Safety Alert S-005 - Tec Trek Web Site

Tip of the Week

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Red Alert!

Safety Alert 005

Well Red Alert may be too drastic, but none the less very important for the performance,testing and maintenance of Fire, Gas & Support Systems.



The above image should say it all, which is why I ask that you refer to your calibration reports that are prepared every 90 days.






The above is just a portion of the information provided on inspections but do show specific information related to the backup systems.

Both of these systems require backup power in the event of a facility primary power failure, but attention must also be given to Auxiliary and Support systems that interface with the two above.

So what are Aux. and Support System?  
That would include Audible/Visual Alarms, both local and facility wide, ESD, Shut downs & Electrical Isolation Devices.

Fire Detection Systems (PINC P-173)
In addition to monitor for alarms, troubles & ground faults, these systems are designed to provide power to all fire related input devices, where applicable, during normal and alarm conditions. They are also required to provide power to active and passive devices for all alarm output functions based on current approved SAFE Charts.

At system inception, power and battery calculations are conducted of all devices that are connected to the Fire Control Panel both in normal and alarm modes. Upon completion of these calculations, a battery backup is sized to support the system for a minimum of 8 Hours in normal mode, plus an additional 5 Minutes in alarm mode on OCSG Facilities.  These requirements are not the same for facilities located within the States or in State waters. Refer to API RP14 C, Appendix C, Sub-section C.1.2.4

If after initial system is commissioned, modifications related to additions to the system have occurred, new calculations are required. This applies to all system types covered in this newsletter.

Gas Detection System (PINC P-154)
These systems do not define a parameter for required backup power. All that is stated as for as the codes and standards given by CFR and API state the use of “a reliable means of power that provide for continuous monitoring”.

As with Fire Control panels, all output functions based on current approved SAFE Charts, both passive and active devices should be connected to the same power source as the Gas Detection System.

Since the design parameters are vague, I personally use the same backup requirements for Fire Control Systems.

Paging & Alarm Systems (PINC Z-195)
Since both the Fire & Gas Detection Systems are required to sound a facility wide alarm, and have Primary and Secondary means of power, common sense would dictate that the PAGA should be designed accordingly.  

After extensive research, API RP14F, section 11.16.2.10.2, states that general alarm systems should be designed for a minimum of 4 hours of continuous operation in the event of a primary power failure. This is in conflict with the required backup for the Fire Detection System that broadcasts its facility wide alarm utilizing the general alarm system.

So with that being stated, I can only provide a personal recommendation for backup power, which in this case is the same as Fire Detection Systems, eight (8) hours. When testing these systems, it is also recommended that the primary supply be temporarily disconnected and that the entire system tests be conducted on backup.


If you require more information regarding the terms and explanations above, contact me by email or phone for assistance.

The above information is covered in the following Tec Trek class segments: Awareness Training (FG-01A), Basic Technical Training (FG-01)

For more information regarding training schedules and course curriculum, please visit our Web Site at www.tectrek.org

Or Contact Todd Olivier at (337) 298-7959.

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