SIST EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019

Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance

This document specifies the requirements and describes the methods for design, installation, testing and maintenance of low, medium, and high expansion foam fire extinguishing systems.
Foam systems may be used to suppress the release of toxic vapours but this application is outside the scope of this document.
This document provides guidance for the design of various foam systems available to persons with knowledge and experience in determining the selection of foam fire extinguishing systems which will be effective in protecting specific hazard configurations. For the application of this standard, a risk assessment by a qualified and experienced person should be performed for both new and existing systems, however the risk assessment is outside the scope of this document.
This document does not cover a risk analysis carried out by a competent person.
Nothing in this document is intended to restrict new technologies or alternative arrangements, provided that the level of foam system performance prescribed in this standard is not lowered, and supported by documented evidence/test reports.
All foam systems are generally unsuitable for the following:
-   chemicals, such as cellulose nitrate, that release sufficient oxygen or other oxidizing agents which can sustain combustion;
-   energized unenclosed electrical equipment;
-   metals such as sodium, potassium and sodium-potassium alloys which are reactive to water;
-   hazardous, water-reactive materials such as triethyl-aluminium and phosphorous pentoxide;
-   combustible metals such as aluminium and magnesium.

Ortsfeste Brandbekämpfungsanlagen - Schaumlöschanlagen - Teil 2: Planung, Einbau und Wartung

Dieses Dokument legt die Anforderungen an die Planung, den Einbau, die Prüfung und Wartung von Schwer , Mittel  und Leichtschaumlöschanlagen fest und beschreibt die diesbezüglichen Verfahren.
Schaumlöschanlagen dürfen verwendet werden, um die Freisetzung giftiger Dämpfe zu unterdrücken, diese Anwendung liegt jedoch außerhalb des Anwendungsbereiches dieses Dokumentes.
Mit diesem Dokument wird Personen mit Kenntnissen und Erfahrungen bei der Auswahl von Schaumlöschanlagen ein Leitfaden für die Planung verschiedener Schaumlöschanlagen zur Verfügung gestellt, mit denen ein wirksamer Schutz bei speziellen Brandgefahren erzielt wird. Für die Anwendung dieser Norm sollte eine Risikobewertung durch eine qualifizierte und erfahrene Person sowohl für neue als auch für bereits vorhandene Anlagen durchgeführt werden, jedoch liegt die Risikobewertung außerhalb des Anwendungsbereichs dieses Dokumentes.
Dieses Dokument gilt nicht für eine Risikoanalyse, die von einer fachkundigen Person durchgeführt wird.
In diesem Dokument werden keinerlei Beschränkungen hinsichtlich neuer Technologien oder alternativer Lösungen vorgenommen, vorausgesetzt, das in dieser Norm vorgeschriebene Leistungsniveau der Schaumlöschanlage wird dadurch nicht herabgesetzt, und unter der Voraussetzung, dass dies durch dokumentierte Beweise/Prüfberichte unterstützt wird.
Alle Schaumlöschanlagen sind grundsätzlich ungeeignet für:
- Chemikalien wie Cellulosenitrat, die genügend Sauerstoff oder andere Oxidationsmittel freisetzen, die die Verbrennung unterstützen können;
- stromführende freiliegende elektrische Einrichtungen;
- Metalle wie Natrium, Kalium und Natrium Kalium Legierungen, die mit Wasser reagieren;
- gefährliche, mit Wasser reagierende Stoffe wie Triethylaluminium und Phosphorpentoxid;
- brennbare Metalle wie Aluminium und Magnesium.

Installations fixes de lutte contre l’incendie - Systèmes à émulseurs - Partie 2: Calcul, installation et maintenance

