Subestation Fire Protection Ep 99-00-00 08 Sp

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Engineering StandardElectrical

EP 99 00 00 08 SP

SUBSTATIONS FIRE PROTECTION AND DETECTION STANDARD

Version 2.0

Issued May 2010

g i n e e r i n

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RailCorp Engineering Standard — ElectricalSubstations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP

Document control

Version Date Summary of change August 2007 Last Technical Review

2.0 May 2010 Application of TMA 400 format


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Contents

1

Introduct ion .............................................................................................................................5

2 Scope and App lication ...........................................................................................................5

2.1 Scope.........................................................................................................................5

3 References ...............................................................................................................................5

3.1 Code of Practice ........................................................................................................5

3.2 International Standards..............................................................................................5

3.3

Australian Standards .................................................................................................5

3.4 Other References ......................................................................................................6

4 Definit ions and Abbreviations ...............................................................................................6

5 Fire Risks and Risk Assessment ...........................................................................................6

5.1 Particular Fire Risks to Substations...........................................................................6

5.2 The Fire Risk Evaluation Model.................................................................................7

5.3 Fire Risk Rating of substations..................................................................................7

5.3.1

Process ......................................................................................................8

5.3.2 Risk Results Review...................................................................................8

5.4 Full Fire Audit.............................................................................................................9

6 Fire Protection Measures .......................................................................................................9

6.1 General ......................................................................................................................9

6.2 Personnel Safety .......................................................................................................9

6.3 Passive fire protection measures ..............................................................................9

6.3.1

Application..................................................................................................9

6.3.2 Separation ..................................................................................................9

6.3.3 Fire Sealing of Openings..........................................................................10

6.3.3.1 New Substations.......................................................................10

6.3.4 Fire retardant coverings ...........................................................................11

6.4 Active Fire Suppression Systems............................................................................11

6.4.1 General.....................................................................................................11

6.4.2

Active Fire Suppression Options..............................................................11

6.4.3 Active Fire Protection System Selection Matrix .......................................11

6.4.4 Fixed Automatic Aqueous Fire Fighting Systems (Automatic

Fire Sprinkler Systems)............................................................................14

6.4.4.1 Application ................................................................................14


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1 Introduction

This document describes the minimum mandatory design requirements and practices forfire protection and detection systems in new substations and assessment of fire risks of

existing substations in RailCorp.

2 Scope and Appl ication

2.1 Scope

This standard covers the fire protection and detection requirements for system andtraction substations and sectioning huts and indoor distribution substations in the

RailCorp electrical network. It shall be used for selection of appropriate fire protection

systems for new substations as well as for upgrading of existing substations.

Selection of fire protection systems shall be based on fire risk assessment using the Fire

Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included in Appendix A. The FREM assesses both the

risks of fire due to the condition and configuration of the substation and the consequential

risk on RailCorp operations should the equipment or facility be lost.

When applying the standard to the designs for new or modified substations, designers

shall check the performance of designs at various stages and determine the fire risk

rating for the proposed substation configuration. Where an unacceptable level of fire risk

is found to exist in the proposed configuration, passive options to design out the risk

should be considered first. Where appropriate active fire protection and detection

systems may be incorporated to improve the fire risk rating of substations. However, it is

not the intention of this standard to mandate suppression wherever the model identifies a

high level of risk. An iterative approach is anticipated where the proposed configuration is

analysed using the FREM at appropriate points in the design process and the designadjusted until an acceptable level of risk is achieved.

When applying to existing substations, where the resultant risk levels from FREM are

unacceptable the assessor shall investigate the causes of very high and extreme risk

levels and using the FREM explore what measures can be undertaken to lower the risks

to an acceptable level. Failure to bring the risk levels down to an acceptable level would

warrant a full fire safety audit in accordance with AS 4655.

3 References

3.1 Code of Practice

Building Code of Australia.


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AS 2118.1 Automatic Fire Sprinklers – general requirements

AS 2118.3 Automatic Fire Sprinklers – Deluge

AS 4214 Gaseous Fire Extinguishing systems AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets — Selection and location

AS 1851 Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment AS 2419 Fire hydrant installations

AS 2441 Installation of fire hose reels;

AS 1603 Automatic fire detection and alarm systems;

AS1670 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems- System Design,

installation and commissioning

AS 4655 Fire safety audits

NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection

3.4 Other References

NFPA 850 Recommended Practice for Fire Protection for Electric Generating Plants and

High Voltage Direct Current Converter Stations 2000 Edition.

BS 5306-0 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises guide for the

selection of installed systems and other fire equipment.

BS 5306-2 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises specification for

sprinkler systems. BS 5306-6 Section 6.1 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment

on premises foam systems specification for low expansion foam systems.

BS 5306-6 Section 6.2 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises foam

systems specification for medium and high expansion foam systems.

