Reasons to Invest in Fire Protection Services Today 

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Many business owners choose not to invest in fire protection services to cut costs and improve their bottom line. However, these business owners may not realize that the scope of fire protection goes beyond the event of a fire itself. In fact, fire protection services benefit businesses long before and well after an incident occurs.

Read on to learn how investing in fire protection services can protect your business and employees, cut insurance costs, and help your company survive business interruption and make a successful recovery. 

Keep Your Business and Employees Safe 

The most important reason to invest in fire protection service is to keep both your business and your employees safe. 

Protect Your Business

Any fire can devastate your business. Small fires may damage your property enough to halt business operations for a few days. Large fires may result in the complete loss of your building, materials, merchandise, important documents or records and, in the worst cases, harm an employee or customer. 

Each of these outcomes also carries major financial risk. Investing in fire protection services can help to reduce this risk and protect the business you worked so hard to build. 

Protect Your Employees

According to OSHA, “businesses operate more efficiently when they implement effective safety and health management systems.” 

Employees play an essential role in supporting your business. By making them feel safe and protected in their workplace, you are helping them to be more productive as well as treating them with the care they deserve. Your business is their livelihood and protecting it is not just about protecting your assets, it’s about protecting them too. 

Be Prepared to Survive Business Interruption

Over 70% of businesses that experience a major fire either never reopen or close within three years of the event. 

The high percentage of businesses that fail following a fire is largely due to the intensity of business interruption fires cause. If you are well-equipped to handle a major fire, you will be better prepared to survive business interruption. The 30% of businesses that survive fires likely recover because they had plans in place before the event occurred. 

Mitigate Risk For Insurance Purposes

Insurance companies assess your potential risk when determining the cost of your coverage. 

The cost of fire safety is a drop in the bucket compared to the cost of recovering from a fire and subsequent increases in insurance premiums. Therefore, it is important to have all the precautions in place to reduce any potential risk. Additionally, fire safety services can help your business avoid potential workers’ compensation payments.

Reduce Liability Risk

Business owners can avoid potential liability by investing in proper fire safety insurance. If owners do not comply with regulations or keep their building up to code, they are vulnerable to potential liability. The best way to keep yourself and those in your building safe is to invest in high-quality fire protection.

How to Invest in Fire Protection Services

Business owners have a range of fire protection services to choose from to protect their businesses and employees. For example, fire safety services and solutions may include: 

  • Fire sprinkler systems
  • Fire suppression systems
  • Fire alarm and detection systems
  • Portable fire extinguishers
  • And more

Learn More About Fortis

At Fortis Fire & Safety, we provide cutting-edge expertise in fire protection planning, design, and construction. We understand the challenges that modern facilities face and utilize our experience to find efficient and cost-effective solutions. From initial planning to acceptance testing and beyond, we offer a comprehensive suite of services.

We use the latest in computer-automated design to map out your system so we know the exact specifications before we even set foot on your job site. No need for drawings; we can map your facility and create blueprints from scratch.

We facilitate BIM coordination for new construction projects. We work with your BIM coordinator to load in our plans to avoid structural conflicts before they happen. Additionally, all of our designers are NICET certified in their respective fields.

Learn more about our fire protection services.

fire sprinkler system obstruction

How to Avoid the Most Common Fire Sprinkler Obstructions

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Fire sprinkler obstructions can hinder the effectiveness of any fire protection system, resulting in costly damages. Luckily, building owners can take steps to prevent these obstructions to ensure their fire system is protecting their commercial property at the highest level of efficiency.

Let’s dive into how to avoid the most common fire sprinkler obstructions; but first, let’s review what fire sprinkler obstructions are and why they happen.

What is a Fire Sprinkler Obstruction?

A fire sprinkler obstruction is any material that causes partial or full blockage of a pipe and prevents water from flowing through.

As you can guess, these blockages stop fire sprinkler systems from doing their job in the event of a fire. Think: If the correct amount of water can’t flow through the pipe properly, the fire system is not able to release the amount of water necessary to reduce heat, flames, and smoke quickly.

Therefore, fire sprinkler obstructions can lead to increased damage to property and even put lives at risk.

Read on for more information about fire protection systems.

What Causes Fire Sprinkler Obstructions? 

Pipes in fire sprinkler systems can be as small as 1” in diameter. This considered, it doesn’t take much to cause a blockage! Obstructions can be caused by many objects and materials, but some occur more frequently than others. The most common fire sprinkler obstructions are:

  • Ice
  • Corrosion
  • Foreign materials

Let’s review each of these in detail and take a look at some strategies on how to prevent these blockages.

