Sec-Erb Engineering Standards: Eastern Region Branch Saudi Electricity Company

ORIG’D CERT.
APP’D
ASA
GAI
‫ﻓــﺮع اﻟﻤﻨﻄـﻘـﺔ اﻟﺸـــﺮﻗﻴــﺔ‬ ‫اﻟﺸـﺮآﺔ اﻟﺴﻌـﻮدﻳﺔ ﻟﻠﻜﻬﺮﺑﺎء‬
Eastern Region Branch Saudi Electricity Company
MHM
AGA
SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARDS SES-P-119.21

DB
DB
Added clause no. 3.9.4.b.5
REVISIONS
General Revision
DESCRIPTION
S/S DESIGN STDS
FIRE AND LOSS PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS

18/10/28
02/03/27
DATE
NO.
1
2
3
ORGINATED
By: DB
DATE: 17/8/28
Approved by the Engineering Standards Committee (ESC) on
CERTIFIED
13 Muharram 1423 (March 27, 2002)
By: AGA
DATE: 17/8/28
APPROVED
By: ASA
DATE: 17/8/28
SEC-ERB – 16344-1 ( 11/07 ) SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 1 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 SCOPE
2.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
2.1 General
2.2 Safety Practices
3.0 SUBSTATION BUILDING
3.1 Location
3.2 Construction
3.3 Fire Resistance Ratings
3.4 Equipment Layout
3.5 Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
3.6 Emergency Exits
3.7 Fire Exit Hardware
3.8 Exit and Emergency Lighting
3.9 Fire Detection and Alarm System
3.10 Fire Suppression Systems
4.0 OIL-FILLED EQUIPMENT
4.1 General
4.2 Fire Hazard of Oil -Filled Equipment
4.3 Transformers
4.4 Outdoor Installation of Oil-Filled Transformers
4.5 Oil-Filled Capacitors
4.6 Oil-Filled Reactors
4.7 Pressure Relief
4.8 Supports
4.9 Oil/SF6 Cable Termination (Sealing End)
SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 2 OF 29

5.0 CABLES
5.1 General
5.2 Fire Hazard of Cables
5.3 Cable Installation Practices
5.4 Cable Penetration Fire Stops, Fire Breaks and Coatings
6.0 MISCELLANEOUS HAZARDS
6.1 Batteries
6.2 Combustible Materials
6.3 Heating Equipment
7.0 SAFETY AND FIRST AID EQUIPMENT
7.1 First Aid Equipment

7.2 Safety Equipment
8.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY
Figure 1-1: Steel enclosure with withdrawable shelf for fire alarm printer and paper

1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This Standard provides the guidelines for fire and loss prevention requirements in
the design of substation facilities.
1.2 The objectives of this Standard are:
1.2.1. To evaluate the fire and loss prevention requirements of substations and
incorporate the fire alarm and detection systems applicable to substations.
1.2.2. To incorporate safety practices in the overall design of substations.
2.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
2.1 General
The design of a substation shall incorporate and ensure the safety and protection
features of the substation, such as substation shielding, insulation coordination,
surge protection, relaying, grounding, fire detection and alarm system and other
protective systems and devices intended to ensure the reliability of the substation.
2.2 Safety Practices
2.2.1 Physical Layout
a. The physical layout of substation equipment shall be in accordance

with SES-P-119.17. Layout shall emphasize operating and
maintenance space requirements and future expansions.
Consideration shall be given to replacement of equipment of
different dimensions while planning clearances.
b. Adequate roads for maintenance and construction equipment/

vehicles shall be provided per SES-P-119.19.
c. Pipes, pull boxes, stands and operating platforms shall be located

in areas not normally used as paths by operators.

d. Substation classified as "Vital" per SES-S-100(SSD) shall have a

clear zone per SES-S-101 (SSD/1) and SES-S-102 (SSD/2).
2.2.2 Safety and Maintenance Clearances
Safety and maintenance clearances are covered in SES-P-119.08, which

shall be adopted as directed therein.
2.2.3 Lighting and Receptacles
Lighting and receptacles shall be provided in the substation yard and

building and shall be designed in accordance with SES-P-119.25.
2.2.4 Fencing and Boundary Wall
a. Substation fencing and boundary wall shall comply with the

requirements of SES-P-119.19.
b. The perimeter fence/boundary wall shall be provided with warning

signs "Danger High Voltage with Bones and Skull" conforming to
standard drawing SE-036809 and "Danger High Voltage Keep
Away" conforming to standard drawing SB-036084 on each side
of the fence and at every 36 meters. Where the length of one side
of the boundary wall/fence exceeds 36 meters such signs shall be
installed at equidistant from the corner posts. In addition, such
warning signs shall be installed at the gate(s) of the substation
perimeter fence.
2.2.5 Shielding
To minimize the exposure of direct lightning strokes on substations and

substation equipment, shielding shall be provided per SES-P-119.07.
2.2.6 Grounding
A permanent protective grounding system designed per SES-P-119.10

shall be installed in the substation. All equipment and non-current
carrying metal parts of the fire detection and alarm system shall be
grounded.

