Research Article

Enhancing Interpretability of Data-Driven Fault Detection and Diagnosis Methodology with Maintainability Rules in Smart Building Management

Table 10

Fire Safety - Fire Extinguishers.

ProblemDesignConstructionMaintenance

Poor discharge of portable fire extinguisher

Low pressure indicated in the fire extinguisher. This often leads to poor or no discharge

Extinguishing cone missing

Fire extinguishers not kept properly and not secured
The locations and number of portable fire extinguishers are to be based on the maximum travel route in accordance with SS EN 3 Series, BS 5306-8, ISO 7165 or equivalent.
Access to or visibility of extinguishers should be unobstructed. Extinguishers should be visible along an escape route (preferably near room exits, along corridors and staircases, in lobbies, and on landing).
The extinguishers’ body and the parts should be of approved quality to prevent rusting, early damage or deterioration in accordance with BS EN 3 series).
Ensure the proper positioning (designated location, hung properly with label facing out) of fire extinguishers.
For installation of small fire extinguishers (≤4 kg), hang on the wall with hanger or bracket such that the handle is about
1.5 m from floor. Hangers should be securely fixed.
For installation of heavier fire extinguishers (≥4 kg), ensure carrying handle is about 1 m from floor and the arrangement will not hurt the person carrying it. Parts should be attached in accordance with manufacturer’s instruction.
Conduct regular servicing to confirm required working condition. (Refer to the recommended schedules for maintenance in accordance with BS 5306-3 or equivalent.
Conduct monthly inspection to ensure that the pressure gauge is in operative range and check for any sign of corrosion of the body of the extinguisher. Adopt the recharging frequency in accordance with the type of extinguisher.
Adopt charging, testing and maintenance of fire extinguishers in accordance with SS 578 specifications or equivalent. Extinguishers should be recharged with the same agent only. No mixing or cross contamination allowed and no overfilling in accordance with BS 5306-9, NFPA 10 or equivalent.
Fire door malfunctioning

Self-closing closer

Exit door obstructed by stacking of material
Fire door should be selected in terms of stability, integrity, insulation and installed in accordance with SS 332, NFPA 80 or equivalent and in compliance with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
Modifications to fire doors are not allowed unless in accordance with SS 332 or supported by assessment report from an accredited testing laboratory.
Fix fire door in accordance with manufacturer recommendation. Fire door should be the same make and model as the tested prototype. Door frames installed during wall construction should be thoroughly grouted in cavity as deeply as possible with corrosion-proof anchor. Screws for attachment should be driven properly, and not hammered or placed in other positions in accordance with SS 332, NPFA 80 or equivalent.
Ensure proper workmanship to avoid damaging/jamming/sagging door (e.g., tilted hinge).
Inspect fire doors at least once a year, to ensure that self-closing mechanism functions as intended at all times. Check for and remove any door stoppers, or materials stacked near or by the fire exit door. Remove any obstructions.
Check integrity of door leaf and frame for superficial damage, structural damage and excessive bowing or deformation. Inspect hinges, latches, door closer, bolts and pull handle weekly. Automatic release mechanisms should be tested in accordance with BS 5839-3 or equivalent.
Ensure that egress is unobstructed in case of emergency evacuation in accordance with evacuation plan and NFPA 101 or equivalent.