Fire Fighting Equipments

The following discussion is based on Fire Fighting Equipments commonly used on Offshore platforms. Some of the Fire Fighting Equipments also apply to Chemical Plant and Refineries. The location, type and quantity of these units are based on the risk and function of the area, which they serve and on Operators experience. All fire fighting equipments must comply with the local safety regulations.

The following Fire Fighting Equipments are commonly used on Offshore platforms.

Fire Hydrant Station

For offshore applications, the fire hydrant station is built from materials suitable for a corrosive environment and suitable for use with sea water. Each hydrant station consists of two single outlet pressure reducing hydrant valves, with 1½" or 2½" instantaneous coupling connections, cap of bronze and chain as per BS 336.

Deluge Valves

Deluge Valves are hydraulic actuated valves. To read more about deluge systems follow link to this site.

Mobile Fire Extinguishers

These can be classified into three types:

ABC Dry Powder fire extinguishers have been used in a variety of scenarios for many years. These fire extinguishers are manufactured to BSEN3:1996. Follow Link for a typical example of dry powder extinguisher.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)Portable fire extinguishers are primarily used for fighting electrical fires. Follow Link for a typical example of CO2 Portable extinguisher.

The Wheeled unit extinguishers are of the dry-powder type with either an internal or external propellant system. They are provided with a sufficient hose length to enable sweeping of the fire. Follow Link for a typical example of Wheeled dry powder extinguisher.

Fire Fighters Equipment Cabinet

Fire Fighters Equipment Cabinet typically consists of :

  • Self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Fireman’s clothing
  • UHF radio communication sets
  • Safety lines
  • Fireman’s axes with insulated shaft
  • Fireman’s belts
  • Torches with spare batteries

Helicopter Crash Kit

A helicopter crash kit is provided for rescuing purposes in the event of a crash at helicopter landing or take-off. A Helicopter crash kit typically consists of :

  • Close proximity fire suits, with helmet, gloves and boots
  • Self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Rescue axe
  • Cutters, bolt
  • Crowbar, large
  • Grab Hooks or Salving Hook
  • Hacksaw, heavy duty c/w spare blades
  • Fire resistant blanket
  • Ladder
  • Lifeline/rescue harness
  • Pliers, side cutting
  • Set of assorted screwdrivers
  • Harness knife c/w sheath
  • Portable safety lamp

Helideck Extinguishing System

The helideck is provided with a dedicated extinguishing system. The system provided normally is a twin agent skid, comprising a pre-mix of dry chemicals used in combination with foam systems. The system is installed as a fixed skid with hose reels to provide coverage for the helideck.

Applicable Standards