Why Buildings Fall Out of Code, and What to Do About It
Change is inevitable.
Whether it’s an update of regulatory laws or a property sale, buildings can fall out of code quickly. Regular inspections and maintenance will help property managers stay ahead of compliance issues — and keep people safe.
“When active fire destroys a building and potentially injures a lot of people, the first thing media does is look for someone to blame,” says Miro Berjan, VP of Texas Operations at Fortis Fire & Safety. Fire departments and insurance underwriters will look at maintenance records and code-required frequency inspections. “The owners always get the first look.” If they saved money by avoiding investment in prevention or if they omitted bringing the systems up to the code, that is where the blame stays.
Causes of Compliance Issues
When it comes to fire suppression systems, the culprit is often outdated technology, such as sprinkler systems designed without hydraulic calculations, or a fire panel that is toward the end of its life, Berjan said.
A change of occupancy can also affect code adherence. For example, a dry cleaning or metal workshop business needs a sprinkler system designed for Ordinary Hazard Group 2 occupancies. If the building is sold to another type of business that is an Extra Hazard Group 1 occupancy (such as die casting, plywood shop, printing, or textile factory), the system most likely would have to be upgraded in order to meet the water demand required by the new Extra Hazard occupancy type, said Mario Lopez, VP of Sales at VFS Fire & Security Services, A Fortis Brand.
“In some cases, the new business cannot get their certificate of occupancy because the fire protection system is not adequate for the new occupancy moving in, and fortunately this is not discovered until the new business moves in and seeks to get their certificate of occupancy from the fire department/city,” Lopez added.
Stay Ahead of Inspections
To stay on top of these regulations and ensure compliance, building owners should set up regular inspections and “budget for improvements and repairs based on code changes and normal wear and tear,” Berjan said.
Lopez specified that depending on the component of the sprinkler system, “code requires components to be inspected either weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annual, some require three years, and all sprinkler systems need to be certified every five years.” Hydraulic calc tags on sprinkler systems also let you know if the system is adequate for the type of occupancy.
Fire alarms also require semi-annual and annual testing. But if changes happen to the building, consider reinspection or upgrade. “Once a major renovation is performed, the systems need to be upgraded to current code,” Lopez added.
At Fortis Fire & Safety, we provide routine inspections, testing, service, repair, design build, retrofits, and system upgrades of fire alarm and suppression systems, as well as special hazards and integrated security systems. Specifically, we can write up code issues during the inspection cycle, and we can help budget where to make the most impact on code deficiencies. Learn more about our services available and how we can help your business by contacting us today.
Apprentice Highlight: Daniel Coticchio, Fire Sprinkler Foreman
About five years ago, Daniel Coticchio managed a deli, but he wasn’t finding the work to be rewarding.
A few of his friends were working in the Fortis Brand’s Piper Fire Protection service department told him to give the job a try. He took them up on their offer, quickly feeling at home with the team, comparing them to a family. “Everyone takes care of each other,” he says.
Daniel recognizes fire as a dangerous and potentially deadly force. By installing fire sprinklers effectively, he could possibly be part of saving a person’s life, home, or belongings. “It’s very rewarding work to know that what you do makes a difference,” he says. “You know that you’re doing something that will potentially save lives and properly.”
Close Competition
He recently completed the apprentice program at Piper and felt he had the skills necessary to compete. He was right — Daniel won two national awards this year.
In June 2023, he competed in Phase 1 of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) National Apprentice Competition, going on to win Phase 2 in September. He also earned gold in the fire protection category of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National Craft Championship in March.
The AFSA competition consisted of a three-hour exam and a hands-on portion in front of a live audience, where he cut, threaded, and installed a steel and CPVC piping system for sprinklers. After a pressure test and grading on accuracy, craftsmanship, and safety, it was determined that Daniel would bring home the gold (and a $5,000 cash prize)!
