Motorsport Fire Extinguisher Standards Explained: FIA Technical Lists, FIA 8865 and FIA 8876 - Race Rally Supplies

Motorsport Fire Extinguisher Standards Explained: FIA Technical Lists, FIA 8865 and FIA 8876

Motorsport Fire Extinguisher Standards Explained: FIA Technical List 16, FIA 8865 and FIA 8876

Choosing a fire extinguisher or fire suppression system for a competition car is not simply a case of buying something described as “FIA approved”.

The FIA has different standards and Technical Lists covering different types of motorsport fire suppression systems. The system required for a stage rally car can be different from that required for a closed-cockpit circuit racing car or an open-cockpit single-seater.

At Race Rally Supplies, we supply motorsport fire extinguishers and suppression systems from leading manufacturers including PD Extinguishers and Lifeline, with solutions covering a wide range of competition applications.

The important thing is to establish exactly what your championship or event regulations require before choosing a system.

What are the FIA fire extinguisher Technical Lists?

The FIA maintains Technical Lists containing equipment and systems that have been homologated to the relevant FIA requirements.

For motorsport fire suppression, three important lists are:

  • FIA Technical List 16 – Extinguisher Systems Homologated by the FIA
  • FIA Technical List 52 – Plumbed-in Fire Extinguisher Systems homologated according to FIA Standard 8865-2015
  • FIA Technical List 97 – Plumbed-in Fire Suppression Systems homologated according to FIA Standard 8876-2022

These are not simply different capacity levels of the same standard. They relate to different FIA requirements and applications.

Therefore, seeing “FIA approved” on an extinguisher is not enough. You need to know which FIA standard or Technical List your regulations require.

FIA Technical List 16

FIA Technical List 16 covers extinguisher systems homologated by the FIA according to the FIA standard for plumbed-in fire extinguisher systems in competition cars.

It is one of the most commonly encountered FIA fire suppression standards in motorsport and includes systems from a number of specialist manufacturers.

The FIA Technical List specifically identifies which systems are authorised for rally use. This is important because not every system appearing on FIA Technical List 16 is necessarily authorised for rally. The FIA list has a specific rally designation for each homologated system.

PD Extinguishers FIA Technical List 16 systems

PD Extinguishers has two particularly relevant systems currently listed by the FIA:

PD 4.25 L AFFF – EX.056.19

  • FIA Technical List 16 homologation: EX.056.19
  • Extinguishing medium: AFFF
  • FIA list indicates: Rally – Yes
  • Homologation manufacture end date: October 2029

PD 4kg HAYLO – EX.057.19

  • FIA Technical List 16 homologation: EX.057.19
  • Extinguishing medium: 3M Novec 1230
  • FIA list indicates: Rally – Yes
  • Homologation manufacture end date: October 2029

These are genuine FIA-listed systems rather than products simply described by a manufacturer or retailer as “FIA approved”.

For UK rally competitors looking for a FIA Technical List 16 system, these provide two different extinguishing-medium options from PD.

FIA 8865-2015 and FIA Technical List 52

FIA 8865-2015 is another FIA standard for plumbed-in fire extinguisher systems.

Products homologated to FIA 8865-2015 appear on FIA Technical List 52.

The FIA maintains Technical List 52 specifically for:

Plumbed-in Fire Extinguisher Systems homologated according to FIA Standard 8865-2015.

FIA 8865-2015 should therefore not be described simply as a “bigger” or “better” version of FIA Technical List 16. It is a different standard, and whether it is required depends on the regulations applicable to the vehicle and championship.

Lifeline FIA Technical List 52 systems

Lifeline has a range of systems homologated to FIA 8865-2015 / Technical List 52.

Its current technical documentation identifies products including the Zero 275, Zero 3620 and Zero EV as FIA Technical List 52 / FIA 8865 systems.

These provide options for competitors whose regulations specifically require an FIA 8865-2015 system.

FIA 8876-2022 and FIA Technical List 97

FIA 8876-2022 is a newer FIA standard for plumbed-in fire suppression systems and products homologated to this standard appear on FIA Technical List 97.

It is important to understand the distinction between FIA 8865-2015 and FIA 8876-2022 rather than simply describing one as an upgraded version of the other.

The FIA developed these standards for different vehicle applications, and the applicable championship regulations determine which is required.

For example, current FIA Formula 1 regulations specify a fire extinguishing system approved according to FIA Standard 8876-2022.

For competitors in open-cockpit or specialist categories, therefore, the regulations should be checked carefully before selecting a suppression system.

FIA Technical List 16 vs FIA 8865 vs FIA 8876

The simplest way to understand the difference is:

FIA requirement Technical List Typical application
FIA plumbed-in fire extinguisher system Technical List 16 Wide range of competition applications, including applicable rally cars
FIA 8865-2015 Technical List 52 Vehicles/championships where FIA 8865-2015 is specified
FIA 8876-2022 Technical List 97 Vehicles/championships where FIA 8876-2022 is specified, including applicable open-cockpit categories

The application examples above are not a substitute for the regulations of your particular championship.

