A Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Is An Affordable Investment And A Requirement
Moments matter whenever a fire threat becomes a reality. Once a fire begins to engulfs a structure it consumes precious oxygen, makes corridors impassable and blocks routes of escape. Mere seconds can separate survivors from fire victims. Commercial fire alarm systems give business owners the time they need to get everyone out of the businesses and away from danger. A professionally installed commercial fire alarm system from 1st Alarm is not only a sound affordable investment, having a commercial fire alarm system to protect your business and your employees is also the law. Smolder to raging fire in seconds Many people are surprised to learn that fires can double in size every minute. Depending on the fuel sources available, a fire can go from smoldering to free burning in seconds. The heat and smoke generated during the combustion process can cause confusion and fear making evacuation all but impossible. The typical structure fire burns at temperatures exceeding 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. Fire alarm systems equipped with heat detectors are designed to detect the growth of a fire. When the heat detector and smoke sensors determine a rapid rise in temperature is occurring within the business, they trigger the alarm. This trigger […]
Read MoreDon’t Compromise On Safety – Have A Professional Fire Alarm System Company Inspect Your Commercial Fire Alarm System To Ensure Proper Operation When Needed
Most cities follow standards established by the National Fire Protection Association regarding commercial fire alarm system testing. These requirements are set up for structures that maintain occupancy and are designed to ensure your fire protection products meet minimum specifications. You need a commercial fire alarm system company with experience and training to perform the inspections on your fire alarm system. You need 1st Alarm Fire. NFPA Guidelines The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets strict guidelines pertaining to the performance and inspection of commercial fire alarm systems. While many business managers look at the process of inspections with a negative attitude, they should realize there are significant benefits to ensuring these systems are operating correctly.bIt takes training and experience to understand how your commercial fire alarm system should be performing and be able to detect any possible malfunctions. A fire alarm system company like 1st Alarm Fire has the experience, training and knowledge of NFPA guidelines necessary to perform your commercial fire alarm system inspection. Testing and inspecting a commercial fire alarm system A fire alarm system company will work with you to schedule the inspection around a time that will minimize disruption to your business. A technician will arrive […]
Read MoreThe NFPA Life Safety Code Establishes The Requirements For Having Commercial Fire Alarm Systems
The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code put out by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states the provisions for installing a commercial fire alarm system. This code does not state when a fire or detection system is required, however; that job is part of the NFPA Life Safety Code. The NFPA Life Safety Code states when you are required to install commercial fire alarm systems or fire detection systems. This code not only specifies when you have to install one of these systems, it also specifies which criteria the alarm must operate under. Smoke Detector Requirements Per The NFPA Life Safety Code The NFPA Life Safety Code states if your smoke detector is only used for an elevator recall or your heat detectors are only in place to shutdown an elevators power then they are not required to activate your buildings commercial fire alarm system. These same detectors do not need to activate the alarm system if their sole purpose is to close or shut down dampers on the HVAC. Another instance where your detectors are not required to activate commercial fire alarm systems is when they are used for closing automatic doors. While under these situations the detectors […]
Read MoreCommercial Fire Alarm System Testing And Maintenance Are Critical Measures To Ensure The Proper Operation Of Your Commercial Fire Alarm System
Commercial fire alarm systems must be regularly tested and professionally maintained. When these systems fail, it is often because testing and maintenance schedules have not been rigorously adhered to. When it comes to ensuring the safety of personnel and the protection of property, the following regular tests and routine maintenance are a must. Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Batteries Commercial fire alarm systems batteries have a limited shelf life and operational lifespan which is often between 3-5 years. These tiny components are crucial for providing power in both regular operating mode and when power is cut-off to your commercial fire alarm system. Commercial fire alarm systems batteries should be tested while under load and should have sufficient charge to power the system under normal operation. While these batteries can function at 20% of capacity, it is recommended that they be replaced at no less than 50% as the failure rate below this level is significant. Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Smoke Detectors Commercial fire alarm systems smoke detectors collect dust and other debris that circulates through the air. Over time, this can build up on the sensors which can lead to failure to detect particulates from fires. This can delay the triggering […]
Read MoreThe Ins And Outs Of Commercial Fire Alarm Systems
Commercial fire alarm systems will provide warning of a danger to occupants so they have time to evacuate a property and prevent serious injuries or even death. Technology has made it possible for these systems to pinpoint the exact location of the heat or smoke that’s of concern inside your building. There are some older versions of fire alarm systems still in use which may be using buzzers or belt methods. If you are interested in updating or inspecting your fire alarm system, contact 1st Alarm Fire Today. Inspecting Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Local authorities and insurance carriers require routine inspections of commercial fire alarm systems. As a business owner, you are responsible for scheduling and ensuring these inspections are carried out within the specified time frame. An inspection by a certified technician will give you confirmation that your system and all its components are in proper working condition. The technician will also make sure there has been no damage to your system or anything that would impair its operation. With each inspection, you should also compile documentation that the system and its components have been checked and found to be in proper working condition. When to Schedule Commercial Fire […]
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