Outdoor Diesel Generator Shed: Do We Need Fire Protection Measures?

Outdoor Installation of Diesel Generator

I have a 625 KVA Diesel Generator (Acoustic) installed outside in the open, i.e., open-air installation or outdoor installation. Recently, to protect it from rain, the Engineering department built a shed over it. This change has been reported to the factory inspector as it is now covered with a roof, while remaining open from all other sides.

Fire Protection Considerations

Secondly, what about fire protection? Does this shed need to be covered with fire protection, i.e., minimum control through a fire extinguisher?

Friends, please reply to this.

Regards

Dear Jagjeetsingh.Aroraunileve,

The discussion you invited has many aspects. We, as HR professionals, or at least I, are not experts in such technical issues. Bear in mind, half knowledge is very dangerous. However, this forum is meant for enhancing knowledge by sharing, and I would like to participate in the discussion.

Compliance with Regulations for Diesel Generator Installation

You have installed a 625 KVA Diesel Generator (Acoustic) on the premises of your factory. It seems to me that this DG set is installed as per the approved plans of the machinery layout, and now you have made a change by erecting a shed on it. Under this scenario, it is presumed that:

- You must have followed the norms under the Petroleum Rules 2002, Explosive Rules for the storage of diesel, etc.
- You must have complied with the provisions under the Local Body Act, such as the Municipal Act in respect of trade/use and storage of diesel, fire protection, provisions under Environmental Law, etc.
- You must have obtained permission for the use of the D.G. Set under the Electricity Supply Act, 1948.

Incorporating Changes into Approved Plans

Now, the change of erection of the shed has to be incorporated into your approved plans. You need to apply for it by submitting fresh plans. When you submit the fresh plans for approval by the Factory Inspector, the approval will be given to you subject to certain conditions as deemed fit by him, i.e., the factory inspector. Such conditions may include the requirement of fire extinguishers, NOC from the fire brigade, NOC under Environmental Law, etc.

Regards

Sharing my views on this post - having knowledge of the statutory aspects of technical installation is essential for all. Secondly, if the issue concerns sharing information on the safety and security of people, we must welcome it. There are many contributors who may have good knowledge and would like to share with us.

Regarding the Query

Earthing, loose connections, open cable layouts, improper fuel storage, etc., are causes that may pose fire threats/electrification threats. To prevent fire incidents, suppliers usually provide fire extinguishers along with DG sets. However, additional precautions will be required, such as keeping extra fire extinguishers near the DG set. Fire buckets, sand buckets, fire beaters, etc., may be kept as tools to fight fires in case of emergencies. It is suggested to depute an expert to monitor the DG set when it's running.

In addition, as Mr. Korgaonkar indicated, statutes/norms related to such installations should be strictly adhered to.

Dear team,

Please ensure to keep a sand bucket and fire extinguisher near the D.G. set to mitigate the risk of fire. Kindly obtain approval from the fire department and incorporate this precaution in the existing fire load plan submitted during the NOC process.

The installation procedures are familiar to the vendor responsible for installing the D.G. set in the factory.

Thank you.

Dear Jagjeet,

As per my knowledge, first of all, you will check whether it's a permanent shed or temporary. If it is a temporary shed, you need to seek permission from the local body. If it is a permanent shed, then you have to obtain permission from the factory inspector along with the necessary changes in the factory plan.

I hope this information helps solve your problem.

Thanks & Regards,
Bhupesh Parab

Ask your insurance company to survey the site of the DG set to determine if the safety precautions taken are sufficient. If not, identify what needs to be done. There are safety auditors who are authorized to conduct such surveys and report any deficiencies. They will also suggest measures to rectify defects if found.

A S Bhat

Dear JAGJEETSINGH.ARORAUNILEVE,

First, you need to consider the statutory requirements for the installation of DG and fire fighting facilities at the DG room. The specific fire fighting facilities vary for different industries, but according to OISD regulations for the oil and gas industry, 2 Nos of 10kg DCP type fire extinguishers and 2 Nos of 4.5kg CO2 type fire extinguishers are required.

With Regards,

Mukesh Singh Rathour