Le présent document spécifie les exigences et décrit les méthodes relatives au calcul, à l’installation, aux essais et à la maintenance de systèmes d’extinction à mousse bas, moyen et haut foisonnement.
Les systèmes à mousse peuvent être utilisés pour supprimer les émanations de vapeurs toxiques mais cette application n’entre pas dans le domaine d’application du présent document.
Le présent document fournit des recommandations pour le calcul des différents systèmes à mousse, destinées à des personnes ayant suffisamment de connaissances et d’expérience pour sélectionner les systèmes d’extinction à mousse qui seront efficaces dans certaines configurations de risques spécifiques. Pour la mise en oeuvre de la présente norme, il convient qu’une personne qualifiée et expérimentée réalise une évaluation des risques à la fois pour les nouveaux systèmes et les systèmes existants. Cette évaluation des risques n’entre toutefois pas dans le domaine d’application du présent document.
Le présent document ne concerne pas l’analyse des risques réalisée par une personne compétente.
Le présent document, n’a pas vocation à interdire l’usage de nouvelles technologies ou la mise en place d’installations alternatives, à condition que le niveau de performance du système à mousse prescrit par la présente norme ne soit pas abaissé, et qu’il soit justifié par des rapports d’essais/des preuves documentés.
Les systèmes à mousse ne sont généralement pas appropriés dans les cas suivants :
-   produits chimiques, tels que le nitrate de cellulose, qui libèrent de l’oxygène ou d’autres agents oxydants en quantité suffisante pour maintenir la combustion ;
-   équipements électriques non fermés sous tension ;
-   métaux tels que le sodium, le potassium et les alliages sodium-potassium qui sont réactifs à l’eau ;
-   matériaux réactifs à l’eau et dangereux tels que le triéthyl-aluminium et l’anhydride phosphorique ;
métaux combustibles tels que l’aluminium et le magnésium.

Vgrajeni gasilni sistemi - Sistemi za gašenje s peno - 2. del: Načrtovanje, izvedba in vzdrževanje

Ta dokument določa zahteve in opisuje metode za načrtovanje, namestitev, preskušanje in vzdrževanje sistemov za gašenje požarov s peno z nizko, srednjo ali visoko ekspanzijo.
Sisteme za gašenje s peno je mogoče uporabljati za zatiranje sproščanja toksičnih par, vendar ta uporaba ne spada na področje uporabe tega dokumenta.
Ta dokument podaja smernice za projektiranje različnih sistemov s peno, ki so na voljo osebam z znanjem in izkušnjami s področja izbire sistemov za gašenje požarov s peno, ki bodo učinkoviti pri varovanju določenih nevarnih konfiguracij. Za uporabo tega standarda mora usposobljena in izkušena oseba izvesti oceno tveganja za nove in obstoječe sisteme, ocena tveganja pa ne spada na področje uporabe tega dokumenta.
Ta dokument ne zajema analize tveganja, ki jo izvede kompetentna oseba.
Nobena vsebina tega dokumenta ni namenjena omejevanju novih tehnologij ali alternativnih ureditev pod pogojem, da se raven učinkovitosti delovanja sistemov za gašenje s peno, predpisana v tem standardu, ne zniža in da je to podprto z dokumentiranimi dokazili/poročili o preskušanju.
Vsi sistemi s peno so na splošno neprimerni za naslednje elemente:
– kemikalije, kot je celulozni nitrat, ki sproščajo zadostno mero kisika ali drugih oksidantov, ki lahko vzdržujejo gorenje;
– električna oprema brez ohišja, ki je pod napetostjo;
– kovine, kot so klorove, natrijeve in klorovo-natrijeve zlitine, ki reagirajo z vodo;
– nevarni materiali, ki reagirajo z vodo, kot je trietil-aluminij in fosforjev pentoksid;
– vnetljive kovine, kot sta aluminij in magnezij.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-May-2019
• ICS: 13.220.10 - Fire-fighting
• Technical Committee: POZ - Požarna varnost
• Current Stage: 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 08-May-2019
• Due Date: 13-Jul-2019
• Completion Date: 31-May-2019
• Ref Project: EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019 - Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance

Relations

• Replaces: SIST EN 13565-2:2018 - Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Merged From: SIST EN 13565-2:2018 - Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance
• Effective Date: 16-Jan-2023
• Amended By: SIST EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019/oprA1:2025 - Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance
• Effective Date: 12-Apr-2023
• Corrected By: SIST EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019/AC:2021 - Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2021