Energy Supply Association of Australia D(6) 29-1982 Fire Protection of ElectricitySubstations; Prepared by Committees 2.3 by Working Group 24 designated as D(6) 29-

1982

4 Definitions and Abbreviations

For the purpose of this specification the definitions specified in the referenced Australian

Standards apply.

5 Fire Risks and Risk Assessment

5.1 Particular Fire Risks to Substations

Substations contain a number of features that represent particular fire risks:


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The final determination on whether suppression is required and or detection is dependant

on the level of risk acceptable across the network.

5.2 The Fire Risk Evaluation Model

Substations contain components and materials that constitute a fire risk.

The Fire Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included within this standard identifies those

configurations, systems and components which contribute to the fire risks within

substations.

FREM assesses both the risk of fire due to the condition and configuration of the

substation and the consequential risk to RailCorp operations should the equipment orfacility be lost.

5.3 Fire Risk Rating of substations

The design for new or modified substations shall be checked for fire risk rating using the

FREM. Where the output risk levels are unacceptable for a particular design

configuration, designers shall investigate the causes for such high risk levels to either

eliminate the risks or to bring down the risk levels to an acceptable level by altering theproposed configuration and/or including additional fire protection measures.

This standard shall also be used to identify existing substations in the RailCorp electrical

network that have high fire risks. If the FREM indicates an unacceptable risk level the

FREM shall be used to explore possible risk reduction measures.

The FREM included in Appendix A of this standard identifies those configurations,

systems and components that contribute to the fire risks within substations. The FREM

shall be used to rate each individual substation and used to determine what action isrequired.

When design data for a new sub station or survey data from an existing substation is

entered in to the FREM a score is determined. On the basis of the score a risk rating is

assigned. These ratings are as follows;

• EXTREME

Where an extreme rating is returned for a new design, features in the design thatcaused the extreme fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the

design.

For an existing substation rated as extreme, the assessor shall immediately notify

the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems. A full audit of the substation is required.


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• HIGH

Where a high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that

caused the high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.

For an existing substation rated as high, the assessor using the FREM shall

investigate possible cost effective measures to reduce risk level and action within

12 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at two-year intervals.

• MODERATE

Where a moderate rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that

caused the moderate risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.

For an existing substation rated as moderate, the assessor using the FREM shall


24 months. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.

• LOW

Where a low rating is returned for a new design, the design shall be considered

acceptable.

Where a low rating is returned for an existing substation, risk level shall be

managed. Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.

5.3.1 Process

Not all possible fire protection measures are necessary for every substation. In order to

achieve a cost effective outcome the Fire Risk Evaluation Model (FREM) included at

Appendix A. shall be used to guide the selection of a set of measures for each site.

The fire risk rating for each substation shall be determined as follows:

• In the case of existing substations the substation shall be surveyed and data

collection input sheets completed on site;

• In the case of a proposed substations the data collection input sheets shall be

completed on the basis of the design documentation;

• Collected data on the input sheets to be transferred into the Fire Risk Evaluation

Model;• Review results of the Fire Risk Evaluation Model results sheets to identify those

components contributing the rating assigned;

• Asset management and design teams review results and identify most appropriate

upgrade measures and or need for full fire audit of the substation.

• The FREM Analysis must be carried out recognising the operational and

maintenance equipment configuration that will and do frequently exist at the


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• i.e. A particular substation may be scoring particularly highly because the

building is being used to store internal combustion engine operated vegetation

control equipment.

The assessor shall interrogate each high scoring field and evaluate those areas where

improvements can be made and schedule these in order of complexity and cost to

identify those works which can most easily be undertaken.

The assessor shall refer back to the Fire Risk Evaluation Model and having established

the order of complexity/cost for the potential improvements introduce these to the Fire

Risk Evaluation Model spreadsheet until the risk falls to an acceptable level. Where an

acceptable level cannot be reached then the substation shall undergo a full fire audit.

5.4 Full Fire Audit

A full fire audit in accordance with AS 4655 shall be undertaken where the Fire Risk

Evaluation Model identifies an Extreme risk or where mitigation of Very High Risk is not

possible.

The Full Fire Audit shall be an independent audit of the substation to identify RailCorp’s

exposure to the risk.

The audit shall include an evaluation of the impact of the loss of the substation including

the level of redundancy available, the availability of spare parts and the timeframe

required to make the substation operative after a fire.

6 Fire Protection Measures

6.1 GeneralThis section identifies fire protection systems appropriate for use in RailCorp system and

traction substations. Systems for the passive prevention of fire propagation, and active

fire suppression are included. Both systems appropriate for retro-fitting to existing

substations and for incorporation in new substations are included.

