Fire Audit Conducted by FlareSens for Blisswood Impex Global

Fire Audit Conducted by FlareSens for Blisswood Impex Global


Introduction

Blisswood Global Impex Pvt. Ltd. is a prominent leather manufacturing company facing significant fire safety challenges at its facility. In response to these challenges, Blisswood engaged FlareSens to conduct a comprehensive fire safety assessment. The audit identified critical fire hazards and provided detailed recommendations to mitigate these risks, ensuring the safety of the facility, employees, and continuity of operations.

 

Fire Safety Assessment Findings

  1. Obsolete Fire Detection Panel

    • Issue: The existing 15-year-old conventional fire detection panel was generating random faults and errors, causing the system to shut down.
    • Risk Level: High
    • Impact: High risk of undetected fires, potentially leading to extensive damage and loss of life.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2189:2018
  2. Insufficient Fire Extinguishers

    • Issue: The facility required over 60 fire extinguishers but had only 44, with just 11 recently maintained.
    • Risk Level: High
    • Impact: Inadequate firefighting equipment increases the risk of fire spread.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2190:2010
  3. Smoke Detector Maintenance

    • Issue: Regular maintenance was insufficient in the dusty environment, necessitating more frequent maintenance.
    • Risk Level: Moderate
    • Impact: Dust accumulation could impair smoke detector functionality.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 11360:1985
  4. High-Risk Autospray Machines

    • Issue: Manual operation of retrofitted autospray machines, including manually controlled fans and inadequate post-heater cooling response.
    • Risk Level: Critical
    • Impact: Increased likelihood of overheating and fire outbreaks.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1646:1997
  5. Toggling Machine with Heater in Basement

    • Issue: The toggling machine with a heater was located in the basement amidst a large stockpile of leather.
    • Risk Level: Critical
    • Impact: Elevated fire risk due to the combination of heat and flammable materials.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1641:1988
  6. Exposed Electrical Panels

    • Issue: Exposed electrical panels were situated next to stored leather.
    • Risk Level: Critical
    • Impact: Potential for electrical sparks or faults to ignite the leather.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1646:1997
  7. Deactivated Fire Detection Zone in Basement

    • Issue: The fire detection system in the basement was deactivated due to frequent false alarms.
    • Risk Level: High
    • Impact: Increased danger of undetected fires in a high-risk area.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2189:2018
  8. Skiving Machine Sparks

    • Issue: The skiving machine generated sparks during tool sharpening.
    • Risk Level: High
    • Impact: Sparks could easily ignite flammable materials.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 3034:1993
  9. Water Suppression Pumps

    • Issue: Although regularly maintained, the water suppression system required a full demonstration run and tank cleaning.
    • Risk Level: Moderate
    • Impact: Uncertainty regarding the system's reliability in an emergency.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 15325:2003

Recommended Remedies

  1. Immediate Replacement of Fire Detection Panel

    • Install a modern, addressable fire detection system to enhance reliability and reduce false alarms.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2189:2018
  2. Increase Fire Extinguisher Inventory

    • Acquire at least 16 additional fire extinguishers and ensure regular maintenance of all units.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2190:2010
  3. Enhanced Smoke Detector Maintenance

    • Implement a bi-monthly maintenance schedule for smoke detectors.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 11360:1985
  4. Automate Autospray Machine Operations

    • Retrofit machines with automated controls for fans and heaters to ensure safe operation.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1646:1997
  5. Relocate or Upgrade Toggling Machine Setup

    • Move the machine away from the leather stockpile or enhance fire safety measures in the basement.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1641:1988
  6. Secure Electrical Panels

    • Encase electrical panels in fire-resistant enclosures and maintain a safe distance from flammable materials.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 1646:1997
  7. Reactivate and Upgrade Basement Fire Detection

    • Address false alarm issues and ensure the basement fire detection system is operational.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 2189:2018
  8. Spark Containment for Skiving Machine

    • Implement spark arrestors and improve local exhaust ventilation.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 3034:1993
  9. Comprehensive Testing of Water Suppression System

    • Conduct a full demonstration of the suppression system, including tank cleaning and flow tests.
    • Relevant IS Code: IS 15325:2003

Conclusion

The fire safety assessment conducted by FlareSens revealed critical hazards at Blisswood Global Impex Pvt. Ltd. The identified risks necessitate urgent action to prevent potentially catastrophic events. Implementing the recommended remedies will significantly enhance the fire safety of the facility, protecting both employees and operations.