Daniel says that these wins open up a lot of doors for him. “That’s a very exciting feeling to hopefully get to do something I might not have been able to otherwise.”
Apprenticeships at Fortis
Born and raised in Clearwater, Florida, Daniel’s roots are close to the Piper location. He commends the company for being supportive of career development and growth, adding that his first foreman Jesse Taylor is a notable figure in his time with Piper. Jesse has pushed Daniel to always do his best, to not cut corners, and to always think forward.
At Fortis, we provide this opportunity for Daniel — and many others — via apprenticeship.
On-the-job training goes far. In fact, some sources say that as much as 90% of learning and development takes place on the job. With mentoring and real-time feedback, our training makes sense for apprentices, who go on to certify and become foremen.
With mutual effort from management and apprentice, careers at Fortis flourish.
“Managers create the foundation for career planning success, but employees are an equal partner in their own career planning — it can’t happen without employee involvement,” says Jennifer Courtney-Trice, Chief Human Resources Officer at Fortis.
We encourage our team members to share their goals with their managers, seek out feedback, and consider what success looks like. Let’s work toward making that vision a reality together.
Find open positions for apprentices and foremen alike at our careers page.
Reduce Risk: Inspect and Maintain Your Fire and Life Safety Systems
It’s not enough to simply buy a fire extinguisher or install a fire safety system and forget about it.
Especially in buildings with tenants, service and maintenance agreements are vital to risk mitigation efforts, so facilities managers must have all fire and life safety systems and equipment inspected and maintained regularly.
“Testing and maintenance agreements reduce your risk and exposure by keeping equipment and systems running efficiently, helping to protect your business against unfortunate events like a fire, significant water damage, or even loss of life, all due to damaged fire and life safety systems and equipment components that are poorly maintained,” said Mario Lopez, Vice President of Sales at Fortis Fire & Safety.
Not only are routine inspections important — they’re required by the municipality and the property’s insurance underwriter.
What Is Involved in an Inspection?
Fire and life safety inspectors will visually inspect and physically test safety systems, including all components of sprinkler systems, alarm and detection systems, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are in operating condition.
A property’s fire safety systems testing and inspections can include other systems that are connected and monitored by the fire alarm system, including:
- Elevators – recall testing
- Kitchen Hood Systems
- Smoke Evac/Management Systems
- BDA/DAS/ERRCS two-way emergency communication systems
- Emergency lighting systems
- Emergency generators
The frequency of testing and inspections will vary by system, jurisdiction, and insurance underwriter requirements. Depending on the type and the components of the systems, NFPA code-required frequencies for testing and inspections include but are not limited to weekly, monthly, semi-annual, annual, three-year, and five-year certifications.
Risks of Delaying Inspections and Maintenance
Keeping fire protection and life safety systems in good working order goes beyond simply remaining compliant. This is all in an effort to avoid tragedy and loss of life.
One such disaster that could have been avoided is the Deer Park, Texas, chemical fire that burned for three days in 2019. “I received numerous calls from our oil and gas clients during and after that fire,” Lopez said.
This fire caused over $150 million in property damage. It significantly impacted the environment, discharging hazardous chemicals into the air, which led to several shelter-in-place advisories throughout the area and health hazards for weeks. Chemicals also flowed into the nearby ship channel, killing wildlife.
“The investigation showed this event could have been prevented if proper safeguards had been in place at the facility,” Lopez added. The Texas Tribune and Public Health Watch revealed that for years before the 2019 fire, federal and state regulators documented repeated problems at the chemical facility tank farm along the Houston Ship Channel.
“The best way owners and property managers can stay on top of their testing and inspection requirements is to hire a professional fire and life safety contractor who can provide and manage all their fire and life safety systems testing and inspection frequency requirements,” Lopez advised.
Fortis Fire & Safety is ready to serve. Learn more about our fire protection services, and contact us for more.
What it Means to be Certified
Fortis Fire & Safety is dedicated to safety, both for our employees and the clients we serve. And we believe that an integral part of that safety culture is through certifications and training.
