxide system works by diluting the air in the room to displace oxygen; without oxy-gen, the fi re will go out. With the carbon dioxide system, there still exists the potential for the fi re to fl ash back to life once the carbon dioxide has been exhausted and begins to escape the fi re room or area. Carbon dioxide is not very effective at extinguish-ing a smoldering fi re, so it is imperative that the fi re department quickly locate and extinguish any remaining pockets of fi re with water or other appro-priate extinguishing agent. The main hazard to fi re fi ghters associated with this system is that it dilutes oxygen. proper protective equipment including

Tip

The carbon dioxide and halogenated agent types of extinguishing systems are typically found in locations such as computer rooms, spray booths, areas of intricate electrical equipment, or areas of � ammable liquid storage.



Figure 9- 14 An example of a combined sprinkler and standpipe system with a single FDC with multiple zones.Courtesy of Bob Markford, EMS Safety Chief, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

SOgs need to be developed and used in buildings that are equipped with standpipe systems.

Special Extinguishing Systems There are a multitude of specialized extinguishing systems. This section discusses some of the most common ones that fi re fi ghters will encounter, in-cluding the following:

• Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems • Halogenated agent extinguishing systems • Dry chemical extinguishing systems • Wet chemical extinguishing systems

Cap Color Code

Red Standpipe system

Green Automatic sprinkler system

Silver Non-automatic sprinkler system

Yellow Combination sprinkler and standpipe system

Fire Department Connection Color Coding

Table 9-1 Fire Department Connection Table 9-1

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self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) must be worn when entering these atmospheres. Air moni-toring should be conducted to determine when safe oxygen levels return.

Halogenated extinguishing agents, which are used in many of the same areas as carbon dioxide systems, work by interfering with and interrupting the chemical chain reaction of fi re. Halogenated agents, or halon as it is commonly called, are halo-genated hydrocarbons in a chemical compound that contains carbon and one or more of the elements from the halogen series (bromine, chlorine, fl uorine, and iodine). Halogenated agents are typically used in very low concentrations and are very effective at extinguishing fi re, even Class A fi res. The main haz-ard associated with halon to the building occupants and fi re fi ghters is the potential for toxicity from the

halogenated agent. As the concentration percentage increases, so does the potential for toxicity, not to mention the possibility of oxygen displacement, as is common with carbon dioxide systems. For these reasons, it is very important for fi re fi ghters to wear all protective equipment and SCBA and to conduct air monitoring when entering these atmospheres.

Dry and wet chemical extinguishing systems can be used in many common areas of application. Dry chemical systems are used to control fi res involv-ing fl ammable liquids, fl ammable gases, grease, and electrical equipment. These systems can be found in areas such as commercial kitchens above deep fat fry-ers and cooktops Figure 9- 16 . Dry chemical systems work by interrupting the chemical chain reaction of fi re. This system leaves a powdery residue that can be cleaned up by brushing or vacuuming. The main hazards associated with the activation of this system are limited visibility and respiratory irritation. When expelled, the system discharges in a cloud that can severely limit visibility and can cause breathing irri-tation and coughing associated with inhaling high concentrations of the powder (although the agent is considered nontoxic). Fire fi ghters need to wear all protective equipment including SCBA to reduce the potential of any side effects.


Figure 9- 15 The exterior components of a carbon dioxide extinguishing system installation.Courtesy of James Angle.

Figure 9- 16 A dry or wet chemical hood system protects a cooking area.Courtesy of James Angle.

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Wet chemical, or Class K, extinguishing systems are used in many of the same locations as the dry chemical systems but have an added benefi t. The wet chemical system has the extra ability of cooling and removing the fuel by coating it. Because of its cooling and coating properties, wet chemical extin-guishers are very effective in extinguishing Class A fi res, even those that are deep-seated. When this system is discharged on a fi re and comes in contact with grease, fat, and the like, a soaplike substance is created. This process is called saponifi cation . The resulting substance is easily cleaned up. The main hazards of this extinguishing agent are possi-ble inhalation hazard, as with dry chemical agents, and that they make the surfaces they come in con-tact with slippery. Class K extinguishing systems have become the new NFpA standard for fi re pro-tection of cooking surfaces. Note that Class K is a subclass of Class B, as discussed in the Fire Dynam-ics chapter.