2.2.7 Fault-Sensing and Interrupting Devices
The proper relaying or fault-sensing devices in combination with

interrupting devices shall protect all circuits and equipment. The
combination of devices used shall isolate the fault before any further and
more serious problems occur. This is covered in detail in SES-P-119.28.
2.2.8 Marking and Identification of Equipment
a. All fire fighting equipment and facilities, hydrants and associated

piping, substation electrical and mechanical equipment including
auxiliary devices shall be properly marked, labeled and/or color
coded for correct identification. Color coding where applicable
shall be in accordance with SES-H-001.01. The space behind the
wall mounted portable fire extinguishers shall be painted with post
office red color.
b. Insulated grounding conductor shall be colored green with yellow

stripes.
3.0 SUBSTATION BUILDING
3.1 Location
The substation building shall be located such that any credible fire from any
potential fire risks (oil-filled transformers, oil-filled circuit breakers,
neighbouring plants) will not involve or affect the operation of equipment within
the substation building.
3.2 Construction
3.2.1 General
The substation buildings (control buildings, switchgear buildings) shall be

of fire resistant construction equivalent to Type I-(443) construction as
defined by ANSI/NFPA 220.

3.2.2 Vital Installations
Substation buildings in facilities designated as "vital installations" by the

High Commission on Industrial Security (HCIS) shall be constructed in
accordance with SES-S-109 (SSD/9), Building Housing Vital Equipment.
3.3 Fire Resistance Ratings
3.3.1 Fire Rated Walls or Partitions
Fire rated walls or partitions (walls designed to divide an area or building

into fire zones separations/fire-compartments for the purpose of
containing the spread of smoke or fire within the building) shall have a
minimum fire resistance rating of 3 hours as established in accordance
with the test procedure of ANSI/NFPA 251.
3.3.2 Fire Doors
Fire door assemblies shall comply with the requirements of ANSI/NFPA

80 and UL 63. The fire resistance rating of fire doors shall be certified by
fire tests conducted by an accredited test agency acceptable to SEC-ERB
such as the Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and Factory Mutual Research
Inc. The fire resistance of fire doors shall be classified in accordance with
ANSI/NFPA 80 and shall have the same fire resistance rating (3 hours) to
that of the building wall. Fire exit doors shall be provided with heavy duty
door closer of approved type.

3.3.3 Security and Emergency Exit Doors in Vital Installations
Security doors and emergency exit doors in substation buildings

designated as building housing "vital or sensitive equipment" shall
comply with the requirements of SES-S-107 and shall have the same fire
resistance rating (3 hours) to that of the building wall.
3.3.4 Fire Stops and Seals
a. All penetrations through fire rated walls or partitions, floors,

ceilings and exterior walls by piping services, electrical cables,
cable ducts, conduits and similar installations shall be sealed by an
approved material or fire stop with a fire resistance rating equal to
or greater than that of the floor, wall or ceiling.
b. All penetrations and conduits shall be sealed by an approved

material to prevent the transfer of smoke, flammable gases or
vapors from one area to another.
c. Fire stops used for cable penetrations through fire rated floors,
walls or partitions shall meet the requirements of ASTM E814 or
UL 1479.
3.4 Equipment Layout
The physical arrangement of equipment housed within a substation building shall

be in accordance with the guidelines of SES-P-119.19, with emphasis on
equipment clearances, working space, maintenance space and ventilation. The
guidelines on the installation of substation equipment established in Part 1 of the
National Electrical Safety Code, ANSI C2, and in Part III of the Uniform
Mechanical Code (UMC) shall be observed where applicable.
3.5 Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
3.5.1 Duct System
The HVAC duct system shall comply with the applicable requirements of
NFPA 90A, SMACNA (Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s
National Association), related specifications and drawings. The HVAC
ducts, air terminal devices, accessories and supports shall be constructed
of noncombustible or fire resistant materials.

Duct insulation and insulation adhesives shall have a flame spread rating
of not greater than 25 and a smoke developed rating of not greater than 50
when tested in accordance with NFPA 255.
3.5.2 HVAC Equipment Shutdown
The HVAC control system shall be designed to shutdown the air

conditioning equipment and close all motorized fire/smoke dampers in
case of fire, in conjunction with the operation of the fire detection and
alarm system per SES-B-001 and SES-K-100.
Approved ionization type duct smoke detectors shall be installed in both

the main supply and return ducts of the air handling unit to initiate signals
for the automatic shutdown of the air conditioning unit and closure of
smoke/fire dampers in case of fire. The operation of the duct smoke
detectors shall be supervised by the fire protective signaling panel. For
non-ducted return air system (plenum type) the return air duct detector
will be omitted provided adequate number of ceiling-mounted smoke and
heat detectors are installed in the HVAC equipment room.
3.5.3 Fire Dampers
a. All HVAC ducts penetrating fire rated walls, floors or partitions

