Question

Explain each of the different stages of a fire? what are some examples of protective measures that can be taken to protect assets from fire damage?

Answer 1

Different stages of a fire

Incipient – This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine and have a chemical reaction resulting in fire. This is also known as “ignition” and is usually represented by a very small fire which often (and hopefully) goes out on its own, before the following stages are reached. Recognizing a fire in this stage provides your best chance at suppression or escape.

Growth – The growth stage is where the structures fire load and oxygen are used as fuel for the fire. There are numerous factors affecting the growth stage including where the fire started, what combustibles are near it, ceiling height and the potential for “thermal layering”. It is during this shortest of the 4 stages when a deadly “flashover” can occur; potentially trapping, injuring or killing firefighters.

Fully Developed – When the growth stage has reached its max and all combustible materials have been ignited, a fire is considered fully developed. This is the hottest phase of a fire and the most dangerous for anybody trapped within.

Decay – Usually the longest stage of a fire, the decay stage is characterized a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire. Two common dangers during this stage are first – the existence of non-flaming combustibles, which can potentially start a new fire if not fully extinguished. Second, there is the danger of a backdraft when oxygen is reintroduced to a volatile, confined space

Protective measures that can be taken to protect assets from fire damage

Measures for fire prevention are just as important as safety measures in the event of fire. The enforcing authority will require fire risk assessments and safety arrangements to cover fire precautions which prevent fire just as it will require coverage of fire precautions designed to protect people and Assets in the event of fire.

Fire prevention measures may need to include matters such as:

• Security provisions to help prevent wilful fire raising and arson;
• Prohibition on smoking;
• Positioning of heat sources to prevent contact with combustible material;
• Systems of work to prevent accumulation of easily ignitable rubbish or paper;
• Control of contractors or employees using blowlamps, cutting or welding equipment;
• Risk assessment and control in the purchasing of articles and substances to avoid the introduction of fire hazards where possible;
• Risk assessment and control for the use of articles and substances which pose fire hazards to avoid the manifestation of fire risks;
• Maintenance programmes for electrical wiring and appliances;
• Temperature control that avoids need for portable heaters or coolers;
• Design or positioning of heaters, machinery or office equipment so that ventilators cannot be obstructed;
• Adequate cleaning of work areas;
• Adequate supervision of cooking facilities;
• Special engineering solutions, such as to make it impossible for a fire to begin or take hold by controlling the presence of oxygen, fuel or energy. These three components, the so-called 'fire triangle', are the three prerequisites for fire.