Ice Blockages

When temperatures dip below 32°F, water in pipes may freeze and create blockages in your fire sprinkler system. Water can freeze into solid ice plugs, which can damage your system and prevent water from flowing through the pipes.

Many building owners assume that ice plugs only occur during the winter months; however, ice can form in pipes at any time of year because ice plugs occur most often based on their surroundings in a building, not weather. For example, ice plugs most commonly occur in sprinkler systems surrounded by storage or freezer systems.

How to Avoid Ice Plugs in Fire Sprinkler Systems

Building owners can prevent ice plugs by dehumidifying air supplied into the sprinkler system. Most ice plugs are caused by the air supply being cooled as it travels from a heated area into an extremely cold environment, such as near a freezer system.

Moisture collects in the air and freezes once the condensation reaches the cold environment. 

By dehumidifying the air going into the system, owners can prevent condensation from freezing and turning into an ice plug. Additionally, building owners can take measures to ensure their system is air-tight. 

Corrosion

The combination of metal, water, and oxygen in some systems makes it extremely difficult to avoid corrosion entirely. Although corrosion is common in fire sprinkler systems, it usually doesn’t pose a significant risk. 

However, when corrosion becomes extreme, obstruction can occur. A few types of corrosion that commonly obstruct fire sprinkler systems include:

  • Iron oxide corrosion (i.e. Rust)
  • Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), and
  • Galvanic corrosion

How to Avoid Corrosion in Fire Sprinkler Systems

Building owners can install a system that maintains an extremely high level of pure nitrogen to combat corrosion. While these systems can’t reverse existing corrosion, they can help to prevent corrosion from becoming extreme and causing obstructions.

Foreign Materials

Raw or poorly filtered water sources may lead to foreign materials entering and obstructing pipes in a fire sprinkler system. For example, water from rivers or ponds may carry sands or stones. Even if these materials are extremely fine, they can still build up and cause a blockage.

How to Avoid Foreign Materials in Fire Sprinkler Systems

Building owners can prevent foreign materials from blocking pipes in their sprinkler systems by correctly filtering their water source and understanding specific risks a source may pose.

How to Know if Your Fire Sprinkler System is Obstructed 

Fire sprinkler systems often don’t show signs of obstruction, which means building owners may not know there is an issue until it’s too late (AKA your system doesn’t work properly when there’s a fire…)

Because of this, the best way to know if your building’s fire sprinkler system is functioning properly is to have the system assessed and inspected. Fire protection system assessments can help property owners determine what repairs are needed to ensure their system will protect their building in the event of a fire.

Not sure if you need servicing? Read on to learn more about how often fire protection systems should be serviced.

Worried Your Fire Sprinkler System Might Have An Obstruction?

Let Fortis help—fortify your building with reliable fire protection systems inspected and maintained by the experts at Fortis!

When systems or devices need maintenance, we most often can send a repair technician to you within 24 hours (and sooner in emergencies!) Our goal at Fortis is to be proactive, staying ahead of the curve.
Read on for more information about our testing and inspection services.

fire system inspection

Fire System Inspection and Repair: Staying Up To Code and In Compliance

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According to U.S. Fire Administration,  out of the 100,000 fires that occur annually, 52% of the larger fires in commercial properties occur in buildings that either:

  • Do not have smoke detectors
  • The smoke detectors do not function properly

If your building’s fire system is being regularly inspected and is up to code, it significantly decreases the probability that your property will be destroyed in the event of a fire. 

To help you prepare, we’ve broken down what a fire system inspection is, outlined some common fire code violations as well as offered some tips on how to stay up to code and in compliance. 

What Is a Fire System Inspection?

A fire inspection is a process in which the fire department inspects a building or property to identify and access potential fire safety hazards. 

How Often Should Fire System Inspections Occur?

According to the NFPA code, inspections of your fire and life safety systems are required to occur on a quarterly and annual basis. 

What is NFPA Code?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has over 300 codes and standards that apply to nearly all buildings, services, installations, and processes. NFPA codes are designed to reduce or minimize the effects of fires and other safety risks. 

What Will Be On My Inspection Report?