shall be provided with UL listed/labeled fire dampers in
accordance with ANSI/NFPA 90A.
b. For protection of openings in walls, partitions or floors with fire

resistance ratings of less than 3 hours, fire dampers shall have 1-
1/2 hours fire protection rating.
c. For protection of openings in walls, partitions or floors with fire

resistance ratings of 3 hours or more, fire dampers shall have a
minimum 3 hours fire protection rating.
d. In substations, motorized combination fire and smoke dampers

shall be installed in the main supply and return duct penetrations
including the return air grille openings on all adjacent fire rated
walls of the HVAC mechanical room. Combination fire and
smoke dampers shall comply with UL555 and UL555S.

e. All other duct penetrations and openings for louvers and grilles in
fire rated walls and partitions shall be provided with fusible link
operated fire dampers with fusible link rating of 71°C. Fire
damper shall comply with UL 555.
f. The duct penetration shall be sealed on both sides of the wall with
10 gauge galvanized steel sheet metal enclosure.
3.6 Emergency Exits
The substation building emergency exits shall be designed in accordance with

NFPA 101. In areas classified as high hazard such as cable basement, at least two
(2) exits shall be provided.
Doors for emergency exits shall comply with the requirements of clause 3.3.2 or
clause 3.3.3 as applicable.
3.7 Fire Exit Hardware
Any door as a means of egress including door in the battery room shall be fitted
with UL listed/labeled fire exit hardware as per the requirements of NFPA 80 and
NFPA 101.
3.8 Exit and Emergency Lighting
Exit and emergency lighting shall be per SES-P-119.25.
3.9 Fire Detection and Alarm System
3.9.1 General
All substation buildings in both attended and unattended substations shall

be protected with a complete installation of fire alarm system. The fire
detection and alarm system shall be designed in accordance with SES-B-
001 and NFPA 72. The system shall be complete with fire protective
signaling panel, automatic fire detectors, manual fire alarm stations, visual
and audible alarm indicating devices, associated circuits, data printer,
warning signs and ancillary equipment. All materials and equipment of
the fire detection and alarm system shall be listed or approved by an
accredited testing organization acceptable to SEC-ERB.

Fire protective signaling panel shall conform to 90-SMSS-1. The panel

shall be provided with a mimic display. Layout drawing and riser diagram
showing the loops and zones and summary of the operating instructions
shall be posted besides the fire protective signaling panel in a frame
protected with clear glass.
3.9.2 Remote Signaling System
a. The fire protective signaling panel shall have the provision for
remote signaling of fire alarm/fault signal through an interface
connection with SCADA RTU/IFC provided in the substation.
b. The fire alarm system shall also be provided with a tele-alarm

device (automatic telephone call transmitter) that will facilitate the
automatic transmission of fire alarm signals through the installed
substation telephone line. The tele-alarm device (automatic
telephone call transmitter) shall be designed/manufactured for
heavy industrial applications, provided with a digital voice and
data messaging system, and will provide for automatic repeating
of alarm up to five locations through an internally incorporated
automatic telephone number dialer. Additional details shall be
coordinated with SEC-ERB.
3.9.3 Data Printer
220/127Vac data printer shall automatically print all incoming alarm and
trouble status and faults received by the fire protective signaling panel
with date and time of receipt. The printer shall be capable to print 264cps,
80 columns. A steel enclosure with lockable, clear glass-front per Figure
21-1 shall house the printer and paper. The printer and paper shall be
placed on a withdrawable shelf inside the enclosure for easy access.

3.9.4 Extent of Detection
a. The fire alarm system shall provide for an extensive detection of

fire and smoke in the substation building and shall cover the
following applicable areas which shall be assigned with dedicated
fire zones.
1. Switchgear Room/GIS Building (69kV to 380 kV voltage

ratings)
2. Switchgear Room (34.5kV to 600V and below)
3. SCADA, Relay and Control Room
4. Communication Room
5. Cable Basement
6. Battery Room
7. HVAC Equipment (Mechanical) Room
8. HVAC Main Supply and Return Ducts
9. AC/DC Distribution Room
10. Workshop
11. Offices
12. False Ceilings
13. False Floors
14. Cable Trenches
15. Corridors and Staircases
16. Any exceptions to the above requirements shall qualify for
exception in accordance with NFPA 72.
b. The fire and smoke in the areas described in clause 3.9.4.a of size
greater than 12m2 shall be detected by a combination of optical
and ionization smoke detectors in 1:1 ratio except for the
following areas where the same shall be detected as noted:
1. In battery room, by a combination of flame and heat

detectors. Fire alarm system equipment located in the
battery room shall be explosion proof and suitable for
classified (hazardous) locations.

