Fire : a formidable adversary in motor sport

In the world of motor sport, fire is one of the drivers’ greatest enemies. This omnipresent and merciless threat must be fought with the utmost rigour to ensure the safety of all participants. When it comes to high-speed racing, particularly in single-seaters, the risk of fire is heightened by extreme temperatures, highly flammable materials and complex mechanical and electrical systems.

To deal with this peril, a number of safety measures are put in place, including the driver’s personal equipment. Fire-resistant suits, gloves, helmets and special underwear are designed to provide a first line of defence against flames, giving the pilot precious seconds to react in an emergency.

However, pilot protection alone is not enough. On-board fire extinguishers play a crucial role in complementing personal equipment. These devices are specifically designed to slow the spread of fire within the vehicle, preventing flames from getting out of control and endangering the life of the driver and the integrity of the single-seater. They are an essential component of the safety system in racing vehicles, integrated so that they can be activated quickly, either electrically by buttons or manually by a pull cord.

1. Mandatory standards

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) technical lists n°16 and n°52 are essential documents that approve fire extinguishing systems for competition vehicles, guaranteeing high safety standards in motor sport.

FIA Technical List n°16

Technical List 16 lists on-board fire extinguishing systems approved to FIA standards. These systems are designed for permanent installation in racing vehicles and are subject to strict performance and reliability criteria. They must be capable of rapidly detecting and extinguishing a fire, thereby protecting the driver and minimising damage to the vehicle. Systems approved to this list are commonly used in various motorsport disciplines.

FIA Technical List n°52

Technical List 52 concerns on-board fire extinguishing systems approved to FIA standard 8865-2015. This standard represents an evolution in safety requirements, with even more stringent performance criteria. Systems complying with standard 8865-2015 are designed to offer increased protection against fires, particularly in high-risk racing environments. They are mandatory in certain competition categories, such as WRC, GT3 and TCR.

It is important to note that, from 1 January 2019, all new competition vehicles must be fitted with a fire extinguishing system approved in accordance with FIA Technical Lists No. 16 or No. 52.

To guarantee their effectiveness, these systems must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, undergo regular inspections and be maintained in accordance with current recommendations. Compliance with these standards is essential to ensure the safety of drivers and teams at motor racing events.

2. Find the standard for my extinguisher

3. Homologation form : an essential document

Few people are really aware of the existence and importance of the type homologation form for on-board fire extinguishers. Yet this document is crucial, as it details all the conditions of use and installation instructions specific to each model.

When an extinguisher is approved by the FIA, this approval is granted under certain strict conditions. It is not enough for a fire extinguisher to comply with safety standards; it must also be installed and used in accordance with precise criteria. It is therefore essential to ensure that the extinguisher selected is suitable for its intended use, taking into account the technical and regulatory requirements.

The homologation form contains essential information, including :

✅ The number and type of nozzles required for effective distribution of the extinguishing agent
✅ Installation instructions, specifying the orientation and optimum position in the vehicle
✅ Special requirements, such as preferred materials or installation restrictions
✅ The different versions available and their specific features

Thanks to these sheets, technical teams and drivers can be sure that their fire extinguishing system is not only approved, but also installed and used in the safest and most compliant conditions.

Discover below all the homologation sheets corresponding to the extinguishers on FIA list n°16.

4. Pre-season checks

On-board fire extinguishers must be checked regularly to ensure that they work properly in the event of a fire. Regulations stipulate a compulsory inspection every two years, but it is strongly recommended that an annual check be carried out by a qualified professional.

It’s important to note that not all extinguishers can be inspected by a conventional inspector. Some models require a specific inspection carried out directly by the manufacturer or by an authorised person. It is therefore essential to find out about the procedures adapted to each type of extinguisher to ensure its compliance and effectiveness in competition.

A non-approved or out-of-use extinguisher is non-compliant.

Tips for installing and maintaining fire extinguishers

✅ Nozzle mountings : Make sure that fire extinguisher nozzle mountings are metal to ensure their strength and durability in the event of shock or vibration.

✅ Manual release cable : For manual release extinguishers, check that the cable slides freely in its sheath. The build-up of grease, WD-40 or oil can sometimes be insufficient to ensure proper operation. We recommend replacing the pull cord if it does not move smoothly.

✅ Electric release systems : Remember to check the condition of the batteries in electric release systems regularly, as they can run down quickly. It’s a good idea to always have a spare 9V battery in the toolbox to avoid any nasty surprises when racing.

✅ Fixing the cylinder : The fire extinguisher cylinder must be fixed in accordance with the instructions in the type approval certificate. It must be held in place by the brackets provided in this sheet. Fixing to the floor must be mechanical, using a system of screws, nuts and washers. Rivets are not permitted.

✅ Anti-torpedo system : The fixing of the carboy must be reinforced by an anti-torpedo system, designed to hold it firmly in place even in the event of a violent impact. This device prevents any sudden movement of the cylinder in the event of an accident.

✅ Fixing straps : The extinguisher must be held in place by two screwed metal straps, to ensure that it is securely fixed and complies with safety standards. The frog system must be replaced, as it does not provide sufficient safety in the event of an impact.

✅ Positioning of nozzles in the cockpit : The nozzles must be installed in accordance with the instructions on the type-approval certificate. If their location is not specified, they must be positioned in such a way as to effectively cover the cockpit without being directed towards the rider’s helmet, to avoid any discomfort or danger in the event of activation.

✅ Nozzles in the engine compartment : In the engine, the nozzles must be strategically oriented:

• One nozzle directed towards the exhaust, where the risk of flashover is highest.
• Another towards the intake area and pump, to cover potential sources of fuel leakage and prevent the spread of fire.

The list is not exhaustive. Don’t hesitate to share your comments and tips with us. By applying these recommendations, you will maximise the effectiveness of your extinguishing system and ensure optimum protection in the event of a fire on the runway. 🔥🏁