The Fire Hazard of Solar Photovoltaic Panels
The following is an updated review of the fire hazards of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels. Previous Risk Logic articles from January 2015 and January 2014 still apply but new data has entered the...
Lithium Ion Batteries
With the advent of today's electronics devices comes a new power source: rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. The technology of Li-ion batteries packs a decided punch in that the power to...
Keeping Water Away From Where It Shouldn't Be
Though water is a fundamental material for fire protection, processes and domestic usage, there are times where water shouldn't be in some places. How Water Can Be a Problem Water can be a reactive...
Testing and Inspection of Emergency Generators
Emergency generators are used to maintain electrical power to facilities and equipment considered important and/or critical to continued plant operations. They may be found in occupancies such as...
FM Data Sheet 1-15, "Roof Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Panels"
The following is a synopsis of the new FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1-15 "Roof Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Panels." This is a new data sheet, issued in July 2014 with October 2014...
Interim Changes in July 2014 to FM Global Data Sheets 7-32 and 7-29
The only notable change in July 2014 to FM Global Data Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations, is additional information for arranging ignitable liquid processes, handling, and use operations to...
Flue Spaces in Racks - NFPA 13 vs. FM Global Data Sheet 8-9
Flue spaces are necessary for rack storage arrangements to allow heat from a fire to quickly vent vertically. This is critical in order to help ensure the ceiling-level sprinklers will operate as...
Freeze-up Prevention for Fire Protection Equipment
Damage to fire protection equipment during winter weather happens in areas where freezing temperatures are common and where temperatures...
PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SOLAR PANELS
Photovoltaics (PV) is the generation of electrical power by conversion of solar radiation directly to electricity through the photovoltaic effect exhibited by semiconductor materials. Initial costs...
VCE Basics
Introduction The following article is written as a simple primer of VCE phenomenon and criteria. The intent is to discuss some basic concepts and terminology, while excluding highly technical and...
NFPA 704 and the New OSHA Hazardous Material Labeling
You might have noticed that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been making a shift in labeling requirements for chemicals. The new system is the United Nations Globally...
Kitchen Hood Suppression Systems
You may have a wet or dry chemical system in the hoods above cooking equipment in your kitchen. Both of these systems should be tested at least semi-annually by a service technician per NFPA 17A, Wet...