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Specially Trained Knights of Flames in Paks - Extinguishing Fires of Live Electric Equipment

As it is laid down in general professional standards, fires of live equipment may be extinguished only after de-energization. But as the saying goes, it’s the exception that makes the rule. Specially trained Knights of Flames of Paks Nuclear Power Plant would not be deterred by the extinguishing of fires of live low-voltage (50 to 100 V) and high-voltage (1.000 to 60.000 V) electric networks and equipment using water in cases where disconnection from the mains cannot be carried out, or rapid intervention can save human lives or prevent significant damage to property or disaster from occurring. Fire Service and Damage Prevention Department of ATOMIX Ltd. provides mobile fire protection services for Paks Nuclear Power Plant on commercial basis as a full-time establishment-based fire service organization. Since the very beginning, Fire Service’ activities have been characterized by a high level of compliance with expectations, diverse professional qualifications of the staff and an advanced technical background, as Commander Péter Böhm told us.

Concerning the Fire Service’ fire prevention activities, he added that they carried out regular checks on the proper storage of combustible and explosive substances, the compliance with company regulations for high fire risk work activities and the condition of above-ground fire hydrants of the high-pressure fire water system in the Power Plant.

As we are informed, the scope of NPP Ambulance Service’ professional activities includes the provision of acute healthcare services, preparations for potential emergencies, practicing drills (including simulated accidents), participation in primary and advanced healthcare training, and the provision of assistance to the Hungarian National Ambulance and Emergency Service to help rescue operations in case of mass accidents within a radius of 15 km from the Power Plant. Just as NPP Knights of Flames who do also provide help to the municipal Fire Department whenever asked to. It is noteworthy that emergency healthcare, from the treatment of wounds to resuscitation, is provided on a permanent basis, even in cases where the ambulance car is out of reach. Last year, 17 firemen qualified as certified ambulance attendants. Physicians and ambulance officers receive continuous training in local knowledge, alpine technology, and the use of respiratory apparatuses.

Commander Péter Böhm told us that the Fire Service-based healthcare & prevention programme provides a framework for monitoring the physical and psychical health of the staff on a continuous basis. Besides regular medical checks, our firemen are required to pass aptitude tests, and take part in screening examinations and medical surveys. They also test themselves at various professional and sport contests from time to time. As we are informed by Paks Nuclear Power Plant security director István Radnóti, management and employees of the Power Plant highly appreciate firemen’s achievements and skills, and continue to provide all help and assistance to let them do their devotional work using advanced technical means.

Alföldi Napló Flórián napi külünkiadás
May 2009