“There is a sense of pride in achieving certification,” says Peter Shull, Director of Operations at LifeSafety Management, A Fortis Brand.
Our customers can rest assured that we have the necessary knowledge to complete safe and quality inspections, testing, and maintenance of their fire safety systems.
When our team members take their examinations and work toward renewals, we reimburse them to encourage continuing education, especially for NICET and ACE Certifications.
NICET CERTIFICATIONS
NICET, or National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, is part of a society of professional engineers, providing certifications around engineering work, including fire protection, civil programs, electrical power testing, and more.
For the fire protection certifications, the first level of certification typically takes about six months of experience, whereas a level-four certification generally requires 10 years on the job.
While Fortis provides training through apprenticeships and on-the-job training, NICET provides the certification, a measure of knowledge and ability to demonstrate proficiency.
Fortis has numerous individuals who hold NICET certification in all five of the fire protection programs:
- Fire Alarm Systems
- Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems
- Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems
- Special Hazards Systems
- Water-Based Systems Layout
ACE CERTIFICATIONS
ACE, or Academy Certification Exams, provides certifications for water-based fire protection systems and is an alternative to NICET in Florida and Georgia.
The process of getting certified looks like this:
Level-one certification requires 16-plus hours of training, along with an extensive exam designed to verify essential knowledge and skills required for entry-level inspectors.
From there, level-two certification has a 32-hour training requirement, with 24 hours spent inspecting and testing water-based fire protection systems. Work experience totaling 2,000 hours of inspection also provides a foundation for displaying knowledge of these systems.
Level-three certifications are set to be released in early 2024.
We believe that investing in our people ensures we have the resources and caliber of a company that consistently provides world-class service to customers. Through our dedication to training and certification, we invest in our people and their safety, as well as the customer and the industry as a whole.
Houston Branch Leadership Highlight: Miro Berjan, VP of Texas Operations at Fortis Fire & Safety
When Miro Berjan joined the Fortis Fire & Safety team, he brought decades of experience with him.
Born in former Yugoslavia, he worked throughout Europe in a variety of positions in fire protection companies starting in the mid-80s, and the work proved rewarding for him. “Doing something that saves lives is a noble task. Doing it for a living rewards one daily,” he said.
When he moved to the U.S. in 2001, he spent a decade working for Tyco SimplexGrinnell and subsequently Johnson Controls, and then another four years with Siemens Industry. In 2021, he moved to Houston with his wife of 16 years, Ivana, and two children, to work with Fortis as the Texas VP of Operations.
“Joining Fortis was an opportunity to be a building block in creating a world-class fire protection services company,” Berjan said.
Berjan leads the Houston branch, tasked with further improving the services and safety Fortis provides, along with adding resources closer to the areas of customer demand. “Our goal is to be within a couple of hours of any customers in Texas and given the size of the state that is a tall order.”
San Antonio and Austin customers are largely commercial, whereas Houston and Corpus Christi are primarily industrial markets. As more businesses move to Texas, the demand for Fortis’ services is increasing, so Fortis is looking to expand first to DFW, then San Antonio and Austin, and possibly El Paso. “I see this market flourishing for the next few decades with new construction and retrofits alike,” he said.
Berjan has recently worked on the Fortis Brand Initiative of creating a unified Fortis Fire & Safety organization for the Houston branch. He learned a lot through the rebrand, and he says that this unique experience revealed a lot of invaluable information that will help the larger Fortis family of brands successfully rebrand, too. “I certainly believe that rebranding our Texas business is the first step in a larger rebranding effort that will put all Fortis business units under one name and allow us to scale our business better,” he said.
The Houston branch recently won the Flame Award, recognizing that there were no injuries in Texas for more than a year. “The result is not an accident,” he said. “We take safety very seriously and will continue to make every effort to keep our team unharmed. After all, this is the first onSPEC Service Principle.”