The safest approach is always to work backwards from the regulations and select a system that is actually homologated to the required standard.

What about hand-held fire extinguishers?

A plumbed-in FIA fire suppression system is not the only type of fire extinguisher used in motorsport.

Depending on the discipline and applicable regulations, a competition vehicle may instead require or permit a hand-held fire extinguisher.

Requirements can vary according to:

  • The type of competition
  • The vehicle category
  • The championship
  • The applicable technical regulations
  • The required extinguishing medium
  • The required extinguisher capacity

This is why there is no single hand-held extinguisher that can simply be described as “the FIA extinguisher for motorsport”.

For club motorsport and other applications where a hand-held extinguisher is permitted or required, Race Rally Supplies supplies products from PD Extinguishers and other established motorsport manufacturers.

AFFF or clean agent?

Another important consideration is the extinguishing medium.

AFFF

AFFF is a foam-based extinguishing medium that has a long history of use in motorsport fire protection.

PD's 4.25 L AFFF system, homologation EX.056.19, is currently listed by the FIA under Technical List 16 and specifically marked as permitted for rally.

Clean-agent systems

Clean-agent systems are designed to suppress fire without the same foam residue associated with AFFF.

PD's 4kg HAYLO system uses 3M Novec 1230 and is currently listed by the FIA under Technical List 16 as EX.057.19, with the FIA also identifying it as permitted for rally.

Lifeline also offers fire suppression systems using different extinguishing technologies across its FIA Technical List 16 and FIA Technical List 52 ranges.

The extinguishing medium is only one part of the system, however. The complete system must meet the applicable homologation requirements and be installed and maintained correctly.

PD Extinguishers – FIA-homologated motorsport fire suppression

At Race Rally Supplies, PD Extinguishers is a major part of our motorsport fire suppression range.

PD offers FIA Technical List 16 systems in both AFFF and clean-agent configurations, giving competitors a choice of extinguishing medium while retaining the required FIA homologation for applicable vehicles.

The PD systems available through Race Rally Supplies include:

The current FIA Technical List confirms the PD 4.25 L AFFF and 4kg HAYLO systems as FIA Technical List 16 products and marks both as permitted for rally.

PD servicing and UK support

A competition fire suppression system is not something to install and then forget about.

Correct installation, inspection, servicing and maintenance are essential parts of keeping a safety system ready for use.

Race Rally Supplies is a PD Extinguishers service agent in the UK, allowing us to support customers beyond the initial purchase with servicing and technical assistance.

That is particularly useful for competitors, teams and race and rally preparation workshops looking for a UK supplier that can provide both the equipment and ongoing support.

Lifeline fire suppression systems

Lifeline is another established manufacturer of motorsport fire safety equipment, with FIA-homologated systems covering different applications.

Its current technical documentation includes systems for:

  • FIA Technical List 16
  • FIA Technical List 52 / FIA 8865-2015

Lifeline therefore provides an established alternative for competitors whose regulations specify an appropriate Lifeline system or who prefer its equipment.

Race Rally Supplies can supply both PD Extinguishers and Lifeline, allowing us to offer different solutions rather than trying to force every competitor into the same system.

Which fire extinguisher do I need?

The answer depends on your vehicle and regulations.

Stage rally

A FIA Technical List 16 system is commonly encountered in rally applications.

The FIA's current Technical List 16 specifically identifies the PD 4.25 L AFFF and PD 4kg HAYLO systems as permitted for rally.

However, competitors should always check the regulations applying to their particular championship and vehicle.

Circuit racing

Circuit racing covers a huge range of vehicles and championships.

The required system can vary, so you should check whether your regulations specify FIA Technical List 16, FIA 8865-2015 / Technical List 52, FIA 8876-2022 / Technical List 97 or another permitted system.

Single-seaters and open-cockpit cars

Open-cockpit cars can be subject to specific fire suppression requirements, including applications where FIA 8876-2022 / Technical List 97 is specified.

The exact requirement depends on the championship.

Club motorsport

Depending on the discipline, a hand-held extinguisher or plumbed-in system may be required or permitted.

Always check the regulations applicable to the event rather than assuming that the requirements of another form of motorsport apply to your car.

Track days

Track-day requirements are set by the individual organiser rather than being governed by a single universal motorsport standard.

Even where an extinguisher is not mandatory, carrying appropriate fire protection is a sensible safety consideration.

Don't choose a fire extinguisher on capacity alone

A larger extinguisher is not automatically the correct extinguisher.

When choosing a competition fire suppression system, consider:

  • What your regulations require
  • The applicable FIA standard
  • The relevant FIA Technical List
  • The permitted extinguishing medium
  • The required quantity
  • Whether a hand-held or plumbed-in system is required
  • The activation method
  • Correct installation and nozzle positioning
  • Servicing and maintenance requirements

Most importantly, do not assume that an extinguisher is suitable simply because it is described as FIA approved.