6.2 Personnel Safety

Suppression systems adopted for use on fires involving electrical equipment shall notincrease the risk of electrocution to personnel involved in fighting the fire. Water based

systems shall only be used within the fire area once all electrical systems have been

isolated and made safe.

6 3 Passive fire protection measures


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Transformers utilising bulk oil shall be physically separated in accordance with the

requirements of NFPA 850.

Existing transformers are to incorporate firewalls whilst new installations shall be plannedwhere practical with adequate separation as outlined within NFPA 850. The table extract

from NFPA 850 below identifies the separation to be provided for oil filled external

transformers.

Transformer Oil Minimum (Line-of-Sight)Capacit y Separation without FirewallLess than 1893 L *1893 L to 18,925L 7.6m

Over 18,925 L 15mTable 1 - Separation of external oil filled transformers

Where separation is not possible a 2 hour fire wall shall be provided in accordance with

the requirements of NFPA 850, the following diagram identifies the firewall dimensions.

The dimension X is the separation distance and shall be taken from the above table.

* NFPA 850 allows separation distances can be reduced or omitted for transformers

with less than 1893L of oil if suppression is provided. Where the content is less

than 1893L and separation is to be omitted then the individual transformerarrangement should be assessed as part of a full fire safety audit.

6.3.3 Fire Sealing of Openings

All service penetrations including cable ducts and routes shall be fire sealed. Seals shall

be made between the cable and the conduit with proprietary fire stops The stops shall fit


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6.3.4 Fire retardant coverings

Where possible fire retardant cables shall be used inside substations.

For existing substations where determined to be necessary by the FREM substation

cables shall be coated with an ablative fire covering equal to the “KBS” coating marketed

by Projex Group Pty.

The coatings shall be applied along the entire length of the cable and fire stopped at walls

and sleeves to stop the spread of fire.

6.4 Active Fire Suppression Systems

6.4.1 General

Active fire suppression systems shall be used within RailCorp substation buildings where

the risk of fire is too great or the consequences of fire are unmanageable.

Active fire suppression systems shall only be included in the design where it has not been

possible to reduce the fire risk to an acceptable level by other means. Where the

deployment of active fire suppression systems is found to be necessary to reduce the firerisk rating of a substation, an appropriate system shall be selected in accordance with

Section 6.4.3.

6.4.2 Act ive Fire Suppression Options

Active fire suppression system options appropriate for RailCorp substations include:

• Fixed automatic aqueous fire fighting systems;

• Hydrant systems for fire fighting purposes;• Extinguishers for first aid fire fighting;

• Gaseous suppression systems.

• Foam inlets

Many locations in urban areas will have local street hydrants present obviating the need

for hydrant systems. Hose reel systems are not to be used for the protection of

substations.

6.4.3 Act ive Fire Protection System Selection Matrix

This standard does not mandate the use of suppression systems for all substations and

associated equipment. The FREM shall be used to identify those substations where the

risk profile must be lowered using active fire protection.

Th i t d ti f fi i t h ll b id d l h it h t


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Active Fire Protect ion System Selection Matrix

LocationHigh VelocitySpray/DelugeSystems

Fire FightingHydrants

Hose Reels Gaseous Systems Extinguishers AutomaticFire Alarms

Required fortransformers and bulkoil equipment whenfire risk orconsequential loss toogreat.

System to be providedadditionally asexposure protectionto/from adjacent publicbuildings.

Boosted tank supply tobe provided where notowns main is

available

Required to complywith BCA clause E 1.3

To be provided whenfire risk orconsequential loss toogreat

Boosted tank supply tobe provided where notowns main isavailable

No No YesProvide to meetrequirements of AS2444

Yes for alarm andmonitoring of internalequipment.

Separate independentsystem to be providedfor control of firesuppression systems

Substationincorporating externaltransformer in coveredcompound withinternal switch gear.

Substationincorporating externaluncovered transformerwith internalswitchgear

Required fortransformers and bulkoil equipment whenfire risk orconsequential loss toogreat.

Boosted tank supply to

be provided where notowns main isavailable

Required to complywith BCA clause E 1.3To be provided whenfire risk orconsequential loss toogreat

Boosted tank supply to

be provided where notowns main isavailable

No No YesProvide to meetrequirements of AS2444

Yes for alarm andmonitoring of internalequipment.

Separate independentsystem to be providedfor control of firesuppression systems

© RailCorp Page 12 of 32Issued May 2010 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED Version 2.0


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6.4.4 Fixed Automatic Aqueous Fire Fighting Systems (Automatic Fire

Sprinkler Systems)

6.4.4.1 Application

Fixed automatic aqueous fire fighting systems (water spray suppressant systems) where

required shall only be used on external oil transformers and bulk oil equipment.

Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems shall be designed to meet the performance

requirements of NFPA 15 and AS 2118.

