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Furthermore, the combination of new construction activities and the replacement of outdated fire alarms, sprinklers, and detectors due to stricter safety and environmental regulations, plays a vital role in market dynamics.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 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.

When it comes to fire protection in your facility, there is a wealth of information to consider. Among the essential fire protection systems, one that stands out for many industrial facilities, data centers, and hospitals is special hazard fire protection systems.

In this article, we will delve into the concept of special hazard fire protection systems, the types of facilities that require them, and the various agents and solutions commonly employed in these systems.

Types of Special Hazard Fire Protection Systems

A special hazard fire protection system refers to a fire protection system designed to safeguard particularly sensitive or valuable assets or to be utilized in scenarios where traditional fire sprinklers are not suitable.

Compared to traditional fire sprinkler systems, special hazard fire protection systems exhibit specific distinctions.

Enhanced Fire Detection: 

These systems boast superior fire detection capabilities, allowing for quick activation.

Safe Suppression Agents: 

Special hazard fire protection systems make use of suppression agents that are safe for individuals and minimize damage to assets or products within a building.

Qualified Personnel: 

The design, service, and repair of special hazard fire protection systems require the expertise of trained and qualified professionals.

Special Hazard Fire Protection Systems: Use Cases

While not every building or industry requires special hazard fire protection systems, there are several instances where they are essential. 

Valuable or Sensitive Assets: 

Buildings or facilities housing valuable or sensitive assets, such as data centers and art galleries, necessitate the installation of special hazard fire protection systems.

People Safety: 

Certain establishments, like hospitals, require special hazard fire protection to ensure the safety of individuals, particularly when additional hazards like oxygen tanks are present. While fire sprinklers may be suitable for most residential buildings like apartment complexes, special hazard fire protection systems are crucial in certain cases.

Increased Fire Risk: 

Facilities such as manufacturing and industrial sites carry a higher fire risk. In such situations, having a special hazard fire protection system in place, capable of prompt activation and fire suppression, can effectively mitigate significant damage.

Special hazard fire systems offer rapid activation, employ suppression agents that minimize damage to building materials and assets, and work diligently to prevent severe fires within your facility.

Special Hazard Systems Fire Suppression Agents

Special hazard fire protection systems are renowned for utilizing fire suppression agents that effectively minimize damage to your facility and its assets. Typically, these systems rely on clean agents for fire suppression, avoiding water damage or residues that can harm sensitive equipment and assets.

Some commonly used fire suppression agents in special hazard fire protection systems include:

FM-200: 

A non-toxic gas that removes the heat element of a fire through heat adsorption, without leaving any residue.

3M Novec 1230: 

Primarily used in data centers and electronic facilities, Novec 1230 is a colorless and non-toxic agent that suppresses fires without disrupting sensitive electronic components.

Ansul INERGEN: 

Combining nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide, Ansul INERGEN reduces the oxygen content in a room. This interrupts the combustion process while ensuring sufficient oxygen for individuals to breathe. INERGEN is particularly suitable for applications involving people.

CO2: 

Carbon dioxide, a chemically inert gas, is highly effective for safe fire suppression and is particularly suitable for electronic applications due to its non-conductive properties. CO2 is available in high and low-pressure tanks, catering to various special hazards. However, it is best utilized in unoccupied facilities.

Water Mist Systems: 

Water mist systems are commonly used in special hazard fire protection, as they provide safe fire suppression qualities while mitigating water damage to assets and objects within a building.

A range of fire suppression agents is available to support ​​critical asset protection. Selecting the appropriate agent depends on your assets, location, and the specific requirements of your special hazard fire protection system. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a specialized fire protection expert before making a decision.

Features of Special Hazard Fire Protection Systems

In addition to fire suppression agents, many special hazard fire protection systems incorporate advanced detection and control features. For applications that demand high-level fire suppression, it is crucial to suppress fires at the earliest stages. The quicker a fire is suppressed, the less damage it can cause. As a result, many special hazard fire protection systems utilize fire prevention technologies that detect fires in their incipient stages. Here are a few examples of detection components commonly found in special hazard fire protection systems:

Visual Flame Detectors: 

Explosion-proof visual flame detectors utilize live video images to sense the unique characteristics of flames. When a flame is detected, the special hazard fire protection system is automatically activated.

Fire Detection Tubing: 

Fire detection tubing is typically installed in small enclosures with a high risk of fire or containing mission-critical assets, such as machine enclosures. Upon fire detection, the tubing instantly suppresses the fire using a clean suppression agent.

