Mining and quarrying both present complex fire risks due to the combination of above-ground and underground working environments, the heavy activities involved and the presence of large numbers of personnel.
Production schedules can mean activity continues around the clock, with no time for cooldown. This leads to hot and humid conditions, which in turn increases the strain placed on equipment.
In the presence of hot engines and manifolds, hydraulic fluids, lubricating oils and fuel vapours, this can lead to a significant risk of fire at any given moment.
To counter this risk, Merlin design, develop and install bespoke fire prevention systems for mines and quarries, with the ability to monitor large spaces and deliver substantial quantities of fire suppression agents when a fire is detected.
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A Typical Quarry Fire Prevention System
As an example, a typical quarry might involve the following factors that raise the risk of fire:
- 24/7 operations with vehicles and machinery running at all times
- Multiple vehicle types with differing needs for fire suppression systems
- Dry and dusty or hot and humid conditions with changeable impact on equipment
One vehicle out of action can lead to significant losses and, in the case of the most critical heavy plant, can result in periods of total business interruption.
In addition, your insurers may require you to install fire prevention systems that meet certain accreditation and minimum standards, in order for you to qualify to renew your insurance policies.
How Merlin Can Help
Merlin can recommend a variety of different fire monitoring, detection and suppression systems to suit the different areas of your mine or quarry.
This includes above-ground systems capable of covering a large open area with compressed air foams that expand to hundreds of times their compressed size.
Underground, we can install rapid response fire detection systems, along with a range of fire suppression technologies that can work to contain a blaze until safe evacuation can be carried out.
We are also the exclusive UK & Ireland supplier of the Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection System, which can protect against fire risks in vehicles, mobile machinery and heavy plant.
The Dafo system is recognised by UK insurers for its excellent performance in protecting vehicles. With an installed life span of ten years and only one service required per year, the technology offers longevity and reliability, with minimal maintenance costs.
Find Out More
To find out more about our extensive range of different fire detectors and suppression systems, please view our Fire Protection Guide, which looks at each technology in more detail.
If you have any questions, please contact our team directly. All enquiries are welcome and our knowledgeable engineers are here to help you decide which fire suppression system or combination of systems will give you the best overall protection.
Get in touch today using any of the details on our Contact page and we can schedule a visit to your mine or quarry, to offer you a free tailored quote for your fire protection system with no obligation or upfront cost.