Overview

EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019 (CEN) specifies requirements and methods for the design, installation, testing and maintenance of low-, medium- and high‑expansion fixed firefighting foam systems. The standard guides selection and application of foam fire extinguishing systems for specific hazard configurations, while noting that risk assessments and toxic‑vapour suppression applications are outside its scope. It also lists materials and scenarios for which foam systems are generally unsuitable.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Foam system types: Low, medium and high expansion systems - principles covered for design and operation.
• System components: Requirements for water supply, foam concentrate storage and pumps, proportioners, pipework, discharge outlets and foam generators.
• Application rates & performance: Guidance on application rates and expected system performance (design guidance targeted to qualified personnel).
• Installation and planning: Site planning, documentation, equipment siting, power and water supply considerations.
• Special applications: Design guidance for flammable liquid storage (fixed, floating and subsurface tanks), bunded/process areas, deluge and foam‑enhanced sprinkler systems, marine loading/unloading docks, aircraft hangars and LNG/LPG scenarios.
• Safety & limitations: Identifies materials and situations where foam is unsuitable (e.g., reactive metals, energized unenclosed electrical equipment, water‑reactive chemicals, combustible metals).
• Commissioning & maintenance: Procedures for commissioning, testing, periodic inspections, and operator training to ensure ongoing performance.
• Flexibility for innovation: Allows alternative arrangements or new technologies provided documented evidence shows equal or better performance.

Practical applications and who uses this standard

• Fire protection engineers and system designers specifying fixed foam systems for industrial and storage hazards.
• Installers, contractors and commissioning teams implementing and testing foam deluge, monitor and high‑expansion installations.
• Facility owners, safety managers and maintenance contractors responsible for inspection, testing and upkeep.
• Regulatory authorities, insurers and auditors assessing system compliance and performance for fuel storage, process plants, airports, marine terminals and chemical facilities.

SEO keywords

EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019, fixed firefighting systems, foam systems, foam fire extinguishing systems, foam proportioning, deluge systems, high expansion foam, commissioning testing maintenance.

Related standards

Refer to other CEN/EN and national standards and regulations covering fire‑fighting system design, performance testing and risk assessment for complementary guidance and statutory compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-julij-2019
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 13565-2:2018
Vgrajeni gasilni sistemi - Sistemi za gašenje s peno - 2. del: Načrtovanje, izvedba
in vzdrževanje
Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design, construction and
maintenance
Ortsfeste Brandbekämpfungsanlagen - Schaumlöschanlagen - Teil 2: Planung, Einbau
und Wartung
Installations fixes de lutte contre lincendie - Systèmes à émulseurs - Partie 2: Calcul,
installation et maintenance
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019
ICS:
13.220.10 Gašenje požara Fire-fighting
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EN 13565-2:2018+AC
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
April 2019
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 13.220.20 Supersedes EN 13565-2:2018
English Version
Fixed firefighting systems - Foam systems - Part 2: Design,
construction and maintenance
Installations fixes de lutte contre l'incendie - Systèmes Ortsfeste Brandbekämpfungsanlagen -
à émulseurs - Partie 2: Calcul, installation et Schaumlöschanlagen - Teil 2: Planung, Einbau und
maintenance Wartung
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 27 August 2018 and includes the Corrigendum issued by CEN on 24 April
2019.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATIO N

