Fire protection challenges in the US Department of Energy

The author presented a background of the US DOE's fire protection programs and the issues it faces in the 1990's. These programs encompass energy research, uranium enrichment, defense and environmental management programs. Major programs underway within the department include the Superconducting Super Collider (SSC), Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) and upgrading the protection provided at the department's nuclear reactor facilities. The fire protection issues facing DOE include the definition of a comprehensive fire protection program which includes the goals of protection of the public health and safety, worker and facility safety, and mission continuity from a national defense perspective. Issues discussed include fire department manning, life safety, the collection of water from fire protection systems, and Halon use