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FIA revises Guidance Note focused on fire extinguishing systems
02 September 2024
THE FIRE Industry Association (FIA) has revised its Guidance Note aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of handling pressurised container assemblies within fixed firefighting systems. This Guidance Note contains the latest in industry Best Practice thinking and is tailored to those practitioners responsible for the transportation, installation, maintenance and removal of these critical safety components.

The FIA’s Guidance Note delivers a high-level overview of the essential safety practices for dealing with pressurised containers. Given the wide variety of product types and extinguishing agents now available on the market, the guidelines offer a general framework rather than exhaustive details.
Practitioners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the specific technical requirements and safety features of each product and agent category they encounter during the course of their work.
The document highlights the importance of several safety features designed to mitigate risks associated with the handling of pressurised containers. These features are critical in ensuring that, when managed appropriately, the containers don’t present any significant hazards.
Key safety elements
Valve protection transport caps and shrouds
These devices are essential for protecting the valve from damage during transportation and handling. Depending on the design, these caps or shrouds may need to be removed during the final connection to the agent delivery system.
Anti-recoil device
This outlet plug or cap restricts the flow of agent out of the valve in case of an unintended opening, preventing recoil thrust from causing disruptions to personnel, free-standing containers or other objects in the vicinity.
Overpressure relief device
Typically comprising a burst disc and an associated anti-recoil fitting, this device ensures a controlled slow release of the contents in the event of over-pressurisation, thereby preventing container rupture during fire or overheating conditions.
Purpose-built restraining bracketry or other means
This involves racking systems designed to securely hold the containers, preventing mechanical disruptions and movements caused by reaction forces from intended or unintended content releases.
Ensuring safety and compliance
The pressurised containers used in fixed firefighting systems are designed and validated according to prevailing Codes of Practice, making them safe for use when handled correctly. This FIA Guidance Note serves as a vital resource for practitioners, reinforcing the importance of adhering to Best Practice in order to maintain safety standards.
The FIA’s new Guidance Note helps to ensure that safety remains a top priority across all stages of system handling.
*Download copies of the FIA’s Guidance Note entitled ‘The Safe Handling of Pressurised Container Assemblies Used in Fire Extinguishing Systems’
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