The materials stored in a hazardous materials warehouse, whether gases, liquids or solids, are often flammable and, depending on the hazard class, are classified as flammable, highly flammable or extremely flammable. They often also have oxidizing or explosive properties. The potential fire risk in the storage of hazardous materials is extremely high due to the critical nature of the materials. The hazard situation is further exacerbated if released flammable materials or their combustion residues react with oxygen or with each other. Toxic by-products and gases are the result.
A fire could start with a technical defect, work involving a fire hazard or human carelessness at any time. If hazardous materials such as chemicals are stored, the damage can not only jeopardize the existence of the company, but also cause lasting harm to people and the environment. To prevent these dangers, fire protection in the storage of hazardous materials is a top priority. The use of fire extinguishers or conventional sprinkler systems often does not provide an effective solution for fire extinguishing. At WAGNER, we offer holistic fire protection solutions for this challenging storage application, which we develop individually for your specific needs.
RISK ANALYSIS
Warehouses for the storage of hazardous materials and flammable liquids require special consideration from a fire protection perspective. There are corresponding regulations for the storage of hazardous materials. Preventive fire protection measures have the highest priority in order to minimize the extent of damage in the event of a fire.
The greatest source of danger when storing hazardous materials is the stored goods themselves. Flammable and highly flammable materials, e.g. acids stored in drums, have high fire loads. In addition, the stored materials or their combustion residues can react with each other and develop toxic by-products and toxic gases as reaction products. Depending on the storage type and storage height, the design of the respective warehouse also poses a corresponding fire risk.
PROTECTION GOALS
BETTER SOLUTIONS IN FIRE PROTECTION
According to the state building regulations, a fire protection concept must be submitted for the assessment of special buildings, which also include warehouses for the storage of hazardous materials. In principle, fire protection for the storage of hazardous materials is largely determined by the individual risks of the stored materials. Depending on the storage quantity and storage concept, additional protective measures may also be required.
Fire protection measures in the storage of hazardous materials – specialist advice required
A comprehensive fire protection concept for the storage of hazardous materials should always take into account the personnel and the surroundings as well as the stored goods, the warehouse itself, the warehouse building and the storage technology. In case of an emergency, it is vital that the right protective measures are taken. It is not only in the storage of hazardous materials that the combined use of different technologies offers the greatest possible protection. With a pioneering spirit and many years of experience, we develop customized fire protection solutions that take into account not only the legal requirements, but above all your individual requirements.
When it comes to fire protection for the storage of hazardous materials, we rely on a combination of our innovative systems.
Detecting fires as early as possible is of crucial importance, especially in the storage of hazardous materials, so that the right countermeasures can be taken immediately in the event of a fire. Our TITANUS® early fire detection system detects potential fire risks as early as the incipient phase (pyrolysis) and is immune to false alarms. Our modular aspirating smoke detectors are particularly robust and detect fires with absolute reliability, even under the most difficult environmental conditions.
Preventing a fire from starting in the first place is the best way to effectively protect the storage of hazardous materials from fire risks and the resulting consequential damage to people and the environment. This is why we use our OxyReduct® fire protection system for active fire prevention by reducing oxygen in the area to be protected. Depending on the area of application and the hazardous materials stored, a combination with an extinguishing system may be advisable.
Some of the materials stored in the hazardous materials warehouse may have ignition thresholds that are still below the usual level and a residual oxygen concentration of approx. 13 vol.%. In this case, we use a CO2 extinguishing system which, in the event of an alarm, builds up a CO2 extinguishing lake several meters high and thus further reduces the prevailing oxygen concentration in this area. Our gas extinguishing systems work with the inert gases nitrogen (N2), argon (Ar), IG-541 or carbon dioxide (CO2) and fight fires effectively without causing extinguishing damage. They do not form any chemical compounds and extinguish residue-free and non-destructive.
BENEFITS
In terms of occupational safety, employees are protected as well as possible against fire risks and consequential damage.
Fire prevention rules out environmental damage from the outset. If inert gases are used, they extinguish non-destructive and residue-free.
Reliable protection of your goods and values from damage caused by fire, extinguishing agents or smoke contamination.
Protection of your supply chain by ensuring uninterrupted ability to deliver.
Prevention of fire-related consequential damage and damage to image.
We will be happy to advise you individually.
