Fire and Explosion Facilities
Fire Gallery
Our Fire Explosion Gallery is designed for the testing, study and research of fire and smoke within tunnels with forced air ventilation flows between 0 to 10 metres per sec. Its dimensions are 5.5 m x 2.4 m, and there are two intersecting roadways of 120 m and 80 m each.
The interior is lined with firebrick and can withstand large fires over several hours. It can be configured to measure heat release, temperature fields, radiation, and toxic gases and smoke obscuration.
The fire gallery is used for fire tests conducted upon materials, and structures, fire fighter breathing apparatus training, mining-related search and rescue training, and movie special effects. Because it can withstand fire and has forced ventilation, testing and research can be safely conducted upon substances or equipment which may emit fire, sparks or smoke.
Explosions Gallery
Our Fire Explosion Tunnel is designed to study gas and dust explosions and their effects at full scale. Its dimensions are 50 m x 2.7m diam. It is constructed of steel reinforced concrete. A bunded area at the outlet provides both vehicle access and protection of the surrounding area. For more information on Explosion Test on Emergency Airbags please click here.
It is used to test mining structures including seals and stoppings, and is also used for testing pyrotechnic and explosive materials.
Permitted Explosives Testing
TestSafe's Cannon is a testing device used to assess the safety of "permitted" explosives used in Australian coalmines, where there is a risk of igniting coal dust and methane. For more information regarding Permitted Explosives Testing, please click here.
Environmental Compliance
TestSafe operates under Approvals and Exemptions granted by the Environmental Protection Authority of NSW. Activities for which these Approvals and Exemptions are required include the following:
- Research to improve safety in relation to the flammability of materials, and smoke reduction;
- Training of fire-fighters and the rating of the effectiveness of fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems;
- Testing undertaken to certify that manufactured or imported products comply with Australian Standards or International Standards and meet any legislative requirements placed upon them.
These were granted with conditions and reporting requirements that TestSafe must comply with.
Fire Ground
The Fire Ground can be used for testing of portable fire extinguishers, but is also used for hot fire training of fire fighters. Access is available to the Fire and Explosions Galleries for confined space and breathing apparatus training.
Because of the high level of site security and access control, the Fire Ground is used for testing of stage pyrotechnics, movie special effects, and explosive devices under controlled conditions.
Stories relating to Hire of Facilities for Movie Special Effects
Seminar Room 4 - Fire Ground
- Demountable (seats 20)
Equipment available at no extra cost includes:
- TV & Video
- Overhead projector & screen
- Whiteboard
- Flip chart
Catering Services
If you require morning or afternoon tea we can provide this. External catering can be organised for lunch if required. Alternatively our outdoor barbeque facilities are available on request.
Break Out Rooms
If more rooms are required for break out groups we can accommodate this.
Parking
Ample secure parking is available at the venue at no cost.
Accommodation
If accommodation is required, please contact us for a list of places nearby.
These facilities are available for hire. Prices and availability are by request, please contact:
David Pearson
Phone: (02) 4724 4951
Fax: (02) 4724 4999
Email: david.pearson@workcover.nsw.gov.au