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUN G

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2019 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword. 5
Introduction . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 8
3.1 Definitions . 8
3.2 Abbreviations . 12
4 Foam extinguishing systems . 12
4.1 General . 12
4.1.1 General requirements . 12
4.1.2 Application rates . 13
4.1.3 Environmental considerations . 14
4.1.4 Planning . 14
4.1.5 Documentation. 15
4.1.6 Supplementary manual foam fire fighting provisions . 15
4.1.7 Equipment . 15
4.2 Water supply . 16
4.2.1 Water demand . 16
4.2.2 Operating time . 16
4.2.3 Quality of water . 16
4.2.4 Power supply for water pumps . 17
4.3 Foam concentrate . 17
4.3.1 General . 17
4.3.2 Foam concentrate supply – low and medium expansion foams . 17
4.3.3 Foam concentrate pumps . 18
4.3.4 Supplementary external connections . 18
4.4 Foam proportioners . 18
4.5 Pipework . 18
4.5.1 Water and foam solution pipework . 18
4.5.2 Foam concentrate piping . 19
4.5.3 Non Newtonian foam concentrate . 19
4.5.4 Piping of aspirated foam (including that for subsurface foam applications) . 19
4.5.5 Marking . 19
4.6 Foam discharge outlets and generators. 20
4.7 Operation and control systems . 20
4.7.1 Detection of fires . 20
4.7.2 Release of fixed foam extinguishing systems . 20
4.7.3 Alarms . 21
5 Flammable liquid storage tanks, bunds and process areas . 21
5.1 General . 21
5.2 Fixed cone roof tanks . 23
5.2.1 General . 23
5.2.2 Sub surface . 24
5.2.3 Restrictions for semi-subsurface-mode . 25
5.2.4 Restrictions for subsurface mode . 25
5.3 Floating roof tanks . 26
5.3.1 General . 26
5.3.2 Number of foam discharge outlets for floating roof tanks . 26
5.3.3 Rimseal protection . 26
5.4 Bunded/diked areas and process areas . 28
6 Foam sprinkler and deluge systems . 30
6.1 Deluge systems . 30
6.1.1 Deluge applications . 30
6.1.2 Deluge limitations . 30
6.1.3 Deluge design . 30
6.2 Foam enhanced sprinkler systems . 30
6.2.1 Foam enhanced sprinkler applications . 30
6.2.2 Foam enhanced sprinkler limitations . 30
6.2.3 Foam enhanced sprinkler design . 30
6.3 Foam concentrate . 31
6.3.1 Aspirated foams . 31
6.3.2 Non aspirated foams . 31
6.4 Foam proportioning . 31
6.5 Drain and flushing connections . 31
6.6 Supplementary hose streams . 33
7 High expansion foam systems . 33
7.1 General . 33
7.2 Foam concentrate . 34
7.3 Equipment . 34
7.4 System design . 34
7.5 Equipment location considerations . 34
7.6 Personnel safety . 34
7.7 Discharge rate . 35
7.8 Discharge time . 35
8 Marine loading and unloading docks . 35
8.1 Water supplies . 35
8.2 Foam concentrate . 36
8.3 Foam water monitors . 36
8.4 Below dock foam systems . 36
9 Aircraft hangars . 36
9.1 General . 36
9.2 Fire detection . 36
9.3 System design philosophy . 37
9.4 System duration . 39
9.5 Foam and water pumps . 39
9.6 Acceptable application methods . 39
9.7 Foam types . 39
9.8 Monitors . 39
9.9 Foam-water deluge systems . 39
9.10 Medium expansion systems (Type 3 hangars only) . 40
9.11 High expansion systems . 40
9.12 Handlines . 40
9.13 Commissioning tests . 40
10 Liquefied flammable gases (LNG/LPG) . 41
10.1 General . 41
10.1.1 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) . 41

10.1.2 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) . 41
10.2 Controlled burn-off . 41
10.3 Un-ignited spills . 41
10.4 Fire detection. 42
10.5 Foam properties . 42
10.6 Foam proportioning system . 42
10.7 Application techniques . 42
11 Commissioning, testing, and periodic inspections. 43
11.1 Instruction of operating personnel . 43
11.2 Commissioning . 43
11.2.1 General . 43
11.2.2 Visual inspection . 43
11.2.3 Pressure tests . 43
11.2.4 Tests . 43
11.2.5 Completion certificate . 43
11.3 The periodic inspection and testing of foam systems . 44
11.3.1 General . 44
11.3.2 Inspections . 44
11.4 Shut-down . 46
11.5 Maintenance . 46
11.6 Alterations . 46
Bibliography . 47