2. In workshop, offices and storage rooms, by ionization

smoke detectors and heat detectors per NFPA 72.
3. In HVAC equipment room, by ionization smoke detectors

and heat detectors per NFPA 72. Duct detectors shall be
ionization type smoke detectors and wired in a separate
zone.
4. In 69kV Switchgear room, each cubicle, by one (1)

ionization smoke detector.
c. Smoke detectors installed at the switchgear room (69kV to 380kV)

shall be located such as to allow safe maintenance while the
switchgear is energized.
d. Automatic fire detectors shall be addressable type and suitable for

wiring in class A circuit. It shall be diagnostic type and
compatible with the microprocessor based control and indicating
equipment and shall comply with the requirements of SES-B-001.
Automatic fire detectors shall be self-protected against electro-
magnetic interference for protection against false alarm. Each
detector can be isolated from the system for maintenance purposes
without affecting the entire zone.
e. Manual fire alarm stations shall be installed at all basement stairs,

exit doors and throughout the premises such that the travel
distance to the nearest station shall not exceed 30 meters. The
manual stations shall be addressable/diagnostic type. The same
shall be weather-proof, when installed outdoors.
f. Outdoor type, weather proof alarm horns with rotating beacon or

flashing indicators shall be installed at the main entrance/sides of
the building at a height of 4000mm from finished grade level.
Indoor audible alarm devices shall be alarm bells with strobe light
and 250mm diameter gong, installed at a height of 2500mm from
the finished floor level.

g. Flashing indicators shall be provided for concealed fire detectors

or normally closed areas such as battery room , HVAC room,
communication room, basement entries and as required per SES-
B-001.
h. All wiring for fire protective signaling systems shall comply with
Article 760 of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70 and
ANSI/IEEE C2.
Acceptable wire systems are:
1. Mineral insulated copper-sheathed cables (MICC)

conforming to BS 6207:Part 1, 2.5 mm² cross sectional
area.
2. PVC-insulated copper conductors per 11-SMSS-12, 2.5

mm² cross sectional area in rigid steel conduits, painted red
when exposed, and in PVC conduit when embedded in
wall/ceiling. EMT shall not be used.
NOTE: Conductor size 1.5 mm² may be used provided it supplies

loads that do not exceed its ampacity.
i. All wiring for fire protective signaling systems running outside the
building shall be installed in SEC-ERB approved direct-buried
conduit.
3.10 Fire Suppression Systems
3.10.1 General
Switchgear and control buildings in substations classified as "Vital"

facilities shall be protected with fixed fire extinguishing, suppression
systems for both attended and unattended substations.
The type of fire suppression system and the extent of the protection to be
provided shall depend on the following considerations:
a. Value of the Protected Equipment

b. Safety to Operating Personnel
c. Nature of Fire Hazard
d. Compliance with HCIS, local and national safety codes and
regulations.
e. Criticality of one station for system operation.
f. Location of the nearest fire station.
For substations not categorized as "Vital", the requirements for fixed

automatic fire extinguishing system, for areas of high cable concentration
such as cable basement and for rooms or areas containing high value
equipment, shall be determined and specified in the project scope of work
based on feasibility study. Halon 1301 or Halon 1211 extinguishing
systems are not acceptable.
3.10.2 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishing System
a. Carbon dioxide is a noncombustible gas which can penetrate and

spread to all parts of a fire, displacing the oxygen. It does not
conduct electricity and can be used on energized electrical
equipment. Electrical equipment rooms that are not very large and
that have few openings can be protected by portable CO2 fire
extinguishers. When used, however, caution shall be taken not to
allow carbon dioxide to spread through openings or ventilation
ducts into areas normally occupied by personnel. Carbon dioxide
in high concentration may cause unconsciousness and death.
Consideration shall also be given to the potentially detrimental

effects of carbon dioxide on electronic and highly delicate
electrical equipment.
b. Portable carbon dioxide fire extinguishers shall be installed to

protect switchgears and rooms or areas containing oil-filled
equipment.
c. Carbon dioxide total flooding system, where applicable, shall be in

compliance with SES-B-003.
d. Where practicable, local applications of CO2 fixed system shall

be installed in lieu of a total flooding system. Refer to SES-B-
003 for guidelines. Carbon dioxide local application systems
shall comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 3 of
NFPA 12.