Some newer extinguishing agents, called clean agents , are evolving. As the name suggests, they leave no residue and do not harm computers or electrical equipment. The actual extinguishing agent may be FE-36 or Centrimax ABC 40. These agents are effec-tive for Class A, B, and C fi res and are considered nontoxic, nonconductive, and ecologically safe.

Fire Department Support of Built-in Fire Protection Built-in building fi re protection systems are typically very effective in the control and extinguishment of fi re, provided that the built-in protection system is properly designed, installed, maintained, and support-ed by the fi re department. Each type of built-in pro-tection system, when activated, requires support from the fi re department. This support can come in various forms. It may mean providing and supplementing the water supply to a sprinkler or standpipe system or controlling the fl ow of water from the activated heads, or it may mean conducting typical fi re department

operations, such as search for victims and occupants, ventilation, and total extinguishment of the fi re.

It is not recommended that it be the responsi-bility of the fi re department to place these systems back in service after an activation. However, the department should be as helpful as possible and ensure that the system is properly restored by a qualifi ed person.

It is essential that every fi re department develop SOgs for buildings that have these protection sys-tems. NFpA 13E, Recommended Practice for Fire Department Operations in Properties Protected by Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems , is an excellent refer-ence as to what an SOg should contain along with any local operational requirements. An SOg should include the following guidelines:

• mandate that the fi rst- or second-arriving engine company report directly to the FDC and prepare to support the system.

• Secure a water supply. This supply should not rob the system of its water supply.

• maintain contact with interior crews and command to monitor when the system is to be charged.

• Initially develop and maintain a pump pres-sure of 150 psi. Depending on the system, such as a deluge-type sprinkler system or a multizone standpipe system in a high-rise, the pump pressure may need to be increased anywhere from 175 psi to 200 psi.

• mandate that a minimum of two 2½-inch hose lines supply the sprinkler or standpipe system. When more than two hose lines are

Tip

The built-in � re protection systems of a building are typically very effective in controlling and extinguishing � re, provided that the built-in protection system is properly designed, installed, maintained, and supported by the � re department.



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utilized, the pump pressure may also need to be increased from 175 psi to 200 psi.

• mandate that a fi re fi ghter be assigned to locate the main water control valve and ensure it is open. This fi re fi ghter must stay assigned to the main control valve to ensure no one turns it off, and to turn it off when advised by the incident commander.

• mandate that only the incident commander may order that the main water control valve be shut down.

For the most part, as far as water supply is con-cerned, fi re department operations for buildings with sprinkler systems or with standpipes are basi-cally the same. There are, however, special circum-stances to consider.

In sprinklered buildings, an activated system will disrupt the thermal balance, making visibility very low to almost zero. A primary search is always con-ducted. The cooler environment increases the odds of survival for trapped occupants. However, the cooler environment does sometimes make it more diffi cult to locate the seat of the fi re. Using a thermal imaging camera will greatly aid in this effort. Each fi re fi ghter, or at least each company, needs to have some type of sprinkler wedges or tongs to control water fl ow from activated heads once the fi re has been extinguished.

There are also some specific concerns for operations within buildings protected with stand-pipe systems. The fire department should never utilize any hose found in the in-house hose cab-inets. The quality of this hose is usually inferior to that found in the typical fire department, and it is not tested annually for weaknesses. An addi-tional major concern is the possible presence of pressure-reducing devices at the standpipe con-nection outlets. Each company should carry some type of high-rise kit to be utilized in these build-ings. There are very basic designs and some that are quite elaborate. Figure 9- 17 shows an example of a high-rise kit.

In general, a high-rise kit should be capable of fl owing at least 250 gpm and should contain at least

the following equipment. This equipment must be maintained and be reliable.

• minimum of 100 feet of 1¾-inch or 2-inch hose (more if long hallways are present) (Note that 2½-inch hose is preferred due to higher fl ow rates.)