European foreword
This document (EN 13565-2:2018+AC:2019) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 191 “Fixed
firefighting systems”, the secretariat of which is held by BSI.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text
or by endorsement, at the latest by October 2019, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the
latest by October 2019.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document includes Corrigendum 1 issued by CEN on 17 April 2019.
This document supersedes ˜EN 13565-2:2018™.
This document includes the corrigendum 1 which corrects Table 9, lines 1 and 2 and the key table of Figure 2.
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by corrigendum is indicated in the text by tags ˜™.
EN 13565, Fixed firefighting systems — Foam systems consists of the following parts:
— Part 1: Requirements and test methods for components
— Part 2: Design, construction and maintenance
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Introduction
Foam systems are designed to provide a homogeneous layer of bubbles, of aerated fire fighting foam concentrate
and water, over the surface of flammable liquids (Class B) and/or combustible materials (Class A). The layer of
bubbles will suppress the release of flammable vapours, exclude air, and cool the fuel and hot surfaces.
Applications for foam systems can be diverse so no one type of foam system can be prescribed. In addition, High
Expansion Foam may be used to provide total flooding of enclosures with 3 dimensional hazards of either Class
A and/or Class B fuels. Examples of the various types of foam system are set out in Table 1 below:
Table 1 — Typical uses of the various types of foam system
Hazard Low expansion Medium High expansion
expansion (indoors)
Flammable liquid storage tanks Yes No No
Tank bunds/collecting areas Yes Yes Yes
+ LNG/LPG
Process areas Yes Yes Yes
Aircraft hangers Yes < 1 400 m only Yes
Fuel transfer areas Yes Yes Yes
Plastic packaging and storage Yes No Yes
Plastic recycling Yes No No
Refuse handling and storage Yes No No
Liquefied Natural Gas No No Yes (and outdoors)
Tyre storage Yes No Yes
Rolled paper No No Yes
Marine jetties Yes Yes No
Oil filled transformers and Yes No Yes
switchgear
Cable tunnels No No Yes
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) No Yes Yes (and outdoors)
Warehouses – Class A and B fuels Yes No Yes
NOTE These examples are not prescriptive and do not preclude other uses, providing there is a fire engineering basis.
Foam systems reduce the environmental impact of fire by reducing fire effluent both into the atmosphere and
onto the ground. This is achieved through a more efficient application of fire extinguishing agent onto the seat of
fire. Compared to other extinguishing systems, the necessary application rate is significantly reduced by using
foam systems. Lower fire water damages and a reduced application of contaminated fire water in the
environment are also important advantages. Foam extinguishing systems give increased safety for the fire
fighting personnel and neighbouring communities.
1 Scope
This document specifies the requirements and describes the methods for design, installation, testing and
maintenance of low, medium, and high expansion foam fire extinguishing systems.
Foam systems may be used to suppress the release of toxic vapours but this application is outside the scope of
this document.
This document provides guidance for the design of various foam systems available to persons with knowledge
and experience in determining the selection of foam fire extinguishing systems which will be effective in
protecting specific hazard configurations. For the application of this standard, a risk assessment by a qualified
and experienced person should be performed for both new and existing systems, however the risk assessment
is outside the scope of this document.
This document does not cover a risk analysis carried out by a competent person.
Nothing in this document is intended to restrict new technologies or alternative arrangements, provided that the
level of foam system performance prescribed in this standard is not lowered, and supported by documented
evidence/test reports.
All foam systems are generally unsuitable for the following:
— chemicals, such as cellulose nitrate, that release sufficient oxygen or other oxidizing agents which can sustain
combustion;
— energized unenclosed electrical equipment;
— metals such as sodium, potassium and sodium-potassium alloys which are reactive to water;
— hazardous, water–reactive materials such as triethyl-aluminium and phosphorous pentoxide;
— combustible metals such as aluminium and magnesium.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the
latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 54 (all parts), Fire detection and fire alarm systems
EN 1568 (all parts), Fire extinguishing media — Foam concentrates
EN 12094-1, Fixed firefighting systems — Components for gas extinguishing systems — Part 1: Requirements and