Berjan is confident in the Texas team, which he says is versatile and capable of taking on any challenge. “We will work hard, have fun doing it, and continue looking forward to a bright future,” he said.
State of The Fire Protection Industry Updates Q2-3 2023
The fire protection systems market in North America, valued at USD $27.87 billion in 2022, is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% from 2023 to 2030. In recent years, fire safety has gained significant importance in the North American region due to notable fire incidents. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the US reported approximately 1,291,500 fire cases in 2020, resulting in 3,420 civilian deaths, 16,720 civilian injuries, and USD $14.8 billion in property damage.
The fire analysis segment is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR over the next five years. The increasing demand for fire analysis, which facilitates informed decision-making during fires, is driving this growth. Services related to fire mapping and analysis, fire modeling and simulation, installation, and design are anticipated to experience significant growth in the fire protection systems sector.
Demand Drivers for Fire Safety Services
The construction industry’s substantial growth across various regions in the US has led to an increased need for the design, construction, and installation of fire protection systems. The demand for fire protection systems in new construction projects has been a key driver for market growth.
Furthermore, the combination of new construction activities and the replacement of outdated fire alarms, sprinklers, and detectors due to stricter safety and environmental regulations, plays a vital role in market dynamics. Some of these regulations have been implemented in response to a higher incidence of wildfires over the past five years, resulting from changing weather patterns across the country.
Government mandates and regulations that enforce unified building codes and elevated fire testing standards are also contributing to the demand for testing, installation, repair, retrofit, and servicing of fire safety systems.
Emerging Fire Protection Technologies
The Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector is poised to dominate the fire safety services market. TICs provide crucial capabilities for gaining clear insights into fire situations upon arrival at the scene. These technologies detect heat signatures that indicate the presence of a fire, victims, or hidden dangers in low-visibility conditions.
Smart fire detection products play a significant role in early smoke and smoldering detection, effectively preventing extensive property damage and potential harm to individuals. However, challenges such as the high installation costs and the growing adoption of alternative solutions like water mist and gaseous suppression systems may impact the market.
In the coming years, there will be a considerable increase in the adoption of smarter and more advanced fire protection system products to comply with stringent government regulations pertaining to employee safety.
Impact of the Pandemic
During the pandemic, the demand for fire protection systems in office buildings decreased due to remote work arrangements. However, the healthcare sector experienced a significant increase in demand for fire safety equipment. Hospitals and other healthcare facilities require specialized fire safety equipment to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers. Stringent fire safety regulations in the healthcare industry have led to higher demand for equipment such as smoke evacuation systems and fire-rated doors.
Segment Insights
In 2022, the fire detection segment accounted for the largest share of over 57.0% in the market. Fire detection systems consist of various devices that work together to detect carbon monoxide leaks and fires, providing crisis notifications through video and audio systems.
The installation and design service segment held the largest market share of over 41.0% in 2022. This segment refers to outsourcing the design, development, updates, documentation, and installation operations of fire protection systems.
Maintenance services are crucial for detecting and alerting individuals in the event of smoke or fire. Even minor defects in the system can lead to major accidents if not addressed promptly.
The commercial fire protection segment dominated the market, accounting for over 45.0% of revenue share in 2022. Commercial applications include retail, BFSI, government, healthcare, telecom, IT, and educational institutions. Insurance companies often require commercial buildings to install fire safety equipment to mitigate the risk of fire damage.
The industrial application encompasses sectors such as oil and gas, energy and power, mining, and manufacturing. Manufacturers of fire protection systems place a high emphasis on installing advanced fire protection systems in areas prone to fire incidents, such as electrical distribution, lighting equipment, and chemical storage.
Key Industry Developments
- In June 2019, Halma plc acquired Ampac, a fire and evacuation systems company based in Australia. This acquisition enabled Halma plc to expand its global presence while leveraging technological expertise and an established market in Australia.
