I could have sworn I had already written about this hazard, but I’m guessing it was inside one of my social media groups. So BUCKLE UP, Buttercup, as this is going to make a lot of folks unhappy.
Question: Do I have to isolate my fixed fire suppression system protecting my PRCS?
Answer: YES, if it is a gaseous agent that creates an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. We even isolated deluge systems and COM DUST quick-action systems, as they pose hazards to entrants. But a gaseous agent that depletes oxygen concentration in the space is an ABSOLUTE MUST.
Remember, OSHA only recognizes three (3) isolation methods for PRCSs:
- Double Block and Bleed
- Binding/Blanking
- Disconnect w/ misalignment
Deactivating the fire suppression system at the control panel is NOT a recognized energy isolation method. A head could leak hazardous gas into the space, so a system discharge is NOT necessary to create the hazardous atmosphere.
