Technicians are testing the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s (BGCAPP) fire detection and prevention systems to prepare for plant operations.

“Our highest priority is the protection of the people who work at the plant,” said Rusty Davis, operations manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. “If a fire occurs, which is very unlikely, people need to be warned in enough time to safely evacuate. So, right now, we’re testing alarms and strobes to be sure they operate correctly.”

There will be two types of testing, said Davis. The first is the initial testing of the systems and equipment to make sure everything works as it should.

“Signals from fire equipment will be sent to the plant’s control room, as well as the Blue Grass Army Depot’s (BGAD) Department of Emergency Services,” said Gary Price, electrical engineer, BGCAPP. “We are running the systems through different simulations to check connections and equipment.”

After the systems are approved by the BGAD fire chief, the second part of testing will be completed on a routine basis in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulations, said Davis.

NFPA-required tests and inspections include checking items from sprinkler systems to portable fire extinguishers, said Price, and are conducted on a regular basis to ensure equipment is properly functioning and meets NFPA codes and regulations. The plant is also required to hold fire drills to ensure personnel can perform evacuations safely and within allotted time periods.