Water spray systems shall be used for the fire protection of the following

• Flammable liquids associated with transformers;

• Electrical hazards including outside yard transformers and oil switches;

6.4.4.2 System

Water Spray systems where required shall incorporate automatic deluge valve

assemblies and open spray nozzles with pipe-work arrays to direct water onto thesurfaces of external transformers and bulk oil equipment.

Water spray deluge systems shall be provided to deluge with open sprayers in

accordance with AS 2118.3.

The systems shall be operated automatically from heat actuation devices incorporating

pilot sprinklers and multiple jet controls (MJC).

The water spray shall be arranged in accordance with AS 2118.3 to impact the surfacesof a transformer and bulk oil equipment or store to provide both cooling to the

components but also form an emulsified water and oil mixture unable to ignite or burn.

The water spray systems shall provide complete water spray impingement on all exposed

exterior surfaces of the equipment in accordance with NFPA 15.

Where there is insufficient space to install water spray nozzles beneath transformers

water shall be introduced from the sides by horizontal nozzles.

Manual release controls for the deluge systems shall be provided at booster valve

stations and the control valve assemblies to allow activation by the brigade.

6.4.4.3 Water Supply for Fire Sprinkler Systems

Water based fire suppression systems shall be served from the local water mains with a


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6.4.4.4 Water Sprinkler Systems Activation

Water spray systems shall be activated automatically with fusible links or bulbs, in

accordance with AS 2118.

The water spray suppression system shall be monitored with flow switches to signal

activation to the RailCorp electrical SCADA system.

6.4.5 Fire Hydrants Systems

6.4.5.1 ApplicationFire Hydrant Systems shall be used to fight substation fires only after full electrical

isolation.

6.4.5.2 Street Fire Hydrants

Many locations in urban areas will have local street hydrants present obviating the need

for additional hydrant systems.

Street fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with the Building Code of Australia

(BCA) and AS 2419 for:

• Buildings with an area greater than 500m²

• Where a fire brigade is available to fight fires.

Street hydrants shall be within 70m of a substation building or enclosure requiring

protection under the BCA.

6.4.5.3 On Site Fire Hydrant System

On site fire hydrant systems where required shall be provided in accordance with AS

2419.

6.4.5.4 Water Supply to On Site Fire Hydrant Systems

Hydrant system water supplies shall be adequate for meeting the system demands in

accordance with the requirements of AS 2419.

Where the local mains pressure and flow cannot meet these requirements a boosted

water supply shall be provided in accordance with AS2419 incorporating storage tanks

and pumps.

The on site hydrant system shall be served from a diesel driven pump-set dedicated to


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6.4.6 Gaseous Fire Suppression Systems

Gaseous fire suppression systems shall be in accordance with AS 4214.

The gaseous agents shall be selected from the following;

• Carbon Dioxide (low pressure refrigerated C02 );

• FM200 (Halocarbon) HFC-227ea;

• Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid.

Reduced levels of oxygen within protected spaces following discharge can have adverse

effects on personnel within the rooms and enclosures. Warning signs shall be affixed in

prominent locations detailing the suppressants used and the operational safetyrequirements. Audible and visual warning alarms shall operate to warn occupants to

evacuate the protected risk area upon fire detection.

The systems shall incorporate bottled supplies of extinguishant and delivery pipework to

the hazard discharge heads provided within the hazard area in accordance with AS 4214.

Manual lock-off station(s) shall be provided for isolating the systems during maintenance

or other occupied periods.

Carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air and will fall to the bottom of the enclosures it is

discharged into and flood around the different equipment. The injection of CO2 will

displace air from within the enclosure. Adequate venting shall be provided to ensure over

pressurisation of the enclosure does not occur compromising the stability of the

enclosure.

Detection systems provided to activate gaseous fire extinguishing systems shall be in

accordance with the requirements of AS 1670 and the Building Code of Australia.

Detector systems shall comply with AS 1603.

Detection systems provided to operate a fire extinguishing systems shall be linked back

to the RailCorp electrical SCADA system.

6.4.6.1 Gaseous Fire Suppression System Act ivation and Release

The fire suppressant gas shall be released after a pre-determined time delay to ensure

staff have left the area or to allow for investigation by security staff.

Pre discharge alarms shall be provided within the spaces protected with double knock

detection. Stop gas stations at entry points to the protected area shall be provided to

abort the gas discharge if required.


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OccupancyDoor LockChangeoverSwitch (1)

Automatic/ManualChangeoverSwitch (2)

ManualValve (3)

AutoValve (4)

SystemStatusUnit (5)

SystemIsolatedLamps(6)

Normallyoccupied

Yes YesYes or(4)

Yes or(3)

Yes Yes

Not normallyoccupied

Recommended Yes or (3)Yes or(2)

Optional Yes Optional

Door lock changeover switch (1) shall include an internal escape override. A contacted keep asopposed to a contacted lock shall be used.