Air Sampling Smoke Detectors: 

Air sampling smoke detectors actively draw in and monitor air quality to detect smoke. By continuously sampling the air, rather than relying on smoke passing by sensors, they can detect fires at their earliest stages, allowing for swift suppression before significant damage occurs.

Digital Linear Heat Detection:

Similar to fire detection tubing, linear heat detection systems can detect heat anywhere along their length. When temperatures above normal operating levels are detected, the system activates to protect your building, people, and assets.

The Fortis family of brands takes pride in offering industry-leading specialized fire detection systems, including the Micropack Visual Flame Detection system, Firetrace fire detection tubing, Protectowire linear heat detection, and the VESDA Air Sampling Smoke Detection system. Visit our specialized fire detection page for more information.

Whether you require fire protection for a data center, manufacturing facility, or heavy machinery, it is crucial to understand that special hazard solutions are available to ensure the safety of your people and products.

For any inquiries regarding special hazard fire protection systems, the Fortis family of brands is your trusted resource. We specialize in the design, installation, service, and repair of various special hazard fire protection systems, and our team of experts is ready to address any questions you may have. 

To learn more about special hazard fire protection systems and how they operate, or to seek assistance with servicing your system, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Fire safety inspections are an important part of maintaining a safe and secure commercial property. These inspections are conducted by certified fire safety inspectors to ensure that your property is in compliance with local, state, and federal fire codes. As a property owner, it is your responsibility to prepare your building for these inspections and to take necessary steps to address any potential hazards. 

In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive checklist of items to prepare for a fire safety inspection. From paperwork to proof of services and inspections, we will guide you through the process of getting your property ready for a successful inspection.

Prepare Your Paperwork

Collect and organize paperwork showing any steps your business takes to address fire protection and any previous inspection violations. This demonstrates that your business is committed to meeting requirements.

Collect Proof of Services and Inspections

Keep track of services and inspections that licensed professionals have performed on your systems, such as:

• Serviced fire alarms
• Fire extinguishers
• Sprinkler systems, and
• Fire pumps

Make Appointments for Outstanding Maintenance

Contact some trained professionals to help with the maintenance of your fire protection systems. This will not only help you pass inspections but also will protect your people and property.

Not sure if your commercial property needs servicing? Read on to learn how often fire protection systems should be serviced.

Take Precautions Against Special Hazards

Special hazards are areas that require special hazard fire equipment and fire alarms.

Building owners should note that special hazards are not specific fire hazards that occur as a result of certain situations or triggers, such as a flammable liquid being too close to a heat source.

Instead, special hazards can be things like gasoline pumps, computer server rooms, or storage areas that may contain flammable or combustible chemicals.

Read on to learn more about solutions to special hazards.

Clear Clutter

To prepare for a fire safety inspection, building owners should make it a priority to avoid clutter. Why? Clutter can quickly become combustible waste and serve as fuel for fires.

Combustible waste can take many forms, including:

• Trash (i.e. cardboard boxes, paper, cartons, etc.)
• Debris
• Plant matter
• Yard trimmings
• Fallen trees
• Wood, and
• Leaves

Fire laws prohibit the accumulation of these items anywhere except intended disposal locations.

Lastly, property owners should make an active effort to keep their hallways free from obstructions.

Properly Store Combustible Waste

It can be difficult to keep combustible materials off your property at all times. Instead, we suggest prioritizing safe storage for these materials to prepare for an inspection. 

For example, property owners can:

• Use lids on containers 40 gallons or greater
• Keep containers exceeding a capacity of 40.5 cubic feet outdoors and over five feet away from construction work
• Keep storage containers away from the building, and
• Ensure storage containers near facilities don’t contain oily rags or other unsafe materials without proper container identifications

This will help keep any staff working on the property safe as well as help prepare the space for inspection.

Ensure Efficient Entry for the Fire Department 

According to national codes, all buildings must offer firefighters safe and immediate access.

Complying with this code should be simple. Most businesses comply with this code by mounting fire department lock boxes on the outside of their building.

This way, in the event of an emergency, the fire department can open the lock boxes with a master key and enter the building.

Make Sure the Fire Department Has Access to Water

Building owners should clearly mark all fire hydrants and ensure they are available for use. Additionally, fire hydrants must have three feet of clear space on all sides to allow firefighters access. 

Further, to prepare for inspection, building owners can check the fire department connection (FDC) that allows firefighters to supply water to a sprinkler system. This system should also be marked and accessible.

Need Help Preparing For Inspection?

Ensure your building is safe and up to fire protection code compliance by partnering with a company that specializes in fire protection. 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. 

 At Fortis, we provide world-class fire protection services nationwide. Learn more about our services, here.