test methods for electrical automatic control and delay devices
EN 12259-1, Fixed firefighting systems — Components for sprinkler and water spray systems — Part 1: Sprinklers
EN 12845:2015, Fixed firefighting systems — Automatic sprinkler systems — Design, installation and maintenance
prEN 13565-1:2016, Fixed firefighting systems — Foam systems — Part 1: Requirements and test methods for
components
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in prEN 13565-1:2016 and the following
apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1 Definitions
3.1.1
mode of application
method for the transportation of the foam onto the surface to be protected
Note 1 to entry: 3.1.2, 3.1.3 and 3.1.4 are subdivisions of the mode of application.
3.1.2
semi-subsurface
system where foam is delivered under the surface of the fuel and directed by a floating hose onto the surface to
be protected
3.1.3
subsurface
system where foam is delivered under the surface of the liquid
3.1.4
top pouring
system where foam is delivered onto the surface to be protected
3.1.5
application rate
calculated amount of foam solution in litres per square metre per minute
3.1.6
type of foam extinguishing systems
a fixed, semi-fixed or mobile foam extinguishing system
3.1.7
semi-fixed foam extinguishing system
system where extinguishing foam is delivered through a fixed installed pipework and stationery foam making
components whilst the foam concentrate only, or both the foam concentrate and water, are supplied from mobile
appliances
3.1.8
fixed foam extinguishing system
system where all components of the foam extinguishing system and the foam solution supply are permanently
installed to provide protection of a facility
3.1.9
area of operation
minimum area for the design of the water and foam concentrate supplies
3.1.10
operation time
minimum time for the supply of the extinguishing system with water
3.1.11
fire-fighting foam
complex medium of air filled bubbles formed from a foam solution
3.1.12
aspirating component
component within which air and foam solution are mixed to make foam
3.1.13
branchpipe
component which projects foam in the form of a jet or spray
3.1.14
component
item or piece of equipment conforming to prEN 13565-1 and intended for use in a fixed foam fire extinguishing
system
3.1.15
high back pressure foam generator
component which introduces air into the foam solution stream for delivery against a high back pressure, for
example, as is found in tank sub-surface mode
3.1.16
high expansion foam
foam which has an expansion ratio greater than 200:1
3.1.17
foam generator
component which introduces air into the foam solution stream for delivery against a low back pressure, i.e.
discharging against atmospheric pressure
3.1.18
low expansion foam
foam which has an expansion ratio not greater than 20:1
3.1.19
foam chamber
component that incorporates a vapour seal, a foam expansion chamber, and which delivers foam into a
flammable or combustible liquid storage tank
Note 1 to entry: A foam generator can be connected to the foam chamber inlet.
3.1.20
medium expansion foam
foam which has an expansion ratio greater than 20:1 but not greater than 200:1
3.1.21
monitor
component consisting of a branchpipe and turret
3.1.22
non-aspirating
components which discharge a spray of foam solution so that mixing with air and formation of foam takes place
outside the component
3.1.23
fixed foam pourer (foam discharge outlet)
component which discharges foam gently and indirectly onto the fuel surface
Note 1 to entry: Some pourers are designed to discharge the foam tangentially in order to create a circular motion, and
thus promote foam distribution.
3.1.24
proportioning component
component which controls the mixing of foam concentrate into a water flow, at a predetermined ratio, to produce
a foam solution
Note 1 to entry: Proportioning components are variously described as inline, bypass and round the pump inductors,
injectors, eductors, proportioners, venturis, constant and variable flow valves, orifice plates, water powered foam pumps
and displacement proportioners.
3.1.25
semi-subsurface hose unit
component which delivers foam below the surface of a flammable liquid so that it rises to the liquid surface
within a flexible hose and spreads over the liquid surface
3.1.26
sprayer
open sprinkler, sprayer, or nozzle without integral air aspiration
3.1.27
sprinkler/sealed sprayer
nozzle with a thermally sensitive sealing device which opens to discharge foam solution or water for fire fighting
Note 1 to entry: See EN 12259-1.
3.1.28
foam water sprinkler/sprayer
aspirating nozzle with or without a thermal release element
3.1.29
vapour seal
frangible component designed to prevent tank contents vapours entering the foam pipework system while
allowing foam to flow into the tank during system operation
3.1.30
working pressure
pressure at which the component is used in the system
3.1.31
pipework
pipes and connections including fittings and supports for the transportation of water, foam concentrate, foam