Manual valve (3) is a monitored manual only valve sited in the supply line from the carbondioxide containers.

Automatic valve (4) is monitored normally closed valve sited in the supply line from the carbondioxide containers that will open only on receipt of a signal from the detection system or manualrelease system.

A means of manual operating the valve shall be provided. A means of isolating the valve shallbe provided.

6.4.6.3 Area Ventilation After Discharge of Carbon Dioxide

A means of mechanically or naturally ventilating areas after discharge of carbon dioxide

shall be provided.

The standard BS 5306 Pt 4 dictates that the means provided for ventilation should not

form part of the normal building ventilation system and should incorporate extraction

arrangements at low level in the protected area. Care should be taken to ensure that the

post-fire atmosphere is not ventilated into other parts of the building.

6.4.7 Handheld Extinguishers

Extinguishers shall be provided for first aid protection within transformer rooms and

substations. Extinguishers are not to be considered anything more than a first line of

defence against coincidental fires during personnel occupation.

Personnel shall not attempt to tackle a fire unless they are competent to do so and are

confident that it can be handled with the first aid protection devices available.

Extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with AS 2444 and maintained in

accordance with AS1851. Extinguishers shall be located at entrances and on escape

routes from the rooms and in all instances no further than 20m from the fire risk.


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Foam inlet systems shall only be introduced into below ground substations following

agreement with the NSWFB.

6.4.8.2 System

Foam inlet systems shall be provided in accordance with BS 5306 Pt 1.

Inlets shall be positioned with their centre line 400 to 600mm above ground level. The

inlet breechings shall be located within a box on the face of the building clearly marked

with the words “Foam Inlet to Transformers” in red letters no less than 25mm high.

The foam inlet pipework shall be heavy grade steel 80mm diameter with a fall to thetransformer chamber.

The pipework route shall be less than 18m in length. Inlet locations shall be agreed with

the NSWFB.

Foam inlet systems shall only be manually operated by the NSWFB.

An audible alarm shall be incorporated to warn personnel of activation prior to discharge.

7 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

7.1 Application

Automatic detection systems shall be provided within substation switchrooms in

accordance with the Building Code of Australia and AS 1670.

Detection systems provided within substation switchrooms shall be air sampling systemsin accordance with AS 1670.

7.1.1 Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems

Air sampling aspirating smoke detection and alarm systems shall be provided within

substation buildings.

RailCorp substations incorporate equipment which when operating can cause ionised

gases to be produced. This can cause sensitive smoke detection systems to go intoalarm erroneously.

The generation of ionised gas is a normal bi-product of the substations operation and

false alarms within detection systems in response to this can lead to complacency.

Air sampling systems shall be provided within the substation buildings to monitor for


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d) Stage 4 - Intervention by brigade. The detection devices shall be fully monitored

for alarm and/or fault condition to ensure reliable service and to transmit a fire

alarm signal to a monitored emergency control centre.

7.1.1.1 Detectors

Smoke detectors shall be multipoint aspirated smoke detectors (MASD) within air

sampling systems.

7.1.1.2 Monitoring

Fire detection systems at substations shall be linked back to the central control centre onthe RailCorp electrical SCADA system.

8 Fire Services Systems Maintenance

8.1 General

Fire suppression and detection systems require ongoing inspection, testing and

maintenance to ensure their continued functionality.

Technical Maintenance Plans including tasks for inspection, testing and maintenance of

fire systems incorporated into substations shall be developed in accordance with the

RailCorp Maintenance Requirements Analysis Manual (MRAM) and AS 1851

Maintenance of fire protection systems and equipment.


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Appendix A Fire Risk Evaluat ion Model – Manual and Guidelines

Fire Risk Evaluation Model - Manual

The Fire Risk Evaluation Model included in this standard is a risk evaluation tool

designed to rank the different fire risks and systems within substations against each other

to yield a score for the substation. The model assesses both the risk of fire due to the

condition and configuration of the substation and the consequential risk on RailCorp

operations should the equipment or facility be lost. It can be used to evaluate risk rating

of new substation designs and existing RailCorp substations.

The tool evaluates whether risks are high within a substation and gives the user the

opportunity to test why the substation scored badly. It allows the user to adjust the

various input fields to improve the risk rating i.e. a particular substation may score badly

because it has many cable conduits that are not fire stopped, the tool will allow the user

to introduce such protection measures and see the substations rating improve.

The introduction of fire suppression systems within substations will be costly and the Fire

Risk Evaluation Model allows each substation to be methodically tested for other more

cost effective measures before the decision to introduce suppression is made.

The suppression systems adopted for use on fires involving electrical equipment must not

increase the risk of electrocution to personnel involved in fighting the fire. Where water

based systems are used all components within the fire area must be isolated and made

safe prior to activation.