• Water thief or gated Y, either 2½ to 1½ inches or 2½ to 2 inches (depending on the size hose line being utilized)

• Correct sizes of spanner wrenches • pipe wrench • Hand wheel for standpipe outlet


Figure 9- 17 Equipment typically carried in a high-rise or standpipe pack.Courtesy of Craig Maciuba.

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• A nozzle (smooth-bore nozzle is preferred due to higher fl ow potential, lower pres-sure needed, and reduced chance of nozzle becoming clogged)

• Door wedges • Typical hand tools and carried equipment

such as hand lights and forcible entry tools

The items in this list provide much of the equipment that is needed initially, and they are not overly heavy or cumbersome.

The standpipe connections should always be made on the fl oor below the fi re fl oor and the hose fl aked out within the stairwell. The easiest way to advance the hose from the stairwell would be to fl ake the hose up the stairs to the fl oor above the fi re fl oor so that as the line is advanced, gravity is assisting rather than fi ghting against the fi re fi ghters Figure 9- 18 .

Support of special extinguishing systems will usually be after the main body of fi re has been con-tained. The systems will have typically discharged, and the fi re department must ensure total extin-guishment is accomplished, search is completed, ventilation is done, and the facility works to get the system back in proper service.


Figure 9- 18 Proper hose line layout from a standpipe connection to the fi re fl oor. Courtesy of Mike Handoga.

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Chapter Summary • With today’s structures being built of lighter

weight and more combustible materials, built higher, built larger, and then packed with a higher fi re loading than ever, control and con-fi nement of fi res in these structures has become more labor-intensive, time-consuming, and dangerous.

• There are four main types of sprinkler systems: – Wet pipe systems – Dry pipe systems – Deluge systems – preaction systems

• A wet pipe sprinkler system constantly has water throughout the system.

• A dry pipe sprinkler system has no water in the system piping beyond the check valve.

• A preaction sprinkler system is similar to a dry pipe system but incorporates separate additional alarm equipment.

• A deluge sprinkler system, like the preaction system, utilizes separate additional detection equipment, but it is typically used in espe-cially hazardous locations.

• Residential sprinkler systems are becoming more and more popular, and in some cases are mandated.

• A standpipe system provides connections for the fi re department, and in some cases the occupants of the building, at various loca-tions throughout a building.

• Standpipe systems are divided into three classes, each depending on the intended use of the system. – Class I is for use by fi re departments and

those trained in the handling of heavy fi re streams.

– Class II is for use primarily by building occupants.

– Class III is for use by fi re departments and those trained in handling heavy streams, or for use by the building occupant.

• All fi re fi ghters must be aware of the possi-ble presence of pressure-reducing devices on standpipe systems.

• Specialized extinguishing systems include the following: – Carbon dioxide – Halogenated agent – Dry chemical – Wet chemical

• The built-in fi re protection systems of a building are typically very effective in con-trolling and extinguishing fi re, provided that the built-in protection system is properly designed, installed, maintained, and sup-ported by the fi re department.

Key Terms Accelerator A device designed to speed the

operation of a dry pipe valve. Exhauster A device designed to speed the

operation of a dry pipe valve by bleeding off pressure.

Fire department connection (FDC) A siamese connected to a sprinkler or standpipe system to allow the fi re department to augment water volume or pressure.

Fire pump A stationary pump designed to increase water fl ow or pressure in a sprinkler or standpipe system.

Halon An extinguishing agent that works by interrupting the chemical change reaction.

Main drain The drain for a sprinkler system that drains the entire system.

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Main water control valve The main water sup-ply valve in a sprinkler or standpipe system.

Outside screw and yoke (OS&Y) A type of main water control valve characterized by the visi-ble screw and yoke.

Post indicator valve (PIV) A type of main water control valve characterized by the visible window, which indicates the position of the valve.

Riser The vertical piping in a sprinkler or stand-pipe system.

Saponifi cation A process that occurs when wet chemicals come into contact with grease and the like, forming a soaplike substance.

Test header A group of outlets used to test the capacity of a building fi re pump system.