Your inspection report will include:

  • The location of every device in the building
  • Whether each device passed or failed inspection
  • The reasons why each device passed or failed inspection
  • Date and time stamps of when each device was inspected
  • Device inventory 
  • Device warranty status
  • Indication of the length of time devices have been in service
  • Verification of report results

Consider using a professional fire safety service to inspect your property–and make sure you didn’t miss anything–to ensure your building is up-to-code and in compliance. 

Do All Fire System Components Need to Be Checked With The Same Frequency?

In the same way that the brakes in your car should get checked every six months but your oil should be checked every few weeks, some components of a fire system need to be checked more often than others. 

For example, a fire pump may require weekly or monthly inspections whereas sprinkler systems may only need a quarterly check. 

What Fire Code Violations Should I Look Out For?

We’re so glad you asked. According to the NFPA,  the most common fire code violations are:

  • Blocked exits or fire doors
  • Extension cords
  • Improper storage
  • Exit signs and faulty lighting
  • Fire extinguisher issues
  • Broken smoke detectors
  • Improper records
  • Hanging items from sprinkler heads or pipes
  • Fire alarms or pull stations not working
  • Incorrect sprinkler system
  • Blocked valves or exterior access points

Learn more about understanding inspections and maintenance for your building, here.

How Do Repairs Affect My Fire Code Compliance?

Components of the fire system needing repair can result in your property being out of compliance and penalized with hefty fines. And, as you can see from our list of common code violations, components in need of repair –ranging from broken smoke detectors, fire alarms, and pulls stations to faulty lighting– aren’t a rare occurrence. 

Avoid the penalties and let us help with repairs to make sure your building is safe and up to code. 

Tips for Staying Up To Code and In Compliance

Keep Hallways and Storage Areas Clear

Clutter and disorganized spaces can serve as both fuel for the fire as well as block emergency exits. Clean up messes, such as piles of cardboard boxes or papers, that may fuel a fire and move large objects, such as furniture, out of the path of a fire exit. 

 Properly Dispose of Combustible and Flammable Materials

These materials could be a safety risk to your building. Follow protocols in disposing of items such as cooled ashes and oiled rags.

Create and Post an Evacuation Plan

Designing and posting an evacuation plan can lead to a more efficient evacuation in the event of a fire. The plan and escape route information should be posted in the public areas of your building to familiarize residents and employees with safety precautions. 

Work with a Professional Fire Protection Company 

Ensure your building is safe and up to fire protection code compliance by partnering with a company that specializes in fire protection. While these tips can get you started in ensuring your building is in compliance with over 300 NFPA codes and standards, the rules can get complicated quickly– especially if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. Luckily, we do. 

Consider Fortis

Let Fortis help—fortify your building with reliable fire protection systems inspected and maintained by the experts at Fortis!

When systems or devices need maintenance, we most often can send a repair technician to you within 24 hours (and sooner in emergencies!) Our goal at Fortis is to be proactive, staying ahead of the curve.
Read on for more information about our testing and inspection services.

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How do Fire and Life Safety Companies get Acquired by Fortis?

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As the business owner thinking of selling your fire and safety company, you may be asking yourself: “How does the acquisition process work? How long will it take? How will my team be supported after the acquisition?”

Interested in learning more? Read on to learn how companies are acquired by Fortis, our process, and how we support people post-acquisition. 

First, Let Us Introduce Ourselves

Fortis is the next generation of fire protection companies. We are technologically forward-thinking, flexible, and dedicated to our people. We take a long-term view, investing in our people, growth, quality of service, and innovation.

Now, let’s discuss our acquisition process.

Our Acquisition Process

Our process is designed to move at your pace and can close as quickly as eight weeks. The breakdown looks like this:

  • Week One: Get to Know Fortis
  • Week Two: Financial Evaluation
  • Week Three: Letter of Intent
  • Week Four: Due Diligence Begins
  • Weeks Five Through Eight:
    • Financial, Operational, and Tax Due Diligence
    • Site Visit
    • Legal Due Diligence and Documentation
  • Deal closed and funds transferred!

Learn more about our process here.

Fortis is People First: How We Support Your People Post-Acquisition

Supporting companies in their growth initiatives is one of our top priorities at Fortis. When new companies are acquired by Fortis we think of it as an opportunity to take the best of their culture, expertise, and experience and weave it into the shared Fortis culture.

We’re focused on providing opportunities for you and your employees, and this can be seen through our following initiatives:

Investment in People

As part of our journey to build a world-class company, we invest in training and developing our people. We provide them everything necessary to have a long, successful career in the fire protection services industry including apprenticeships, certifications and licensing.

