Keeping your commercial fire alarm system working properly requires routine inspections. These systems are designed as a quick-response method to alert you and the occupants of your building of a threat so a safe evacuation can be done. A commercial fire alarm system inspection needs to be performed by specialists who understand how the systems work and know what to look for as far as possible malfunctions. Below is the typical process that is followed to make sure your system is operating correctly.

Report Inspection Times to Local Authorities

The fire alarm inspectors need to notify your local emergency response team that they will be performing an inspection of your commercial fire alarm system. During the inspection, it will be necessary to test the operation of the alerts and emergency services needs to be aware they are not needed to report to the property, that it is a test of the equipment.

Two Technicians will Perform Inspection

When you schedule the inspection of your commercial fire alarm system, you can expect two technicians to arrive at your property. One of the two will station him or herself by the fire alarm panel and the other will proceed into the interior to test and inspect fire alarm horns, smoke detectors, pull-down stations, and strobes. When they test one of these horns or detectors, the technician stationed by the panel will ensure it is activated.

Where to Begin

If you have a multiple story building, the technicians will start their inspections on the top floor. If there is an attic to your property, this will be the beginning floor. By beginning at the top floor, the technician can work his or her way down, testing all pull-stations and smoke detectors along the way.

How the Smoke Detectors are Inspected

There is a special tool used for inspecting smoke detectors. The end of the tool resembles a cup with an aerosol can that contains a spray to imitate smoke. When this solution is released, the smoke detector should consider it smoke and activate. If the detectors are high this tool is used as a pole-type unit, and for detectors within reach, the technician can use a funnel-type tool to spray the same solution. This activation should be recorded on the fire panel being monitored by the other technician.

How to Inspect the Pull-Down Alarm Stations

Just as you would expect, the pull-down alarm stations are inspected by pulling the handle. The technician at the control panel will verify that notification showed with the pull and the station can then be reset. Generally, before pulling the handle, the technician will deactivate strobes and horns to minimize the disturbance to others in the building. Inspecting of the strobes and horns is performed separately.

Occupants of the building need to be notified when horns and strobes are going to be activated. Once everyone is aware of the test, the technician will activate them from one of the pull stations and both technicians will walk the property to ensure each unit is working properly. Once it has been determined all strobes and horns are operating correctly, the technicians will turn them off from the control panel.

Inspection of the Batteries

One of the last steps in the inspection process is to ensure all batteries are working effectively. In case of a power outage, these batteries are essential to keeping the system operating. The batteries are checked for corrosion and expiration dates.

If you have questions regarding the inspection of your fire alarm system, check with the professionals at 1st Alarm.

Put Your Trust in a Reliable Commercial Fire Alarm Monitoring Company

The 1st Alarm team understands your commercial fire alarm systems needs. 1st Alarm knows how to protect our clients from the dangers of fire and the damage it can cause. Our commercial fire alarm monitoring services protect businesses in Abilene, Amarillo, El Paso, Lubbock, Midland, San Angelo and Oklahoma City. Contact us to learn more about the myriad of ways our fire alarm monitoring can protect your business. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best systems and monitoring plan for your budget and operational needs.

The team at 1st Alarm understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right commercial fire alarm system to protect your property. As a business owner, you know the importance of early fire detection and how it can save you from completely losing your property. 1st Alarm understands the importance as well and will be there for you 24/7 to ensure you are protected. We will also help you to create a fire safety policy for your employees to reduce injuries and prevent human loss should a fire occur. With 1st Alarm and an advanced commercial fire alarm system, you ensure your business is prepared adequately in the event a fire should happen in your business place.

1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well.  We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs.  To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559. You can even visit our office near you.