The detailing of the Halley VI design continues and particularly for the composite panels that will be used to form the shell of the structure. The design and fabrication of these heavily insulated panels is being undertaken in South Africa where recently a series of fire tests were completed.

Fire is an ever present hazard in the Antarctic where humidity is very low. The loss of a structure can have a severe impact, particularly during the winter months when external temperatures are very low and there is no daylight. To alert station personnel if a fire starts in the new Halley VI station, a comprehensive fire detection system is to be installed. This is backed up by a water mist suppression system, which will stop most fires developing and engulfing the station.

To ensure the structure can withstand a fire both inside and outside, fire tests were completed to the standard required by the London Underground, which exceeds the normal British Standard requirements. Testing has been carried out both in South Africa and at the Building Research Establishment in the UK. The tests showed that the structure can withstand a fire lasting for over 30 minutes, which provides enough time to enable the occupants to escape the building safely.

Fire testing in South Africa.	Before and after the BRE test.