Process and Inputs

In using the fire risk evaluation model, RailCorp staff will be required to attend the sites

nominated and provide inputs into the model.

Within the assessment sheets there are categories that are flanked by boxes. Depending

on the equipment found in the substations, the boxes must:

• be marked with the numeral “1”

• where the red box is located next to the main heading, only 1 box in line can be

marked.

• When more than 1 box is checked and is not permitted, conditional formatting has

been introduced and all boxes will turn red to indicate an input error. This is shown

below.

RAILCORP SUBSTATION FIRE RISK SITE INSPECTION SHEET


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Outputs

Once the assessment sheets are completed, the output sheet will have calculatednumbers under the following headings:

SUB STATION Master

RESULTS SHEET

EQUIPMENT / FIRE SOURCE FIRERATING

RESIDUALRATING

IMPACT HEALTH&SAFETY

High Voltage Switchgear 4.7 4.2 4.7

Rectifier Transformer 6.9 6.8 0.7

Rectifier 0.0 0.0 0.0

System Transformer - 33kV 0.0 0.0 0.0



Reactors 0.0 0.0 0.0

1500 V DC Switchgear 1.0 0.9 0.3

EQUIPMENT / FIRE SOURCEFIRE

RATINGRESIDUAL

RATINGIMPACT

HEALTH&

SAFETY

Medium Voltage Switchgear - 11kV 8.4 7.6 8.4

Medium Voltage Switchgear - 2kV 0.0 0.0 0.0

Dist / Auxillary Transformer 0.0 0.0 0.0

Cables 0.0 0.0 0.0


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The final numbers that have been calculated under the following headings have been

graded in terms of relative risk as follows:

FIRE RATINGRESIDUAL

RATINGIMPACT

HEALTH &SAFETY

TOTAL for SUBSTATION

40 38 32 132

RISK LEVEL MODERATE MODERATE MODERATE V-HIGH

DISRUPTION 40 32

MODERATE MODERATE

REDUNDANCYFACTOR 40 32

MODERATE MODERATE

The following headings are defined as follows:

Fire Rating The raw or total risk rating for the substation ignoring any fire detection and

suppression that may be installed.

Residual Rating The risk rating allowing for the benefit provided by fire detection and

suppression systems.

Impact The risk rating (based on the residual rating) modified for the level of spare parts

or built in redundancy for this substation.

Health and Safety This the level of overall risk posed by the emergency egress facilities

provided in the substation.

Disruption The Impact risk rating modified by the number of lines that would be affected

by the loss of the substation.

Redundancy Factor The Impact risk rating modified by the level of redundancy provided

by substations either side of the station being analysed.

Numerical Trigger Points

Th 5 i k l l th t ld i i t d th f ll i h di d t i d


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The 5 risk levels that originate under the following heading is triggered on achieving the

following numbers:

HEALTH & SAFETY

< 50 – Extreme Risk

< 150 – Very High Risk

< 300 – High Risk

< 600 – Moderate

> 600 – Low Risk

Defini tion of Risk Levels

FREM assesses both the risk of fire due to the condition and configuration of the

substation and the consequential risk to RailCorp operations should the equipment or

facility be lost. When design data for a new sub station or survey data from an existingsubstation is entered in to the FREM, following risk ratings will be assigned by the

program to the substation assessed:

• EXTREME

Where an extreme rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that

caused the extreme fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the

design. For an existing substation rated as extreme, the assessor shall

immediately notify the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems.

• V HIGH

Where a very high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that

caused the very high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the

design. For an existing substation rated as very high, the assessor shall

immediately notify the Chief Engineer, Electrical Systems.

•

HIGH

Where a high rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that

caused the high fire risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design.

For an existing substation rated as high, the assessor using the FREM shall


12 months Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at two-year intervals


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• LOW

Where a low rating is returned for a new design, features in the design that caused

the low risk rating shall be investigated and addressed in the design. Where a lowrating is returned for an existing substation, risk level shall be managed.

Subsequent inspections shall be carried out at four-year intervals.

Limitations of Fire Risk Evaluation Model

This section defines the limitations of the application of the results. In this context,

assumptions are defined to be inputs to the assessment, which may include

simplifications of reality, based on engineering judgement or accepted approaches thatare necessary to enable the issues in question to be rationally addressed.

These inputs are spelt out in order that users of the tool are made aware of them and

there applicability can be reviewed. Limitations are defined as boundaries to the

applicability of the results, including aspects, which have been excluded from

consideration.

Any audits and subsequent outputs do not include:

• Detailed design

• Implementation of the results of the study

• Ongoing inspections

• Certification, commissioning or maintenance of systems.