- In March 2020, Johnson Controls launched TYCO, a corrosion solution for fire sprinkler systems. This product helps extend the lifespan of wet and dry fire sprinkler systems, incorporating an in-line detector that monitors the system and provides early signals of corrosion.
- In October 2020, Honeywell International Inc. unveiled the first tools from its Connected Life Safety Services (CLSS) suite, an all-in-one cloud platform for fire safety systems.
- In June 2022, Kidde HomeSafe introduced an integrated smart detection system that provides a comprehensive home-detection solution, including carbon monoxide, smoke, water leak, and frozen pipe detection.
- In June 2022, Siemens Korea Smart Infrastructure launched the SRF 2.0 intelligent fire detection system, featuring an auto self-diagnosis feature and delivering high reliability and stable performance.
These developments highlight the ongoing innovations and advancements in the fire protection industry, aimed at enhancing safety and providing efficient solutions for various applications.
Overall, the fire protection industry continues to evolve, driven by construction growth, regulatory requirements, and the adoption of advanced technologies. These trends and developments shape the landscape of the industry as it progresses through Q2-Q3 2023.
At Fortis Fire & Safety, we remain steadfast in our commitment to being the “Next Generation of Fire Protection Services.” We understand the evolving landscape of the industry and are dedicated to staying at the forefront of advancements and innovations.
Our People-First philosophy sets us apart, as we prioritize the safety and well-being of our team members, clients, and communities. By continuously investing in our personnel, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and delivering exceptional service, we are confident in our ability to lead the industry in the years to come. With Fortis Fire & Safety, you can trust that your fire protection needs are in the hands of a dedicated and forward-thinking partner.
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Fire Sprinkler Service and Repair for Commercial Buildings
When it comes to fire safety in commercial buildings, one aspect that cannot be overlooked is the maintenance and repair of fire sprinkler systems. In this article, we will discuss the importance of fire sprinkler service and repair and the specific requirements for a wide range of industries and building types.
Fortis Fire & Safety offers comprehensive services for multi-family buildings, warehouses, distribution centers, government buildings, educational facilities, office spaces, hotels and casinos, and more.
How Often Do You Need to Service a Fire Sprinkler System?
Annual Fire Sprinkler Inspections and Testing: In accordance with NFPA standards, regular inspections and testing are crucial to ensure the proper functioning of fire sprinkler systems. Our team conducts thorough annual inspections and testing to identify any issues and maintain compliance.
5-Year Fire Sprinkler Inspections and Testing: Alongside annual inspections, a comprehensive 5-year inspection is essential to assess the overall condition and performance of the fire sprinkler system. Our technicians meticulously conduct this inspection to identify any potential problems and carry out necessary maintenance and repairs.
As-Needed Tenant Improvements: As commercial spaces evolve, modifications to the fire sprinkler system may be necessary. We specialize in relocating or adding sprinkler heads and adjusting coverage to accommodate tenant improvements.
Specialized Fire Sprinkler Repairs
Fortis Fire & Safety specializes in a wide range of fire sprinkler repairs to ensure the utmost safety and efficiency of your system. Our services include:
Fire Sprinkler System Leak Repairs: Addressing leaks promptly is essential to maintain the effectiveness of fire sprinkler systems. Our expert technicians are trained to identify and repair any leaks, maintaining the integrity of the system.
Fire Sprinkler Head Replacements: Over time, sprinkler heads may deteriorate or become damaged. Our team can promptly replace faulty sprinkler heads, ensuring reliable fire suppression capabilities.
Fire Sprinkler Riser Repairs and Replacement: The fire sprinkler riser is a critical component of the system. We offer professional repairs and replacements for risers to maintain the integrity and functionality of the system.
Tamper Switches: Tamper switches play a vital role in monitoring the integrity of the fire sprinkler system. Our technicians are skilled in repairing and replacing tamper switches to ensure proper operation.
