In the 2016 edition of NFPA 409, firefighting foam was still the main extinguishing medium in the various fire protection option. In the meantime, concerns about the environmental and health risks associated with Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) were raised, particularly due to its per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) content.
While safeguarding aircraft and crews from the risk of fire and its consequences is the top priority, aircraft hangar fire protection systems should do this safely without damaging the environment and people’s health. As regulations continue to evolve and awareness of the risks associated with AFFF increases, there is a growing emphasis on adopting fire protection solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency and sustainability.
AFFF Alternatives
PFAS chemicals have been identified as harmful to ecosystems, human health and wildlife, prompting a reevaluation of foam-based fire suppression systems. In response to these concerns, countries around the world have banned the use of AFFF foam systems, creating an opportunity in the market for the development of alternative materials and solutions. This paradigm shift has led to the emergence of innovative aircraft hangar fire suppression technologies.
One such solution is fluorine-free foam, which offers comparable fire suppression capabilities to AFFF without the PFAS chemicals. FFF doesn't contain PFAS but includes a mix of other substances, which has gained traction within the industry as a safer and more sustainable option for protecting aircraft and personnel.
Inert gas fire suppression systems (IG-100, IG-541, IG-55) and water mist systems have also emerged as viable alternatives to foam-based solutions. These systems utilize inert gases or fine water droplets to effectively suppress fires while minimizing collateral damage to aircraft and sensitive equipment.
Performance and Risk-Based Approaches to Fire Protection
The release of the 2022 edition of NFPA 409 marked another milestone in the evolution of aircraft hangar fire protection systems. This updated standard embraces performance-based and risk-based approaches, allowing for more customized fire suppression strategies that consider specific hazards and operational needs as well as factors like aircraft type, hangar size, and occupancy levels.
The risk-based approach employed in aircraft hangar fire protection moves away from rigid, one-size-fits-all regulations towards a more adaptable and customized strategy that enhances safety, reduces the likelihood of fire incidents, and minimizes the potential consequences should a fire occur. It’s a methodical way of assessing and managing fire risks while enabling more effective and efficient fire protection designs that minimize costs and environmental impact.
Reduce Fire Risks in Aircraft Hangars
Embracing a performance-based approach in aircraft hangar fire protection systems offers numerous benefits, including tailored solutions, flexibility, risk-informed decision-making, resource optimization, and adaptability to change. Jensen Hughes’ team of experts is skilled in using performance-based design approaches to conduct qualitative and quantitative risk analyses to help reduce the fire risks in aircraft hangars. Interested in knowing more about our expertise in aircraft hangars sector? Contact our expert here.