3.10.3 Clean Agent Extinguishing System
Extinguishing by clean agent per NFPA 2001 shall be used wherever

applicable with prior approval from SEC-ERB.
3.10.4 Portable Fire Extinguishers
a. Approved portable fire extinguishers conforming to 90-SMSS-3

shall be adequately provided in the substation building, but shall
not be limited to the following areas only:
1. Battery Room
2. HVAC Room and Mechanical room (i.e. pump room, if
available)
3. Workshops and Offices
4. Switchgear Rooms
5. Communication Room
6. Control and Relay Room
7. Cable basement
8. Security Gate House (if available)
b. In attended and unattended substations, portable fire extinguishers

shall be provided in all areas protected with fixed fire suppression
systems.
By utilizing the "abort switch", the discharge of the extinguishing

agent from a fixed system can be stopped if the fire source is
located rapidly and is extinguished by means of portable fire
extinguishers.
c. Portable fire extinguishers intended for use involving electrical

equipment, or Class C fires, shall employ nonconductive, clean-
type extinguishing agent. The selection and distribution of
portable fire extinguishers shall comply with NFPA 10.
d. The fire extinguishers shall be located near entrance and exit doors
and along the normal path of travel. They shall be visible and
readily accessible. Fire extinguishers shall be mounted on the wall
with its top not more than 1070 mm above the finished floor.

e. At least two (2) wheeled type 56.8kgs Class ABC fire extinguisher
shall be provided in the substation yard, where oil-filled
equipment are present and the extinguisher shall be protected by a
shed. Flooring under the shed shall be of concrete; and the three
sides of the shed shall be provided with walls made of G.I. sheets.
f. For protection against cable fires, external cartridge operated

multi-purpose dry chemical (Class ABC) fire extinguishers shall
be provided.
4.0 OIL-FILLED EQUIPMENT
4.1 General
The presence of oil-filled electrical equipment in a substation such as

transformers, reactors and switchgear equipment require special considerations
for their location, spacing and fire protection.
4.2 Fire Hazard of Oil-Filled Equipment
Due to the high temperatures, that can be produced by an electrical fault, or by an

external fire that may engulf oil-filled equipment, the insulating oil may cause a
fire hazard when provided in electrical equipment. Hence, every possible means
shall be taken to install oil-filled equipment outdoors, away from other equipment
and substation building.
4.3 Transformers
Transformers generally contain the largest quantity of combustible substance

located in a substation. Therefore, special attention shall be given to their
location, relaying and fire protection. Installation of oil-filled transformer inside
the substation building is not permitted.
4.4 Outdoor Installation of Oil-Filled Transformers
The following safeguards shall be applied to the outdoor installation of oil-filled

transformers. One or more of these safeguards shall be applied according to the
degree of hazard involved.

4.4.1 Oil Containment
The spilled oil from a ruptured transformer tank shall be collected and
confined to prevent the spread of fire to other areas or equipment. The
following methods of oil containment shall be applied:
Pits: Various types of holding pit designs are presently in use by the
Utilities. The area below and surrounding the oil filled-equipment
is used as a collecting pit. Pits shall be designed so that the
collected oil and water will not weaken the equipment
foundations. The most common designs include those listed
below:
1. Oil Retention Pit or Oil Catch Basin: The foundation of the oil
filled equipment is designed in the form of an open rectangular
box with the oil filled equipment placed on concrete pier. The
rectangular concrete box below the oil filled equipment is
designed to hold 100% of the equipment oil, with the top surface
of the oil at least 500mm below the top of the retention pit
foundation box. The space around the rectangular foundation box
shall be used as a part of retention pit oil catch basin by providing
interconnection piping to keep the depth to a minimum.
A metallic grating with wire mesh and gravel over it shall be

installed at 200mm below from the top of the foundation. A sump
with checkered steel cover and suction pipe is constructed within
the retention pit/catch basin. Pipes from the retention pit/catch
basin towards the sump shall be provided. A permanent sump
pump shall be installed to remove collected rain water. The pump
shall be manually operated in attended and unattended substations.
2. Holding Tanks: Water and oil may be piped from a pit to a

holding tank or pond where the oil is separated naturally by
gravitational force. The oil is then removed with a skimmer.

All materials used in the construction of pits, drainage pipes and

holding tanks shall be non-combustible materials that are capable
of withstanding the thermal shock of the oil fire followed by the
cooling effect of the water. They shall have adequate mechanical
strength to withstand any traffic or equipment handling loads to
which they may be subjected. The retention pit/catch basin,
holding tanks and piping shall be sized to handle the maximum
amount of oil available and the quantity of water that may be used
in fire suppression system.
4.4.2 Barriers
When the design and size of the containment facilities utilized are
inadequate, it may be necessary to install some form of barrier to protect
other substation equipment or neighbouring properties. These barriers
shall be totally constructed of non-combustible materials, such as concrete
block, brick, sheet steel and reinforced concrete, and designed to
withstand the thermal shock of the largest credible fire to which they may
be subjected.
4.4.3 Separation
The separation of oil-filled transformers from other equipment and

buildings shall be in accordance with the following guidelines:
a. Separation of Large Transformers from Buildings: Transformers

containing 7570 liters or more of insulating oil shall be at a
minimum distance of 6 meters from any building, regardless of
type of protection provided for the exposed building walls.
Should it be necessary to encroach on the above minima, the

installation of a transformer fixed fire suppression system is
required with prior approval from SEC-ERB.
b. Separation Between Large Transformers: Large oil-filled

transformers of rating 5MVA and above, shall be separated by a
concrete fire wall, having a minimum 4-hour fire resistance rating.
The transformer shall be separated from the wall with at least 3
meters of clear space.

