Transitioning to Fluorine Free Foams

The switch from fluorine-based to fluorine-free firefighting foam concentrates - so-called F3 - is in full swing and will continue keeping us busy in the coming years.
However, this changeover is not just a simple exchange of two firefighting foam agents of the same type and nature, as with the transition from C8- to C6- based AFFF. At that time, the physical chemical properties, application and extingui­shing effect of the old and the new product were almost identical, hence in most cases no special measures were required.
In turn moving from AFFF to F3 rather means transitioning to a new foam technology. There­fore, many more aspects have to be considered and looked at in much more detail in order to make this transition successful.

This document informs you about the most important aspects to consider.

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Section: FFA

Model Risk Assessment for Special Extinguishing Systems

The aim of the “Model Risk Assessment for Special Extinguishing Systems” is to provide the operator with an aid that enables him to prepare the risk assessment for special extinguishing systems. It represents a general compilation of known hazards - independent of the specific workplace. The employer/operator has to adapt it by the taking into account the specific extinguishing system and the conditions in the workplace. On the basis of this model risk assessment, the operator can determine the relevant hazards and take suitable measures.

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Section: FEI

Guideline on the regular inspection of transportable compressed gas cylinders

At present, there is confusion as to when extinguishing agent containers have to undergo periodic inspections under the Pressure Equipment Directive, the Transportable Pressure Equipment Directive and the transport regulations under the relevant standards. This guideline document contains recommendations for the handling of pressurized gas containers of special extinguishing systems.

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Section: FEI

Guideline for handling non-compliant or non-approved fire extinguishers as part of the service procedure

This guideline is to provide maintenance services with information and advice on how to deal with non-compliant or unauthorized fire extinguishers during servicing procedures.

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Section: PFE

Handling of sprinkler extinguishing systems by fire brigades

In this presentation, the advantages of sprinkler extinguishing systems, their handling by the fire brigade and frequently asked questions will be discussed. Among other things, it provides basic knowledge about the construction and design of sprinkler extinguishing systems.

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Section: ESS

Guideline for the selection and installation of portable and mobile fire extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers are suitable for extinguishing incipient fires because they are immediately ready for use and available. They are ideal initial response firefighting equipment. There are different areas of application for these devices.

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Section: PFE

Modern integration of sprinkler extinguishing systems in buildings – presentation for architects

With modern building materials, such as large glass surfaces or open steel structures, it is often a problem to meet fire protection requirements. If these building materials are installed, the fire protection requirements can often only be met by a sprinkler extinguishing system.

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Section: ESS

Information regarding the influence of sound sources on computer hard disks

Gas extinguishing systems have been used extensively for decades to protect computer rooms, IT rooms, data storage areas and other high-value facilities. In the past, there have been isolated malfunctions of hard disks for data backup in connection with gas extinguishing systems in IT rooms. This information sheet explains the problem and provides possible solutions.

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Section: FEI

Sprinkler protection for multi-story car parks

Today, modern vehicles are made of a variety of highly flammable materials such as plastic, rubber or textiles. In addition, there is the fuel in the vehicle tanks. This leads to a high fire load in multi-story car parks. This article shows the risks and solutions.

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Section: ESS