Description of Project
Elite Fire Protection was requested to participate in a tender for warehouse fire sprinkler protection.
This month in our blog, we shared key insights on SANS 10400-T, covering fire sprinkler systems, hose reels, hydrants, water reticulation, and fire doors. In this case study, we focus specifically on the fire sprinkler system and hydrant reticulation, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations for a logistics company in Polokwane.
While the insurer required ASIB clearance for this project, the involvement of a Fire Consultant (or Fire Engineer) remains essential. Fire Consultants play a crucial role in rational designs and calculations, ensure submission to Council, and conduct inspections with the fire department to ensure sign off. According to SANS 10400-T, rational designs are done by a competent person involving a process of reasoning and calculation and which may include a design based on the use of a standard or other suitable document.
| Project | Fire Protection Systems |
| Size | 4450m2 |
| Scope | Fire Sprinkler Designs, Supply and Install |
| Discipline | Fire Protection |
Project Scope
Designs, Supply and Install:
- Fire Sprinkler System
- Hydrant reticulation
Process Outline
Fire Sprinkler System
A fire sprinkler system is required for this building as its size exceeds 2,500m², in accordance with SANS 10400-T. The system is being designed with a density of 12.5mm/min for roof protection and 5mm/min for office protection.
As we highlighted in our latest article, a reliable water supply is essential for effective firefighting, and SANS 10400-T specifies the necessary requirements. Businesses must ensure sufficient water pressure and flow rates to support fire suppression efforts. When municipal supply is inadequate, dedicated fire water storage tanks should be in place.
In this case, the municipal water supply was insufficient to meet the required flow rates and pressures for both the sprinkler and hydrant systems. The fire water storage tanks will have a combined effective capacity of 730m3 to ensure sufficient flow and pressures.
The project will require one (1) diesel fire pump for the fire sprinkler system and one (1) electric pump for the hydrant system.
- Diesel Pump 5680L/min @ 476kPa
- Hydrant Pump 2500L/min @ 549kPa
Diesel fire pumps are essential for fire protection sprinkler systems, providing a reliable backup during power outages thanks to their combustion engine. In contrast, electric pumps ensure consistent operation using electrical power. Both play a crucial role in maintaining the necessary water pressure for effective fire suppression, helping to protect lives and property.
Diesel-Engine-Fire-Pump.jpg
Hydrant Reticulation
Fire hydrants play a critical role in providing large volumes of water for firefighting efforts, and compliance requirements must be met to ensure their effectiveness. Hydrants should be installed in accessible locations, ideally within 90 meters of any part of the building, to allow quick access in an emergency. As previously highlighted in an article by Elite Fire Protection, fire hydrants are among the most frequently tampered-with fire protection equipment. They must therefore be clearly marked and kept free from obstructions to ensure firefighters can use them without delay.
According to SANS 10400-T, one (1) hydrant is required for every 1000m2 and given the size of the building, the client requires four (4) hydrants and 1 booster connection.
Challenges:
- No challenges at this initial stage.