Check the actual FIA homologation and the regulations applying to your vehicle.

Motorsport fire extinguishers from Race Rally Supplies

Race Rally Supplies supplies PD Extinguishers and Lifeline fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems to UK competitors, teams and race and rally preparation workshops.

Our range covers hand-held extinguishers and FIA-homologated plumbed-in systems, including PD systems homologated to FIA Technical List 16 and Lifeline systems covering different FIA requirements.

With our PD Extinguishers service-agent capability, we can also provide UK servicing and ongoing support for PD systems.

If you're unsure which system your competition car requires, send us the vehicle details and the relevant championship or event regulations. We can help you identify the appropriate fire suppression solution rather than leaving you to navigate the different FIA standards yourself.

Race first. Safety always.

Clean-agent systems can be particularly attractive where minimising contamination and clean-up following a discharge is important.

However, the extinguishing agent is only one part of the equation. The complete system must meet the applicable FIA homologation and be installed correctly.

PD Extinguishers – a leading choice for UK motorsport

At Race Rally Supplies, we are particularly pleased to offer PD Extinguishers as one of our main fire suppression brands.

PD has developed its products specifically around the requirements of motorsport, with FIA-homologated systems available in both AFFF and clean-agent configurations.

The range includes:

  • FIA Technical List 16 plumbed-in systems
  • 4.25-litre AFFF systems
  • 4kg Haylo clean-agent systems
  • Hand-held AFFF extinguishers
  • Hand-held Haylo extinguishers
  • Mechanical activation systems
  • Electronic activation systems

PD's stainless-steel construction also provides excellent durability for competition use, while its products are designed with servicing and long-term use in mind.

PD servicing and support

Fire suppression systems are safety-critical equipment and require appropriate maintenance.

Race Rally Supplies is a PD Extinguishers approved service agent, with trained personnel able to service and support PD systems in the UK.

This means competitors can purchase their system from us and have access to ongoing UK servicing support rather than simply buying an extinguisher and being left to arrange maintenance elsewhere.

Lifeline fire suppression systems

Lifeline is another established name in motorsport fire protection and has been supplying competition fire suppression systems for many years.

Its range includes systems covering FIA Technical List 16 and FIA 8865-2015 / FIA Technical List 52, giving competitors options for different levels of competition.

For competitors who already use Lifeline equipment, whose regulations specify a Lifeline system, or who prefer a particular Lifeline configuration, Race Rally Supplies can supply the appropriate products.

Which fire extinguisher do I need?

The best way to select a fire extinguisher is to start with the regulations, not the extinguisher.

Stage rally

A FIA Technical List 16 system is commonly required for UK stage rally cars.

PD's 4.25-litre AFFF and 4kg Haylo systems provide FIA Technical List 16 options suitable for applicable rally applications.

Circuit racing

Circuit racing varies considerably between championships.

Some cars may use FIA Technical List 16 systems, while higher-level competition may specify FIA 8865-2015 / FIA Technical List 52 or another specific requirement.

Single-seaters

Single-seater regulations can have specific fire suppression requirements, including applications where FIA 8876-2022 / FIA Technical List 97 is applicable.

Always check the regulations for the championship in which the car competes.

Clubman motorsport

Depending on the discipline and regulations, a compliant hand-held extinguisher may be appropriate for clubman competition, sprint, hill climb, historic and other motorsport applications.

Track days

Track-day requirements vary between organisers. Even where a fire extinguisher is not mandatory, carrying suitable fire protection is a sensible additional safety measure.

Don't choose an extinguisher on capacity alone

A larger extinguisher is not automatically the correct extinguisher.

When selecting a motorsport fire suppression system, consider:

  • The regulations for your championship or event
  • The required FIA standard
  • The applicable FIA Technical List
  • The type and quantity of extinguishant
  • Whether a hand-held or plumbed-in system is required
  • The activation method
  • Correct nozzle positioning
  • Installation requirements
  • Servicing requirements

A correctly homologated system that is properly installed and maintained is an important part of a competition car's safety equipment.

Motorsport fire extinguishers from Race Rally Supplies

Race Rally Supplies supplies PD Extinguishers and Lifeline fire extinguishers and suppression systems to UK competitors, teams and race and rally preparation workshops.

Our range covers everything from hand-held extinguishers for club motorsport to FIA Technical List 16 systems for rally and circuit cars and higher-specification FIA 8865-2015 systems for applicable competition vehicles.

With our PD Extinguishers service-agent capability, we can also provide ongoing servicing and technical support for PD systems in the UK.

If you're unsure which extinguisher or suppression system your car requires, send us the details of your vehicle and the championship or event regulations. We can help you identify the appropriate system rather than leaving you to work through the different FIA standards yourself.

Race first. Safety always.

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