This code provides detailed fire safety protocols tailored for libraries and archival storage, focusing on the unique fire hazards from combustible materials such as books and records. It covers fire prevention, early detection, alarm systems, and suppression techniques designed to preserve valuable collections and protect occupants. The standard is crucial for professionals involved in the planning, operation, and upkeep of library or archival facilities.
Overview
This code provides detailed fire safety protocols tailored for libraries and archival storage, focusing on the unique fire hazards from combustible materials such as books and records. It covers fire prevention, early detection, alarm systems, and suppression techniques designed to preserve valuable collections and protect occupants. The standard is crucial for professionals involved in the planning, operation, and upkeep of library or archival facilities.
Audience
Contents
Structure
Frequently Asked
The code defines a vault as a fully fire-resistant enclosure with a maximum internal volume of 1,500 cubic meters, dedicated solely to record storage. It mandates a minimum fire resistance duration of two hours, taking into account fire load and external exposure. The internal temperature during a fire must not exceed 175°C to prevent damage to paper records. Additionally, file rooms with volumes up to 15,000 cubic meters and ceiling heights not exceeding 3.6 meters must have the same fire resistance rating as vaults.
Recommended fixed suppression systems include Carbon Dioxide total flooding systems that maintain an effective extinguishing concentration without damaging books or records, designed and installed as per IS 6382-1985. Halon 1301 systems are also preferred due to their higher effectiveness and non-destructive nature. The choice depends on factors such as material value, storage method, local preferences, and cost considerations. Libraries should employ both fixed systems and portable extinguishers for comprehensive fire control.
Fire detection systems must adhere to IS 2189-1976 for spacing and installation of heat-sensitive detectors. Each rack bay with a gap less than 230 mm between the roof and rack should be treated as an individual compartment and equipped with detectors. Detectors should be placed on each storage bay and the ceiling above aisles to ensure early detection of smoke and heat, considering the airflow patterns from ventilation systems. The system must be fail-safe, wired in a closed circuit, with audio-visual alarms at a central staffed location and rapid communication lines to fire services.
Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout library and archival areas, except in designated spaces such as offices, restrooms, and canteens where proper disposal of smoking materials is maintained. In buildings partly used for storage or archives, smoking must be banned in all rooms containing valuable or permanent records and in areas where large quantities of records are openly stored. These restrictions are critical for preventing fire outbreaks and safeguarding collections.
Fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems must be continuously maintained to remain fully operational. Fixed suppression installations require regular servicing to ensure good condition. Portable fire extinguishers should undergo monthly visual inspections, annual maintenance by qualified personnel, and hydrostatic testing every five years for applicable types, following IS 2190-1979. Additionally, daily pre-closure inspections of premises storing valuable materials are essential to identify potential fire hazards promptly.
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