PISTA Blog#41 (2024) FIRE SAFETY 101: A DEEP DIVE INTO FIRE CLASSES FOR OFFSHORE PERSONNEL

FIRE SAFETY 101: A DEEP DIVE INTO FIRE CLASSES FOR OFFSHORE PERSONNEL 

Introduction:

Fire safety is paramount on offshore platforms, where the potential for severe consequences is high. Understanding fire classifications is crucial for selecting the appropriate extinguishing agents and ensuring effective fire suppression. This PISTA  blog will explore common fire classification systems, including those used by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and European standards, and discuss suitable extinguishing agents for offshore environments.

Fire Classifications:

• NFPA System:

• 
  Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, textiles)

• Extinguishing Agents: Water, water-based agents (e.g., AFFF foam)
• Class B: Flammable liquids (gasoline, oil, grease)
• Extinguishing Agents:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2)
• Dry chemical
• Foam
• Inert gases
• Class C: Energized electrical equipment
• Extinguishing Agents:
• Dry chemical
• CO2
• Halon alternatives (e.g., Novec 1230)
• Class D: Combustible metals (magnesium, sodium, potassium)
• Extinguishing Agents:
• Specialized dry powders designed for metal fires.
• Class K: Cooking oils and greases
• Extinguishing Agents:
• Wet chemical agents specifically designed for kitchen fires.
• EU System (similar to ISO):
  
  
  
• Class A: Similar to NFPA Class A.
• Class B: Similar to NFPA Class B.
• Class C: Fires involving gases.
• Class D: Combustible metals.
• Class E: Electrical fires (similar to NFPA Class C).
• Class F: Cooking oils and fats.

Extinguishing Agents for Offshore Platforms:

• Considerations:

• Environmental impact: Minimize ecological damage in the marine environment.
• Toxicity: Select agents with minimal toxicity to personnel.
• Effectiveness: Choose agents that effectively extinguish the specific type of fire.
• Availability: Ensure the availability of the chosen extinguishing agents on the platform.
• Common Agents:
  
• CO2: Effective on Class B and C fires, environmentally friendly.
• Dry Chemical: Effective on Class A, B, and C fires.
• Foam: Effective on Class A and B fires, particularly for flammable liquids.
• Inert Gases: Effective on Class B fires, environmentally friendly.
• Water-based agents: Used for Class A fires, but not suitable for electrical or flammable liquid fires.

Conclusion:

Understanding fire classifications and selecting appropriate extinguishing agents are crucial for effective fire safety on offshore platforms. By implementing proper fire prevention measures and ensuring the availability of suitable firefighting equipment, personnel can minimize the risk of fire-related incidents and enhance overall safety.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and discussion and should not be considered professional safety advice. Always consult with qualified safety professionals for specific guidance on fire safety and emergency procedures.

PISTA Blog team is proud to be part of the 1st OPITO Approved TRAINING CENTRE in Southern India where emphasis is given to safety training and creating safe workers for the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry. 

Since 2018, PISTA has offered OPITO-APPROVED BOSIET with EBS / TBOSIET, FOET / TFOET, HUET / THUET, TSbB, H2S, and WORK AT HEIGHTS, CONFINED SPACE ENTRY (coming soon). Remember, safety, knowledge, communication, and teamwork are essential for success in this demanding field.