Installing removable passive fire protection (PFP) systems is a vital safety measure in high-risk sectors such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation. But even the most reliable products, like removable jet fire PFP, can fail if they’re installed or maintained incorrectly. Mistakes in this field are more than just technical missteps—they carry serious consequences, from increased risk of equipment damage to compliance breaches and worker safety concerns. Below are seven common, costly mistakes in removable PFP you should avoid—along with practical advice on how to correct them.
1. Skipping condition checks before reinstallation
After maintenance or inspection work, removable PFP needs to be refitted securely. Many teams rush this process without checking the condition of the wrap. If the PFP is damp, compressed, or torn, it won’t provide effective protection.
Always inspect the removable PFP before reapplying it. Ensure it retains its original shape, has no visible tears, and still fits the equipment as intended. Damage during handling is more common than expected and silently reduces fire resistance.
2. Ignoring proper orientation during fitting
Removable jet fire PFP is often designed with specific orientation or layering requirements. Incorrect alignment can lead to uneven thermal protection or expose vulnerable sections of equipment.
Use clearly labelled orientation markers or photos in your documentation. When in doubt, refer back to the original fitting plan. Each layer, strap, or fastening mechanism is there for a reason—and misalignment creates serious weak points.
3. Failing to keep track of removal history
Most facilities remove and reinstall removable PFP multiple times a year for inspection and servicing. Yet many do so without documenting each removal. Over time, this lack of tracking leads to unmonitored wear and loss of material integrity.
A simple logbook or digital maintenance record can solve this. Include the date, reason for removal, condition at time of removal, and team members involved. This helps identify patterns and schedule timely replacements or upgrades.
4. Using makeshift storage areas
Once removed, some teams leave PFP wraps lying near machinery, stacked in corners, or exposed to the elements. Moisture, impact, or contamination can damage the inner insulation or outer weather barrier.
Always store removable jet fire PFP in dry, elevated areas away from foot traffic or heavy machinery. Use dedicated storage bins or shelves if available. Treating these components with care extends their useful life and maintains fire resistance.
5. Overlooking site-specific fire risks
Not all facilities share the same exposure risks. A removable PFP solution suitable for an offshore rig may not be ideal for an inland power plant. Some sites deal with high ambient heat, others with chemical vapours or abrasive dust.
Tailor your removable PFP strategy to your site. Consider heat sources, equipment layout, access frequency, and weather exposure. One-size-fits-all approaches rarely work in environments with diverse hazard profiles.
6. Choosing aesthetics over function
It’s tempting to prefer PFP systems that look clean or low-profile. But prioritising slim design over technical specifications can reduce the level of protection. Fire exposure scenarios should always drive PFP decisions, not just appearance.
When sourcing or specifying removable jet fire PFP, focus on certification, performance ratings, and material integrity. If aesthetics are important, discuss this with your supplier to balance safety and visual requirements.
7. Not involving the safety team early on
Too often, decisions about removable PFP are made by procurement or maintenance teams alone. However, the safety team understands regulatory frameworks and potential incident impacts. Excluding them risks non-compliance or missed threats.
Make safety stakeholders part of your PFP planning from the start. Their insights on fire modelling, emergency scenarios, and site audits add vital context to installation and product selection. This collaborative approach prevents missteps that could prove costly in the long run.
Avoid Errors Before They Burn Through Your Budget
Removable PFP is a practical solution for dynamic facilities, but its benefits only hold if you install and manage it correctly. Small missteps—from poor storage to misalignment—can quietly erode the system’s ability to protect equipment during a jet fire. By avoiding these seven common mistakes and investing in smart practices, you not only meet compliance standards but also ensure safety and performance on site.
Need expert support to optimise your removable PFP strategy? Contact Ancloz Engineering today to explore tailored solutions, including removable jet fire PFP, built for long-term reliability.