Career Progression and Opportunity

Growth fuels opportunities to take on more complex projects and responsibilities, develop into senior roles and earn more.

Benefits and Compensation

We provide competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health and welfare benefits, income replacement options, and a retirement savings plan.

In Fire Protection and Thinking of Selling? Consider Fortis

At Fortis, we believe in stewarding you through the process of selling your business. We understand what it takes to run a successful fire and life safety business. We want to create greater opportunity and success for the business you’ve poured everything into.

Read on to learn more about selling to us.

Interested in selling your fire protection company? It doesn’t hurt to talk. Reach out to our VP of Business Development, Jeremiah Crocker, for an initial evaluation to see if selling to Fortis is right for you!

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Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and Fire Risk

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Did you know that California is banning the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles starting in 2035? Wow! This is a significant feat for the country’s most populous state and the center of U.S. car culture. Why is California doing this? This ban is a step in the state’s battle against climate change by reducing the amount of carbon discharged into the atmosphere.

However, as with any significant change, this ban will come with both positive and negative effects. One of those effects will be increased fire risk with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Let’s discuss.

Electric Vehicles Becoming More Common

EVs are rising in popularity and will likely become a more popular occurrence on the world’s roads. Bloomberg estimates EVs will grow from around 3 million vehicles in 2020 to 66 million by 2040. This means that in 2040, electric vehicles will represent two-thirds of the global auto market.

Why the sudden increase in EV sales? Electric vehicles are becoming less expensive and their batteries are able to withstand longer distances than before. These recent updates combat two of the largest cons of electric cars. 

The Growth in Electronic Vehicle Sales Will Demand More Charging Stations

With the rise in EV sales, we can expect to see more charging stations being built across California. Why? While EV owners don’t need to stop to top off their tanks, the success of the EV revolution depends on owners having access to an adequate charging network.

In fact, EV charging is becoming a growing industry; In 2021, EV charging was a $6.8 billion USD market already and is expected to reach over $20 billion USD with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38% by 2025. Such efforts will be supported by Tesla and other EV companies and likely result in millions of charging stations across the country. 

How Will the Ban of Gasoline Vehicles Affect the Fire Protection Industry?

The ban on gasoline vehicles and the resulting rise in both electric vehicles and charging stations will result in several fire risks. Let’s take a closer look.

Fire Risks With the Installation of Electric Charging Stations

 EV chargers face the same fire risk as any electrical installation. The safety of the charging stations can be affected by wiring components as well as the competency and experience of the installer. Improper or outdated wiring can short circuit, arc, and/or overheat, all of which can result in a serious fire. 

These risks are heightened in home chargers. 

Fire Risks While Electronic Vehicles Are Charging

Malfunctions are bound to occur in the transfer of high-voltage electricity between charging stations and vehicles. These malfunctions can result in a fire. The increase of charging stations entering the market brings an increase in these malfunctions and associated fire risks. 

Additionally, these vehicles use lithium-ion batteries, which are sensitive to high temperatures. When exposed to high temperatures, an uncontrolled self-ignition can occur.

Fire Risks Associated with Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

ESS will be necessary to supplement the direct grid electrical supply and accommodate a large demand for EV charging. The primary risk of these systems is damage or overheating from an internal fault that could cause a fire.

How Can Electric Vehicle Owners Mitigate Fire Risks?

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following tips for owners of electric vehicles to follow in order to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • “Follow manufacturer’s guidelines when charging your vehicle. Check with your local dealer if you need additional information.
  • Purchase a charging device that is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
  • Plug Level 1 EV chargers directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device. Never use a multiplug adapter or extension cord.
  • Install a residual current device with the charging unit. It will turn off the power if a fault is detected and help prevent a fire.
  • Place all charging device components out of reach of children when not in use.
  • Maintain the components of your charging station according to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Signs of excessive wear may indicate a potential shock hazard. Never use an EV charger with obvious signs of damage.
  • Cover the EV charging station outlet to stop water from entering. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure it is safe to charge your EV in wet conditions.”

How Can Building Owners Mitigate the Fire Risks Associated with Electric Vehicles?

Fire authorities have acknowledged these risks and have recommended that any building with electric vehicle charging or EV parking should be addressed as a special hazard. 

Read on to learn more about special hazards and special solutions.

Interested in Learning More?

If your business functions in an environment exposed to fire risk from electric vehicles, ensuring that you have solutions to protect against special hazards is imperative.

For more information, check out our fire protection solutions.