External Sprinklers for Waste Storage Area

[Phoenix]

...And, if the system does eventually actuate, why do you think an unenclosed discharge of water mist will be sufficient to deal with what may be a significant fire? 

Are you looking to extinguish the fire or to contain it? 

What duration of discharge are you contemplating?

Stu

[CivvyFSO]

Has anyone considered a simple FR ledge canopy to ensure the flames don't adhere to the wall and pass straight up the front of the building?

BLEVE might even do some back of the tampon-box calcs on flame height and fluxes and stuff.

[Gasmeter]

Supression is what I have in mind (maybe a 15 minute water supply) I wouldn't expect it to extinguish what can be quite dense material; the link to the AFA is because it's remotely monitored by our own Security who can respond quickly.  If low rated quartzoid bulbs on four(ish) heads would be too slow to activate, what are my other options?  A canopy (may be an FR one) over the bins might be possible, but I have a feeling this idea will keep getting more expensive    What I need is something that will satisfy the insurer's risk control inspector but doesn't break the bank. Thanks to all for your interest, I really do appreciate it 

[nearlythere]

Supression is what I have in mind (maybe a 15 minute water supply) I wouldn't expect it to extinguish what can be quite dense material; the link to the AFA is because it's remotely monitored by our own Security who can respond quickly.  If low rated quartzoid bulbs on four(ish) heads would be too slow to activate, what are my other options?  A canopy (may be an FR one) over the bins might be possible, but I have a feeling this idea will keep getting more expensive    What I need is something that will satisfy the insurer's risk control inspector but doesn't break the bank. Thanks to all for your interest, I really do appreciate it 

How about all metal bins which are padlocked shut at night? Cheap and cheerful.

[Gasmeter]

Thanks NT, we considered this but have found that cleaning staff simply don't lock them and/or they are overfilled and can't be locked.  It's amazing how such a simple thing can become such a pain in the a***

[nearlythere]

Thanks NT, we considered this but have found that cleaning staff simply don't lock them and/or they are overfilled and can't be locked.  It's amazing how such a simple thing can become such a pain in the a***

You have mail.

[SeaBass]

I can’t help but think that this is being over complicated. Civvy’s idea of an FR ledge might provide an answer, but I  return to the automatic fire extinguisher systems.

They work extremely well for vehicle engine bays, fume cupboards and similar areas, so I don’t see why they wouldn’t provide the answer in this situation. They are easy and cheap to install. Maintenance is also quick and fairly cheap. They can be linked to the fire alarm system and can deliver water, foam, DP, or CO2. Why bother with all the fuss of a water mist system and the relatively high maintenance costs?

[SeaBass]

I forgot to mention, with regards to securing the bins, have you looked at the bin safe system?  I know a couple of organisations that have bought them. They seem to work well.  (Although one large supermarket received complaints from local street dwellers who couldn’t get their evening meals out of them)  If the cleaners won’t lock them at the end of their shift, perhaps the SO’s could as part of their lock up procedure.     

Web site is as follows   http://www.binsafe.com/

[Gasmeter]

Thanks Ruby, I hadn't seen those products before, our Environmental people will be impressed (I hope!)