Multiple Hazard Gloveboxes

DOE-STD-1066-99

15.3.3 Multiple Hazard Gloveboxes

If a glovebox operation involves multiple hazards (such as pyrophoric metal and

flammable/combustible liquids), the FHA should determine the fire protection system

design that provides the best overall protection.

15.3.4 Special Hazards

Gloveboxes in which other special hazards are present (such as biohazards, medical

or industrial toxins, flammable solids, water reactive materials, etc.) should be

equipped with fire protection as determined by the FHA. At a minimum, this

protection should consist of an automatic fire detection system complying with NFPA

Standard 72 and the guidelines in Section 15.5 of this standard.

15.3.5 Gloveboxes Removed from Service

15.3.5.1

Fire suppression and inerting systems are not required to be maintained

in gloveboxes which are removed from service provided that the following

provisions are met:

o All combustible materials are removed from the glovebox.

o Electrical power and flammable/combustible utilities are isolated and

tagged "out-of-service."

o The glovebox is tagged "out-of-service."

15.3.5.2 Resumption of activities within the glovebox should only be allowed after

appropriate fire protection features have been reactivated on the basis of an

updated FHA.

15.4 Manual Fire Suppression

15.4.1 Manual Fire Fighting

15.4.1.1 All glovebox designs should include provisions for manual fire fighting. The

extinguishing agent(s) selected should be appropriate for the hazards.

15.4.1.2 Where the potential for metal fires is present, an appropriate fire

extinguishing agent (e.g., magnesium oxide sand, copper metal powder (30

- 60 mesh), carbon microspheres) in sufficient quantity should be provided.

(Refer to Appendix G for an illustration of a mounting concept for a dry

powder container.) In selecting the fire extinguishing agent, consideration

should be given to the ease at which the metal can be separated from the

agent. This is particularly relevant in the case of plutonium.

15.4.1.3 Where the fire potential is from other (non-metal) combustibles, dry chemical

extinguishers are recommended. CO2 extinguishers may also be considered

if class A combustibles are not a hazard in the glovebox. If grouped cables