solution and sometimes foam
3.1.32
foam extinguishing system
installation comprising components, devices, and pipework configured to produce and disperse low, medium or
high expansion foam to extinguish fire
Note 1 to entry: A foam extinguishing system comprises foam/water proportioning components, foam concentrate tank,
foam generating/discharge components, pipework, and the associated water supply. Foam extinguishing systems can be
fixed, semi- fixed or mobile.
3.1.33
medium expansion foam extinguishing system
system producing medium expansion foam as firefighting agent
3.1.34
low expansion foam extinguishing system
system producing low expansion foam as firefighting agent
3.1.35
foam concentrate
liquid that is diluted with water to produce foam solution
3.1.36
foam solution
solution of foam concentrate in water
3.1.37
expansion ratio
ratio of the volume of foam to the volume of the foam solution
3.1.38
premixed solution
foam solution stored at nominal concentration
3.1.39
operating time
minimum time for the supply of the foam extinguishing system with foam concentrate
3.1.40
spill hazard
shallow depth of flammable liquid
Note 1 to entry: For the purpose of this standard a spill hazard is one where an ignited spill of limited quantity resulting
in a fuel depth of 25 mm or less over the majority of the spill area although it is recognized that, due to ground topography
or features such as drain sumps, the depth of fuel may be greater in places.
EXAMPLE An example of a spill hazard would be a fire resulting from the ignition of a flammable liquid spill at a road
tanker loading facility.
3.1.41
fuel in depth hazard
significant depth of flammable liquid
Note 1 to entry: For the purpose of this standard a fuel in depth hazard is one where an ignited fuel may be of large
quantity resulting in a fuel depth of 25 mm or more over the majority of the ignited area.
3.1.42
high expansion foam extinguishing system
system, producing high expansion foam as firefighting agent
3.1.43
maximum flow demand
Q
max
actual water flow to the largest foam system section at maximum water level in the suction tank
3.1.44
submergence time
time to fill the submergence volume –the hazard volume to the height of the submergence depth – height of
highest hazard plus 3m or to roof
3.2 Abbreviations
AR alcohol resistant
WM water miscible
WI-V water immiscible – volatile (Flashpoints less than 40 °C)
WI water immiscible
NA not applicable
NOTE NA denotes that this type of protection is not considered suitable for this application unless validated tests have
established its suitability and effectiveness.
4 Foam extinguishing systems
4.1 General
4.1.1 General requirements
The component materials of foam extinguishing systems shall be selected in such a way that they are resistant
to the substances they come into contact with. Details of the foam concentrate used shall be kept – these shall
include type, brand, proportioning rate, manufacturing date, batch numbers and EN 1568 classification. These
records shall be updated as stocks are used and replaced.
Foam extinguishing systems shall be able to effectively cover the area/volume to be protected with due
consideration of:
— type of fuel;
— spreading characteristics of the foam;
— type of application;
— foam expansion ratio;
— obstacles;
— foam destruction due to burning, drainage, mechanical breakdown and leakage;
— foam losses due to wind and thermal updrafts.
The covering of the surface to be protected with foam can be done with fixed, semi-fixed or mobile foam
generators.
Where foam-extinguishing systems are used for the fire prevention by the creation of a foam layer over a
flammable liquid surface, the foam layer shall be maintained in order to prevent or suppress the release of
flammable vapours to atmosphere. Any breakdown or destruction of the foam should be replenished by further
foam application.
Low and Medium Expansion Foam Systems are not suitable for fire extinguishment of cascading fuel or spray
fires, however, they will/may be of value in the control of resultant spill fires.
Foam manufacturers shall be consulted on the selection of foam for non -aspirated use.
4.1.2 Application rates
The application rates for low and medium expansion foam shall be calculated as follows:
q = q x f x f x f (1)
th c o h
where
q are the minimum application rates for the foam solution, in litres per minute per square metre;
q are the nominal application rates for the foam solution, in litre per minute per square metre;
th
with: q = 4,0 l/min/m
th
f is the correction factor for the class of foam concentrate according to EN 1568 (see Tables 2 and 3 –
c
for rimseal, only 1.0 shall be used for all fuels);
f is the correction factor for the kind of object (see Tables 4, 7,8 and 10);
o
f is the correction factor for nozzle distance in outdoor deluge systems = 1,0 for nozzles < 5m from
h
the protected surface; 1,25 for nozzles > 5 m from the protected surface ( low expansion only). For
