ABSTRACT
The process industries are prone to fires and explosions, which can result in the loss of lives, damage to the environment, loss of equipment, disruption of business, and loss of public confidence, despite how rare they may be. This chapter introduces fire, fire terminology, types of fire, stages and hazards associated with fire. It provides an in-depth explanation of the basic principles of fire control including both active and passive fire protection equipment, components, and systems that are used. A detailed explanation will be given about active fire protection systems and components such as hydrants, deluges, sprinklers, reels, hoses, alarms, and many more. The discussion includes some of the passive fire protection features such as emergency escape routes, fire compartments, fire walls, emergency signs and lighting, and the like, in addition to active fire protection components. A brief section on explosions is included at the end of the chapter.
