20210910PAC to Staff Policy 357-Genics Fire Wrap Policy.pdf

J:\Publications\FPP\DIS\POL\357-Genics Fire Wrap Policy.docx, Rev. 0, 8/12/20. The most current version of this document is
posted to engineering’s websites for forms, policies and procedures. Modification of this document must be approved by the
authoring department and processed by engineering publications, [e-mail].

GENICS FIRE MESH POLICY
for New and Existing Poles
Rocky Mountain Power Asset Management Policy No. 357

Authors: Chris Bryson, T.J. Golo, P.E.
Approval: Joshua Jones, Rocky Mountain Power
Authoring department: Asset Management
Approved location: J:\Publications\FPP\DIS\POL
File number-name: 357-Genics Fire Wrap Policy.docx
Revision number: 0
Revision date: 8/12/20

Revision Log
0 8/12/20 Initial Publication

Document Security Category
Confidential x External
Restricted BES Cyber System Information (BCSI)
X Internal

J:\Publications\FPP\DIS\POL\357-Genics Fire Wrap Policy.docx, Rev. 0, 8/12/20. The most current version of this document is
posted to engineering’s websites for forms, policies and procedures. Modification of this document must be approved by the
authoring department and processed by engineering publications, [e-mail]. Page 1 of 2
GENICS FIRE MESH POLICY
for New and Existing Poles
Rocky Mountain Power Asset Management Policy No. 357
1 Scope
This policy is for installation of Genics Fire Mesh for protecting transmission or distribution
wood poles against fire damage. Use this material to protect wood poles, brand new,or still
salvageable after an ignition event, or in locations designated as part of a Fire High
Consequence Area (FHCA). The Utah Wildland Fire Protection Plan filed on June 1, 2020
states:
Many wooden poles will be wrapped as part of Rocky Mountain Power’s efforts to
protect its own assets. The vast majority of wildfires do not have a utility‐related ignition.
Wildfires can burn through the area where an electric power line is located and cause
massive damage to the line. Accordingly, Rocky Mountain Power plans to wrap wooden
poles with a protective material. The fireproof mesh wrapping is intumescent, meaning
that it swells in the event of a fire. That swelling protects the underlying wood. The
manufacturers have tested the material at labs to demonstrate the material’s
effectiveness at protecting wooden poles from fire damage.
Wooden poles will be selected for wrapping based on perceivable wildfire threat to the
pole. In essence, wooden poles in close proximity to at‐risk fuels will be prioritized for
treatment. There are three main categories of wooden poles that will receive wrapping
treatment. First, many wooden poles installed as part of the FHCA Line Rebuild
Program will be treated with fireproof mesh wrapping. After spending so much to rebuild
a line, the company has a strong desire to protect the investment. Second, some
existing wood poles in the FHCA will be wrapped on an as‐needed. Poles that are
relatively young, structurally sound, and have no outstanding observed maintenance
needs affecting the strength of the pole fall into this category. Third, if a pole has
experienced a history of fire damage from third parties performing controlled burns, fire
wrap may be considered as an alternative.
For reactive installation on existing transmission and distribution poles due to an imminent
fire threat, wrap installations are prioritized based on potential customer impact.
2 References
PacifiCorp Distribution Construction Standard EB 331, Poles—Fire Protection
3 Installation Criteria
All wood poles, transmission and distribution, in areas with elevated fire risk as determined
by local management should be wrapped with Genics Fire Mesh. Locations to consider
installing the Genics Fire Mesh include, but are not limited to:
 Poles in areas with previous history of fire incidents whether controlled or uncontrolled
 Poles in other areas with elevated fire risk as determined by management
There are areas where fire mesh wrap may not be needed, including:
 Poles within 10 feet of sidewalks, playgrounds, or heavy traffic areas
 Poles in urban areas

J:\Publications\FPP\DIS\POL\357-Genics Fire Wrap Policy.docx, Rev. 0, 8/12/20. The most current version of this document is
posted to engineering’s websites for forms, policies and procedures. Modification of this document must be approved by the
authoring department and processed by engineering publications, [e-mail]. Page 2 of 2
 Poles in landscaped or irrigated areas
 Poles in other areas with low fire risk as determined by management
4 Tools and Materials
 Genics Fire Mesh
 Stock item #8004438
 3′ × 50′ roll
 25 rolls in a pallet
 Staples
 Stock item #5010106
 Industrial scissors/shears
5 Fire Wrap Installation Procedure
YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeI7zbDAI6w
1. Clear the area and remove loose surface debris. Make sure the substrate is cleaned off
with no debris.
2. Excavate approximately 2 inches of dirt from around the pole.
a. If the pole is not installed yet, install the mesh on the pole over the ground wire
starting low enough so that the mesh starts about 2 inches below the final estimated
ground line after the pole is set.
3. Measure the circumference of the pole or wooden substrate; add 2 to 3 inches so that
the ends overlap.
4. Cut the wire mesh/net using industrial scissors/shears.
5. When wrapping a piling or pole, start from the bottom and bury it about 2 inches below
the groundline. Leave the top lap/seam unstapled until the second piece is slid into place
(refer to 5a).
a. Wrap the bottom wood substrate with Genics Fire Mesh; make sure it is tightly
wrapped (no air pockets).
6. Use a staple gun to fasten and secure the Genics Fire Mesh to the wooden substrate.
Every 1 to 2 inches on the seam is recommended. Vertical seams should be offset. Use
large head nails or staples to attach the mesh to the pole at the seams.
7. Continue installing sections until the pole is wrapped according to the following
guidelines:
a. Six feet high for vegetation 5 feet high or less
b. At least 1 foot higher than the tallest vegetation within 10 feet of the pole when
vegetation is 5 feet or higher (a bucket truck is required)
c. Six feet high, if a bucket truck is not available or access is restricted