Wall post indicator valve (WPIV) A type of main water control valve mounted on a wall and characterized by the visible window, which indicates the position of the valve.

Water fl ow alarm A mechanical or electrical device attached to a sprinkler system to alert for water fl ow.

Case Study You and your engine company are doing a company inspection of a six-story adult living facility. The build-ing is fairly new and has met all of the current codes. It has a sprinkler and standpipe system, as well as a monitored fi re alarm system throughout.

1. An indication that a fi re pump is present in the building is a header, which looks like a wall hydrant with multiple 2½-inch outlets. What is the purpose of this header?

A. It supplies hoses with water. B. It releases pressure from the system. C. It allows the fi re department to test the

fi re pump fl ow and pressure. D. It provides additional water fl ow to fi re

apparatus.

2. In walking around the building, you fi nd that the standpipe is located in the open south stairwell. The standpipe is not pro-tected from weather, which surprises you, as the temperature is often below freezing. given this information, you expect that this is a:

A. dry standpipe system. B. wet standpipe system. C. combination wet sprinkler and standpipe

system. D. preaction standpipe system.

3. As you walk through the kitchen, you see fry-ers and a grill. For this area you would expect to fi nd:

A. a deluge sprinkler system. B. a preaction sprinkler system. C. a wet chemical system. D. a dry powder system.

4. The north stairwell standpipe is located inside the building and is protected from the weather. As you examine the standpipe cabinet, you see a pressure-reducing de-vice. This would imply that the standpipe is likely a:

A. Class I standpipe. B. Class II standpipe. C. Class III standpipe. D. Class IV standpipe.


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Review Questions 1. Why are built-in fi re protection systems on

the increase and an important ally of the fi re service?

2. List and describe the four main types of sprinkler systems.

3. Name the three primary types of main water control valves, and explain how to determine whether the valve is open or closed.

4. List three common types of valving, other than the main water control valve for sprin-kler systems, and their purposes.

5. What outside component is a critical part of a preaction sprinkler system?

6. Name three ways, other than fi re department supplementation, that sprinkler and standpipe systems receive their water supply.

7. Which NFpA standard describes fi re depart-ment operations in buildings with sprinkler and standpipe systems?

8. Explain the three classes of standpipe sys-tems and their designed uses.

9. What are the hazards to occupants and fi re fi ghters associated with the activation of a carbon dioxide extinguishing system?

10. Who is the only person authorized to order the main water supply valve of a sprinkler sys-tem to be closed?

Discussion Questions 1. Review your departmental SOgs for fi re-

ground operations. Do the SOgs address operations for buildings with built-in fi re pro-tection systems? If not, how would you change them to include such operational concerns?

2. preplan a building with built-in fire protec-tion that is within your response district.

Be sure to include locations of FDCs, sources of water supply, and initial opera-tions for a fire in the building utilizing the built-in protection system.

3. Review your department’s high-rise kit and note if it has the minimum required hose, equipment, and other items.

References and Additional Resources Hall , J. R. , Jr. ( 2010 ). U.S. experience with sprinklers and

other automatic � re extinguishing equipment . Quincy , mA : National Fire protection Association Fire Analysis and Research Division . Retrieved from http://www.fi resprinklerinitiative.org/~/media/fi re%20sprinkler% 20initiative/fi les/reports/ossprinklers.pdf.

National Fire protection Association . ( 2010 ). NFPA 13E: Recommended practice for � re department operations in properties protected by sprinkler and standpipe systems . Quincy , mA : Author.

National Fire protection Association . ( 2013 ). NFPA 13D: Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems in one and

two-family dwellings and manufactured homes . Quincy , mA : Author.

National Fire protection Association . ( 2013 ). NFPA 14: Standard for the installation of standpipe and hose systems . Quincy , mA : Author.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health . ( Jan-uary 18, 2011). Fire � ghter fatality investigation report F2010-13: Career � re � ghter dies while conducting a search in a residential house � re—Kansas . Atlanta, gA: CDC/NIOSH. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/fi re/reports/face201013.html. Case Study

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Built-in Fire Protection

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