IS 13694:1993 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for fire safety in iron and steel industries. This code provides comprehensive guidelines for fire safety in integrated iron and steel plants. It covers hazard identification, fire prevention measures, design of fire protection systems like hydrants and sprinklers, and requirements for firefighting organization and training specific to the industry's unique risks.
Code of practice for fire safety in iron and steel industries
| Parameter | IS Value | International | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Hydrant Spacing (External) | 45 metres in high hazard areas (Clause 7.4.1.2) | Typically 250 ft (approx. 76 m) spacing to ensure hose stream coverage to all parts of a building. | NFPA 24 |
| Fire Water Supply Duration (Hydrants) | 4 hours for major plants (Clause 7.4.2) | Minimum 2-3 hours, but determined by the largest demand scenario, which could be higher for critical areas. | FM Global Data Sheet 7-3 |
| Combustible Dust Layer Limit Triggering Action | General recommendation for 'rigorous standards of cleaning' (Clause 5.6.1) | Specific limit: Action required when dust thickness exceeds 1/32 in. (0.8 mm) over 5% of a floor area. (Clause 6.1.1.1) | NFPA 654 (2020) |
| Protection for Critical Cable Trays | Application of fire-retardant paints or encasement in fire-resisting material (Clause 5.3.3) | Automatic sprinkler protection (in-rack type sprinklers) for multi-tiered trays or those with high fuel load. | FM Global Data Sheet 7-3 |
| Extinguisher for Electrical Fires (Class C) | Carbon Dioxide (CO2) or Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) type (Table 1) | Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Dry Chemical, or Clean Agent extinguishers rated for Class C fires. | NFPA 10 |
| Structural Steel Fire Protection Requirement | General recommendation for fire-resisting treatment where collapse could endanger plant/personnel (Clause 4.1.2) | Mandatory fireproofing (e.g., 2-hour rating) for steel supporting critical equipment or vessels if exposed to a severe fire potential (e.g., oil cellars). | FM Global Data Sheet 7-3 |