c. Fire Wall: The height of a fire wall shall not be less than 0.3 m
above the height of the oil-filled circuit breaker tank, transformer
tank and its oil conservator (if applicable), transformer bushings,
pressure-relief vents.
The fire wall shall extend at least 0.6 m horizontally beyond the
line of sight between all points on adjacent transformers. The
height of the fire wall shall not be less than that required to break
the line-of-sight from any point on the top of the transformer tank
and its oil conservator (if applicable) to any adjacent transformer
bushing and surge arrester mounted on the transformer.
4.4.4 Mechanical Protection of Outdoor Transformers
The protection of outdoor transformers in substations classified as "vital

facilities" when installed in exposed location shall comply with SES-S-
110 (SSD/10).
4.4.5 Transformer Fire Suppression Systems
a. Fixed fire suppression systems, usually water spray or deluge

systems, shall be installed for the protection of outdoor oil-filled
transformers, except those which are adequately separated in
accordance with clause 4.4.3, items a, b, c, or qualify as:
i. Spare transformers not intended to be used in place.

ii. Transformers containing less than 1893 liters of
combustible transformer oil.
b. Fixed water spray systems, when installed for the protection of

outdoor oil-filled transformers, shall comply with the applicable
requirements of NFPA 15. The fixed water spray system shall
have both automatic and manual means of actuation. The water
shall be sprayed at a net rate not less than 0.17L/s/m2 of protected
area of rectangular prism envelop for the transformer, including
the tank and radiators, for a minimum of 30 minutes for each
transformer being protected. Sprinkler and spray heads shall be
designed and installed per NFPA 13 and NFPA 15.
c. The fire detection and alarm system shall have all components
suitable for outdoor installation and shall be designed in
accordance with SES-B-001.

4.5 Oil-Filled Capacitors
Power capacitors containing an appreciable amount of flammable liquid shall be

installed outdoors with fence enclosure or on elevated structure of at least 2.4 m
high above adjoining ground level for personnel safety to prevent accidental
contact with exposed energized parts, terminals, or buses associated with them.
They shall be located minimum 3 meters away from any building, not of fire
resistive construction.
4.6 Oil-Filled Reactors
Reactors containing an appreciable amount of flammable liquid shall be located

outdoors with fence enclosure to protect the personnel from accidental contact
with energized parts. The installation of oil-filled reactors shall comply with
Article 470 of NFPA 70.
4.7 Pressure Relief
The discharge from any oil pressure relief device shall be directed away from any
nearby equipment to prevent any damage to that equipment and safety hazards to
operating personnel.
4.8 Supports
Structures supporting disconnect switches shall be kept as low as possible when

they are placed near oil-filled equipment to avoid the extreme high temperatures
caused due to fire at the upper levels.
Any essential structure or support that may be subjected to an oil fire shall be
constructed of steel rather than aluminum.
4.9 Oil/SF6 Cable Termination (Sealing End)
In GIS substation facilities/building the oil/SF6 cable termination (sealing end)

shall be located 3 meters away from any building, not of fire resistive
construction.

5.0 CABLES
5.1 General
The selection and installation procedures of power and control cables in

substation shall comply with the guidelines outlined in SES-P-104, SCS-P-104,
SES-P-119.20 and SES-P-119.29.
5.2 Fire Hazard of Cables
5.2.1 Low Pressure Oil Filled (LPOF) Cable
An LPOF cable fault resulting from insulation breakdown can rupture the
cable sheath thereby releasing the pressurized oil. A high fault arcing that
follows the insulation breakdown can ignite or burn the oil. Since the oil
in the LPOF cable system is maintained under pressure, burning oil can
spread over a large area creating intense fire and heavy damage to
neighbouring substation equipment or facilities.
To safeguard against fire hazard, LPOF cables used to feed indoor GIS in
substations shall be installed and terminated outdoors including oil
reservoirs and associated devices. The oil/SF6 cable termination shall be
of leak-proof sealing end design.
5.2.2 PVC and XLPE Cables
When PVC or XLPE insulated cable is exposed to fire, the insulation may
burn and can generate smoke and corrosive fumes. Smoke can obliterate
escape routes and could impair the ability to fight the fire. When
materials such as PVC burns, chlorine is driven off which when combines
with water forms hydrochloric acid. This acid can attack the contact or
relays, electronic circuits and wiring terminations, and can prolong the
substation restoration time.
Where emission of corrosive fumes in any fire may damage

electrical/electronic equipment, or present a health risk, XLPE insulated
cable is preferable although it burns more readily than PVC. PVC is
inherently flame retardant but emits acid fumes when it burns.

