IS 4989:2006 (Part 1) is the Indian Standard (BIS) for foam concentrate for producing mechanical foam for fire fighting - specification (amalgamating is 4989 (part 1):1985, (part 2): 1984, (part 3):1987. This standard specifies the requirements, testing methods, and performance criteria for various types of foam concentrates used for producing mechanical foam for fire fighting. It amalgamates previous separate standards and covers protein (FP), fluoroprotein (FFFP), synthetic (S), and aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) concentrates, ensuring their effectiveness against Class A and Class B fires.
Foam Concentrate for producing mechanical foam for fire fighting - Specification (Amalgamating IS 4989 (Part 1):1985, (Part 2): 1984, (Part 3):1987
Overview
- Status
- Current
- Usage level
- Specialized
- Domain
- Fire Safety — Fire Fighting
- Type
- Specification
- Amendments
- Amendment 1 (Aug 2008); Amendment 2 (Dec 2012); Amendment 3 (Nov 2013)
Also on InfraLens for IS 4989
Practical Notes
! Ensure compatibility of the foam concentrate with the proportioning and discharge equipment being used, as mismatched components can lead to poor foam quality and ineffective fire suppression.
! Verify the concentrate type (AFFF, AR-AFFF, FP etc.) is suitable for the specific fire hazard; for example, alcohol-resistant (AR) foam is required for polar solvent fires like ethanol.
! Always check the 'Use By' date. Foam concentrate performance degrades over time, and old stock should be lab-tested annually or replaced as per manufacturer guidelines and this standard.
Frequently referenced clauses
Updates & Amendments3 amendments
Amendment 1 (Aug 2008)
Amendment 2 (Dec 2012)
Amendment 3 (Nov 2013)
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
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International Equivalents
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International Comparison — Coming Soon
We're adding equivalent international standards for this code.
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
pH range of concentrate (most types)6.0 to 9.5
Minimum specified shelf life2 years
Standard concentrations3% and 6%
Minimum low expansion ratio (AFFF, FP)6:1
Minimum 25% drainage time (Low Expansion)2.5 minutes
Sludge content by volume (max)0.25 percent
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Physical Requirements for Foam Concentrates
Table 2 - Performance Requirements for Class B Foams
Table 4 - Requirements for Protein Foam Concentrate (FP)
Table 7 - Requirements for Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Concentrate (AFFF)
Key Clauses
Clause 4 - General Requirements
Clause 5 - Requirements for Protein Foam Concentrate (FP)
Clause 8 - Requirements for Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Concentrate (AFFF)
Clause 10 - Packing and Marking
Clause 12 - Sampling and Criteria for Conformity
Annex F - Method for Determination of Expansion Ratio and Drainage Time
Frequently Asked Questions4
What are the main types of foam concentrate covered by IS 4989?+
It covers Protein (FP), Fluoroprotein (FFFP), Synthetic (S), and Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) concentrates.
What is the minimum shelf life specified in this code?+
The concentrate must be effective for a minimum of 2 years from the date of manufacture when stored according to recommendations (Clause 4.3).
How is the concentration of foam tested on site?+
Concentration is typically checked using a handheld refractometer, comparing the reading to a calibration chart provided by the manufacturer (Annex G).
What are the standard concentrations for foam?+
Foam concentrates are typically supplied for use at 3 percent or 6 percent concentration with water.
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.