Control Valves, OS&Y, and Backflow Repairs and Replacement: The proper functioning of control valves, OS&Y (Outside Screw and Yoke) valves, and backflow preventers mean the integrity of your fire sprinkler system. Our team specializes in repairs and replacements to make sure that these components operate flawlessly.
Flow Switch Repair and Replacement: Flow switches are essential for detecting water flow in the system. We provide expert repair and replacement services for flow switches to maintain accurate flow detection.
Fire Sprinkler Alarm Bells: Alarm bells are crucial for alerting occupants during a fire emergency. We offer repair and replacement services for fire sprinkler alarm bells so your tenants receive effective notification.
FDC (Fire Department Connection) Repairs and Replacement: FDCs serve as a connection point between the fire sprinkler system and the fire department’s water supply. We offer repairs and replacements for FDCs to ensure seamless operation during emergencies.
PIV (Post Indicator Valve) Repairs and Replacement: PIVs control water supply to the fire sprinkler system and are critical for system functionality. Our team specializes in repairing and replacing PIVs to maintain optimal operation.
24 Hour Emergency Response Services
We understand that emergencies can occur at any time. That’s why we offer 24-hour emergency response services for both residential homes and commercial buildings. Our team is available around the clock to promptly address any fire sprinkler system issues and verify the safety of your property and occupants.
Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems
We service and repair a wide range of fire sprinkler systems, including:
Copper Systems: Copper piping systems are widely used in commercial buildings for their durability and resistance to corrosion. We specialize in copper fire sprinkler systems to ensure their reliability.
Steel Systems: Steel pipe systems are commonly found in industrial and high-rise buildings. Our expert technicians are skilled in servicing and repairing steel fire sprinkler systems, adhering to the highest industry standards.
CPVC Plastic (Orange Pipe) Systems: CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) plastic pipe systems are cost-effective and suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. We provide comprehensive service and repair solutions for CPVC fire sprinkler systems.
C900 Systems: C900 pipe systems, made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are often used in water-based fire protection systems. Our technicians are well-versed in C900 fire sprinkler systems.
Ductile Iron Systems: Ductile iron pipe systems offer excellent durability and strength, making them suitable for various commercial buildings. We offer specialized services for the maintenance and repair of ductile iron fire sprinkler systems.
Ensuring the proper functioning of fire sprinkler systems in commercial buildings protects what matters most. At Fortis Fire & Safety, we provide comprehensive solutions for a wide range of fire sprinkler systems, catering to various industries and building types. From annual inspections and testing to system repairs and component replacements, our team of experts adheres to all industry standards, including NFPA standards, to ensure the safety and compliance of your fire protection system. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in keeping your commercial building protected from fire hazards.
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 System Design/Build: Customized Solutions for Businesses
Fire safety is a critical aspect of any business, and designing and building a customized fire system is essential to ensure the protection of your premises, employees, and assets. A well-designed fire system tailored to the specific needs of your business can significantly reduce the risk of fire incidents and minimize potential damage. In this blog, we will explore the importance of fire system design/build services, as well as the key considerations and steps involved in creating a customized solution for your facility.
Building Safety from the Ground Up
Fire sprinkler design/build services are the foundation of a robust fire protection system. Unlike pre-existing fire sprinkler systems, design/build services provide a customized approach, tailored to your facility’s unique requirements.
Assessing Business Requirements
The first step in designing a fire system is to assess the unique requirements of your facility. Consider factors such as the size and layout of your premises, the nature of your operations, the presence of any hazardous materials, and the number of occupants. Conduct a thorough evaluation of potential fire hazards, identifying areas that require specific attention and protection. This assessment will provide a foundation for designing an effective fire system that addresses your business’s specific needs.
Engaging Professional Fire Safety Consultants
To ensure a comprehensive and tailored fire system design, it is advisable to talk with professional fire safety consultants. These experts have the knowledge and experience to assess your business requirements, evaluate potential fire risks, and recommend suitable fire prevention measures. They will work closely with you to understand your objectives, budget constraints, and any specific regulations or industry standards that apply to your facility.