• Involvement in an appeals process of a peer review process

• Gaining building approval

• The fire risk assessments and the reports do not constitute an audit in accordance

with AS4655 or any other relevant Australian Standard.

• The fire and risk assessments to not constitute a BCA compliance/due diligenceassessment.

• The fire and risk assessment tool does not constitute a fundamental Fire

Engineering Assessment or Quantitative Risk Assessment of absolute risk

• The fire and risk assessments do not constitute an OH&S audit.

• The tool is limited to inspections of substations for collection of specific data to go

into a relative risk tool for specified corporate purposes.

Fire Risk Evaluation Model - GuidelinesTable in the following pages provides the users of the Fire Risk Evaluation Model

guidelines to the correct interpretation of terms used in the audit sheets that provide input

to the risk evaluation model. Assessors of a particular site or a design shall first

familiarise with these terms and their proper interpretation to obtain a consistent risk

rating of substations when using the model


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RailCorp Engineering Standard — Electrical Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP

RAILCORP SUBSTATION FIRE RISK SITE INSPECTION SHEET - GUIDELINES AND DEFINITIONS

SheetNumber MainCategory SubCategory 2ndCategory Comments

1 SITE DETAILS

FUNCTION Traction Traction substations will have a rectifier within it.Distribution Distribution substations converts high voltage to low

voltage.(415/120V)System System substations transformers or switches high

voltage only. They have no rectifiers within them.

LOCATION Surface The substation is totally above ground.

Underground The substation is below ground and in some casesform part of a main train station

Surrounds Surrounded The substation is within a built up area andpredominantly surrounded by residentialdevelopment.

Partial The substation is partially surrounded bydevelopment. An example of this would be residentialor commercial adjacent to rail corridor.

Open Area The substation is within a suburban environment but

not surrounded by development.Rural/Bushland A substation that is within a well timbered area or

open plains with no development surrounding it. Assessed Risk Bushfire Substation is located in bushfire prone area.

High Risk Information on risks to location from miscellaneousoutside agencies. This does not include risks due tothe equipment itself.

Low Risk Information on risks to location from miscellaneousoutside agencies. This does not include risks due to

the equipment itself.

VEHICLE IMPACT Vehicle Impact Main Road Speed limit >60kph and or heavy traffic.On Bend/Junction Location of substation located on a bend of a main

road.No buffer Substation is located bounding roadside.Quiet Road Speed limit


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Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

CategorySURROUNDS Vegetation >6m Clear Vegetation such as grass, trees, that are greater than

6m away from a building or nearest piece ofequipment or fuel source. Vegetation does not includemown grass or small trees or potted plants. If the areahas a dense coverage of grass, trees etc then theseshould be mentioned.

6m Clear Residential properties consisting of dwellings, townhouses, or hotels greater than 6m from away from abuilding or nearest piece of equipment or fuel source.

6m Clear Industrial premises such as car yards, paints shops,

manufacturing, warehouse.One Road Alternative access into the substation. Applicable in

remote locations.


R ilC E i i St d d El t i l


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Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

CategoryHeight/Width Restrictions Would emergency vehicles have to go underneath a

rail bridge for example. Is the road width available forsay a fire appliance (>5.0m)

BUILDINGONE,TWO,THREE

Construction Brick and Timber Construction of the substation consists of brick wallsand timber roof components such as trusses, timberframing and the like. Inspection of ceiling space may

be necessary. Structure has combustible load.Timber Timber construction throughout.Non-combustible Brick walls, metal and/or tiled roof and no timber in

the roof or internal walls.Main Level Alt Egress Alternative egress could be provided in addition to the

exit on the main floor.Into Open Egress to outside of building.

Upper floor area Ancillary Rooms/areas Flammable Able to contain materials that are flammable including

flammable aerosols, liquids and the like stored in aroom or cabinet.

Office/area Office fuel load would consist of desks, chairs, filingcabinets and compactors.

COMPOUND 1 & 2 Egress Route The compound is a noted egress route from thebuilding.

Refuge Could be an area remote from the building within thecompound where someone could take refuge from afire within the building, or equipment in the

component.Gate/Door Gate is provided within the compound fencing.Locked The gate is locked for security purposes. Keys should

be carried with personnel at all times.

HOUSEKEEPING General Area Excellent All materials are stored in a designated place. Exitsare not obstructed. Compound has grass mowed ifpresent. No rubbish is present.


RailCorp Engineering Standard Electrical


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Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

Category Average Some areas of the above criteria are present.Poor All areas in the above criteria are not evident.

SECURITY Patrol Regular patrol/inspection by internal/externalpersonnel that would be able to detect an early stageof fire. Patrols would occur regularly but they mustoccur several times a day, every day.

Monitored Doors This refers to the doors into the actual buildings anddoes not include gates in perimeter fences.

