Although most electrical wires are concealed and embedded in the structure, the numerous
kilometers of cables and tons of plastic polymers in the cables can provide a substantial fire hazard.
The majority of cable insulation is made of hydrocarbon (oil) based polymers that are not flame retardant and have high calorific values. To make them more flame retardant, halogens such as chlorine are added, as in PVC, which helps to slow the spread of flames. However, this has the drawback of releasing harmful halogens in acrid smoke in the event of a fire.
On Monday, March 28, 2022, a fire broke out in one of the key subterranean tunnels housing energy infrastructure and cables in Johannesburg CBD, Booysens, and Selby, releasing deadly halogens and acrid smoke. These places were engulfed in darkness almost instantly.
Firefighters were able to put out the fire and are currently inspecting the tunnels to ensure that they are safe for City Power workers to enter to repair the damage and restore power.
Electric wires play an important role in firefighting and smoke extraction. They link smoke extraction fans and shutters, air pressurization fans and dampers, emergency and exit lighting, fire sprinkler pumps, smoke and heat detectors, fire door closers, and a slew of other BMS components. If the critical cable system fails during an emergency, the related emergency equipment will also fail, most likely with disastrous results.
According to a recent story in "The Citizen," a number of fire-related accidents and attacks on the country's infrastructure have occurred in recent months, prompting the question "Am I prepared for a fire emergency?" to be posed by all property owners and business managers.
SFE Services has experts in Fire Management, Fire Safety and Smoke Extraction to help you be prepared for any condition related to a fire emergency. Contact them today for a free assessment of your fire risks specifically your electrical cable and smoke extraction.
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