tanks and bund systems f = 1.
h
The correction factor for medium expansion discharge devices shall be determined by test for specific
applications which includes a safety factor of 1.6 x the test application rate.
The application rates in this European Standard are to be treated as the rates delivered by the various discharge
devices - they take into account possible delivery losses. The application rates have been based upon operational
data.
Table 2 — Correction factors f – low expansion – water immiscible (per EN 1568-3)
c
Extinguishing Correction factor – Correction factor – fuel
performance Class – spill in depth
(f ) (f )
EN 1568-3 c c
1A 1,0 1,0
1B 1,0 1,1
1C 1,1 1,25
1D 1,1 NA
2A 1,0 1,0
2B 1,0 1,1
2C 1,1 1,25
2D 1,1 NA
3B 1,5 NA
3C/3D 1,75 NA
Included in Table 2 are petroleum/alcohol mixtures and unleaded petroleum containing no more than 10 %
oxygenated additives or alcohol by volume. Where oxygenated additives or alcohol content exceeds 10 % by
volume, AR foam is required and Table 3 shall be used.
Although using the increased correction factor (application rate) for water miscible fuels according to Table 3,
the use of gentle application is very important to obtain the effectiveness expected.
Foam concentrates tested for use at Medium Expansion in accordance with EN 1568-1 shall have a correction
factor (f ) of 1,0 for spill fire applications and 1,5 for fuel in depth applications. Foam concentrates also tested to
c
EN 1568-3 and have obtained a 1A/B/C or 2 A/B/C rating may be used with a correction factor of 1,0 for fuel in
depth applications.
Table 3 — Correction factors f – low expansion – water miscible (per EN 1568-4)
c
Extinguishing Correction factor – Correction factor – fuel
performance class – spill in depth
EN 1568-4 (f ) (f )
c c
1A 1,5 2,0
1B 1,5 2,25
1C 1,5 2,5
2A 2,0 2,5
2B 2,0 2,75
2C 2,0 3,0
AR type foam concentrates may be used at medium expansion when verified by test and the test report is
provided.
4.1.3 Environmental considerations
Fires where foam application is used can be of sufficient magnitude to produce significant quantities of fire-water
run-off, and airborne pollution, which may be detrimental to the environment. This run-off is likely to contain
fuel, combustion products, contaminated water and foam solution. It should be contained/collected for analysis
and disposal in accordance with national environmental regulations.
Foam systems and the protected objects should be flushed with fresh water after system operation to minimise
potential risk of corrosion.
4.1.4 Planning
Foam systems should not be considered in isolation, but as part of risk assessment along with process controls
and manual fire fighting resources.
Planning, installation, alteration and extension of foam systems shall only be carried out under the responsible
supervision of an expert, competent in the engineering of foam fire extinguishing systems.
The proportioning of foam concentrate with water may be carried out in an equipment room (central
proportioning) or in the vicinity of the hazard to be protected (decentralised proportioning). For central
proportioning the foam solution is fed through pipework and distribution valves to the foam generators. For
decentralized proportioning the foam concentrate is proportioned directly into the foam distribution pipework
serving the hazard.
If pumping-in connections for the fire brigade are provided at fixed foam extinguishing systems, the water
demand of the foam extinguishing system shall be determined and marked at the connection.
In case of semi-fixed installations the mobile water supply as well as the pump and proportioning performance
shall be in accordance with the maximum required foam extinguishing system demand.
The pumping-in connections shall be marked with the type of foam, the proportioning rate (%), and the
minimum pumping-in pressure. A check valve shall be fitted upstream of the foam extinguishing system to
prevent withdrawal of water.
4.1.5 Documentation
The installer shall provide the user of the foam extinguishing system at least with the following documentation:
— operating instructions;
— general lay-out drawings;
— hydraulic calculation;
— design data (proportioning ratio, water demand, foam concentrate supply);
— list of components;
— water/foam concentrate tank drawings;
— foam concentrate material safety data sheet;
— programme for inspection and maintenance with time intervals.
4.1.6 Supplementary manual foam fire fighting provisions
In addition to the fixed foam system requirements there should be means provided for manual fire fighting using
foam. These shall enable hose streams to reach any point within the hazard area. These provisions may be added
to the fixed foam system or by separate provisions. The connection of hose lines to the water supply of foam
extinguishing systems may be used if the necessary water supply and quantity of foam concentrate is available
for the op
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