CCTV This means that it is not monitored but pictures go totape. If the signal goes back to a control room that isconstantly monitored this should be indicated byticking the monitored box.

FIRE CONTROL Suppression Emulsifiers - High Velocity Jets This system would be only present in outdoor bundedareas where oil would be present. They would stopthe oil from burning and spreading. They would not belocated inside the building.

Hose reels 36m fire hose reels are located in the substations

Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers suitable to the risk of fireare provided. Eg CO2, Foam etc.

Hydrants Hydrant points - there may be standpipes within thebuilding near the exits, outside near the exits or theremay be a tapping outside the compound.

Detection VESDAS Aspirating smoke detection system that will haveplastic pipes with sampling points.

SERVICES High Voltage 132, 66 or 33kVMedium Voltage 11 or 2kV

Low Voltage 415, 240 or 120VTracks Served Number of single tracks.

REDUNDANCY Impact on Service None No impact on train servicePeak Peak services cannot run at peak levels (both trains

and loading) but can run at off peak train frequenciesand loadings.


RailCorp Engineering Standard — Electrical


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Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

CategoryOff Peak No services can be supported over this section of the

line.

2 HIGH VOLTAGESWITCHGEAR

LOCATION Indoor/Outdoor Where equipment of a single type (eg transformers)are located both indoors and outdoors, and there isno provision to select something other than indoors oroutdoors, then always select indoors. Where there

are two sections for the same type of plant, and ifthere is not two sizes of that plant (piece ofequipment), then it is OK to use one section on thedata capture sheet for the indoor equipment andanother for outdoor equipment.

Nearest Fuel Source Nearest combustible item which could includebuilding or equipment.

CONSTRUCTION Bunding All Individual Separate bund for each piece of equipment. All combined One bund serving all pieces of equipment.

Partial Some bunding may be present.Underground Sump Single Single sump for all pieces of equipment.

Individual Individual sumps for all pieces of equipment.Partial Some sumps may be present.

CONFIGURATION Isolated Stand alone breakers.Single S/Board All breakers in one switchboard.Many S/Boards More than one individual, separated switchboard, with

each switchboard containing more than one breaker.

SPARES Complete Breakers Onsite On site but not connected.>1 More than one on-site and not connected.Off site Off site>1 More than one off site.

RECTIFIER

QUANTITY Installed Installed and connected.Needed For Load Required to provide maximum traction power.




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RailCorp Engineering Standard Electrical Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP


Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

CategoryRECTIFIERTRANSFORMER

LOCATION

3 SYSTEM TRANSFORMER

(to 33kV) Step down to 33kV From 132 or 66kV(to 11kV) Step down to 11kV From 66 or 33kV

(to 2kV) Step down to 2kV From 33 or 11kV

LOCATION Tx Separation This is the distance between like transformers.

1500 Volt DCSWITCHGEAR

5 HV AND DC POWERCABLES

MAIN ROOMS, BELOW

MAIN ROOM, OUTDOORS

Cluster -Horizontal Type A,B C, D 3 or more cables laid horizontally half a cable

diameter apart, containing the following types:Type A Cables - Pressurised NitrogenType B Cables - Oil impregnated paper insulated withlead sheathing, flame retardant halogen free R-HFType C Cables - Mineral Insulated Non Draining(MIND), PVC sheathing, PIMIND (Mass ImpregnatedMineral Oil Non Draining)Type D Cables - XLPE with PVC/HDPE, XLPE withmegalon, modern XLPE insulated cables, modern

PVC/PVC insulated cables, vulcanised Indian rubber,EPR (Ethylene-propylene rubber), XLPE/HD,

Cluster - Vertical Type A,B C, D As above - but vertical. Cable types refer aboveCableway - Horizontal Type A,B C, D Located on horizontal cableway with proper

separation distances. Cable Types refer aboveCableway - Vertical Type A,B C, D As above - vertical. Cable Types refer aboveChase/Trench Located in trench. Cable Types refer above




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p g gSubstations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP


Sheet

Number

Main

Category

Sub

Category

2nd Comments

CategoryPENETRATIONS Penetration from one room to another that are notproperly sealed. Holes in walls are to be taken as apath for fire and the distance between a piece ofequipment and a fuel source (or similar piece ofequipment) should be measured through the hole.The hole has to be a reasonable size such that fireand heat could pass through the hole. Proper sealantused.

CABLE JOINTS Number of cable joints present.EXTRA FUEL LOAD Adjacent to Cables Any combustible material near (


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Substations Fire Protection and Detection Standard EP 99 00 00 08 SP


SheetNumber

MainCategory

SubCategory

2nd CommentsCategory

Outside Flue exhausts outside building.Fuel Source Any fuel source (

Subestation Fire Protection Ep 99-00-00 08 Sp

Documents

Transcript of Subestation Fire Protection Ep 99-00-00 08 Sp