5.3 Cable Installation Practices
5.3.1 General
The cables used in substations should not propagate a fire.
5.3.2 Underground conduit system is the preferred method of installation for

critical power and control cables. Critical power and control cables are
cables whose loss would render the emergency shutdown and the fire
protection or alarm systems inoperative.
Cable installations subject to vehicular load, such as road crossings, shall

be in concrete encased (steel reinforced) duct or conduit.
The manholes and pull boxes shall be located and constructed in a manner
as to prevent the entry of flammable liquids that can possibly ignite the
cables.
Consideration should be given to the installation of fire stops where the

cables enter and leave manholes and pull boxes, and where the cables
leave the conduit system.
5.3.3 Cable trenches shall be constructed in a manner as to prevent the entry of

any combustible liquid, such as insulating oil, that can possibly ignite the
cables.
Nonmetallic trench covers shall be fire retardant.
Fire stops or fire breaks shall be installed when the trench enters into the
building and/or from one room to the other room or from one floor to the
other floor.
5.3.4 Cable Basement
Walkthrough cable basements are normally used where there is a large

number of cables. If the cables used are flame retardant, the separation
distances given in ANSI/IEEE Std. 384 are acceptable. If the cables are
not flame retardant, or the proper separation cannot be achieved, a fire
resistive barrier or shield shall be used between the trays, or a fire
retardant coating shall be applied to the cables.

5.3.5 Cable Trays
When a cable tray passes through a firewall or vertically through building

floors, the cables shall be sealed with multiple cable transit (MCT) or
approved equivalent. Circuits in the cable spreading area should be
limited to control and instrumentation functions, and to those power
supply circuits and facilities serving the control room and instrument
systems. Power supply feeders to equipment and control room
distribution panels shall be installed in conduit or enclosed metallic
raceways, or other suitable enclosure.
Cable penetration fire stops shall be installed where sleeves or tray

penetrations are used beneath control panel or other panels.
Special attention shall be given to the installation of fire stops on vertical

cable runs since they will propagate fire more readily than horizontal runs.
5.4 Cable Penetration Fire Stops, Fire Breaks and Coatings
5.4.1 Cable Penetration Fire Stops
Cable penetration fire stops shall be installed to prevent fire propagation

along a cable system through a fire-rated wall, floor, or floor-ceiling
barrier while maintaining the integrity of the fire barrier through which
the cable system penetrates.
5.4.2 Cable Fire Breaks
When the cables used do not meet the flame propagation requirements of
ANSI/IEEE Std. 383, fire hazard can be minimized by utilizing fire
breaks.
Cable fire break can be achieved by coating a 3 m section of the cables

with approved fire retardant coatings, or equivalent fire proofing tape.
Cable fire breaks shall be installed in cable trays or open raceways at

intervals not exceeding 6 meters.

5.4.3 Cable Coatings
Consideration should be given to applying fire protective coating to all

cables in trays or open raceways that do not meet the flame propagation
requirements of ANSI/IEEE Std. 383.
6.0 MISCELLANEOUS HAZARDS
6.1 Batteries
The storage batteries installation shall be in accordance with SES-P-103.04.
6.2 Combustible Materials
The use of combustible materials shall be avoided in the selection of desks, filing
cabinets, storage boxes, display boards, building insulation, air conditioning duct
insulation and mounting boards.
6.3 Heating Equipment
Heating equipment shall not be used in the control building unless the design,
installation and electrical supplies are deemed suitable. Clearances for heat-
producing appliances shall be adequate to minimize the risk of igniting adjacent
combustible material.
7.0 SAFETY AND FIRST AID EQUIPMENT
7.1 First Aid Equipment
All substation buildings shall be provided with first aid box (SCECO-East
material code: 00351075) located in the control room. Posters outlining
emergency treatment for electrical shock, cardio pulmonary resuscitation and
artificial respirations shall be provided. One folding type stretcher shall also be
provided in the control room.

7.2 Safety Equipment
7.2.1 Battery Room
Safety equipment and devices for personnel protection, safe handling and
proper maintenance of batteries shall be provided in the battery room per
SES-P-103.04 and SES-P-119.19.
7.2.2 Life Support Equipment
Life support equipment in the substation buildings shall be provided to

minimize hazards to personnel under abnormal operating conditions.
Self-contained breathing apparatus of 30 minutes capacity shall be

provided in the control room near the entrance/exit door and/or in rooms
or areas normally occupied by personnel. It is also required that self-
contained breathing apparatus be made available for the operator's use in
rooms or areas protected by fixed fire extinguishing system utilizing an
agent that could cause a breathing hazard.
The self-contained breathing apparatus shall be stored in a box mounted

on the wall. The storage box shall be marked with "SELF CONTAINED
BREATHING APPARATUS" written both in English and Arabic
languages.
7.2.3 Signs
Adequate fire/safety warnings in the form of signs, labels, decal placards

or other markings shall be installed in all locations where it requires visual
alertness against degree and nature of hazard(s) which can cause injury or
death. Signs shall also be provided for precautions or evasive actions to
take and directions for eliminating the hazard. All fire/safety warnings
shall be written in both Arabic and English.