Designing Fire Detection Systems
Fire detection systems play a crucial role in early fire detection, allowing prompt response and evacuation. Based on the assessment of your premises, a fire safety consultant will design a system that includes smoke detectors, heat sensors, and fire alarms strategically placed to maximize coverage. These devices should be interconnected so that when one is triggered, all alarms are activated, providing a timely warning to occupants.
Incorporating Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems are essential for controlling and extinguishing fires when they occur. Depending on your business requirements and the nature of fire hazards present, various suppression systems can be considered. Common options include automatic sprinkler systems, gaseous suppression systems, foam systems, and water mist systems. A fire safety consultant will assess the risks and recommend the most suitable suppression system for your business, ensuring that it complies with all applicable NFPA codes and regulations.
Integrating Fire Safety Equipment
In addition to detection and suppression systems, integrating other fire safety equipment enhances your overall fire protection measures. This includes fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and emergency lighting systems. The placement of fire extinguishers should be based on the types of fires anticipated in specific areas of your premises. Fire blankets are particularly useful for smothering small fires or covering individuals to protect them from flames. Emergency lighting systems illuminate evacuation routes, even in the event of a power outage.
Considering Building and Construction Elements
When designing a fire system, it is important to consider the building and construction elements that can affect fire safety. This includes the use of fire-resistant materials, the configuration of escape routes, the positioning of fire doors, and the availability of emergency exits. A fire safety consultant will assess these factors and recommend appropriate modifications or enhancements to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.
Installation and Compliance
Once the fire system design is finalized, the next step is the installation phase. It is crucial to engage qualified and experienced fire system installation professionals who are knowledgeable about local building codes and regulations. They will confirm that the system is installed correctly, all components are properly connected and functional, and the necessary permits and certifications are obtained.
Testing and Maintenance
Regular testing and maintenance of your fire system are vital to its ongoing reliability and effectiveness. Schedule routine inspections, testing of alarms and detectors, and servicing of suppression systems to identify and address any issues promptly. Establish a maintenance plan that includes regular checks, battery replacements, and equipment upgrades as necessary. Compliance with maintenance schedules ensures that your fire system remains in optimal working condition and continues to meet regulatory requirements.
Employee Training and Emergency Preparedness
Installing a customized fire system is only one part of the equation. It is equally important to provide comprehensive training to your employees on fire safety procedures and emergency preparedness. Conduct regular fire drills to familiarize employees with evacuation routes, assembly points, and proper use of fire safety equipment. Be sure that employees understand their roles and responsibilities during a fire emergency and know how to effectively respond to different scenarios.
Monitoring and Remote Notification
Consider incorporating monitoring and remote notification capabilities into your fire system. This allows for real-time monitoring of your premises and immediate notification to relevant personnel or emergency services in the event of a fire. Remote notification systems can alert designated individuals via mobile devices, enabling them to take immediate action, even if they are off-site.
Regular Review and Upgrades
Fire safety requirements and technologies evolve over time, and it is essential to stay up to date with the latest industry standards and advancements. Regularly review your fire system to identify any areas that may require upgrades or modifications. This may include adding new detection devices, upgrading suppression systems, or implementing advanced fire management software. Consulting with fire safety professionals can help you assess the effectiveness of your existing system and make informed decisions about necessary upgrades.
Final Notes
Designing and installing a customized fire system is a necessary investment for any business. By assessing your unique requirements, engaging professional fire safety consultants, and incorporating a comprehensive range of fire detection, suppression, and safety equipment, you can create a tailored solution that effectively mitigates the risk of fire incidents. Remember to prioritize regular testing, maintenance, employee training, and system upgrades to ensure ongoing compliance and optimal performance. Protecting your premises, employees, and assets from the devastating impact of fires is a responsibility that should never be overlooked.
Learn More About Fortis
At Fortis, 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 utilize 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, here.
