What type of protection is required for rooftop heliports?

The requirement for foam protection for rooftop heliports stems from the unique challenges associated with potential fire hazards in these locations. Rooftop heliports are often used for medical emergencies, which means that rapid response and effective suppression of fires are critical to ensure safety and operational continuity.

Foam protection systems are particularly effective for extinguishing flammable liquid fires and can provide a blanket over combustible materials, cutting off the oxygen supply and suppressing flames. This is especially important given the presence of aviation fuel, which can ignite and spread rapidly.

Additionally, foam systems can also create a cohesive barrier that minimizes the risk of fire spreading to other areas, which is crucial in an environment that may host emergency aircraft operations. The use of foam aligns with industry standards and safety protocols established for aviation facilities, ensuring a robust response to potential fire incidents.

The other protection options, while useful in various scenarios, do not provide the same level of effectiveness in managing aviation fuel-related fires on heliports or meet the specific requirements typically mandated for rooftop operations.