8.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. SES-S-100 Safety and Security

2. SES-S-101 Security Fence
3. SES-S-102 Category II Fence
4. SES-S-107 Security and Emergency Exit Doors
5. SES-S-109 Building Housing Vital Equipment
6 SES-S-110 Protection of Vital Equipment
7. SES-S-115 Intruder Detection System
8. 11-SMSS-12 Power and/or Control Cable, Cu or Al Conductor,
600/1000V Rating
9. 71-SMSS-5 Normal Weight Ready-Mixed Portland Cement Concrete
10. SES-B-001 Fire Alarm Systems
11. SES-B-003 CO2 Total Flooding systems
12. SES-H-001.01 Paint Color Codes and Standards
13. SES-K-100 Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning System
14. SES-P-104 Underground Cable and Wire Standards
15. SCS-P-104 Underground High Voltage Cable Installation Standards
16. SES-P-103.04 Storage Battery Installation
17. ANSI/IEEE C2 National Electrical Safety Code
18. ANSI/IEEE 383 IEEE Standard for Type Test of Class 1E Electric Cables,
Field Splices, and connections for Nuclear Power
Generating Stations
19. ANSI/IEEE 384 IEEE Standard Criteria for Independence of Class 1E
Equipment and Circuits
20. ANSI/IEEE 980 IEEE Guide for Containment and Control of Oil Spills in
Substations
21. ANSI/IEEE 979 Guide for Substation Fire Protection
22. ASTM E814 Standard Test Method for Fire Tests of Through
Penetration Fire Stop
23. NFPA 10 Portable Fire Extinguishers
24. NFPA 12 Standard or Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems
25. NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems
26. NFPA 15 Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire
Protection
27. NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
28. NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code
29. NFPA 80 Standard for Fire Doors and Fire Windows
30. NFPA 90A Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and
Ventilating Systems
31. NFPA 101 Code for Safety to Life from Fire in Buildings and
Structures
32. NFPA 220 Standard on Types of Building Construction

33. NFPA 251 Standard Methods of Tests of Fire Endurance of Building

Construction and Materials
34. NFPA 255 Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials
35. NFPA 2001 Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
36. UL 63 Fire Door Frames
37. BS 6207 Specification for Mineral-insulated Cables
38. UMC Uniform Mechanical Code
39. UL 555 Standard for Safety Fire Dampers
40. UL 555S Standard for Safety Leakage Rated Dampers for use in
Smoke Control Systems
41. UL 1479 UL Standard for Safety Fire Tests of Through
Penetration Fire Stops

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ORIG’D CERT.

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARDS SES-P-119.21

S/S DESIGN STDS

FIRE AND LOSS PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS

SEC-ERB – 16344-1 ( 11/07 ) SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 1 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

2.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

3.0 SUBSTATION BUILDING

4.0 OIL-FILLED EQUIPMENT

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 2 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

6.0 MISCELLANEOUS HAZARDS

7.0 SAFETY AND FIRST AID EQUIPMENT

7.1 First Aid Equipment

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 3 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

1.2 The objectives of this Standard are:

1.2.2. To incorporate safety practices in the overall design of substations.

2.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

2.2 Safety Practices

2.2.1 Physical Layout

a. The physical layout of substation equipment shall be in accordance

b. Adequate roads for maintenance and construction equipment/

c. Pipes, pull boxes, stands and operating platforms shall be located

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 4 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

d. Substation classified as "Vital" per SES-S-100(SSD) shall have a

2.2.2 Safety and Maintenance Clearances

Safety and maintenance clearances are covered in SES-P-119.08, which

2.2.3 Lighting and Receptacles

Lighting and receptacles shall be provided in the substation yard and

2.2.4 Fencing and Boundary Wall

a. Substation fencing and boundary wall shall comply with the

b. The perimeter fence/boundary wall shall be provided with warning

To minimize the exposure of direct lightning strokes on substations and

A permanent protective grounding system designed per SES-P-119.10

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 5 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

2.2.7 Fault-Sensing and Interrupting Devices

The proper relaying or fault-sensing devices in combination with

2.2.8 Marking and Identification of Equipment

a. All fire fighting equipment and facilities, hydrants and associated

b. Insulated grounding conductor shall be colored green with yellow

3.0 SUBSTATION BUILDING

The substation buildings (control buildings, switchgear buildings) shall be

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 6 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

3.2.2 Vital Installations

Substation buildings in facilities designated as "vital installations" by the

3.3 Fire Resistance Ratings

3.3.1 Fire Rated Walls or Partitions

Fire rated walls or partitions (walls designed to divide an area or building

3.3.2 Fire Doors

Fire door assemblies shall comply with the requirements of ANSI/NFPA

SESP11921/DB PAGE 21: 7 OF 29

SEC-ERB ENGINEERING STANDARD SES-P-119.21

3.3.3 Security and Emergency Exit Doors in Vital Installations

Security doors and emergency exit doors in substation buildings