IS 15683:2009 Part 2 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for fixed fire fighting systems - carbon dioxide systems. This standard (Part 2) outlines the requirements for designing, installing, testing, and maintaining fixed carbon dioxide fire extinguishing systems that use the local application method. It focuses on applying CO2 directly onto a specific hazard like a machine or dip tank, rather than flooding an entire room. The code provides methodologies for calculating the required CO2 quantity, flow rates, and crucial safety precautions due to the asphyxiant nature of carbon dioxide.
Specifies requirements for the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of fixed fire fighting systems using carbon dioxide as the extinguishing agent.
Overview
- Status
- Current
- Usage level
- Frequently Used
- Domain
- Fire Safety — Fire Safety
- Type
- Code of Practice
Also on InfraLens for IS 15683
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Local application is highly dependent on correct nozzle placement, height, and angle relative to the hazard; this must be based on manufacturer's listed specifications.
! These systems are not effective for fires involving reactive metals (e.g., sodium, potassium) or materials containing their own oxygen supply (e.g., cellulose nitrate).
! Due to the life-threatening risk of asphyxiation, safety protocols like pre-discharge alarms, time delays, and maintenance lockouts are non-negotiable and must be strictly enforced.
Frequently referenced clauses
carbon dioxidesteelpiping
International Equivalents
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International Comparison — Coming Soon
We're adding equivalent international standards for this code.
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
minimum discharge duration surface fire30 seconds
minimum application rate surface fire16 kg/min/m²
safety factor for co2 quantity1.4 for high pressure systems
predischarge alarm durationMinimum 20 seconds before discharge
dangerous co2 concentration>9% by volume in air (leading to loss of consciousness)
typical design concentration for flammable liquids34%
Key Formulas
W = R × A — Total required flow rate (kg/min), where R is the rate from Table 1 and A is the hazard area.
Total CO2 Mass = W × t — Where W is the total flow rate and t is the discharge time in minutes.
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Local Application Rate for Surface Fires (kg/min/m2)
Table 2 - Assumed Volumetric Extent of Hazard (Volume Fires)
Table 3 - Equivalent Pipe Lengths of Screwed Fittings
Table 4 - Equivalent Pipe Lengths of Welded Fittings
Key Clauses
Clause 5 - Hazard Specification
Clause 6 - Carbon Dioxide Requirements for Local Application Systems
Clause 7 - Distribution System
Clause 10 - Safety Requirements
Clause 12 - Plans and Approvals
Clause 14 - Inspection, Testing and Maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions4
What is a local application CO2 system?+
A system that discharges CO2 directly onto a specific hazard (e.g., a machine, a pool of liquid) to extinguish a fire locally, without filling the entire room. (Clause 3.16)
What is the minimum discharge time required?+
For surface fires, a minimum of 30 seconds is required. This time may need to be longer for other types of hazards. (Clause 6.3.2.2)
How is the required CO2 quantity calculated?+
It's based on the application rate (kg/min/m²) from Table 1, multiplied by the hazard area and the required discharge duration. (Clause 6.3)
Are these systems safe for personnel?+
No. The CO2 concentrations used are lethal. The area must be evacuated before discharge, and mandatory safety features like alarms and time delays are required by the code. (Clause 10)
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.